Louisiana Policy Institute for Children welcomes Mattilyn Karst Batson
Batson previously served as Gov. John Bel Edwards’ Director of Early Childhood Systems
BATON ROUGE, LA – The Louisiana Policy Institute for Children (LPIC) is delighted to announce Mattilyn Karst Batson as its policy and research director. With an unwavering passion for supporting vulnerable children, youth and families, Batson brings a wealth of experience and expertise to LPIC.
“I am thrilled to join a team full of individuals dedicated to increasing high-quality early care and education for children across the state,” said Batson. “My passion for advocating on behalf of vulnerable children and families aligns seamlessly with LPIC's core values.”
A dedicated advocate and educator, Batson’s journey to championing the cause of children and families began with her academic pursuits. She earned a bachelor's degree in sociology and public policy and a minor in philosophy, politics and economics from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Following her graduation, Batson was selected for Teach for America (TFA) and served her commitment in New Orleans where she earned her master's degree in teaching. She then continued her service as an educator in Jefferson Parish.
Most recently, Batson’s commitment to improving the lives of children led her to the Governor's office, where she served as the inaugural director of Early Childhood Systems under Gov. John Bel Edwards. In this role, she played a pivotal part in shaping and implementing groundbreaking investments in early childhood programs in Louisiana. Her dedication to enhancing social, health and education systems during a child's critical first five years has had a lasting impact on the state's youngest citizens.
“We are overjoyed to welcome Mattilyn to the LPIC team,” said Dr. Libbie Sonnier, executive director at LPIC. “We are looking forward to leveraging her extensive background in education, public policy and child welfare to further our mission.”
Batson’s appointment will be effective Dec. 1. For more information about LPIC visit policyinstitutela.org.
###
*Editor’s Note: Click HERE for a high-resolution headshot of Batson.
About Louisiana Policy Institute for Children:
Louisiana Policy Institute for Children is a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that Louisiana's young children, from birth to age four, are best prepared for success in school and in life. The Policy Institute develops policy proposals informed by data, research, best practices and the experiences of other states to improve the outcomes of Louisiana’s youngest citizens, and further provides educational and outreach activities based on recommended policy solutions. The organization works to ensure children are safe, healthy and have opportunity to reach their full potential. For more information, visit www.policyinstitutela.org and follow the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.