About

Who We Are
The Leah Chase School was established February 2024 as NOLA Public Schools first new traditional direct-run public school in nearly two decades.

Inspired by the legacy of Leah Chase, the 'Queen of Creole Cuisine,' our school embodies her spirit of excellence, resilience, and community. We are committed to honoring her legacy through education that uplifts and inspires.

Our school is a place where young minds are nurtured through rigorous academics and culturally responsive teaching, allowing our scholars to see themselves in their learning and develop a deep appreciation for our city's rich heritage.

OUR CORE VALUES

At The Leah Chase School, we embrace the following “Core Values” as guiding principles for our work in fulfilling our school’s mission and vision. These values reflect our shared commitment to fostering an environment where every individual can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

 

These guiding principles shape our interactions, decisions, and aspirations as educators, students, and members of this school community. They represent the essence of who we are and who we aspire to be as a school.

 

  • We are COMMITTED to achieving excellence in all we do, striving to meet and exceed our goals.
  • We are COURAGEOUS in the face of challenges, standing up for what is right and taking bold steps toward our future.
  • We are CURIOUS learners, always eager to explore, ask questions, and discover new ideas.
  • We are COMPASSIONATE kind and empathetic, supporting each other and fostering a caring and inclusive community
  • We are CULTURALLY AWARE...respectful and appreciative of diverse cultures, celebrating our differences and learning from each other.
WE ARE TLC!
OUR PROGRAMS
At The Leah Chase School, we offer a wide range of programs that enrich our scholars' educational experience.
From arts and culture to music and physical education, our programs provide a holistic education. The Leah Chase School offers a high-quality education through the use of a comprehensive K-7 curriculum including HMH Into Reading, iReady Classroom Mathematics, Great Minds PhD. Science, and Bayou Bridges.

Scholars also benefit from local partnerships that honor the rich history and traditions of New Orleans. We foster a supportive and inclusive environment where every scholar feels valued and supported. 
MEET THE PRINCIPAL
DR. STACEY-ANN BARRETT

Meet Dr. Stacey-Ann Barrett, our Principal at The Leah Chase School!

Dr. Stacey-Ann Barrett brings nearly two decades of educational leadership experience to The Leah Chase School. A proud product of Plaquemines Parish Schools — an A-rated district — she has served in leadership roles across elementary, middle, and high school settings, building a career defined by a steadfast commitment to student achievement, instructional excellence, and school improvement.

Most recently, Dr. Barrett served as Principal of the Plaquemines Parish Learning Center, where she led academic and behavioral support efforts for students in an alternative middle and high school setting. In that role, she cultivated meaningful partnerships with colleges and community organizations to broaden opportunities and pathways for students.

Prior to that, she served as Principal of South Plaquemines Elementary, a Title I school, where she drove significant academic growth — including a 5.5-point increase in school performance during the 2023–2024 school year, earning the school recognition as a Top Gains School. Her leadership through staffing challenges while sustaining academic momentum earned her the distinction of 2022 Plaquemines Parish Principal of the Year.

Dr. Barrett is a collaborative, student-centered, and data-driven leader who is deeply committed to empowering both students and educators. She leads with a focus on instructional leadership, professional learning, and relationship building, holding high expectations for every learner in her care. Her dedication to serving students across all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds makes her an ideal fit for the mission and vision of The Leah Chase School.

We are proud to welcome Dr. Barrett to the TLC community and look forward to the continued growth and success of our school under her leadership.
 

MEET OUR TEAM
Our dedicated educators and staff are at the heart of The Leah Chase School. With a commitment to excellence and a
passion for teaching, our team works tirelessly to create an engaging and supportive learning environment.

Need to reach a team member?
Simply click on their photo! You’ll be taken to a short contact form where you can leave your name, email, and a message. Your note will be sent directly to that staff member’s inbox.
McKenzie Ebel
Speech Language Pathologist
Jessica Tejada
EL Coordinator
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
At The Leah Chase School, we inspire our scholars to pursue their dreams, passions, culture, and future. These guiding principles reflect our commitment to a holistic and culturally enriched education. 
JOIN THE LEAH CHASE SCHOOL FAMILY
We welcome you to be a part of our dynamic community. Whether you're a parent, student, community members, or educator, there's a place for you here.