Superintendent's Weekly Message: December 18, 2020
JP Schools Family,
Thank you for your support throughout the year. As we close out 2020, I hope you take the time to reflect on everything you’ve overcome and accomplished. I am proud of the high quality teaching and learning that is taking place within our schools. I am also proud of the relationships school staff have built with their students and the rich educational opportunities that exist because of these relationships. We have some of the very best teachers, support staff, and administrators in Jefferson Parish, and their love and care for each of their students is evident everytime I visit a classroom.
We also want to share some positive news celebrating our incredible educators and school leaders. This week, we announced our district-level Principals of the Year and Teachers of the Year. These individuals will now be eligible to receive the Louisiana Principal of the Year and Teacher of the Year awards. These awards programs provide an opportunity to acknowledge those educators and school leaders who are making exceptional gains with students. I hope you will join me in congratulating the following individuals.
The Teacher of the Year honorees are:
- Greenlawn Terrace Elementary School: Diane Soignier
- John Q. Adams Middle School: Michele Pellissier
- Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies: Catherine Coats
The Principal of the Year honorees are:
- Isaac G. Joseph Elementary: Diedra Miller
- Allen Ellender School: Cherie Varisco
- Fisher Middle-High School: Dawn Matherne
With health at the forefront of everyone’s mind this holiday season, we wanted to take a moment to assure our families that we are doing everything within our abilities to keep students and employees safe. We recently updated our Start Strong FAQ’s with additional information on our health and safety protocols based on feedback from the community. While we’re doing everything we can to keep everyone safe while on campus, we rely on our families to maintain good health and safety practices while out in the community. Please remember to mask up, wash your hands frequently and avoid large gatherings as we safely celebrate the holidays. For more information on how to enjoy the holidays safely this year, review Ochsner Health’s Holiday Guidance.
Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s safety and education. Please have a safe and enjoyable holiday break.
Dr. James Gray