Jefferson Parish Public Schools, Marrero, Louisiana, U.S.

Leading the Vision

In the fall of 2006, the Jefferson Parish Public School System (JPPSS) faced major devastation after Hurricane Katrina.  However, the district saw opportunity in crisis and moved ahead to address the rethinking as well as the rebuilding challenge.

Led by Superintendent Dr. Diane Roussel, the district worked to build an in-depth vision for system-wide change, to better prepare students for the 21st century. Supported by several partners, the program began in a core group of schools selected in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Education. In 2007 the program expanded to a second group of schools and by 2009 to all 87 schools in the district.

The driving force in building this momentum has been the outstanding leadership of Dr. Roussel. “Our international competitors understand the key role that their education systems play in producing workers prepared for a globally competitive 21st century economy,” said Dr. Roussel. “We need to act on this understanding too. Not doing so will short-change our students.”

Integrating Technology into Instruction

Engaging technologies such as interactive whiteboards, teacher laptops, printers and scanners, classroom audio speakers, digital media equipment, and handheld PDAs have been integrated into daily teaching at JPPSS. In addition, online assessment tools have facilitated faster intervention, small group instruction, and individualized instruction.

Teacher laptops and interactive whiteboards were installed in phases, so that teachers could leverage a variety of applications to engage students, collaborate with parents, and exchange ideas with their colleagues.

Embedding Professional Development

Another major change factor has been the job-embedded professional development program for district staff at all levels, focused on strategies for change and increasing skill levels through the use of technology.

Engaging Students in Learning

JPPSS has built its program for change around the concept of engaging work for students, with a focus on individualized instruction, personal choice, classroom technologies, and a variety of school options to meet different student needs.

Improving Test Scores

Louisiana Education Assessment Program (LEAP) scores have improved across the district. According to Dr. Roussel, “The recent improvements in LEAP scores indicate that our current initiatives are working.”  In 2008, the percentage of JPPSS students scoring at or above the basic, mastery, and advanced levels in language arts and math improved at almost every organizational level, and the percentage of students with unsatisfactory scores on the eighth grade LEAP declined in every subject.

Connecting with the Community

The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Committee (JEDCO) is a supporter of the district’s efforts.  A recent JEDCO report commends the district’s progress to date. “Over the past five years, state of the art technology has been implemented, internal accountability has been strengthened, and curricula have been diversified and improved.”

JEDCO has also indicated its support with several grants and funding initiatives.

For more information please visit www.21cschools.org.