The Enduring Impact of Romain Picard on Maurice
Today, Romain Picard’s legacy as an educator and civic leader continues to influence Maurice’s schools. His progressive educational style empowered countless individuals to succeed through the knowledge they acquired while attending school in Maurice, Louisiana.
Romain Picard: Early Life and Family Legacy
Born on August 9, 1908, to Agustin Picard and Eliza Denais, Romain Picard grew up in Maurice, where his leadership would ultimately shape the town’s educational and civic landscape. He married Evangeline Martin of New Iberia, and together, they had two children: Cecil James Picard (1938-2007) and Geraldine “Gerry” Picard (1944).
Educational Journey and Early Career
Romain Picard’s leadership was molded through his academic achievements and early career. He graduated from the Southwestern Louisiana Institute (SLI)—now known as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette—where he pursued a degree in History Education. At SLI, Picard thrived academically and took on leadership roles, while also being a varsity member of the track team. His experiences sparked his interest in educational theory and practical teaching methods, fostering a deep belief in the power of education to drive community development.
Picard’s first leadership role in education was at the Leleux Community Grade 4 School, a small institution located between Kaplan and Lyons Point. Here, Picard’s hands-on approach helped shape the school’s culture. He was dedicated to creating an environment where students could excel both academically and personally, encouraging participation in community activities and building strong relationships with teachers and parents.
Maurice High School and the 1943 Tornado
In 1942, Romain Picard was appointed the principal of Maurice High School. Just one year into his role, a devastating tornado struck Maurice, significantly damaging the school and causing the deaths of three residents. Picard’s response to this tragedy demonstrated his unyielding commitment to the safety and well-being of his students and staff.
He worked swiftly to organize temporary classrooms in local community halls and churches while coordinating with educational authorities to secure additional resources. Beyond the school’s immediate needs, Picard played a pivotal role in rebuilding efforts, organizing meetings for the community, and ensuring that necessary support systems were in place.
Romain Picard’s Legal Battle to Stay in Maurice
In the years following the tornado, Picard faced a political battle when local officials attempted to replace him as principal. These officials disagreed with Picard’s progressive educational policies and sought a more conservative leader. Refusing to back down, Picard took the matter to court, with representation from Marcus Broussard and the law firm Davidson & Davidson. The court ultimately ruled in Picard’s favor, ensuring that he would retain his position as principal.
This legal victory reinforced the importance of educational integrity and protected Picard’s vision for Maurice High School, cementing his standing in the community as a leader who prioritized student welfare and educational excellence over political agendas.
Romain Picard: Boy Scouts and FFA Leader
Beyond his work at Maurice High School, Picard was an active leader in Troop 83 of the Boy Scouts of America. He organized community service projects and outdoor adventures that provided valuable lessons in leadership and responsibility. His influence extended into the Future Farmers of America (FFA) at Maurice High, where he supported programs that promoted agriculture, leadership, and career success.
Under Picard’s guidance, the FFA flourished, and students gained skills in agriculture and business that shaped their futures. Many of his students went on to hold leadership roles in the agricultural industry and their communities, a testament to Picard’s ability to inspire.
Civic Leadership: Lions Club and Church Bazaar
Romain Picard was instrumental in founding a local chapter of the Lions Club in Maurice, an organization focused on community service. He gathered community leaders and organized service projects that addressed local needs, including youth outreach and vision care.
One of his most cherished contributions was the annual church bazaar, which he organized on the school grounds. The event brought the community together for games, food, and entertainment, helping to strengthen ties between the school and the local church.
Athletics and District 12C
Romain Picard was also instrumental in establishing District 12C, a sports district for smaller schools, which leveled the playing field for athletic competitions. His advocacy for fair competition gave students from smaller schools the opportunity to excel in athletics. This district enabled smaller schools like Maurice High to compete against similarly sized institutions, allowing students to thrive in a competitive environment.
Romain Picard Memorial Scholarship
In 1987, Cecil Picard, following in his father’s footsteps, created the Romain Picard Memorial Education Scholarship at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. This scholarship continues Romain Picard’s legacy by supporting students pursuing careers in education.
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