SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY LABORATORY SCHOOL | NEWS & ACHIEVEMENTS
November 11, 2026 | Baton Rouge, Louisiana
LAFAYETTE, LA — The Southern University Laboratory School Marching Band delivered an electrifying performance at the 2026 Louisiana Music Educators Association (LMEA) State Marching Championships on November 10, 2026, earning the prestigious title of Overall Class 1T State Runner-Up!
Competing against four other bands in the Class 1T Division at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, the Kittens showcased exceptional musicianship, precision, creativity, and school pride. Under the dedicated leadership of Band Director DeAmber Taylor and Dancing Dolls Sponsor Kenyarie Welsh, Southern Lab demonstrated that excellence in the performing arts remains a powerful part of the school's legacy.
A Superior Performance on the State Stage!
The Southern Lab Marching Band and Dancing Dolls returned from the competition with an impressive collection of honors:
🏆 Overall Class 1T State Runner-Up (1st Runner-Up)
🥇 1st Place Auxiliary / Colorguard — Class 1T (Dancing Dolls)
🥈 2nd Place Percussion — Class 1T
🥈 2nd Place Outstanding Music — Class 1T
⭐ Superior Rating in Auxiliary (Dancing Dolls)
⭐ Superior Rating in Percussion
These accomplishments highlight the dedication of our student performers and the outstanding preparation that made their success possible.
Celebrating Two Exceptional Educators: DeAmber Taylor and Kenyarie Welsh
Behind every great student performance are educators who invest countless hours developing talent, building confidence, and inspiring excellence.
DeAmber Taylor
Kenyarie Welsh
Band Director DeAmber Taylor continues to demonstrate exceptional leadership in developing the Southern Lab Marching Band. Through her commitment to musical excellence, student development, and high expectations, Taylor has helped create an environment where young musicians can grow as performers and leaders.
This year's state runner-up recognition is a testament to the countless rehearsals, instructional moments, and personal sacrifices that contribute to building a competitive marching band program.
Equally deserving of recognition is Dancing Dolls Sponsor Kenyarie Welsh, whose leadership has elevated the performance and presence of Southern Lab's auxiliary program.
The Dancing Dolls' 1st Place Auxiliary / Colorguard finish and Superior Rating represent an extraordinary achievement. Through discipline, precision, artistry, and teamwork, these talented young performers distinguished themselves among their competitors.
Welsh's dedication to developing confident, disciplined performers is reflected in the Dancing Dolls' success on the state stage.
Together, Taylor and Welsh demonstrate what can happen when educators combine passion, preparation, and high expectations with a genuine commitment to students.
Congratulations, Kitten Nation!
Southern University Laboratory School proudly congratulates DeAmber Taylor, Kenyarie Welsh, the entire Marching Band, Dancing Dolls, percussion section, student performers, families, and supporters on their exceptional accomplishments at the 2026 LMEA State Marching Championships.
We recognize that achievements of this magnitude do not happen overnight. They represent months of preparation, early mornings, late evenings, personal sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
To our students: You represented Southern Lab with pride and distinction.
To Ms. Taylor and Ms. Welsh: Thank you for your leadership, dedication, and willingness to invest in the next generation of musicians, performers, and leaders.
And to our families and supporters: Thank you for continuing to champion the arts and helping our students pursue their passions.
The trophies are impressive, but the lessons, relationships, and memories created through this experience will last a lifetime.
One Band. One Sound. One Southern Lab!
Congratulations, Kittens! You have made Kitten Nation proud!
#SouthernLab #KittenPride #LMEA2026 #SouthernLabMarchingBand #SouthernLabDancingDolls #ExcellenceInTheArts
📣 FUTURE KITTENS — YOUR TIME IS COMING!
Our 2027–2028 admissions season is approaching! Families interested in becoming part of the Southern Lab tradition should begin preparing now. Visit our admissions page to review requirements and watch for the official application timeline.
🔗 Admissions: https://sulabschool.com/admissions