LAPLACE — Ascension of Our Lord Catholic School seventh grader Caleigh Remondet is a natural born leader who enjoys uplifting fellow students, whether it’s on the cheerleading squad, in the classroom or in one of many extracurricular settings.

Her dedication to supporting others has inspired a dream to become a teacher.

“Teachers give you great support systems behind your back, and I like to do that for other children to make learning fun for them,” Caleigh said. “I want them to feel like they always have someone that believes in them.”

Caleigh sometimes finds herself in a teaching role as captain of the AOL Crusaders cheerleading team. She commits to learning each routine with precision so she is able to be a positive role model for other girls on the squad.

This fall marks her third year as a cheerleader.

“It’s really helped me realize how to be a leader and how to help other people,” Caleigh said. “You have to have a lot of patience, and you have to practice a lot so you know what you are doing. You have to recite it to other children and make sure you are on the same level as them so they understand.”

Caleigh is president of her school’s junior Beta Club chapter, which competes at District Days and State Convention in Lafayette. Last year, Caleigh and her peers entered the robotics competition and demonstrated how technology can assist in recycling and clean water filtration efforts.

She also entered the portfolio competition and made a multimedia slideshow to demonstrate the service projects her chapter has taken part in.

Service is a constant in Caleigh’s life between her participation in St. John Girl Scouts and 4-H. In Girl Scouts, she is a cadet who emphasizes the G.I.R.L. “Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker and Leader” motto in cookie sales and camping trips.

Caleigh has also visited the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Home and collected supplies for local nursing home facilities.

Her showmanship shined earlier this year in the State 4-H Livestock Show at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales. She placed sixth in showmanship and 14^th in a category of 150 contenders in the pullet category, which showcased the young hens she raised.

Faith is a large part of Caleigh’s life, especially through Bible study in the AOL Parish Catholic Youth Organization, according to CYO/Youth Ministry Coordinator Emily Gurdian.

“Caleigh is a natural leader and sets a good example for others with her attitude of service and compassion in her church, school and community,” Gurdian said. “Her strong moral compass drives her to always stand up for what is right, even if it’s difficult or unpopular.”

AOL school counselor Christine Escobar described Caleigh as an exceptional student.

“She is so involved with the clubs here,” Escobar said. “She’s just an all-around good kid. She’s sweet; she’s willing to help. She’s friendly and family-oriented.”

Caleigh finds inspiration from her two older sisters, who always brighten her mood with silly and fun interactions. Her parents, Carla and Cleven Remondet, help keep her focused whenever her busy schedule becomes overwhelming.

She is also inspired by her ELA teacher, Shannon Jaubert.

“Caleigh is an outstanding student who works hard to maintain her grades while keeping a positive attitude,” Jaubert said. “Her classmates work well with her and respect her opinion. They know they can depend on her
when a task needs to be completed. She is an absolute pleasure to
teach.”

Staying busy is perfectly in line with Caleigh’s personality. She describes herself as “very outgoing, talkative and loud.”

Caleigh also enjoys hosting WAOL morning announcements and taking part in Missoula Children’s Theatre workshops.