This section connects you with faculty and educators dedicated to your success as a teacher. LSU is home to two model demonstration schools—an incredible advantage for your journey as an education major. These schools give you direct access to experienced teachers who are here to mentor you, share real-world insight, and support your growth throughout all four years.

Each edition of this section will spotlight a faculty member from a teacher preparation program at LSU, the Early Childhood Education Laboratory Preschool, and the University Laboratory School. It’s designed to help you dive deeper into your program, explore each unit’s website, and build connections with faculty early and often.

Hillary B. Eisworth, PhD
Associate Professor of Professional Practice in Early Childhood

Dr. Hillary Eisworth, a member of the PK–3 Early Childhood Teacher Education Program, brings extensive experience and a passion for preparing future educators. She teaches courses in child development and early childhood pedagogy and earned her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Texas at Austin. Before joining LSU in 2007, she taught prekindergarten through second grade in Las Vegas and Portland. Her recent research focuses on pre-service teacher development and collaboration in teacher preparation programs.

Dr. Eisworth coordinates the School of Education’s dual enrollment courses in the Louisiana Pre-Educator Pathway and supports teacher candidates through hands-on field placements via the Office of Clinical Experiences. Her work connects classroom learning with real-world teaching, shaping the next generation of educators.

“If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow.” – John Dewey

Fun Facts about Dr. Eisworth

Favorite food: Sushi

Fun fact: She graduated from University Laboratory School here on the LSU campus.

Demika Gilmore
Lead Teacher Infant

Demika Gilmore earned her bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Science with a concentration in Child Development from Southern University. She has been working with young children since 2010 and brings years of experience and a genuine love for teaching to every classroom. Earlier this year, she was named one of five finalists for the Early Childhood Educator of the Year award. This prestigious recognition honors her dedication, passion, and exceptional contributions to the field of early childhood education.

Her work reflects a child-centered philosophy that fosters curiosity, engagement, and confidence, making her an inspiring role model for both students and fellow educators.

Fun Facts about Ms. Gilmore

Favorite food: Seafood lover, especially boiled shrimp and crawfish

Fun fact: Loves exploring different Louisiana festivals & loves Mardi Gras, especially going to parades

Adria Heroman
Third Grade Instructor

Meet Mrs. Adria Heroman, a proud University Laboratory School alumna (Class of 1996) and current third-grade instructor at ULS. A National Board Certified Teacher, she also serves as a mentor teacher, guiding the next generation of educators. Mrs. Heroman earned her BS in Elementary Education in 2000 and her MED in 2023, both from LSU.

Married to her high school sweetheart, Ben Heroman (also ULS alumnus Class of 1996), she is a mother of five children—Towns (ULS Class of 2022), Clint (ULS Class of 2025), Mary Cate (ULS Class of 2027), William (ULS Class of 2029) , and Millie (ULS Class of 2032). Her connection to ULS runs deep, and she says, “Once you are a Cub, you are always a Cub!” bringing both expertise and lifelong school pride to her classroom.

“Tell me and I may forget. Teach me and I may remember. Involve me and I will learn.” - Benjamin Franklin

Fun Facts about Ms. Heroman

Favorite food: My husband's chicken and sausage gumbo and his boiled crawfish-he always kicks off the fall and spring with both of these!

Fun fact: She loves to celebrate BIRTHDAYS-of her students, co-teachers, family, and friends!

Rob Lyles
Director

Rob Lyles, Director of the University Laboratory School, has dedicated his career to shaping schools and students for success. Leading one of Louisiana’s top college preparatory programs, he balances academic excellence with a focus on community and character. His experience as an assistant dean at LSU gives him a unique perspective that bridges higher education leadership with K–12 innovation.

For Lyles, success is measured by helping others achieve their goals. He is proud of his involvement in service initiatives, including the Gardere Giveaway, international student events, and volunteer work with the humane society. Known for his self-awareness and approachable leadership, he blends humor and humility with a commitment to guiding students, teachers, and the community toward growth and achievement.

This series comes straight from TTC’s effort to bring inspiring speakers directly to you—and make their sessions available anytime you want. Every talk is recorded so you can watch, rewind, and learn whenever it works for your schedule. Midnight in your pajamas? Perfect. Think of it as professional development in your comfiest clothes.

Each edition will highlight a new session you won’t want to miss. Dive in, click through, and get practical insight that supports your journey as a future educator. Check out the Tiger Teacher Corps Playlist for past speakers.

This space will now keep you in the loop on everything happening across your programs—info sessions for tutoring roles, meeting dates for peer mentors, student organization activities, volunteer opportunities, special events, and more. It’s your go-to spot for ways to get involved, grow your skills, and stay connected. Keep an eye out each month so you never miss a chance to participate.