Victory for Students as Voters in East Baton Rouge Elect Student-Centered Leaders to the School Board
BATON ROUGE— The Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools (LAPCS) applauds the victory of bold new leaders elected to the East Baton Rouge School Board and those advancing to runoffs. These unofficial returns affirm that voters in East Baton Rouge Parish are demanding better options and resources for their students. LAPCS believes it is the beginning of a new day for parents and students.
LAPCS congratulates new candidates who won races or advanced to runoffs. In District 3, challenger Tramelle Howard ousted incumbent Kenyetta Nelson-Smith while in District 2, challenger Dadrius Lanus advanced to a runoff against incumbent Vereta Lee on December 8, 2018.
LAPCS also congratulates incumbents Evelyn Ware-Jackson (District 5) and Mike Gaudet (District 7), who were re-elected to their seats.
“Tonight’s results point to voters’ desire for a shift in the Baton Rouge education landscape. We are eager to welcome the new leadership as well as those re-elected to the East Baton Rouge School Board to drive change on behalf of students and ensure taxpayer dollars are better spent across the school district. The results made clear that voters want change from the old guard that has worked against reform, missed critical votes and have been hostile towards charter schools. We will continue to work to ensure a clear path for the future of public education in Baton Rouge,” said Caroline Roemer, Executive Director, Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools.
LAPCS looks forward to working with these elected leaders to shift the vision of the East Baton Rouge School Board to improve outcomes for each and every student and family in Baton Rouge. LAPCS congratulates all of the winning candidates, but now it is time to get to work. LAPCS remains committed to ensuring that Board members make the best decisions for kids, parents and community members and values new leadership committed to innovation, equity, and accountability.
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Contact: Roby Chavez rchavez@lacharterschools.org
About Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools
The Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools (LAPCS) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to support, promote, and advocate for the Louisiana charter school movement, increasing student access to high-quality public schools statewide. Learn more about LAPCS at https://lacharterschools.org.