After just over two years spearheading educational reform in the city, Dr. Avis Williams departs her position as Superintendent of NOLA Public Schools come December 1, as announced by the Orleans Parish School Board in a statement released today.
Dr. Williams took the helm in July 2022 and did so with notable zeal, the Leah Chase School, a new district-run endeavor, stands as one testament among many to an operative tenure; moreover, under her watch, an impressive 81% of schools within the district have been recognized with A or B progress grades, and over 50 schools have seen a notable uptick in their School Performance Scores, however, the statement detailing her achievements despite its seeming comprehensivity, omits her next career moves, but mentions her enthusiasm for the "next chapter," which includes writing, consulting, and upholding her foundational values of equity, excellence, and joy according to FOX 8 Live.
Announcing her departure, which ushers in the end of a notable era for NOLA Public Schools, where she served as its first woman superintendent permanently in the role, Williams leaves behind a legacy of innovation and dedication, "I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. As I transition from this role, I am confident that NOLA Public Schools will continue to build on this legacy of dedication and innovation," Williams expressed in her statement as reported by WWLTV.
In reflection of her tenure, OPSB President Katie Baudouin extended gratitude claiming Williams instilled a revived spirit within the schools that mirrored her deep-rooted commitment to educational excellence, she has made monumental strides including leading the district to rank as one of the top two in the state for Mastery growth on state assessments by the Louisiana Department of Education in the past two years, which is no small feat given the competitive and challenging landscape of academic performance measurements, "Dr. Williams brought new energy and enthusiasm to NOLA-PS, and our schools’ improved performance reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence," Baudouin articulated to WDSU.
