Profiles of teachNOLA Teachers

Name: Justin Jones

School: Priestley Charter School

Cohort: 2007  

Justin Jones, a New Orleans native and graduate of Dillard University, ardently believes that “students in New Orleans public schools deserve teachers that can relate to them on a personal level.” Justin attended public school in New Orleans himself and feels that he can connect to students on a higher level because he understands his students’ experiences in the classroom and community.  

Justin’s primary motivation for teaching at Priestley Charter School is his desire to be “instrumental in the reconstruction” of New Orleans. In Justin’s eyes, there is no better way to help restore his beloved home town than “effectively educating students that will be the future leaders” of New Orleans. For Justin, the most rewarding aspect of teaching in New Orleans is collaborating with students, parents and other teachers to accomplish one common goal: improving our city’s students’ ability to succeed.

 

Name: Erin Bartholomew

School: Langston Hughes

Cohort: 2007

 Erin Bartholomew, a 2nd grade Special Education teacher at Langston Hughes, is extremely impressed by the families she has encountered here in New Orleans. Erin describes her students’ families as “amazing” and witnesses “so much love and support” on a daily basis. According to Erin, “a teacher is part of the family in New Orleans, and your students will become your kids.” Although teaching in a high needs school in New Orleans has been incredibly demanding, Erin also describes it as the most rewarding teaching position that she has ever experienced.

Erin advises future teachNOLA teachers to be prepared to work harder than they have ever worked, but to also be ready for the lifelong rewards that come along with their commitment to closing the achievement gap.

 

Name: Beth Luckock

School: Sarah T. Reed High School  

Cohort: 2006

Beth Luckock, an ESL teacher at Reed High School, joined teachNOLA in the program’s first year, a critical time for both the city of New Orleans and its public schools. Beth was initially inspired to apply to the program because she immediately recognized the opportunity to close the achievement gap. Beth ultimately decided to enroll in teachNOLA because of her deep desire to “rebuild high needs schools the right way.”  

Beth is now in her third year of teaching through teachNOLA, and she is still growing and learning as a teacher. Beth says that “she never knew she could learn so much.” Beth enjoys teaching in New Orleans not only because she is continually learning, but also because the city “has an incredible culture all its own.” Beth is committed to raising student achievement and believes that New Orleans is a unique place to pursue that goal.