Superintendent's Parent Council

2022-2023 Parent Council Members 

• Angelle Morris, C.T. Janet & Marrero Middle
• Shelbie Livingston, Bridgedale Elementary
• Tyreion Simeon, Woodmere Elementary
• Edie Deegan, Adams Middle & Keller Elementary
• Sheila Banks, Patrick Taylor & Ruppel
• Windy Hasson, Harahan Elementary
• Emily DeVeer, Rudolph Matas Elementary
• Stephen Peychaud, Metairie Academy
• Erika Lara, Metairie Academy
• Nysha Eugene, Ella Pittman Elementary
• Tamra Roney, J.C. Ellis Elementary
• Keishelle Jones, Ray St. Pierre Academy
• Gregg Frederick, Patrick F. Taylor
• Stefani Becker, Chateau Estates Elementary
• Staniesha Richardson, Bonnabel High, Clancy Maggiore Elem., & Harris Middle

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2022-2023 Meeting Dates

The Council consists of 18 parents, representing two parents from each school district in Jefferson Parish. 

The council met four times this school year with the Superintendent at various sites from 3:30-5 p.m. 

• October 18, 2022 at 501 Manhattan    
• December 9, 2022 at Emenes Building
• February 10, 2023 at 501 Manhattan  
• April 20, 2023 at Emenes Building 
• April 27, 2023 Collaborative Meeting at 501 Manhattan

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2022-2023 Council Recaps

October 18: The Superintendent’s Parent Council was led by Gabrielle Misfeldt, Chief of Staff. Parents introduced themselves and then participated in a Back-to-Back Drawing icebreaker where they were asked to draw an image by just hearing verbal instructions from their partner. The group discussed how communications requires strong listening and verbal skills from all parties and how perceptions can vary based on the person’s perspective.  

The council members next discussed council norms and meeting outcomes. They then broke into small groups to collaboratively brainstorm possible topics to discuss at upcoming council meetings. The topics were as follows:

• Hosting more districtwide community activities
• Providing families with more technology assistance and classes
• Supporting schools with PTOs
• Creating a biliteracy initiative
• Increasing community partnerships
• Getting more donations
• Providing more tutoring support
• Quality of student meals
• Better communication between parents and teachers
• Curriculum
• More language immersion
• Increasing 504/IEP efficiency and resources
• Better transportation
• College & career readiness initiatives 
• Opportunities for financial literacy for students and families 
• Diversity in teaching force
• Academic rigor across the district
• School time changes 
• Ongoing communication regarding student progress
• Having more volunteer speakers
• Increasing after-care and extra-curricular options 

Next, Superintendent Dr. James Gray addressed the council members. “Hosting these councils allows us to get feedback from our stakeholders and gives us an understanding of what your reality is,” he shared. He shared how the parent council will be helping to address how we make the district better function for kids and how we can get engagement from families and the community in a better way.

Dr. Gray then opened up the floor for parents to ask questions of him. Parents asked him about the possibility of expanding Dual Immersion programs in the district, and Dr. Gray shared how the district is always looking for ways to expand opportunities for students and also looking at ways to be more efficient and streamline our processes. A parent asked him about safety protocols at schools, and Dr. Gray shared how we are conducting tabletop drills at schools and use Single Point of Entry to ensure the safety and preparedness of our schools. Dr. Gray also addressed parents’ questions about carpool protocols, schools’ response time to parents’ inquiries, hiring for substitute teachers, and curriculum. 

Ms. Misfeldt then conducted a meeting evaluation, where members shared what they liked about the meeting and what they would like to be seen done differently.

December 9: The Superintendent’s Parent Council was led by Gabrielle Misfeldt, Chief of Staff, and Kaela Lewis, Executive Director of Communication. The session opened with an icebreaker activity. Parents introduced themselves, shared the school(s) that their student(s) attended and shared something good that happened to them in 2022. 

The council members next discussed the purpose for parent’s council, council norms and meeting outcomes.

Next, Ms. Lewis provided insight for brainstormed topics and the group activity for the session. Members would focus on creating communication plans and provide insight on Jefferson Summer Bridge, district engagement and school engagement. Parents then divided into two groups to brainstorm possible solutions. 

Summer Bridge

What works:

• Parents who know about the program love and appreciate it
• It’s a free academic opportunity but also fun for students
• It’s open to all students
• Breakfast, lunch and transportation are provided
• If parents and children enjoy the program they naturally spread the word

Some information was given/Suggestions to help:

• More social media promotion
• Educate families on the program since many parents aren't aware of the program
• Open registration early so parents can consider why looking at other camps
• More communication before, during and after and after camp
• If possible, provide academic progress update during camp
• Utilize incentives for daily attendance, like treat students with incentives (special trips, prizes, zoo passes,etc)
• District Level Engagement: Listen & Learn Town Halls

What works:

• Posted on school media
• Parents received text messages through jcampus

Suggestions to help:

• Provide incentives
• Encourage community leaders and groups to attend and encourage families to attend
• Host a parish wide community event and provide fun activities for children
• Host a virtual fair
• Invite local artist to events
• Conduct school and toy drives
• Host a college night for high school students
• School Level Engagement

What works:

• PAFE collected donations from local businesses and used to create incentives for family engagement
• School parent representative per grade level to support communications with other parents

Suggestions to help:

• Go back to “old school” strategies
• Send folder home with communications and parent sign that they received it; students receive dress down day pass
• Schools/district provide parents with flyers and/or posters to place in the community, at their job and/or businesses
• Handouts at carpool
• Digital signs at schools and in the community

Superintendent Dr. James Gray then participated in a rapid fire discussion with parents. He opened by reiterating to parents that we strive to maintain a two way communication system. The rapid fire topic discussions focused on students with IEPs and testing support, teacher shortages, staff retention, encouraging principals to create incentives for teachers and teacher celebration and recognitions. Dr. Gray ended by presenting district scores to parents and thanking them for supporting their students, faculty and the district.

Ms. Misfeldt then conducted a meeting evaluation, where members shared what they liked about the meeting and what they would like to be seen done differently.

February 6: The Superintendent’s Parent Council was led by Gabrielle Misfeldt, Chief of Staff, and Kaela Lewis, Executive Director of Communication. The session opened with an icebreaker activity.  Parents participated in a unique persona through an occupation or job title scenario. Each volunteer shared out (without telling the person) what they see in the room, what is important to them, and how the room setup impacts them.

The council members next discussed the purpose for parent’s council, council norms and meeting outcomes. This included reviewing the agenda.

Ms. Lewis reported the outcomes based on the group activity from the previous council meeting. This included implementing the Jcampus Robo calls and emails, utilizing social media more and working with Family and Community engagement contact.  Additionally, the district incentivized the community by a school supply giveaway. 

Next, Ms. Plaisance shared about Mission to Mastery Tutoring. Mission to Mastery helps accelerate student learning and make up any gaps due to lost learning during the pandemic and hurricanes. 

Superintendent Dr. James Gray shared that the board is requesting a consolidation and efficiency plan. This may be done by reviewing the facilities, safety and security of the buildings. The discussion among the committee members centered around the topic of consolidation of schools and invited all members are invited to the upcoming community townhall meetings.  Additionally, the group discussed teacher performances and raises as a part of the conversation. 

April 20: The Superintendent’s Parent Council was led by Gabrielle Misfeldt, Chief of Staff, and Kaela Lewis, Executive Director of Communications. The council participated in a team-building activity where the members were divided into groups. Each group was given a different survival scenario and instructed to select six survival items. Each group had to present the selected items and give an explanation of why they chose them.

Next, Ms. Misfeldt reviewed the meeting agenda, norms, and outcomes with the council, and then shared a presentation on Panorama surveys. Members were informed that the district will continue its partnership with Panorama Education. Currently, surveys are offered to Jefferson Parish Schools students, teachers and staff in 26 UIRD schools. Next school year surveys will be administered to all other schools and family surveys will be added for all schools. Ms. Misfeldt shared that the survey responses are anonymous and the information collected from the surveys will help inform district and school strategic planning and also empower educators with the tools and resources needed to continue making data-driven decisions. Members were given the opportunity to review survey topics and discuss which ones they think would be the most impactful to student success. Each group discussed why survey topics were selected.

Ms. Misfeldt then invited Superintendent Dr. James Gray to share a few words with council members. Dr. Gray welcomed members and opened the floor for council members to ask about the consolidation process. He shared feedback that other superintendent’s councils shared and the district’s efforts to support students, families, and employees with the consolidation process.

Finally, Ms. Misfeldt wrapped up the meeting by informing members with reminders and a meeting evaluation. 

Ms. Misfeldt then conducted a meeting evaluation, where members shared what they liked about the meeting and what they would like to be seen done differently. The committee liked the transparency of the parent meeting outcomes.

April 27 (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. The team then conducted an interactive team building exercise where members were asked to independently read an excerpt from, The Power of Positive Leadership,  by Jon Gordon. They participated in group discussions and presented their thoughts. 

Next, Mr. Pethe introduced Ms. Gabrielle Misfeldt, Chief of Staff. Ms. Misfeldt began with a presentation on Jefferson Parish Schools 2024 Strategic Plan. The presentation included the blueprint of the new plan and changes for the new school year. Members participated in an interactive group activity where they reviewed the current strategic plan and presented how the plan played a role in students' success and listed practices and actions schools are currently doing  that are not included in the plan. Groups presented that the following things in the strategic plan supported student success: quality assessments, weekly cluster meetings at schools, communication with stakeholders, quality teachers, creating safe and positive environments, access to tier 1 curriculum, supporting struggling learners, student voices are heard, and social media engagement and value school/district culture. Groups presented that the following things are not in the strategic plan but are things schools and the district are currently doing: technology support for all, communication regarding the facilities plan, more vocational and dual enrollment options, increase social workers on campuses, literacy cohorts for principals, SPED supports, and visitors being accounted for and identified while on campus and promotion of attendance.

Next, Mr. Pethe asked the group to create a list of key insights and topics of interest for next school year's council meetings. Members participated in a group discussion and shared out various topics, including. 

Mr. Pethe then invited Superintendent Dr. James Gray to share a few words with council members. Dr. Gray welcomed members and opened the floor for council members to ask 

about the strategic plan. He shared the district’s efforts to continue to support students, families, and employees. “Having these conversations helps us do things better,” he shared. “I appreciate the fact that you’re giving us ideas about where we are successful and where we have to go for our kids.”

Finally, Mr. Pethe wrapped up the meeting by reviewing things that work and things that can make council meetings better. Members shared that things that work for council meetings are: having mixed groups, diversity of perspectives, parent voice, ability to see trends, open and honest conversations and review of previous meetings. Members shared that things that would make  council meetings better are: adding ESL stakeholders, recaps sent out, having a mid-point collaborative meeting, more organic coverstations and longer meetings. Mr. Pethe closed the meeting by thanking everyone for participating.

 

2021-2022 Parent Council Members 

• Heather Palma, Airline Park Academy
• Thomas M. Brahney, Haynes Academy
• Michael Bradley Jr, C.T. Janet Elementary
• Jennifer Theriot, Fisher Middle-High
• Jamie Lloyd, Thomas Jefferson Academy
• Kristin Robins, Harahan Elementary
• Luke McMenamin, Hazel Park/Hilda Knoff Elementary
• Thomas Ryan, J.C. Ellis Elementary
• M-Tisha Dillon Hall, Jefferson Elementary
• Jeremy Miles, Adams Middle
• Erin Burgett, Kenner Discovery
• Jatnna Reyes, Lincoln Elementary
• Kali Shilling, Harris Elementary
• Donna Apperson, Patrick F. Taylor Academy
• Jare Gauthier, St. Pierre Academy
• Monica Prechac, Riverdale High
• Charlene Ellis, Solis Elementary
• Carla Davison, West Jefferson High

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2021-2022 Meeting Dates

Due to Hurricane Ida, the council will meet three times this school year (instead of four) from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at alternating sites. All meeting attendees will adhere to the health and safety protocols outlined in our Start Strong Jefferson plan.

• December 16, 2021 at the JP Schools Administration Building located at 501 Manhattan Blvd. in Harvey
• February 10, 2022 at the JP Schools Administration Building located at 501 Manhattan Blvd. in Harvey
• April 7, 2022 at the Paul Emenes Building located at 822 S. Clearview Pkwy. in Harahan

Council Meeting Recaps

April 7: The final Superintendent Parent Council meeting included an introduction from Gabrielle Misfeldt, Chief of Staff, where she played a video on the importance of knowing your why. The council was instructed to turn to their partner and express what their why’s are as parents. A few of those answers were: 

• To advance adult and parent learners, not just kids 
• Advocate for teachers 
• Empower and unite other families 
• Have a more in depth understanding of kids’ challenges 

The meeting shifted to a focus on communications where Ted Beasley and Paris Vinnett, two members of the communication team, gave a presentation on the district’s communications department. Followed by the presentation, parents shared their thoughts on what works well and what could be done better or differently in terms of communication. The members were then asked to fill out a communications feedback form where they were asked to provide feedback on how they prefer to receive communication, district and school communication they find beneficial, and any additional comments about communications that may be helpful. Examples of some responses included: 

School-wide:

• Need for more communication at high school level 
• Too short notice of parent teacher conferences
• Desire for district-wide standard for school communication 
• More user friendly school websites
• Would like updated school social media policies 

District-wide:

• Prefer text messages as primary method of communication 
• Would like students to access text messages 
• Bus communication is sent with not enough advance notice 
• Would like audit of district website 

The meeting concluded with Dr. Gray thanking the council members for being part of this process. He then answered his last round of rapid fire questions. .  

February 10: The Parent Group council began with Gabe Misfeldt, Chief of Staff, opening the meeting with a bingo icebreaker to help participants get to know one another better.

Following the icebreaker activity. AJ Pethe, Chief of Schools, addressed the council regarding student and staff mental health. Pethe mentioned that he is a product of Jefferson Parish Schools, as he graduated from Grace King High School and is also a parent of  students in the school system. “I have a lot of ties to this district and it's important to me that you know that this work is personal for me,'' said Pethe. Pethe then explained CUE testing, a program in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Health that provides rapid COVID testing at all Jefferson Parish schools. “This program has been helpful because both students and our staff are missing less school.” 

Pethe then touched on student wellness where he explained the district’s partnership with Children’s Hospital on the THRIVE KIDS Student Wellness care coordination program. He explained that care coordination is in place as a consent to communicate, not a consent  to treat. “This is about making sure that our kids with chronic medical conditions don't miss out on school.”

The parent council meeting then heard from Superintendent Dr. James Gray, where he stated, “My goal is not to say that we’re an A district, but to say that because we’re doing so well educating our kids, we’ve made the whole district better.” 

The parents then participated in a rapid fire where they expressed areas of concerns and offered suggestions: 

• Website optics
• Normalcy for extracurricular activities
• Kids cyberbullying teachers on social media 
• Wanting to be more involved 
• Inappropriate texts from other students 
• Children being hit by SPED kids in the classroom and not being removed 
• Teachers not controlling the classroom
• Quarantining
• Mental health issues 

December 16: The Superintendent’s Parent Council group was led by Gabrielle Misfeldt, Chief of Staff. The council began with an icebreaker where parents introduced themselves and were asked to name a positive event that took place within the last 20 months despite the difficulties that have occurred in relation to the pandemic and Hurricane Ida. 

Parents named good things that have happened such as expecting new children, seamless transitions to temporary school campuses, purchasing new businesses, their child becoming a ranked tennis player, and their child making a cheerleading squad. 

The group then broke into small groups to collaboratively brainstorm possible topics to discuss at upcoming council meetings. The topics were as follows:

• Bullying
• Improving communication between teacher and parents 
• COVID-19 testing and safety protocols 
• Student Inclusion 
• Curriculum concerns 
• More funding and encouragement of student participation in athletics 
• Stronger parental involvement
• Ways to better nurture and uplift children 
• School safety protocols 
• Year round school 
• Teacher and student mental health 
• Campus upgrades, repairs, maintenance, and modernization 
• Lack of Social workers and therapists 
• Lack of celebratory events and extracurricular activities 
• More diverse faculty members
• Better enforcement of bullying policy 

The group was then introduced to Dr. Gray where he shared about his upbringing. He explained that his second grade teacher and high school basketball coach saw potential in him, and ultimately influenced him to become a teacher. 

The council members then took place in a rapid fire, a session that entailed each council member asking a specific question or making a general comment to the Superintendent regarding a topic they would like to discuss further. These topics included: 

• Sensitivity to displaced parents and families due to Hurricane Ida 
• Ensuring the emotional needs of children are met 
• Yearly campus evaluations 
• Safety protocols for campuses with older kids on campus 
• Plan to address the increase in fights 
• Lack of extracurricular activities beside sports 
• Budget allocations 
• Bus driver shortages 
• Teachers understanding their power to make or break a child 
• Councils set up at each school
• Outlet for confidential emails or texts