Southeastern Lab School

Second Lady Usha Vance is inviting children across America to take part in her 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, encouraging students entering kindergarten through eighth grade to read 12 books between June 1 and September 4.

Families who complete the challenge and submit their reading log will receive a personalized certificate, an America 250-themed bookmark, and a special link to claim a prize. Participants will also be entered for a chance to visit Washington, D.C., and the White House with a chaperone.

The initiative comes as America marks the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, turning summer reading into both a learning opportunity and a patriotic celebration for young readers.

Photo: Instagram

On Monday, May 18, Lani Traylor attended the State Finalist Student of the Year Awards Ceremony in Baton Rouge. Lani was named the SLU Lab Student of the Year, Tangipahoa Parish Student of the Year, and the Region 6 Student of the Year.

Lani was recognized for excellence in academics, co-curricular activities, sports, arts, and service to her school and community.
In 2025-2026, Louisiana public schools enrolled 45,000+ 5th grade students. Lani completes her 5th grade year as one of the top 8 5th grade students in the entire state.

Attending the ceremony with Lani are her parents, Lance and Brandy Traylor, her brother, Danny Traylor, SLU Lab School Principal Stephen Labbe' and District Student of the Year Coordinator Sharon Spring.

We are of all Lani has accomplished!

SLU Lab Royalty for the Day!! 👸

Principal Lincoln Kinchen showed Mr. Labbe how it’s done! He made our morning and afternoon announcements, went to lunch duty and made the rounds checking on all the teachers! Great job Lincoln! 🦁