Collaborative Council

The Superintendent’s Collaborative Council was led by A.J Pethe, Chief Schools. He introduced guests from the school district. Next, he asked the council members to review the meeting agenda, purpose of the council, meeting norms and outcomes.

Next, members were encouraged to participate in an ice breaking activity led by Mary Garton, Chief of Staff. The activity, titled “Common Ground,” provided an opportunity for council members to engage in small group discussions and begin building meaningful connections.

Next, Mrs. Garton introduced Dr. Ladinah Carter, Chief of District Affairs, who presented on navigating the new cell phone policy in Jefferson Parish Schools. As part of the session, members engaged in an interactive activity that encouraged small group discussions around three key questions: What has gone well with the policy's implementation? What challenges or concerns have arisen? What improvements or supports could enhance the policy’s effectiveness next school year? Each group then shared their feedback with the larger group.

What has gone well with implementation of the new cell phone policy?

• Students are less distracted.
• Students are more focused during instructional hours.

What challenges or concerns have come up? 

• Students are still hiding phones.
  Some parents are concerned that, during a school lockdown, students won’t be able to communicate with them.
• Students are still using phones to take inappropriate photos/videos.
• Policy enforcement needs to be consistent and include accountability.
• Concerns from parents about being able to access students during emergencies.
• Inconsistent implementation on school buses and in after-school programs.

What improvements or supports would help make this policy more effective next school year?

• High schools and middle schools should follow the same policy and processes.
• All schools should consistently enforce the policy and apply disciplinary actions uniformly.
• Consider less harsh consequences for students who do not follow the policy.
• Ensure alignment in policy and disciplinary measures across middle and high schools.
• Increase buy-in and support for the policy from all stakeholders.
• Provide training focused on appropriate and responsible technology use.

Next, Laura Roussell, Chief Academic Officer, and Yvette Gauthreaux, Executive Director of Grants and Federal Funding, delivered a presentation on Title IV. The presentation provided an overview of the purpose of Title IV, outlined its funding priorities, and reviewed annual spending methods and expenditures for the 2024–2025 school year. Ms. Gauthreaux explained that Title IV supports three key areas: providing a well-rounded education, promoting the use of technology—including digital literacy for both students and teachers—and ensuring safe and healthy school environments, both mentally and physically. She went on to highlight several of the expenditures for the the 2024-25 school year, which include funding for PBIS facilitators, EveryDay Labs attendance platforms, after-school programs, enrichment opportunities in art and STEM schools, ACT testing contracts, advanced placement (AP) course fees, the JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) program, and Google instructional training for teachers. Additionally, this school year included one-time funding to purchase new band instruments, meeting a widespread need across the district.

Mrs. Roussell emphasized that Jefferson Parish Schools are committed to strategically using federal funds to align with the district’s 2028 Strategic Plan. She also noted that federal funding comes with strict regulations and guidelines that determine how and where money can be allocated. “Some of our funding sources are very strict and targeted for certain things,” she explained. To conclude the session, Mrs. Roussell asked each member to individually document any questions or suggestions regarding federal funding on a comment card for future consideration.

Next, Dr. Pethe invited Superintendent Dr. James Gray to address the council members. Dr. Gray began by welcoming the members and expressing his gratitude for their participation in the councils throughout the school year. He then engaged in a two-way conversation centered on future-focused initiatives. Topics discussed included a new millage proposal, the use of ESSER funds, potential cost saving measures, upcoming changes to accountability systems, and the importance of increasing transparency with external stakeholders. The conversation also explored how council members can effectively advocate for and with the district, current challenges facing the school system, district priorities over the next two years in the event of limited resources, the ongoing teacher shortage, and the need for stronger behavioral support systems. “The two top priorities for the next two years are filling teacher vacancies and supporting schools,” said Dr. Gray. He emphasized that once the district successfully addresses these foundational needs, other initiatives can more effectively align and move forward. 

Council members acknowledged the district's positive momentum, noting how it continues to be shaped by a commitment to high-quality instruction and strong collaboration between schools and families. As Jefferson Parish Schools grow and work toward improved outcomes, Dr. Gray stressed the importance of maintaining a strong foundation through accountability and a focus on instructional excellence. “It’s important to highlight the positive outcomes and take every opportunity to share the good news,” he added. He also emphasized that central office staff are continually working with schools and families to strengthen the district.

During the discussion, a student council member shared that schools should continue promoting student involvement in sports and clubs, as these activities help foster a positive school culture and support students’ mental well-being. A parent council member echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the value of extracurricular programs but noting that some schools struggle to retain sponsors to lead them. Dr. Gray responded by affirming that the district is aware of the issue and is actively exploring ways to better support these programs.

To conclude the meeting, Dr. Pethe led members through a meeting evaluation, inviting feedback on what worked well and suggestions for improving future council meetings.

What Worked Well:

• Small group discussions that included a mix of members from all councils.
• Strong collaboration across different councils.
• Members felt heard and appreciated being included in meaningful conversations on key topics.

Suggestions for Improvement:

• Extend the length of future meetings to allow for deeper discussion.
• Allow current council members to recommend potential new members.
• Share the meeting agenda in advance to support preparation.
• Provide a recap of developing outcomes.
• Share discussion topics from all council meetings with each individual council.

Dr. Pethe closed by thanking everyone for their attendance and engagement, and encouraged members to look out for the application window for the 2025–2026 school year.