Gaynell Young is one of the Zachary residents featured in the Black History Makers feature in the winter 2023 issue.
Advocacy for our Children
Zachary schools have been top in the state since 2005, just two years after going independent. Lifelong Port Hudson resident Gaynell Young has been involved from the start. For the kids who live in the Plains area of Zachary and enjoy both the country life and the short drive into town for school, that may not have ever come to be without Young’s advocacy.
Around 2001, there was some talk of bussing the kids who live outside the city limits into Baton Rouge schools. “I remember the public meeting vividly,” the mother of three says. “I spoke as a parent. Our kids have always gone to Zachary schools–if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” she recalls saying. “And that was the start of my involvement. I love the kids and the community, and I wanted to make sure Port Hudson had effective representation.”
Final Term as District 1 Representative
As she begins her final term, Young says it has been so fulfilling to serve this community and attributes its success to four pillars: outstanding students, dedicated parents, community support, and effective leadership.
