MaKensie Scott is a Louisiana state champion power lifter. But her biggest victory may have come when her parents chose to send her to Pope John Paul II High School. 

Finding the right school for their daughter was of utmost importance to Ian Scott and his wife, Monica. They wanted to place MaKensie in an environment where she could thrive – not only academically, but socially as well. When they chose Pope John Paul II High School in Slidell, Louisiana, they felt confident MaKensie would also have the opportunity to grow spiritually. 

Now a senior, MaKensie reflects on her experience in the public school system before transferring. 

“Public education is a great option for a lot of students, but sometimes public education is not the right option for other students,” said MaKensie. “Now I have like 20 kids in my class, and I can get more one-on-one time with my teachers. So, whenever I need help with something, I know that the teacher is right there for me, ready to answer any question that I have. 

“I think the biggest thing that I’ve taken out of going to Pope is powerlifting and how not only has it made me stronger physically, but it has made me strong mentally.” 

Her father believes the opportunities MaKensie found at Pope John Paul II helped unlock her potential. 

“If she had not come to Pope John Paul, she more than likely would not be a state powerlifting champion,” said Ian. 

Head of School Kimberlie Kilroy says Louisiana’s Tuition Donation Credit Program helps make a Pope John Paul II education attainable for families who might otherwise be unable to afford it. 

“Tax credit programs empower parental choice,” Kilroy said. “Parents know better than anyone what will work best for their sons and daughters. In Louisiana, families can also access the LA GATOR Scholarship Program, and they are now able to stack the two scholarships. That flexibility has made a meaningful difference in helping families manage the cost of tuition.” 

As MaKensie prepares for graduation and begins considering her college options, she says she’s grateful for the support that helped her get to this point. 

“I want to say thank you to my parents,” said MaKensie. “They’re truly my biggest supporters and my biggest motivators. Now in my senior year, I’m not stressing over school. I know that I’ve done the work the past 12 years to get me to my next level in life.”