The Partner of the Month

2025-26 School Year

March 2026: Pastor James Nelson Brown

Pastor Brown is a respected community leader whose services touched countless families across Jefferson Parish. Through his leadership at River of Life Community Church, he has provided mentorship and steady support to families for many years. Most notably, he has extended that commitment directly into our schools. At John Ehret High School, Pastor Brown volunteers his time teaching financial literacy, equipping students with practical skills in budgeting, banking, saving, credit, and long-term planning. These real-world lessons empower students to make informed financial decisions and build stable futures. While financial literacy is now required by state law, Pastor Brown has been doing this work long before his mandate. We are deeply grateful for his service and the example he sets for our students.

February 2026: Stewart Foundation

In partnership with the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the Samuel B. Stewart Foundation recently awarded a $50,000 grant to support the work of the Joseph A. Cuillier Career Center. This investment strengthens our Career and Technical Education programs and expands access to high-quality, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for both college and career pathways.

Support like this enhances programming, strengthens workforce connections, and reflects a shared commitment to investing in the future of our community. We thank the Samuel B. Stewart Foundation for its leadership and generosity and extend our appreciation to the Greater New Orleans Foundation for its continued partnership in supporting CTE across Jefferson Parish schools.

January 2026: Toys for Tots, Belle Chasse

Toys for Tots, led by the Marine Corps Reserve and supported by the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, has spent more than 3 decades bringing joy to children by collecting and distributing new, unwrapped toys each holiday season. This past holiday season, they worked closely with our schools to distribute 21,902 toys to students across 51 schools, ensuring many children experienced the joy and dignity of receiving a gift. They also distributed 211 toys to 40 childcare centers and provided our high school students with the opportunity to volunteer at the in-person toy distribution events. What makes this partnership truly meaningful is the care and coordination behind it. This was not simply a drop-off; it was a thoughtful, organized effort to meet the real needs in collaboration with our schools. 

December 2025: JPA

For many years, Jefferson Performing Arts has been a generous and steadfast partner, enriching the lives of our students and supporting our educators. This year alone, they hosted our Superintendent's Band Festival at their center, providing a world-class stage for our students. When we needed last-minute support for the Celebration of Champions this Spring, they stepped in without hesitation. We are grateful for their partnership, creativity, and unwavering belief in the potential of our students. 

November 2025: Murphy Education & Sports Foundation

Led by Mrs. Brenda Murphy, the Foundation has been a generous and consistent partner with Tom Benson School and students across our parish. Each year, they host a school supply and health fair, and this summer marks their 15th annual event. On July 18, they distributed 1,000 backpacks to students, directly supporting families at the start of the school year, and also made a monetary contribution to the school. They didn't stop there. With support from community donors, the Foundation continued to level and improve the athletic field, used by Tom Benson students, ensuring it was ready for a safe, attractive, and usable return this school year. That's a significant investment in a school community and shows how deeply they care about our students. 

October 2025: UBE

Since joining our community at Cornerstone Energy Park, UBE has quickly demonstrated a deep commitment to being a good neighbor and supporting our schools. Through their generosity, UBE has contributed nearly $80,000 in community outreach, with a significant portion directly benefiting Jefferson Parish Schools.
Their support has taken many forms. UBE has:

• Provided back-to-school supply donations for Cherbonnier-Rilleuix Elementary, Emmett Gilbert Elementary, and Ralph Bunche Elementary.
• Celebrated our teachers and staff during Teacher Appreciation Week at Cherbonnier-Rilleuix Elementary, Cuillier Career Center, and Higgins High School.
• Sponsored end-of-year crawfish boils to recognize the hard work of faculty and staff at those same schools.
• Hosted holiday luncheons for employees at Cherbonnier-Rilleuix Elementary and Cuillier Career Center.

In addition to these ongoing supports, UBE also made a direct $20,000 contribution earlier this year at their groundbreaking reception. These funds were distributed among Cherbonnier-Rilleuix Elementary, Cuillier Career Center, and Higgins High School to provide critical resources that strengthen learning environments and expand opportunities for our students.

September 2025: American Safety, LLC

Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Belle Chasse, American Safety provides transportation, disaster recovery, environmental, and industrial services, and general contracting across the Gulf South. Through a generous donation of more than $25,000 to purchase new state-of-the-art elements for the Bonnabel High School football players helping ensure our student athletes have the best equipment possible. 

August 2025: Brooke Zar, Owner, Restaurant des Familles

Ms. Zar is a passionate educator, entrepreneur, and community leader whose commitment to public education runs deep. The daughter of former retired teachers, she's carried forward her family's legacy of service and learning. Since 2009, she and her husband have owned the beloved Restaurant des Familles in Crown Point, blending hospitality with local tradition. Yet, her greatest impact on our students comes through her work with Bonnabel High School's ProStart Culinary Program. When students were at risk with losing their instructor in August 2024, Ms. Zar stepped in as an adjunct professor through Nunez Community College, ensuring their education continued without interruption. Ms. Zar regularly mentors students at career and technical education events, shares insights with our student leadership council, and provides meals for student programs. 

July 2025: Troy Duhon, Premiere Automotive

Premiere Automotive is a locally rooted company with a national reach, operating 39 dealerships across the country. Their excellence in business is matched by a deep commitment to service. Through the Giving Hope Foundation, which they co-founded, Premiere feeds over 10,000 people daily and supports orphanages worldwide. In 2023, founder Troy Han was named Louisiana Dealer of the Year for his leadership and impact. Last school year, Premiere brought a Stay in School Car Giveaway program to Jefferson Parish for the first time. Culminating in the award of a new car to a student with perfect attendance. We're grateful for Premiere for reinforcing this message in such a meaningful and celebratory way. 

2024-25 School Year

June 2025: Dawn Busters Kiwanis Club

Since 2006, they have supported Jefferson Parish Schools through the Rewards for Reading program. This program began with a few books, bikes, and handful of schools, now reaches thousands of students. The program fosters a love of reading and celebrate students efforts through exciting high energy assemblies, held each semester with meaningful rewards. 

Currently they're in the process of distributing 170 bikes, including 110 donated by the club. Thanks to long time member Mr. Mel Dussel, this program has become a loved tradition that brings joy, motivation, and academic growth across our schools. We're grateful for their visio, generosity, and impact on literacy. 

May 2025: The Jefferson Business Council

The Jefferson Business Council has been a consistent and generous supporter of our educators, including annual donations in honor of our District Teachers of the Year ceremony. They also sponsor the annual celebration at Cars of Yesteryear, where we recognize two outstanding teachers from every school.

We are deeply grateful for their continued partnership and extend a special thanks to Executive Director Larry Dale for his unwavering leadership and commitment to Jefferson Parish Schools.

April 2025: Cox Communications

We’re proud to recognize the Cox Communications as our April Partner of the Month! Cox has been a longtime champion of JP Schools, showing up for our educators and students in big, meaningful ways. From sponsoring our annual Teacher of the Year Luncheon to hosting powerful, tech-forward events like the A World Within Reach book launch with Super Bowl champ Malcolm Mitchell at Clancy-Maggiore Elementary, Cox continues to go above and beyond for our school community.
They also help us stay connected year-round by hosting our JPSchools TV Channel 8.

Thank you to Sunni LeBeouf, Vice President at Cox Communications, and the entire Cox team for your continued support, partnership, and investment in our students' futures!

March 2025: American Heart Association

We are honored to recognize the American Heart Association as our March Partner of the Month! Their support of our district has made a lasting impact, from promoting heart health through Jump Rope for Heart to teaching life-saving CPR skills. The AHA has also supported our schools with heart-healthy initiatives and community resources. We are incredibly grateful for their dedication to keeping our students and community healthy and safe. 

February 2025: YMCA Greater New Orleans

Congratulations to our February 128 Partner of the Month YMCA Greater New Orleans. One of the most impactful ways the YMCA supports our students is by ensuring they have access to essential life-saving skills. Recently, they hosted a Water Safety Day for JP Schools students, teaching critical swimming and water safety techniques. 
Their contributions extend beyond the pool, providing after-school programs, wellness initiatives, and working to establish ESL classes for families, helping to bridge the gap between school and home. 

Thank you, YMCA of Greater New Orleans, for your commitment to our students and community!

January 2025: CF Industries

This month, we proudly recognize CF Industries as our January 128 Partner of the Month. For over 75 years, CF Industries has been a cornerstone of southeast Louisiana, supporting environmental sustainability, STEM education, and community growth. Their partnership with JP Schools has made a significant impact through donations to schools like Cherbonnier/Rillieux, Emmett Gilbert, L.W. Higgins, and Patrick F. Taylor. CF Industries has also hosted luncheons to strengthen school connections and plans to expand their support with career fairs, internships, and more STEM opportunities. Their dedication continues to enrich our schools and empower the next generation.

December 2024: Pastor Alex Bellow of Hosana Fellowship Church

Congratulations to our December Partner of the Month Pastor Alex Bellow of Hosana Fellowship Church. He has demonstrated incredible generosity and support for the students and staff at Hazel Park/Hilda Knoff School. Recently he donated numerous cases of board games to students participating in the Beautiful Me and Gentleman Me Programs as well as to others across the school. His thoughtful contribution is especially meaningful especially during the holiday season. His unwavering commitment to our schools is appreciated.

November 2024: Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO)

Congratulations to our November Partner of the Month, Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO)! JEDCO has been an exceptional partner, supporting our schools through workforce development, student engagement, and vital contributions to our administration, helping to drive positive change throughout our community.
Last month, in celebration of National Manufacturing Week, JEDCO’s efforts to highlight career pathways in advanced manufacturing made a meaningful impact. Through a multi-day event, JEDCO brought hands-on experiences and industry exposure directly to our students with tours, discussions, and interactive sessions. Students were introduced to high-impact, high-paying careers in advanced manufacturing—one of Greater New Orleans' key industries. Thank you, JEDCO, for empowering our students and shaping future opportunities!

October 2024: Tom & Jean Brett

Congratulations to our October Partner of the Month Tom & Jean Brett. Long time residents of Kenner, they have made a profound impact on the education of our youth. Tom’s career as a bio-med specialist and Jean's 40 years with the DOE highlight their dedication to our community. They believe in the responsibility to improve the world around them and their contributions reflect this commitment. Over the past 3 years, they have donated $16,000 to support teacher development at Tom Benson and an additional $10,000 for supplies like hygiene kits for students. They have donated an additional $67,500 benefitting our schools through other organizations.

“Our students are the finest resource we have in Louisiana for our future.” - Jean Brandt

September 2024: Representative Rodney Lyons

Congratulations to our Partner of the month Rodney Lyons! Representative Rodney Lyons contributed $50,000 to Woodmere Elementary School. This generous donation has greatly benefited students and enhanced educational programs at the school. His commitment to education and our community is commendable. Representative Lyons continues to go above and beyond for all JP Schools.

August 2024: Keesler Federal Credit Union

Congratulations to Keesler Federal Credit Union, our August Partner of the Month! JP Schools is proud to honor Keesler Federal Credit Union for their continued unwavering support and dedication to our district. Their partnership has been instrumental in advancing our initiatives and enriching our community. We deeply appreciate their commitment to our students and schools. Thank you for making a difference with us! 

July 2024 : Greg Miller, Louisiana State Senator- District 19

Congratulations to Louisiana State Senator, Greg Miller, District 19, our July Partner of the Month. Senator Miller has shown remarkable dedication to our district by championing an appropriation for substantial capital projects in JP Schools. His efforts have successfully secured funding for the construction of a new bridge at the Ralph J. Bunche STEM Elementary site. Senator Miller strongly supports our goals and his contributions will have a lasting impact on our students and the community.

2023-24 School Year

April 2024: National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Greater New Orleans Chapter, Inc. 

March 2024: JPAS

STEM Nola's mission is to design and deliver learning opportunities, activities, programs, and events throughout the Greater New Orleans Area, including Jefferson Parish Schools. STEM Nola engaged over 3,500 K-8th graders in JP Schools in the year 2023. Students were engaged in hands-on STEM activities during in-person sessions hosted by STEM Nola. Dr. Mackey has always been supportive of our missions, and we are glad to continue working with his team in the future to greater our student's education. 

February 2024: STEM Nola

STEM Nola's mission is to design and deliver learning opportunities, activities, programs, and events throughout the Greater New Orleans Area, including Jefferson Parish Schools. STEM Nola engaged over 3,500 K-8th graders in JP Schools in the year 2023. Students were engaged in hands-on STEM activities during in-person sessions hosted by STEM Nola. Dr. Mackey has always been supportive of our missions, and we are glad to continue working with his team in the future to greater our student's education. 

January 2024: Kay & Co

Kay & Co. donated $5,000 to C.T. Janet Elementary to help assist students who are in need of winter coats, jackets, school supplies, and other necessary resources. At the January 10 school board meeting, Kay & Co. made a generous donation to The Lincoln School for the Arts to help with the same necessities, totaling their entire donation to $7,000 for both schools. Thank you again for supporting JP Schools. 

December 2023: Johnson's Uniform, Logo Express, Skobel's, and Uniforms by Kajan

Our partners of the month worked closely with families as part of our Uniform Voucher program that took place this summer and fall. Thanks to Johnson's Uniform, Logo Express, Skobel's, and Uniforms by Kajan, we were able to provide uniforms to 1,817 students. 

November 2023: Burlington

Thanks to Burlington's partnership with the Adopt-A-Classroom program, T.H. Harris Middle School received a $5,000 donation on the opening day of Burlington's new Metairie store. This donation will go towards supporting Harris' teachers' classroom. 

October 2023: Jefferson Financial Credit Union

Jefferson Financial Credit Union has supported Meisler Middle School in its efforts to start the school year strong. Over the summer, Meisler Middle School was under construction with new walls being built, new floors, and a new HVAC system. To help them get ready for the school year, the Jefferson Financial Credit Union and 25 other volunteers cleaned the entire school for the incoming students of the 2023-24 school year. Principal Thomas Chaze states he is beyond grateful for all their hard work. 

September 2023: Gulf Wind Technology

JP Schools would like to recognize our 128 September partner of the month, Gulf Wind Technology. Gulf Wind is a technology and engineering business in renewable energy located along the Mississippi River in Avondale. This partnership will offer our high school students internships, apprenticeships, and career development. It’s important that we provide students with multiple pathways for high demand, high wage careers in Jefferson Parish, and this partnership supports that effort.

August 2023: Keesler Credit Union

Last year and this year, Keesler donated supplies and backpacks to all kindergarten students in our district through their backpacks for Bright Futures program. We're very appreciative of the support for our schools and families. 

July 2023: Entergy:

Last year Entergy donated over $80,000 worth of studio equipment to our communications team to help upgrade much of their outdated equipment from 2006. By using this equipment, we are able to upgrade our production van to record high-definition content and we will be upgrading our in-house studio with the additional equipment. As you may have seen in this year's graduation videos, this new equipment allows us to continue communicating with our stakeholders but do so in a higher quality and more modern way.