Two Jefferson Parish Schools educators are among just 24 across the state who are one step closer to being named a Louisiana Teacher and Principal of the Year. Alexander Elementary teacher Kara Bailey Lee and Strehle Community School Principal Ira Wilson have been named 2023 Teacher and Principal of the Year semifinalists by the Louisiana Department of Education. These educators are making exceptional gains with students, guiding them to achieve at the highest levels in the state. Their commitment to student success exemplifies Louisiana’s teaching profession.

All Teacher and Principal of the Year semifinalists will be honored at the 16th Annual Excellent Educators Awards Gala that will be held in New Orleans on the evening of July 30. This exciting event is co-sponsored by Dream Teachers. 

JP Schools Middle School Teacher of the Year Kara Bailey Lee currently serves as a sixth and seventh grade math teacher at A.C. Alexander School. She has been an educator in JP Schools for five years and is an instrumental member of the school’s leadership team. While working at JP Schools, Lee’s students have shown academic growth on both LEAP and benchmark tests. Lee is passionate about meeting the diverse needs of her students, as she believes that this is the foundation for an equitable learning environment that allows students to reach their full potential.

JP Schools High School Principal of the Year Ira Wilson has been the principal at Strehle Community School for six years and a school administrator in Jefferson Parish for 13 years. Under her leadership at Strehle Community School, student growth has increased, dropout rate has decreased, and behavioral discipline has improved. She has also implemented the Strehle FLEX program to assist over-age and/or under-credit students in obtaining their high school diploma. Wilson attributes student success to a focus of inclusive instructional practices and social-emotional learning.

For questions on the Teacher and Principal of the Year program, please contact excellenteducators@la.gov.