During a recent meeting of the Tangipahoa Parish School System, a significant proposal was put forth to honor the late Denise Latour by renaming the guidance counselor suite at Ponchatoula High School to the Denise Latour Counseling Center. This initiative highlights the district's commitment to mental health and recognizes Latour's impactful contributions to the school community.
Latour, who served as the head counselor at Ponchatoula High School, was noted for her dedication to mental health advocacy and her collaborative work with school administration. Her efforts in shaping the counseling center into a vital resource for students were acknowledged by board member Joey, who emphasized her role as a champion for mental health across the parish.
The proposal received support from the school's principal, who agreed that renaming the center would be a fitting tribute to Latour's legacy. In addition to the name change, there are plans to create a plaque that will commemorate her contributions, ensuring that her impact on the school and its students is remembered.
This move not only honors Latour's memory but also reinforces the importance of mental health resources within the educational system. As the district continues to prioritize student well-being, the renaming of the counseling center serves as a reminder of the vital role that dedicated professionals play in supporting the mental health of young people.
The board's decision on this proposal will be closely watched, as it reflects broader trends in education that increasingly recognize the significance of mental health support in schools.