Academics
Beyond the Classroom
Our philosophy at LSMSA is that all students should graduate with an impressive resume of accomplishments that go beyond the diploma itself, helping to increase the likelihood for the best scholarships. A strong resume will be supported by a list of high-level accomplishments, which start with student goal setting and seeking out opportunities.
Many new and returning students elect to get ahead in their coursework by taking some classes in the summer.
Additionally, students may elect to conduct research internally or at a university over the summer. Dr. Chris Hynes works with students who desire summer internships by identifying specific locations or research areas that fit with their goals or career interests.
Graduation with Distinction
Graduation with Distinction is a recognition of a student's accomplishments that requires planning and achievement beyond the LSMSA classroom. Students who apply for and pursue their individual contract for distinction in a particular area must complete a myriad of advanced courses, maintain a 3.6 grade point average in the courses specific to their discipline and have no grade below a B.
These students must successfully complete either a research project, performance/exhibition, portfolio or a comprehensive examination. Their independent efforts culminate in a public presentation during Blue and Gold Week where they defend their work, with an opportunity for answering questions from attending faculty, students and guests.
Students generally apply for Graduation with Distinction during their junior year.
These students must successfully complete either a research project, performance/exhibition, portfolio or a comprehensive examination. Their independent efforts culminate in a public presentation during Blue and Gold Week where they defend their work, with an opportunity for answering questions from attending faculty, students and guests.
Students generally apply for Graduation with Distinction during their junior year.
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Sampling of Recent Graduation with Distinction Papers
"Our Somewhere Else: A One-Act Play" by Elizabeth Faith Grahmann
"Synthesis and Molecular In-Silico Analysis of a Novel Pyrazolone Derivative and Its Potential for Targeted Colorectal Cancer Therapy Against Conserved CRC Kinases" by Monika Garlapati
"A Newfangled Interpretation: Sculptural Family Tree" by Juliet Claire Marie Hyams
"Succeeding in the Music Industry: A Comprehensive Industry Guide for the Independent Artist" by Olivia Luebbert
"International Economics and Bretton Woods: The Gold Standard and Postwar Finance" by Jai Patel
"Fractal Geometry in Chromatin and Effects on Gene Regulation" by Annabel Schleifstein
"Exploring Patterns of Coastal Tornado Formation" by Mary Schrader
"Empathetic Response Generation According to Live Emotional Recognition in Affective Computing" by Amelia Willis
"Unmasking Commedia Dell 'Arte: Archetypes, Clowns, and Divas! Oh My!" by Julia Wisdom
Capstone Projects
The Capstone Project at LSMSA provides students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have developed through an in-depth, independent project focused on a topic of personal interest.
Guided by faculty mentors, students engage in research, creative work, or problem-solving that demonstrates critical thinking, effective communication, and academic growth. The Capstone experience encourages innovation, collaboration, and real-world application while preparing students for success in college, careers, and lifelong learning.
Guided by faculty mentors, students engage in research, creative work, or problem-solving that demonstrates critical thinking, effective communication, and academic growth. The Capstone experience encourages innovation, collaboration, and real-world application while preparing students for success in college, careers, and lifelong learning.
Future Scientist Program
The Future Scientist Program (FSP) at LSMSA provides students with a structured pathway to deepen their understanding of science through advanced coursework, research, and experiential learning. Designed for students with a strong interest in STEM, the program emphasizes scientific inquiry, critical thinking, hands-on research, and collaboration with faculty mentors. Participants develop the knowledge and skills needed for success in collegiate STEM programs and future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
As part of the Future Scientist Program, the Science Speaker Series connects students with leaders from academia, industry, research institutions, and nonprofit organizations throughout the school year.
Presenters include LSMSA faculty, alumni, parents, and professionals from Northwestern State University, NCPTT, regional industries, and organizations across Louisiana and the United States. Through these presentations, students gain insight into diverse career paths, current research, professional development, and networking opportunities while exploring potential internships, volunteer experiences, and future careers in STEM.
Presenters include LSMSA faculty, alumni, parents, and professionals from Northwestern State University, NCPTT, regional industries, and organizations across Louisiana and the United States. Through these presentations, students gain insight into diverse career paths, current research, professional development, and networking opportunities while exploring potential internships, volunteer experiences, and future careers in STEM.
Professionals interested in participating as a speaker are encouraged to contact Dr. Chris Hynes at chynes@lsmsa.edu.
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Science Speaker Series
The LSMSA Science Speaker Series is a schedule of presentations throughout the school year. The intent for the speaker series is for the LSMSA student body to have the opportunity to interact with leaders from a variety of professions in academia, industry, and humanitarian organizations. Presenters are invited from the LSMSA faculty, alumni, and parents, as well as from NSU, NCPTT, the Natchitoches community, local and regional industries, and academia from across the state of Louisiana (and US).
The presentations typically consist of the life/academic pathway of the speaker, research interests/projects, words of wisdom, building professional connections, and perhaps creating an opportunity for our students to volunteer or intern at the speaker's organization. If you are interested in participating as a speaker, please contact Dr.Chris Hynes at chynes@lsmsa.edu.Previous Presenters and Topics
2026 Series- SSgt Flowers, USAF, "Opportunities with the U.S. Air Force/Space Force," Feb. 6, 2026.
- Kristen Chatelain (LSMSA '12), "Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority," Feb. 27, 2026.
- Dr. Powell, NSU School of Business, Mar. 6, 2026.
- Anna Dugas, NSU Physical Science, "NSU STEM/LaAces Demon Satellites," Mar. 20, 2026.
- Edward Flagg, Dept. of Physics & Astronomy, WVU, "Quantum Science," Mar. 27, 2026.
- Dr. P. Ngabonziza, LSU Dept of Physics, "Quantum Physics," Apr. 17, 2026.
- Cam Crooks (LSMSA '22), Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship (US State Department), Archaeology in England, May 1, 2026.
- Prem Gongaju, former LSMSA SLA, "Philosophy," May 4, 2026.
2025 Series- Jason Church, National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT), "Zines as a Tool for Inclusive History," Feb. 7, 2025.
- Dr. Chris Gilson, NSU History Department, “Climate Change and the Early Modern World,” Feb. 14, 2025.
- Mary Bindas, NCPTT, "Building Preservation," Feb. 18, 2025.
- Meghan Schill, Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Feb. 21, 2025.
- Doug Landry DVM, Department Head of Veterinary Technology at NSU, "Veterinary Medicine and Technology," Mar. 14, 2025.
- Jennifer Hill, NSU Chemistry, “A Research Journey from Marine Natural Product Chemistry to Medicinal Chemistry,” Mar. 21, 2025.
- Anna Dugas, NSU STEM and Physics, "LaACES," Apr. 4, 2025.
- Robin Hayes and Garth Likens, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Engineering, "Engineering Your Future at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette," May 2, 2025.
- Prof. Anna Dugas, NSU Physics/NSU School of STEM Coordinator, "NSU School of STEM Opportunities & DemonSat," Sep. 5, 2025.
- Dr. Martin, Dept. Chair ULL History, "Historical Research at ULL: Opportunities for Growth," Sep. 12, 2025.
- Brett Hortman, Project Leader, Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery, "Projects at the NNFH," Sep. 19, 2025.
- LaShanda Sanders, AHEC, "Careers in Health Care," Sep. 23, 2025.
- Dr. Fadipe, LSMSA Biology "GeneBIORETS Program," Oct. 3, 2025.
- Dr. Wardell, Natchitoches Family Eye Care, "Optometry Profession," Oct. 10, 2025.
- Dr. Chris Gilson, NSU History, "Monstrous Weather," Oct. 31, 2025.
- Dr. Hynes, LSMSA "Future Scientist Program," Nov. 4, 2025.
- Dr. Shahriar Hossain, NSU Engineering, "Engineering Technology," Nov. 7, 2025.
- SFC Jerald Kompelien, "Opportunities in the US Army," Nov. 14, 2025.
- Dr. Damien Tristant, Physics, Coordinator NSU Physical Sciences, "Nanophysics," Dec. 5, 2025.
- SSgt Flowers, USAF, "Opportunities with the U.S. Air Force/Space Force," Feb. 6, 2026.
Artist in Training Program
The Artist in Training (AiT) program at LSMSA provides dedicated arts students with the opportunity to pursue advanced, discipline-specific study beyond the standard curriculum. Through personalized mentorship, specialized coursework, independent creative projects, performances, exhibitions, and masterclasses, students develop their artistic talents while building a professional portfolio.
Available across disciplines such as visual arts, music, dance, theatre, and creative writing, the AiT program challenges students to refine their craft, explore their creative voice, and prepare for collegiate and professional opportunities in the arts.
Available across disciplines such as visual arts, music, dance, theatre, and creative writing, the AiT program challenges students to refine their craft, explore their creative voice, and prepare for collegiate and professional opportunities in the arts.
Leadership Academy
The Leadership Academy at LSMSA provides students with opportunities to develop the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to become effective leaders in their school, communities, and future careers. Through leadership training, collaborative activities, service opportunities, and mentorship, students explore topics such as communication, teamwork, decision-making, and civic responsibility. The program encourages students to recognize their strengths, build confidence, and apply their leadership skills in meaningful ways while preparing them to make a positive impact beyond LSMSA.
Classical Scholars Program
The Classical Scholars Program at LSMSA offers students an interdisciplinary exploration of the ancient world through the study of classical literature, history, philosophy, languages, and culture. The program encourages students to examine the lasting influence of classical civilizations on modern society while strengthening their analytical, writing, and critical thinking skills. Through specialized coursework and engaging discussions, Classical Scholars gain a deeper appreciation for the foundations of the humanities and are well prepared for continued study in college and beyond.
Academic Honor Societies
LSMSA's Academic Honor Societies recognize student achievement while providing opportunities for leadership, service, and continued academic growth across a variety of disciplines. Students who meet eligibility requirements may participate in honor societies that align with their academic interests, allowing them to engage in service projects, professional development, scholarly activities, and collaboration with peers who share their passions. These organizations encourage excellence both inside and outside the classroom while fostering lifelong learning and leadership skills.
Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts
Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) is the preeminent state-supported residential high school with competitive admissions for Louisiana's high-achieving, highly-motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors. As a public school, there is no tuition to attend, and assistance from the LSMSA Foundation ensures the program is available to all qualifying students regardless of family financial need.
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