New Orleans, LA - In May 2024, KIPP New Orleans Schools (KNOS) celebrated the successful first year of its Parent Advisory Board with a heartfelt end-of-year ceremony. Formed in September 2023, the board has already made a meaningful impact on the network.
For the past 20 years, KNOS has deeply believed in the power of partnerships with families and the local community. The Parent Advisory Board, made up of dedicated parents from various schools within the organization, has offered valuable insights and recommendations to enhance the educational experience for students and families. A standout moment for the board was their involvement in KIPP Foundation’s Hill Day, where they met with legislators in Washington, DC to advocate for critical needs to support our students and schools.
Cerise McClendon Martin, the board's organizer, expressed deep gratitude for the members' efforts. "I am incredibly proud of what our Parent Advisory Board has achieved in just one year," she said. "Their commitment to improving educational opportunities for our students and their willingness to engage in vital conversations in our community and beyond has been truly inspiring."
The experience has had a significant impact on the lives of the board members and their children. Being part of the Parent Advisory Board provided parents with a platform to voice their concerns to KNOS leadership and contribute to improving their children's education, making them feel empowered and valued. The board's efforts have also fostered a strong sense of community among KNOS families, bringing them closer together and forming lasting friendships and support systems that extend beyond the school walls.
The end-of-year ceremony celebrated the board's achievements and recognized each member's contributions. Board members are: Roslyn Arnaud, Ilana Freedman, Renata Hughes, Chnitra Jones, Zwila Martinez, Ph.D., LaSandra Rivera-Allen, Candice Taylor, Angela White, Aisha Williams, and Terri Williams.
KNOS leadership expressed their appreciation for the board's dedication and looked forward to continuing the partnership. Among those attending were: Rhonda Kalifey Aluise, KNOS CEO; John Alford, Chief Network Growth Officer, KIPP Foundation, Azdua Agyapon, Senior Director, Policy and Advocacy, KIPP Foundation, Hans Goff, Vice President, Policy and Impact, KIPP Foundation; Ashley Daniels-Hall, KNOS Managing Director of Impact; Dr. Avis Williams, Orleans Parish School Board Superintendent; Leila Eames, Orleans Parish School Board; Carlos Zervigon, Orleans Parish School Board; Larry Washington, KIPP New Orleans Schools board chairman; Shimon Ancker Pierce, Principal, Booker T. Washington High School.
"The success of our Parent Advisory Board highlights the power of parent involvement in education," said Cerise McClendon Martin. "We are excited to continue this journey and work hand-in-hand with our parents to create the best possible educational experience for our students."
As KIPP New Orleans Schools moves forward, the Parent Advisory Board will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of education in the community.