I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support we have received from our families, CMO and school leaders, teachers, staff, and the broader community. Your collective voices have paved the way for NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS) to persist in its commitment to providing safe, healthy, and innovative learning environments for our scholars. The recent renewal of the 20-year School Facilities Preservation Millage is nothing short of a game-changer. This initiative is projected to raise a staggering $420 million, which, when combined with sales tax funds earmarked for school facility improvements, will yield a total of approximately $720 million over the next two decades. These resources will empower us to extend and enhance our 10-year capital plans, set aside funds for emergencies, and plan for necessary capital replacements in post-Katrina schools.

What makes this investment truly remarkable is its rarity in school districts that predominantly serve Black children and families living in poverty. CBS News recently highlighted the troubling disparity in funding for majority Black school districts, emphasizing that they often receive far less for building improvements. Here in New Orleans, we are defying this unfortunate trend. We firmly believe the learning environment matters, and our scholars unquestionably deserve the best. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) for their visionary leadership. Countless leaders, supporters, advocates, and advisors played an integral role in making this milestone a reality, and for that, I am immensely thankful.

Our journey is far from over, and I am excited to continue leading our district with a steadfast commitment to Equity, Excellence, and Joy. On behalf of all of NOLA-PS and the OPSB, I want to say THANK YOU for your unflagging support. Your dedication to our schools is shaping the future of our children and lighting the path to success.

With the deepest gratitude,

Avis Williams, Ed.D.

Superintendent

NOLA Public Schools