Bossier Schools Substitute Earns Master’s at 75 Years Old

At 75 years old, a dedicated educator serving Bossier Parish Schools has just reached a remarkable milestone in a decades-long journey: a Master's degree in Counseling from Louisiana Tech University. The inspiring journey proves that passion and drive have no age limit.

Journey to a Master's: Perseverance Pays Off for Bossier Substitute

Loretta Wiley started her Master's degree journey in 2006, after having already earned an undergraduate certificate in forensic psychology and a graduate certificate in domestic violence by the age of 56.

Wiley didn't complete her Master's when she first enrolled at LA Tech, leaving school for personal reasons. Despite setbacks, by 2021, she was once again enrolled at LA Tech's College of Education and Human Sciences.

While working to earn her degree, Wiley was a substitute teacher for Bossier Parish Schools, earning her own education while educating the future generation.

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Graduation Day: A New Chapter at 75

At LA Tech's 2025 spring graduation ceremony, Loretta Wiley walked across the stage where she finally received her long-awaited Master's degree. Wiley was well known within her department at LA Tech, professors like Dr. Mary Livingston described her as having "the biggest heart in helping others."

So what does a 75-year-old do with a fresh Master's degree? Well, for Loretta, she plans on carrying on much the same, working as a substitute teacher for Bossier Parish while finding new ways to use her newfound skills in counseling.

Loretta is hopeful she can inspire others. At her age, she said, "I hope others can look at my story and see that it's never too late to pursue something meaningful."