VERMILION PARISH STUDENT OF THE YEAR: Cecil Picard’s Romero shares honor with family

MAURICE — Family is important to 11-year-old Kinley Jo Romero.
When Romero, a fifth-grader at Cecil Picard Elementary, earns a big accomplishment, she enjoys celebrating with her family.
The Romeros had a huge reason to celebrate as the Vermilion Parish School System recently named Romero its Elementary School Student of the Year.
“This recognition has been such an awesome experience for me that I will never forget,” Romero said. “I am honored to be named Cecil Picard Elementary’s 2024-2025 Student of the Year and Vermilion Parish Elementary Student of the Year. 
“I am thankful and blessed for my family, friends, teachers, and everyone who has supported me throughout this incredible journey.”
Romero’s journey has been a busy one. She is involved in numerous activities at school. That list includes the Jr. Beta Club, for which she serves as president, the 4-H Club and Student Council.
“I am very involved in many activities and clubs in my school and community,” Romero said.
Outside of school, Romero enjoys dancing and playing basketball. 
“Dancing is my greatest passion with basketball right after,” Romero said. “I have been in dancing at DWL Dance Company here in Maurice since I was three years old, where I participate in tap, jazz, technique, hip hop, and competition dance. I have been playing basketball since the age of 5. Playing basketball is so fun and I have learned a lot of good things such as good sportsmanship, that hard work always pays off, and never to quit what you start.”
Romero said she felt the experiences she gained from activities both in and out of school helped her in the competition for the top elementary student.
“I feel that my confidence, drive, and involvement helped me separate myself,” Romero said. “My confidence really helps me have good conversations with the judges, especially during the interview process. My drive helps me to always give my best in everything that I do. I love to start conversations and interact with people.”
She’s now looking forward to having those conversations and interactions as she represents Cecil Picard and Vermilion Parish at the next level of the competition.
“I am beyond proud, humbled, and filled with excitement to be able to represent my school, Cecil Picard Elementary, as the 2024-2025 Vermilion Parish Elementary Student of the Year!” Romero exclaimed.
As always, Romero is most excited to represent her parents, Kayla and Jordan, and sister, Lexi.
“My family is a big part of my life and is very important to me,” Romero said. “I love to spend time with them and celebrate things like this huge accomplishment with them.”