For the 12th consecutive year, the local Beta Rho chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma International is providing three $500 scholarships to local high school senior ladies who plan to pursue a college degree in education. The local group of professional educators say they are pleased to encourage and support young ladies — the country’s future teachers.

This year, a senior at Ben’s Ford Christian School, a senior at Bogalusa High School and a senior at Franklinton High School are the recipients.

Jodi Ashlynn Taylor — Ben’s Ford

Jodi is the daughter of Russell and Verna Taylor. Jodi has been getting practical experience for her future as an Early Childhood Development teacher. She has been employed at Northlake Christian Early Learning Center as a substitute and aftercare worker. She has attended all required state regulated training courses, which include CPR and first aid, Early Childhood Foundations, and Health and Safety Medication Administration. Jodi is an honest, hard worker who is eager to learn new techniques to improve her skills as an early childhood teacher.

At BFCS, she is very active in the drama club, cheer team, Beta Club, and the National Honor Society. At her church, she is a member of the youth and adult praise teams.

She plans to attend Northwestern State University in the fall of 2017 to prepare herself to become an Early Childhood teacher.

“I want to be a teacher so that I can plant a seed of love and connection in my kids, so that they will enjoy school all the way through their senior year,” she said.

Darilyn Kiara Lee — Bogalusa

Darilyn is the daughter of Stephanie Warren. She graduated with a 3.9 grade-point average and was the valedictorian of her senior class. She took two AP courses and two dual-enrollment classes in which she received college credit.

Darilyn served as vice president of the student body at Bogalusa High School. She served on the dance team for four years. She was also selected by her teachers to compete at the Southeast Louisiana District Literary Rally during her four years in high school. Darrilyn’s teachers describe her as “the ideal student, hardworking and goal-oriented.”

She is very involved in her church. Darilyn plans to attend LSU to pursue a degree in teaching biology. Darilyn hopes to one day make students get excited about school, so one day they will want to give back to others.

Alyssa Albany Pardee — Franklinton

Alyssa is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Pardee. She has had many leadership roles at Franklinton High School. They include National Beta Club, National Honor Society, and Interact Club member. Each of these organizations focuses on serving our community. She also spends her spare time with special needs children in the community, helping them learn how to interact with others.

Alyssa intends to pursue a degree in elementary education with a minor in Special Education at Southeastern Louisiana University. She maintained a grade-point average of 3.9 in high school, while taking three dual-enrollment courses.

Through a leadership conference, Alyssa said she was shown what her purpose was.

“I was shown that I am on this earth to teach young minds and to inspire them to love learning,” she said. “And to become the best version of themselves and to show that school is a safe place.”