LCU alum recognized as school administrators of the year

February 2, 2026

Louisiana Christian University congratulates three alumni who were recently recognized by the Rapides Parish School Board as administrators of the year for outstanding work at their schools and for the district.

  • Ben Arrington, principal of Tioga High School
  • Sheri Dardar, assistant principal of Tioga Junior High School
  • Jennifer Tyler, assistant principal of Alma Redwine Elementary School

“LCU is proud of these award-winning administrators who are dedicated educators in Rapides Parish.  Our education undergraduate and graduate programs continue to produce students of exceptional quality,” said Vice-President of Academic Affairs Dr. Henry Robertson.

Arrington earned his Bachelor of Arts in Education from LCU in 1999 and has worked for Rapides Parish Schools for 27 years. He has been principal at Tioga High School for three years, following seven years as an assistant principal at the school.

Arrington said he was humbled and honored by his recognition and feels fortunate to have been taught by some great faculty members at LCU.

“I was fortunate to learn from outstanding professors such as Dr. Simpson, Dr. Jones, Dr. Hankins, and Dr. Howell—educators whose passion, depth of knowledge, and high expectations left a lasting impression on me,” he said. “They didn’t just teach history; they taught me how to think critically, ask better questions, and develop a lifelong love of learning,

“Beyond the classroom, my time at LCU helped shape my character and worldview. Being able to play baseball while pursuing my degree was a meaningful part of my experience, especially knowing my parents and grandparents were able to watch and share in that journey. I learned the value of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career in education and leadership. LCU provided me with both the academic foundation and personal experiences that continue to influence how I lead, teach, and serve others today.”

Arrington said his beloved alma mater played a significant role in shaping his worldview as well as the educator and leader he has become.

Tyler has also been with the RPSB for her entire 21-year career in education. The last three as assistant principal. She earned her master’s at LCU.

“I have had the opportunity to grow from a classroom teacher into a school leader, and each role has strengthened my commitment to building strong relationships, supporting effective instruction, and helping both students and educators succeed, she said.

Tyler said she is honored and grateful to have been recognized with this honor.

She said she chose to attend LCU because of its strong emphasis on leadership, reflective practice and real-world application.

Another appealing quality of the master’s program at LCU, Tyler said, was that it was taught by administrators.”

“This gave me valuable, real-world insight into the district I hoped to one day lead and serve,” she said.

Jeff Powell, superintendent of Rapides Parish Schools, said the district is incredibly fortunate to have Arrington, Tyler and Dardar leading in RPSB.

“Their perseverance through challenges and strong knowledge of instructional methods and data-driven decision making have been instrumental in raising student achievement levels,” Powell said. “I commend LCU for building the skills these leaders need to navigate the full scope of school leadership—not just the administrative tasks, but the ability to focus on people. Their students and staff respect them, and these leaders consistently demonstrate genuine care. That combination of skill and heart differentiates them, and our schools and families are better for it.”

LCU provides both undergraduate and graduate degrees in education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Education (with Elementary Concentration)
  • Bachelor of Arts in Education (with Content Concentration)

These are part of the 3 + 1 Graduate Certification Track. For complete information, please visit

https://lcuniversity.edu/academics/undergraduate-education/.

  • Master of Arts in Teaching
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership
  • Master of Education with Special Education Concentration

For complete information, see

https://lcuniversity.edu/academics/graduate-education/.

Also, candidates can earn teaching certification in just one year. This 100% online program is the most teacher-friendly program in the state and among the oldest in Central Louisiana. It is embedded in the 3+1 undergraduate certification track, and all credit hours can be applied toward LCU’s MAT degree.

The TEACH program offers certifications for:

  • Early Childhood
  • Elementary Education
  • Middle School Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Special Education

For more information about the TEACH program, please visit https://lcuniversity.edu/academics/graduate-programs/teach-program/.

You may also contact the Dean of Education, Victory Lemons, at 318 487-7179 for more information about LCU education programs.