April 25 Lab Report Newsletter

Message from the Director

Dear Southern University Laboratory School Families,

As we enter the month of April, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and support throughout this school year. We’ve accomplished so much together, and I’m excited to invite you to join us for Coffee and Conversations in May (TBA). This will be a great opportunity to connect and share meaningful updates regarding our beloved school. During our time together, we’ll provide insight into the concept design phase of our new school facility, outline our fundraising goals for the 2025-2026 school year, and discuss plans for closing out the current school year with strength and purpose.

As we approach the final stretch, I encourage all students to remain focused, finish strong academically, and continue making positive choices. The decisions we make today lay the foundation for tomorrow’s success. Let’s continue working together to ensure a strong and successful finish to an outstanding school year!

Message From The Principal

Dear Kitten Family,

As we near the end of the semester, let us take a moment to celebrate the hard work, perseverance, and growth that have defined our school. Our students and staff have shown remarkable dedication and resilience, whether in the classroom, on the field, on stage, or behind the scenes. Together, we have overcome challenges, supported one another, and stayed focused on our shared goals. Let us continue that momentum and finish the semester with pride and purpose!

With Spring Break just around the corner, we encourage everyone to rest and recharge. Spring Break begins on Friday, April 18, 2025, and students will return to school on Monday, April 28, 2025. This well-deserved pause is a great opportunity to engage in activities that bring joy, relieve stress, and re-energize us for the final stretch of the school year.

Looking ahead, we are excited to hear from you through the SULS Student Interest Survey. This brief survey is an important way for families to share what extracurricular activities and clubs interest our students most. Your feedback will help us offer engaging, diverse programs that reflect our students’ passions and support their growth beyond the classroom. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey, and encourage others to do the same!

Let us finish strong and work together to build something even better for the future!

Accountability (Testing) Information

Spring testing season is approaching, and we want to ensure our students are prepared and supported! Please review the important dates and details below:

Testing Schedule:

LEAP 2025 (Grades 3-8): May 5 – 9
LEAP 2025 (High School): Begins Thursday, April 10th  - 17th
AP Exams: May 6 -AP Human Geography (8:00 AM)  and AP Government and Politics (12:00 PM)  and May 13 -AP Environmental Science
Kindergarten – 3rd Grade Literacy Screening: Begins April 1

Virtual LEAP Information Nights:

To help families understand the testing process and graduation/promotion requirements, we will host virtual LEAP Nights on the following dates:
High School: April 2 @ 5:30 PM- meet.google.com/gkk-vtgf-hvn
Elementary School: April 15 @5:30 PM- meet.google.com/met-vzrk-bfq
Middle School: April 16 @ 5:30PM- meet.google.com/pzm-btxx-ozc

How You Can Help:

Snack Donations Needed! We are accepting donations of water, chips, peppermints, granola bars, crackers, and pretzels to help keep students energized during testing.

 Encouraging Notes for Students – Families can write letters of encouragement to be delivered on test day!
High School Notes Due: April 4
Elementary & Middle School Notes Due: April 28

Thank you for supporting our students! If you have any questions, please contact Angela Carter-Robinson via email at angela_robinson@sulabschool.com or call 771.5249

Elementary Department

Farewell and Best Wishes to Mrs. Ursula Square

Southern University Laboratory School would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Ursula Square for her dedicated service to our students and school community. As she prepares to embark on a new chapter, we are grateful for the care, commitment, and professionalism she has brought to SULS.

We wish her all the best in her future endeavors and know she will continue to make a positive impact wherever her journey leads.

Thank you, Mrs. Square—you will be missed!

SULS/YMCA Safety Around Water Program

We are excited to partner with the YMCA of the Capital Area in their effort to provide swimming lessons and drowning prevention to our students.  This program aims to provide accessible swimming lessons and reduce the risk of water-related accidents at no cost to our students and families.  The program is offered to all students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade.  Elementary students are scheduled for the month of May.  If you have any questions, please contact Ursula Square via email at ursula_square@sulabschool.com

Click Here For Blog Post

SU Ag Center Partnership

The SU Ag Center Youth Development will conduct a Drone Demonstration Class for 4th and 5th grade students on April 10, 2025.  This is just one of the many opportunities that our students have participated in this school year. Students are also learning about obesity prevention as a result of a partnership between Pennington Biomedical Center and SU Ag Center.  Dietetic Interns and Coach Chaney provide lessons on establishing healthy habits.  Greaux Healthy’s Elementary School Health Program provides faculty and staff with evidence-based best practices, empowering professionals with the knowledge and resources to support children and families in nutrition education and health promotion.

Tennis Anyone!

Our elementary students will begin Tennis Lessons with Miss. Deang Baluck.  Miss. Baluck is a student athlete on the Southern University and A&M College Tennis Team . The lessons will be provided during PE with the assistance of Coach Coach Chaney.  Students will have the opportunity to visit and play on the Southern University Tennis Courts. Click Here For Blog Post

Teacher Spotlight

For the month of April, we shine the spotlight on Mrs. Crystal Boudreaux, our 3rd grade teacher.  Mrs. Boudreaux is beloved by students and colleagues alike for her passion, creativity and dedication on making literacy, math, social studies and science accessible to her students.  She consistently goes above and beyond to inspire students and incorporates fun with learning.  Her nurturing learning environment and positivity have transformed many of her students’ attitudes about school.  In addition to her regular classroom duties, Mrs. Boudreaux serves as the parent sponsor for the SULS Band.  Mrs. Boudreaux is married to Michael and the proud mom of two SULS alumni; Michael and Michae’la (2020-2021 Miss Southern High) and two current kittens; Meki and Malik. Not only is she a talented educator but also a talented musician and showcases this talent as the Minister of Music at Greater St. Peter Baptist Church.  She is a true example of a dedicated parent, faculty member and volunteer. 

5th Grade Student of the Year

Brandon Seals, Jr. has been selected as SULS 5th Grade Student of the Year!  Brandon has been a Kitten since PreKindergarten and has consistently demonstrated high academic achievement, leadership and a passion for excellence. He is a member of the Elementary Beta Club, a Leader on the court as a 2nd year member of the Elementary Basketball team, and active member of The Greater New Galilee Baptist church, where he is a member of the youth choir.  When Brandon isn’t playing basketball or football, he enjoys playing Fortnite.  He is the son of Brandon and Nadia Seals and brother of fellow Kittens Bryleigh and Braxton. 

Spring Recognition Programs

The Kindergarten and 5th Grade Recognition programs are scheduled for Monday, May 19, 2025, in the school gym. We will also recognize our PreK-4 students during the Kindergarten program that will be transitioning to Kindergarten in Fall 2025.  Starting times for each program will be shared at a later date.

Middle Department

SULS/YMCA Safety Around Water Program

We are excited to partner with the YMCA of the Capital Area in their effort to provide swimming lessons and drowning prevention to our students.  This program aims to provide accessible swimming lessons and reduce the risk of water-related accidents at no cost to our students and families.  The program is offered to all students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade.  8th grade students will begin the program the week of April 7, 2025 and 6th and 7th grades will start the following week.  If you have any questions, please contact Ursula Square via email at ursula_square@sulabschool.com






Brooklyn Chisley – 2024 Student of the Year

Brooklyn Chisley is an exceptional 8th-grade honor roll student whose dedication to academics, leadership, and service sets her apart. A proud student at SU Lab School for the past seven years, Brooklyn's hard work and commitment have earned her the prestigious title of Student of the Year for the second time.

Beyond the classroom, Brooklyn is deeply involved in her community and school activities. She is a dedicated member of St. Peter AME Church, where she works with the youth ministry and serves as a junior usher. Her leadership skills shine through her five-year membership in the Beta Club and her two years as a Girl Scout with SULS. She is also an active participant in SeaPerch, an underwater robotics team, showcasing her passion for STEM.

At school, Brooklyn plays a vital role on the Digital Media Team, capturing highlights from academic and sporting events. She recently joined the Louisiana Leadership Institute, founded by Senator Cleo Fields, where she is developing her leadership skills alongside other young minds.  In her free time, Brooklyn enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. With a bright future ahead, she aspires to become a mathematician or statistician, using her love for numbers to make an impact in the world.

8th Grade Recognition:

We are incredibly proud of the growth our 8th graders have shown this year. They’ve matured, made strides in their decision-making, and carried themselves with positivity as they prepare to begin their high school journey.

The 8th Grade Recognition Program is tentatively Monday, May 19th, 2025.  Participation in 8th grade recognition and related activities is based on students’ academic performance, attendance, and behavior. These events are privileges that reflect the effort and dedication our scholars have demonstrated throughout the year. The recognition ceremony is a special moment to honor their accomplishments and celebrate their transition to high school.

Attire:

Ladies: Gentlemen:

Blouse Dress shirt (White)

Skirt/Slacks *Tie Optional

Dress Slacks (black)

(All shades of white) Dress shoes

No Sneakers No Sneakers

In addition to the ceremony, we’re excited to announce that we will be hosting an 8th Grade Formal to further celebrate our students. The tentative date for the dance is Saturday, May 17th, 2025, and more details will be shared soon.

We look forward to recognizing and celebrating this important milestone with our amazing 8th grade class!

8th grade Fees:

We are collecting a total of $50 per child to cover the expenses for the Recognition Ceremony, 8th Grade Dance, and the 8th grade class shirt.  Fees can only be paid on Eazyticks. Fees must be paid in full by Friday, May 2nd, 2025.

 Teacher in the Spotlight: Mrs. Vargas, Middle School Social Studies Teacher

This month, we are proud to shine the spotlight on an exceptional educator who embodies what it means to go above and beyond—Mrs. Vargas, our dedicated middle school Social Studies teacher.

Mrs. Vargas is known for her strong rapport with students and her collaborative spirit with the middle school team. Whether she's in the classroom leading a dynamic discussion or supporting school events after hours, she consistently shows up with enthusiasm, heart, and a strong commitment to our students' growth.

Her classroom is more than just a place to learn about history and current events—it's a space where students are challenged to think critically, connect lessons to the world around them, and develop into thoughtful, responsible young people. Mrs. Vargas doesn’t just teach academics; she weaves valuable life lessons into her instruction, helping students navigate challenges, build confidence, and prepare for high school and beyond.  She is a motivator, an encourager, and above all, a compassionate educator who cares deeply about students. Her passion for teaching and dedication to excellence are an inspiration to both her colleagues and the students lucky enough to learn from her.

Thank you, Mrs. Vargas, for all that you do. You truly make a difference every day!

High School

High School Department (Sherrard)

Jr. Ring Ceremony

The Junior Ring Ceremony and Pinning will take place on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 1:30 PM. All juniors are expected to attend, even if they have not purchased a ring.

This special ceremony marks the transition of our juniors into their senior year. Each student will receive a commemorative pin, which will be presented by a parent, guardian, or a special person of their choosing.

Herff Jones will distribute rings to students who purchased them through their company. If a student purchased a ring from another company, they must bring it to the counseling department no later than Monday, April 28, 2025.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you!

Senior Dates and Information:

Senior Exams Schedule

Monday, April 28, 2025:  7th period

Tuesday, April 29, 2025 :  6th and 5th period

Wednesday, April 30, 2025:  4th and 3rd period

Thursday, May 1, 2025:  2nd and 1st period

**Seniors are to report to school at the regular time. They may leave after they take their last exam each day. If you have any questions or concerns, please email Mrs. Sherrard, Mrs. McCall, or Mrs. Brown.

Friday, May 2, 2025:  Senior Checkout

Wednesday, May 7, 2025: Senior Breakfast 

Wednesday, May 14, 2025:  Graduation Practice

Wednesday, May 14, 2025:  Graduation

Teacher in the Spotlight: Mrs. Muhammad, High School Science Teacher

In just her second year of teaching, Mrs. Muhammad has already made a lasting impact on the lives of our high school students. Her dedication, presence, and passion for education have not gone unnoticed, and we are proud to recognize her as our Teacher in the Spotlight.

Mrs. Muhammad is more than just a science teacher—she’s a role model, mentor, and unwavering supporter of her students both in and out of the classroom. Whether she’s cheering on the sidelines at after-school sporting events or showing up for extracurricular activities, she is always present, encouraging students and celebrating their accomplishments.

Each day begins with a warm greeting at her classroom door, where she motivates her students with words of encouragement and a genuine smile. When challenges arise, Mrs. Muhammad is a steady guide. She helps students see the light in difficult situations and supports them in finding positive, constructive paths forward. Her calm and thoughtful approach fosters trust and growth.Inside the classroom, her lessons are intentionally and strategically crafted to ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed. Through hands-on activities, engaging discussions, and a focus on real-world relevance, she not only teaches science—she helps students develop a love for it.

Thank you, Mrs. Muhammad, for the difference you make every single day. You are truly a shining star on our campus!

Final Exam Dates

Monday, May 19, 2025 

7th hour exam 

Students will attend 1st through 6th periods on this day.

Tuesday, May 20, 2025 (Early Dismissal) 

6th hour exam

5th hour exam 

Wednesday, May 21, 2025 (Early Dismissal)

4th hour exam 

3rd hour exam 

Thursday, May 22, 2025 (Early Dismissal)

2nd hour exam 

1st hour exam

Graduating Seniors:

All tuition must be paid in full before graduation. Any senior with an outstanding balance will not participate in the ceremony nor will they receive their official transcript. 

Counselors Corner

Greetings from your Southern University Laboratory School Counselors!  

The end of the year is fast approaching Kitten Family and we want our students to finish the year strong!  Parents, please check in with your student concerning grades.  You may visit Jcampus to do so.  Parents and students, please adhere to the following deadlines below.  Let’s Go Kittens!!!

Upcoming Events

Shanta McCall

Students with the Last Name A-M

Lasonia Brown

Students with the Last Name K-Z

  • Senior Class Showcase: Senior Send Off: April 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. 

  • SCHOLARSHIP AND COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE LETTERS DEADLINE: April 28, 2025 by 5:00 p.m. 

  • SENIOR EXAMS: April 28, 2025 - May 01, 2025 

  • SENIOR CHECKOUT: MAY 01, 2025 @ 9:00 A.M. ( ALL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS MUST BE TAKEN CARE OF BEFORE A STUDENT CAN CHECKOUT) 

  • LAST DAY FOR SENIORS: MAY 2, 2025

  • SENIOR BREAKFAST: MAY 07, 2025@ 9:30 A.M. ( TABLE CLOTHS AND SEAT COVERS WILL BE PROVIDED BY SCHOOL and ALL Seniors have their table mate)

  • GRADUATION CEREMONY: May 14, 2025, @ 6:00 p.m. 

  • FAFSA -  Seniors, Please make sure you have completed your FAFSA 

  • Junior Ring and Pinning Ceremony- April 30, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. (Rings are due to the school counselors by April 29, 2025 by 3:00 pm, if you did not purchase with Herff Jones)

  • Please check your Google Classroom for important announcements (Grades 9th - 12th) 

  • Referral Link for Counseling Support: https://forms.gle/KdU3RUqGsnMf3R546

  • Senior Information Link

The School Counselors are assigned by alphabet:                                                   

                                A through J                                                        K through Z

              Shanta_McCall@sulabschool.com              Lasonia_Brown@sulabschool.com 

Tuition Information

Information regarding Tuition 2024-2025

  • Final Payments for Spring 2025 Deferment Plans were due on March 31. Please access your Transact account and ensure your payments have been posted. 

  • Any remaining balance must be paid by April 30, 2025.  

Information regarding Tuition 2025-2026

  • Tuition for 2025-26 is expected to be posted by the University in July. Students will receive tuition and fee schedules and payment due dates with the report card distribution in May 2025.  

For any questions regarding tuition, please contact the Registrar, Ms. Fleming, by email at basia_fleming@sulabschool.com

Seat Deposits

Did you miss the seat deposit deadline for the 2025-2026 academic school year? We understand the busy schedules and various commitments that families often have, but I wanted to remind you of the importance of securing your child's seat in advance. If you missed the deadline, please complete the Intent to Return  by Wednesday, April 23 to receive an invoice. The invoice must be paid by April 30 to reserve your seat for Fall 2025. 

Our primary aim in implementing this process is to ensure that each returning student has their seat secured well in advance, allowing us to organize and plan effectively for the new academic year. This enables us to accurately assess enrollment numbers and allocate resources accordingly, while also giving returning students priority placement.

In line with our policies, Southern University Laboratory School reserves the right to fill your child’s seat with a newly accepted student. However, if you are still interested in having your child attend SULS, you will need to reapply by completing an application and submitting the necessary documentation. Please note that in this case, you will be placed on the waitlist alongside other prospective applicants, without priority for former students.

Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to to Mrs. Basia Flemming at Basia_Flemming@sulabschool.com. We are here to support you through this process.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we hope to continue our partnership in fostering your child's educational journey.