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-5 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
MRS. CRYSTAL LAFRANCE

Meet Crystal LaFrance, our Elementary School Principal for The Leah Chase School!

Principal LaFrance started her career in elementary education and transitioned into instructional leadership in 2015, when she served as the assistant principal at the Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary Charter School. With more than 17 years of experience, Crystal is dedicated to shaping a vibrant school culture and ensuring rigorous educational standards. She's committed to upholding the legacy of equity in education and fostering an environment where every scholar can thrive.
 

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.
Virgil Tiller
Assistant Principal
Rachel Wells
School Nurse
Olivia Joseph
3rd Grade ELA/Social Studies
Jordan Peota
Music Teacher
Sparkle Jarvis
4th Grade ELA & Social Studies
Ciara Clarks
Kindergarten Teacher
Taylor LeBlanc
K-2 Instructional Coach
Lauren Jewett
SpEd Teacher
Dominique Smith
Instructional Coach
Lori Cade
1st Grade Teacher
Christina Leslie
School Counselor
Tamara Smith
5th Grade ELA/Social Studies Teacher
Giana Davis
3rd Grade Math & Science Teacher
Donald Jackson
4th Grade Math & Science Teacher
Warlene Dumas
1st Grade Teacher
Chelsi Martin
SpED Coordinator
McKenzie Ebel
Speech Language Pathologist
Dr. Serena Netter
Social Worker
Maria Riviere
Spanish Teacher
Makayla Howard
Art Teacher
Alton Heard
Physical Ed.
Alicia Harris
Paraprofessional
Alana Creecy
Academic Interventionist
Brittany Dickerson
2nd Grade Teacher
Floyd Stevenson
Campus Security
LaTaya Evans
1st Grade Teacher
Enjoli Kaufman
Paraprofessional
Tracie LaFargue
5th Grade Teacher
Michael Gilmore
Maintenance Tech
Raylynn Landry
Information Technology Desktop Technician
Micah Turner
Dean of Students
Alvina Champagne
2nd Grade Teacher
Joel Carter 
2nd Grade Teacher
Yeulanda Buchart
Math Interventionist
Renee Ellis
EL Teacher
Erika Lara
EL Teacher
Garionne McWiliams
Paraprofessional
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Dana Kelly
SpEd Teacher
Leo Gillum 
SpEd Teacher
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Taylor Blossom
Kindergarten Teacher
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, or educator, there's a place for you here.