Superintendent's Message - February 8, 2021
JP Schools Family,
Thank you to our families, employees, School Board and community partners who have helped position Jefferson Parish Schools for success this year. As we hear reports from school districts around the nation about how to best educate amidst the pandemic, we are proud of what we are able to accomplish here in Jefferson Parish.
Celebrating Black History Month
Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions that African Americans have made to our community and country. During the month of February, we will highlight both national, state, and local individuals who have made a positive impact on our society and our culture. It is because of their efforts and the support of those who saw the importance of equality that I am proud to serve as the second African American Superintendent in Jefferson Parish.
Charting Progress Towards “2024: The Future Our Kids Deserve”
We continue to work towards the goals set forth in our strategic plan, “2024: The Future Our Kids Deserve.” This plan is the foundation that will help us deliver the best outcomes for our students. This school year, we created more inclusive campuses, increased our number of ESL coaches to meet the needs of our diverse community, appointed 71 Certified Nursing Assistants, achieved a 1:1 device ratio for all students in grades K-12, and partnered with families and the community to better serve our schools.
Vaccinations Provide an Added Layer of Safety
Despite delays nationally and locally with vaccine distribution, we are grateful that school employees are still considered a priority with the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). Working with the LDH through its phased vaccination rollout, some of our employees have already received the vaccine as part of Phase 1B Tier 1. The remainder of our employees will have access to the vaccine during Phase 1B Tier 2. Of the 3,960 employees who’ve completed our vaccine questionnaire, 75% have expressed an interest in receiving the vaccine. This is great news and contributes to the overall health and safety of our community. Whether or not an individual receives the vaccine, we will continue to follow our Start Strong Jefferson protocols - such as mask wearing, frequent hand washing, and social distancing - to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and uniformly align with positive, healthy and safe behaviors.
Our nearly 50,000 students are always at the heart of everything we do. It is an honor to serve the families of Jefferson Parish and be the champions our students deserve.
Dr. James Gray