Holly Franks Boffy holds her Principal of the Year trophy that she recently won. It will sit next to her Louisiana Teacher of the Year Award she won in 2010.
Abbeville High graduate wins state Principal of the Year Award
An Abbeville High graduate was named the 2027 Louisiana High School Principal of the Year, earning statewide recognition for her work expanding student pathways at the W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center.
The Louisiana Department of Education presented the honor to Dr. Holly Boffy, principal of the Lafayette Career Center, on Saturday during the 20th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala.
The award recognizes exceptional school leaders whose vision, innovation, and commitment create meaningful opportunities for students.
Back in 2010, Boffy won the Louisiana Teacher of the Year Award.
“I feel blessed to be recognized for my work as both the 2010 Louisiana State Teacher of the Year and the 2027 Louisiana State High School Principal of the Year,” said Boffy. “The difference is this time I can share the experience with my own children and with the whole student body at school. We have worked hard at the W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center to support students in building skills, earning credentials, and launching careers. Preparing students for success after graduation is critical, and I am proud of our success.”
Under Boffy’s leadership, the Career Center broadened student opportunities in several areas, including an 800% increase in industry-based credential attainment. She also oversaw the development of a HiSET program, which provides students with a pathway to earn a high school equivalency credential and continue toward college, career training, or employment.
During the 2026-27 school year, Boffy will continue serving as principal of the Career Center while also leading E.J. Sam Accelerated School.
Superintendent Francis Touchet Jr. praised Boffy’s impact on students and the district.
“Dr. Boffy believes deeply in the potential of every student, and she has built a culture where that belief is turned into real opportunities,” Touchet said. “This honor is incredibly well deserved, and we could not be prouder to see her leadership recognized across Louisiana.”
Boffy’s parents are the late Keith Franks and Kim Pate.