Livingston Parish Educator Named a 2025-2026 NIET Fellow
DENHAM SPRINGS, La. -- Candace Shaidaee, an instructional coach at Southside Elementary, has been awarded a National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) Fellowship for the 2025-2026 school year, making her one of only 12 educators in the nation selected for the program.
The NIET Fellows Program is a one-year opportunity for teacher leaders in K-12 school systems. The program is designed to provide teacher leaders with opportunities to deepen their knowledge of NIET’s systems of improvement to more effectively support the work taking place within and beyond their school and district.
“We are very proud of Candace. She is an excellent example of the hard work and dedication the teachers and staff of Southside Elementary give everyday to meet the needs of our students,” said Southside Elementary Principal Laura Williams.
Over the course of the year-long fellowship, July 2025 - June 2026, Shaidaee will take on a variety of responsibilities by engaging in multiple types of professional development.
She will maintain her employment as a full-time district employee, while participating in program activities throughout the year. All travel costs associated with the required program travel will be covered by NIET, and she will receive a $7,500 stipend from NIET for her participation.
“I am excited to join the NIET Fellowship Program. I think this opportunity will greatly expand my knowledge while equipping me to elevate the practice of fellow educators and leaders across our district – fostering lasting impact through shared growth and excellence,” Shaidaee said.
Other fellows selected for the program are from Arizona, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa and Tennessee. Shaidaee is one of three educators from Louisiana selected for the program.