Despite only having seven years of teaching experience, Erika Braxter, 52, has already made her mark.

She was born in Fort Worth, Texas but has lived in Southwest Louisiana for 48 years, attending LaGrange High School and McNeese State University.

The educator’s path began with long-term substitute teaching. She said there were two principals, Deborah Garrick and Sharon Ruffin-Hardy, that encouraged her to pursue a more permanent career in education.

“They told me how vital I could be to the education system.”

She is currently enrolled in iTeachLouisiana, an online alternative teaching certification program.

Her time as a substitute was not the first time that she considered becoming an educator, however. Her first-grade teacher, who she lovingly referred to as Mrs. Brannon, was a life-long inspiration. “She left a lasting impression that inspired me to become a teacher.”

In fact, the bonds and relationships like that one she developed with Brannon are her favorite part about being a teacher.

In under 10 years, she has already seen the effect she has had on her students. “I have parents of students I taught four years ago who still call me and ask for help. That lets me know I left a great lasting impression.”

It is Braxter’s philosophy that when an individual takes on the role of educator, they become responsible for the students’ growth.

She currently teaches pre-kindergarten at Barbe Elementary, and has previously taught at Ralph Wilson Elementary, Combre-Fondel Elementary, John. J Johnson Elementary and Ray D. Molo Middle.She is also a member of the PBIS and ATP committees at Barbe Elementary.

She believes every student is able to learn, but some of them have different needs and methods to do so. “I believe all students are capable of learning and need a teacher who is willing to put in the necessary time to help each student achieve their goal,” she explained. “I have a duty and responsibility to each student to help them learn to the best of their ability.”

This mission keeps Braxter grounded. “My students help me remember why I became a teacher. At the end of the day, I am here to serve my students.”

Serving her students and supporting their educational journey has community-wide benefits, she said. “When the people in the community achieve success and earn good jobs, this leads to a growing community which in turn leads to a growing school.”

The job isn’t easy. “You have your good days and bad days, but teaching can be very rewarding.” For Braxter, service is the prize. “You may be just what a student needs, so make every moment count.”