LSMSA Presents Outstanding School Support Employee Award to Cara Stanfield

This year's recipient, Coordinator of Academic Support and 504 Services Cara Stanfield, wears many hats. She coordinates critical supports for students, collaborates with faculty and families, solves problems before many people even know they exist, and consistently goes above and beyond her job description.

 

Cara joined LSMSA in 2024 after working in education with the Louisiana Department of Corrections and Ashland University. She holds a master's degree in Adult Education from Ashland University.

 

Over the past two years, Cara has coordinated six New Student Orientation sessions, developed a new EXCEL curriculum, strengthened systems for academic support and accommodations, and helped create welcoming, organized spaces for both students and staff. Whether assisting with transportation needs, supporting school events, chaperoning activities or leading off-campus wellness opportunities, she approaches every task with enthusiasm, professionalism and genuine care.

 

“Cara embodies what it means to put students first," said Executive Director Dr. Jason Anderson. "Every day, she works behind the scenes to make sure our students have the support, resources and accommodations they need to be successful. She is a tireless advocate for our students and a tremendous asset to LSMSA. This award is a fitting recognition of the care, commitment and expertise she brings to our school community every day.”

 

The impact of Cara's work can’t be measured only by the programs she’s developed or the responsibilities she’s taken on. It can also be found in the students who know they have a place to go when they need help or a listening ear when they need to talk.

 

"When Ms. Cara knew I was going through something difficult, she made sure I had everything I needed and checked up on me repeatedly!" said Lucy Centanni (’26).

 

"Ms. Cara made me feel important," said Roz Hubbell (’26).

 

Kat Spizale described Cara as a “school mom” who provided consistent emotional and practical support throughout her senior year. 

 

"When I went through a breakup she showed up the very next day with donuts for me and made sure I had time before class to cry in her office,” Spizale shared. “She's always been a listening ear and a helping hand.”

 

For Cara, that connection with students is at the heart of her work.

 

"Receiving the Outstanding School Support Employee Award is such a blessing because the work I do is centered on helping students feel supported, seen, and worthy of being at LSMSA," Cara said. "It didn't take me long to realize what a special place LSMSA is and how fortunate I am to be a part of a community, a family, where students, faculty, and staff are all valued and appreciated. Every day is a new opportunity to make a difference in a student's life, and that's what makes this job so rewarding. I am grateful to be here!"

Director of Student Support Services Ro Myers Slutsky said Cara brings positivity, energy, and heart to everything she does.

 

“Perhaps that is the best measure of service,” Slutsky added. “Not just completing the work, but making people feel seen, valued, and supported. Ms. Cara is dependable, proactive, creative, trustworthy, and deeply committed to the mission of LSMSA.”