Following the transfer of Lisa Thomas to Myrtle Place Elementary School, the Lafayette Parish School System is pleased to announce the appointment of Monique Chargois as the new principal of Westside Elementary School.
Monique Chargois has served as the principal of Ernest Gallet School for the past 10 years. She brings 16 years of experience as a principal and 6 years as an assistant principal within Lafayette Parish, amassing over two decades of experience in the Lafayette Parish School System. Throughout her career, she has taught at Ernest Gallet and Ridge Elementary and has held administrative roles at Ernest Gallet, Lafayette Middle, and Paul Breaux Middle School.
“Ms. Chargois brings a wealth of knowledge focused on student achievement. Her experience in educational leadership and her commitment to academic excellence have consistently driven positive outcomes for students,” states Superintendent Francis Touchet.
Under Chargois's leadership, her schools have received numerous awards, including the Top Gains Honoree, Early Childhood Excellence Award, Mastery Plus School, School of Exemplary Growth, and Opportunity Honoree. Notably, Lafayette Middle School improved its rating from 1 star to 2 stars during her tenure. In her advocacy for excellence in education, Mrs. Chargois serves as the Secretary of the Lafayette Parish Principals’ Association. She has created public service announcements to raise awareness and promote positive changes among students, focusing on topics such as attendance, grades, homework, and behavior. In 2017, Chargois created a Tigers on the Run club for children to come together and learn valuable life skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. Throughout the seasons, young members of the club engage in various activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.
Prioritizing literacy excellence, Chargois has pioneered several programs that have garnered Ernest Gallet multiple literacy awards. In 2015, she encouraged educators to use research-based strategies to promote reading, fostering and nurturing dynamic reading practices among students. Over three years, Ernest Gallet earned the distinction of Renaissance National Honor Roll from 2018 to 2024. Additionally, for the past five years, Ernest Gallet has celebrated more than 100 Million Word Readers, reflecting one of her favorite quotes by Dr. Seuss: "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."
In 2010, Chargois co-authored the book "How the Best Teachers Differentiate Instruction," which became a bestseller in 2010 and 2011. She looks forward to continuing her passion for literacy success at Westside Elementary School. Chargois believes, "The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education." - Martin Luther King Jr.
Chargois states, “As I embark on this journey, I am eager to embrace the challenges, celebrate the successes, and cultivate a culture of growth and excellence. Together, we will strive to create a place where every individual feels valued, empowered, and motivated to reach their full potential. Let us embark on this adventure with open hearts and minds, ready to learn, lead, and make a difference."
Chargois holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and two master's degrees in Education, one in Administration and Supervision, and the other in Curriculum and Instruction.