This is one of several profiles published in the 2025 Education Guide, which inserts in the Aug. 8 CityBusiness.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Two new school campuses opening in fall 2026 in Harvey and Metairie
- District-wide clear bag policy starts in 2025-26 for grades 4–12
- Jefferson Parish boasts 12 “A” rated schools and top state rankings
- Embark program grows to support teacher certification and retention
The Jefferson Parish School District is currently constructing two new school campuses and advancing its commitment to safety with the implementation of a district-wide clear bag policy for upper elementary through high school students for the upcoming school year.
In Harvey, the new Bonella A. St. Ville Elementary School will serve students in grades K-5, featuring modern, purpose-built spaces to support academic achievement and future-ready learning. Construction is led by Gibbs Construction and LACHIN Architects.
In Metairie, the Ralph J. Bunche/Washington School will provide a state-of-the-art learning environment for students in Pre-K through 8th grade. Designed by Grace Hebert Curtis Architects, LLC and built by Broadmoor, the new facility is described as a hub for innovation and academic excellence.
Both brand-new school campuses are slated to welcome students in fall 2026.
“These new campuses represent a major investment in the future of Jefferson Parish Schools‘ students,” said Dr. Kaela Lewis, executive director of communications. “They will provide cutting-edge resources to prepare students for success in a wide range of academic and career pathways.”
Alongside these physical improvements, the district is also introducing a new safety initiative: a clear bag policy set to take effect for the 2025-26 school year.
The policy will require students in grades 4 through 12 to use clear backpacks or tote bags on campus. Mesh bags will no longer be permitted. Non-clear athletic and equipment bags will be allowed, but must be checked in with a coach or sponsor upon arrival.
Additional policy updates include a district-wide uniform skirt length guideline, requiring skirts to fall no shorter than two inches above the knee while standing.
Jefferson Parish Schools encompasses 74 schools in the district spanning both sides of the Mississippi River as well as the Jefferson Virtual High School, an online program that offers a flexible and advanced curriculum designed for self-motivated students.
The district continues to earn recognition for academic excellence, with 12 “A” rated schools, three of the Top 10 high schools and four of the Top 10 elementary schools in Louisiana, ranked by the Louisiana Department of Education.
Last school year, Neal Pramod Tandon, a senior at Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies, was named the 2025 Louisiana High School Student of the Year. In addition, Dr. Monya Thomas-Criddle, principal of Ralph J. Bunche Elementary School, was selected as a National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals.
In order to attract top teachers, the district’s Embark Aspiring Educators Program continues to grow as an in-house certification program designed to develop, support, certify and retain high-quality educators. The district has more than 6,000 employees.
Whether preparing students for college, career, or both, the district continues to prioritize comprehensive, future-focused education.
Whether it’s through dual enrollment, career and technical education, the arts, athletics or a wide range of extracurriculars, students are being prepared for life after graduation.
“Students across the district have access to a wide range of enriching experiences,” Lewis said. “They gain hands-on experience, earn industry-based certifications and take part in apprenticeships aligned with high-demand careers, thanks to strong partnerships with local colleges, businesses and economic leaders.”
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
