Denise “Mrs. A” Ardoin is a devoted educator with 28 years at Saint Paul Catholic Classical School, where she teaches sixth- through eighth-grade English. A product of a full Catholic education herself, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Louisiana in Lafayette. Mrs. A’s commitment to faith and education is evident in her personal life—her children attended Saint Paul through eighth grade, and her family’s educational journey continues with connections to Ursuline Academy, Texas A&M, and Jesuit College Preparatory School. Most recently, Mrs. A was nominated for LifeChanger of the Year.

Mrs. A is celebrated not only for her impactful teaching and lifelong influence on students—many of whom credit her lessons for guiding their academic and personal successes—but also for her compassionate leadership. Mrs. A led a school-wide prayer for her healing after a 2023 cancer diagnosis, exemplifying her willingness to go above and beyond for her students. Her commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, impacting former students who continue to apply her lessons in their lives.

Beginning her career in 1988 and joining Saint Paul in 1998, Mrs. A has served in various roles—from a pre-K4 teacher in the Mother’s Day Out program to a middle school English teacher—and has been honored as Teacher of the Year twice. With plans to write a book titled Teach It, Preach It, Reach It and guided by her mantra, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” Mrs. A continues to inspire and make a lasting impact on everyone she meets.