S. E. "Teddy" Welch was born and raised in Sugartown, Louisiana of Beauregard Parish, and graduated from East Beauregard High School.
He attended McNeese State University, Louisiana State University and Northwestern State University and holds a bachelor's degree and master degree +30 years in education and has a certification in vocational agriculture.
Mr. Welch is a retired teacher and principal of the Beauregard Parish School system. He is a past president and current board member of the Beauregard Parish Police Jury and serve as the Police Juror in District 3 B. He is also a board member for the Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives and a member of the Louisiana and Beauregard Parish Cattleman's Association.