Claiborne Parish is celebrating an extraordinary academic achievement by one of its own. JerLaysja Cooper, a senior at Homer High School has been named a semifinalist in the highly competitive 2025–2026 Coca-Cola Scholars Program, an honor reserved for the nation’s top student leaders.

JerLaysja was selected from a pool of more than 107,000 applicants nationwide and is one of only 1,237 semifinalists — and notably, one of just six students chosen from the entire state of Louisiana.
This prestigious scholarship recognizes high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to service. As a semifinalist, JerLaysja will advance to the interview stage in January for the opportunity to be named a finalist, receive a $20,000 scholarship, and earn a trip to Atlanta, Georgia, for the Coca-Cola Scholars celebration.

JerLaysja’s recognition places her among the top student leaders in the nation and highlights the exceptional caliber of students representing Claiborne Parish.

“Congratulations to JerLaysja Cooper on this outstanding accomplishment! Her hard work, determination, and dedication to her school and community are an inspiration to us all.”

The community extends its full support and best wishes to JerLaysja as she moves forward in the final selection process.