Tony Cain was recently named Principal and Director of Educational Services, joining a distinguished list of educators who have served our Home in this capacity. In 1985, the Lorraine Nobles Howard Education Center, also known as Howard School, opened to serve the Home’s residents who were unable to attend the public schools in Lincoln Parish. The first principal of Howard School was Mrs. Evelyn Wilburn who was followed by Mr. Bill Gullatt in 1986, who, in turn, was followed in 1993 by Mr. Rick Sutton. Mr. Cain joined us upon the recent retirement of Mr. Sutton in August.

Mr. Cain received his Bachelors degree at Northeast Louisiana University, his Masters degree at University of Louisiana-Monroe, and his Doctorate ABD degree at George Washington University. He and his wife Stephanie have three children: Anna Gail, Saylor and Sawyer.

Mr. Cain is a previous employee with the Ouachita Parish School Board, and has held various positions and memberships in notable organizations over the years such as:
Member of Monroe City School Board for 12 years, Louisiana Freemason (Past-Master), Louisiana Scottish Rite, Rotary International, Our House/ Safe Place Board of Directors (A United Way Agency), and Monroe Youth Girls Softball League Board of Directors.

When asked what inspired him to seek employment with the Methodist Children’s Home’s Howard School, Cain said “I have worked with at-risk youth for many years and love doing so. The personal satisfaction that comes with positively impacting the life of a young man or woman whose circumstances inhibit their ability to achieve, far outweighs the challenges associated with educating the disadvantaged youth that we serve.”

All children who are admitted into the residential care of Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home begin their educational experiences at Howard School. If students demonstrate through behavioral and academic performance that they are capable of functioning in a public school setting, then residents are transitioned into the local Ruston Junior High School and Ruston High School.

In additional to a regular academic track, Howard School also offers an extremely successful GED/Vocational Education track for students whose academic goals are better served by a career skills-based education. Students can receive instruction in carpentry, barbering and welding at the John H. Allen Vocational and Career Training Center, located on the Ruston campus.