2023 Regular Session ENROLLED
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 155
BY SENATOR MORRIS
A RESOLUTION
To commend and congratulate Shelby Ainsworth on the occasion of his retirement as
principal of West Monroe High School.
WHEREAS, Mr. Ainsworth's early educational career began as a teacher and coach
at four schools; he has worked as an educator for thirty-six years and served fifteen years as
assistant principal of West Monroe High School in West Monroe, Louisiana, before being
appointed its principal in 2014; and
WHEREAS, after spending one year at Ouachita Parish Junior High School, six years
at Ouachita Parish High School, two years at West Ouachita High School, and twenty-seven
years at West Monroe High School, where he also served as assistant principal, Mr.
Ainsworth demonstrated his value and earned the role of principal; and
WHEREAS, during his college days, Mr. Ainsworth initially pursued a major in
agribusiness to emulate his father, but his life took a dramatic turn when he became a coach
at Northeast Louisiana University, now the University of Louisiana Monroe; he became
deeply inspired by the transformative impact of the coach-player bond, and shifted his focus
to become an educator; and
WHEREAS, serendipitously, as Mr. Ainsworth's family contemplated ways for him
to maintain his career in education while prioritizing family time, the dilemma was solved
with his appointment as principal of West Monroe High School in 2014 by Ouachita Parish
School Superintendent Bob Webber; and
WHEREAS, his steadfast conviction in the profound influence wielded by teachers,
coaches, and instructors have on their high school students served as the driving force behind
his exemplary leadership as principal for more than 2000 eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, and
twelfth graders; and
WHEREAS, Kirk Frantom, the sports medicine coordinator for the school district
and athletic trainer at West Monroe High School lauded Principal Ainsworth's unwavering
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leadership and friendship, skillfully fostering an environment that uplifts and empowers the
faculty and staff while respecting the expertise and intellect of each individual; and
WHEREAS, Principal Ainsworth, characterized as knowledgeable, responsible, and
supportive, culminates his career with exceptional achievement scores recognized by the
Louisiana Department of Education, boasting a Grade Level Graduation Index score of 98.7,
an ACT Index/College and Career Readiness score of 71.6, and an impressive Strength of
the Diploma Index score of 103.9, attesting to his outstanding cohort graduation data
certification; and
WHEREAS, the report card for West Monroe High School showcases an impressive
"A" grade in overall performance, encapsulating the school's exceptional charge in
effectively preparing students for advanced studies, mastery of essential content, notable
growth compared to the previous year, and successful transition into the subsequent
academic year; and
WHEREAS, the West Monroe High School Rebel Football Program presented
Principal Ainsworth with another historic season to be remembered during their annual
rivalry game against the Ouachita Parish High School Lions, adding to the pivotal moment
when the West Monroe High School Rebels were recognized as one of the preeminent
football teams in the state of Louisiana, boasting an illustrious history with twenty-five
consecutive appearances in the Class 5A postseason play, along with eight state
championships and two national titles; and
WHEREAS, with unending support, Mr. Ainsworth has nurtured student interests
with a diverse twenty plus extra-curricular activities, which have all proven effectual, from
the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps to the Biology Club, and from Future
Farmers of America to Junior Civitans, to the National Honor Society and Science and
Robotics, and they have achieved remarkable feats, notably, the Rebel Band has upheld a
longstanding tradition of superior ratings at marching festivals and concerts since 1966, with
prestigious invitations to perform in United States Presidential parades, the London New
Year's Day Parade in Westminster, United Kingdom, and securing top ten positions in their
last five appearances at the Louisiana Showcase of Marching Bands; and
WHEREAS, the West Monroe High School Rebel Choir, comprised of a talented
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ensemble of one hundred twenty students, has consistently demonstrated musical prowess,
boasting an uninterrupted series of superior ratings while embarking on captivating tours
across Italy, Europe, and Austria, in addition to receiving a coveted invitation to perform at
the illustrious Carnegie Hall in New York, New York; and
WHEREAS, Principal Ainsworth, as an esteemed servant leader, embodies the core
principles of selfless service, actively believing in and exemplifying a set of behaviors and
practices that prioritize the well-being and progress of others, fostering the creation and
sustenance of flourishing societies, and he shares these qualities through his roles as a church
deacon and life-group teacher by fortifying scriptural fellowship and growth at First West
Church in West Monroe, Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, in honor of Mr. Ainsworth's well-earned retirement, a celebratory
gathering is planned for June 7, 2023, to recognize his commitment to inclusive educational
environments that nurture curiosity, empower educators and students to achieve their utmost
capabilities regardless of trial or triumphs, and consistently explore innovative methods in
the pursuit of learning, all to shape a prosperous and promising future for all; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Shelby Ainsworth, as the epitome of servant leadership, leaves
behind an exceptional legacy of educational brilliance and a heartfelt commitment to the
welfare of every student, teacher, staff member, friend, and family by cultivating a culture
of generosity that will remain in the corridors of West Monroe High School, resonate on
every field of innovation, and echo through the platforms of motivation he ignited, inspiring
everyone to joyfully pass the torch of kindness and support.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana
does hereby commend and congratulate Mr. Shelby Ainsworth on the occasion of his
retirement as principal of West Monroe High School and every West Monroe Rebel
encouraged by his hand and heart.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to
Principal Shelby Ainsworth.
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
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