January 2023

Class

Notes

by Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams

Equity. Excellence. Joy.

Class Notes is a monthly newsletter intended to keep community stakeholders connected to NOLA-PS. To subscribe click here.

January 2023 Update

(Click picture below to start video)

I am truly honored to be one of two recipients of the 2023 Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award! This honor is especially dear to me because as I reflect on my own educational experiences, I think back to my high school days when I did not have the mentorship and support I truly needed. No one explained to me that going to college was an option. So, I served in the military instead. I'm proud of my service, but the lack of options inspired me throughout my educational career to ensure scholars had mentors and educators to encourage them and provide them opportunities for success. Along my journey, I found mentors who supported me and allowed me to serve in leadership positions that have helped me achieve my goals. To be recognized for continuing the tradition of reaching back and lifting up women and people of color as I move forward is truly an honor.

I am so humbled and touched to receive this recognition. Dr. Effie Jones was a stellar career educator who placed the success of students and leaders first, while focusing on placing more woman and people of color in senior leadership roles. Read more here.

School Board Recognition Month

January is School Board Recognition Month and I am honored to celebrate our school board members for their dedication and commitment to the district's schools and students.

Our school board members are selfless volunteers who spend long hours working to ensure all of our scholars have the opportunity to learn and grow. Celebrating School Board Recognition Month is one way to say thank you for all they do.

Talk SUPT Roundtable

I am so excited to introduce Talk SUPT Roundtable! Talk SUPT Roundtable is a virtual conversation on various topics surrounding NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS)! Parents, guardians, and community members are invited to participate in this spinoff from my weekly chats, Talk SUPT. The purpose is to provide space for two-way communication and a deeper connection with all stakeholders. Talk SUPT Roundtable will begin with a series of student-led discussions on topics impacting youth in the city of New Orleans. Our first discussion featured students from Edna Karr and my student advisory council. Our scholars never cease to amaze me! They know what it is needed to help prevent crime and gun violence in our great city and their voices need to be heard! Talk SUPT Roundtable is one way I can ensure they have a seat at the solution table. Below are some of the topics we will cover.

Talk SUPT Roundtable Discussion Topics:

Impact of crime and gun violence on youth in New Orleans
So, what now? A student-led solutions discussion
Student Mental Health and Wellness
Importance of school attendance
Youth Empowerment
College/Career Planning and Preparation

Talk SUPT Roundtable will air live on the NOLA-PS Facebook page. Replays will be available on the NOLA-PS YouTube channel. Be sure to like us and subscribe!

Watch our first discussion here. Tune in February 2nd at 1:00pm on Facebook for our next discussion.