Human Development Center

LASARD

LASARD Now Signing Contracts for the 2026–27 School Year

Partner with Louisiana’s Most Trusted Source for Inclusive Education Support

For two decades, the LASARD Project has stood alongside educators across the state, helping schools strengthen instruction, improve outcomes for diverse learners, and build systems that last. As we enter our 20th year of service, we invite districts to select LASARD as their Professional Learning Partner (PLP) for the year ahead.

Districts choose LASARD because we don’t just deliver training. We build relationships. We collaborate. We stay. And we bring the experience of supporting Louisiana educators for 20 years — experience that translates into practical strategies, sustainable systems, and real results for students.

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What LASARD Offers for 2026–27

Coaching

Our coaching model is designed to meet educators where they are — in classrooms, in team meetings, or at the district level. Each coaching cycle includes:

  • A goal‑setting conversation to identify strengths, challenges, and priorities

  • Classroom observations with targeted, actionable feedback

  • In‑class modeling of evidence‑based strategies

  • Record reviews and collaborative problem‑solving

  • A follow‑up email summarizing key takeaways and next steps

  • A reflective debrief to support ongoing growth

Every coaching interaction is tailored, intentional, and grounded in the realities of Louisiana classrooms.

Professional Development

LASARD provides high‑quality, evidence‑based training that equips educators to effectively teach diverse learners. Districts can choose from:

  • Basic Sessions – Foundational knowledge and essential practices

  • Deeper Dive Sessions – Skill‑building and application

  • Training Series – Multi‑session learning that supports long‑term implementation

Most sessions are up to two hours, with half‑day and full‑day options available to meet district needs.

Communities of Practice

Our Communities of Practice (CoP) bring together educators with shared needs for ongoing, collaborative learning. Each session includes:

  • A focused content presentation

  • A solution‑focused case study discussion

  • Practical strategies educators can apply immediately

These conversations lead to real solutions — and stronger professional communities.

Build Your Own Customized Package

Every school system is unique. LASARD allows districts to design a package that fits their goals, priorities, and budget. Combine any of our services — or create a fully customized plan — to build the support structure your educators need most.

What our partners say about us

For 20 years, LASARD has partnered with Louisiana districts to strengthen inclusive practices, support educators, and improve outcomes for students with autism and related disabilities. Our team understands Louisiana’s schools because we’ve been in them — coaching, training, collaborating, and problem‑solving side by side with educators.

And you don’t have to take our word for it. Across Louisiana, school administrators, teachers, and support staff consistently share how LASARD’s coaching, professional development, and collaborative approach have transformed their classrooms and strengthened their teams. Their voices tell the story best. Here’s what they have to say.

Teacher and para with student at desk

About our Coaching Services

"LASARD is an AMAZING resource to provide strategies, coaching and resources for students with disabilities! The work they do is critical to providing students with autism, related disabilities and others the teacher coaching, support and resources needed to create opportunities for success for ALL students. I would urge any school district to partner with LASARD to partner with you as an essential piece of job-embedding coaching for teachers and staff."

- Dr. Dana J. Boockoff, Director of Special Education at Morehouse Parish Schools

LASARD faciliatator presenting to a group of teachers with an illustration of a sensory bucket displayed on the screen.

About our Professional Development Services

"Paulina Elementary is incredibly grateful for the support provided by our LASARD facilitator. She has been instrumental in enhancing our ability to meet the diverse needs of our students. From the beginning, she demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges faced by our special education teachers and students. The tailored workshops and professional development sessions have equipped our staff with effective strategies for behavior. LASARD has provided our school with the tools to help our paraprofessionals, teachers, and students thrive in a rigorous educational environment." 

- Hollie Folse, Principal at Paulina Elementary

Teacher with Communication Board Make and Take

About our Customized Services

LASARD created a family training for Tangipahoa Parish School System, which included a make-and-take component for families to use at home. LASARD worked with Tangipahoa to add these trainings to their contract. 

"The Autism Awareness Workshops presented by LASARD was an incredible opportunity for families to gain practical support and a deeper understanding of their children. The workshops offered parents, family members, and community members easy-to-use strategies that help children thrive at home, at school, and in the community." 

- Ashley L. Gaten, PhD, Professional Development Coordinator and Family & Community Engagement at Tangipahoa Parish School System