FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday August 22, 2019
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Congressman Cedric Richmond has announced his support of Kira Orange Jones for the District 2 seat on the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
“Kira Orange Jones is a proven and effective leader on BESE for District 2. The facts are that graduation rates are up, more students are eligible for TOPS scholarships and more are enrolling in college,” said U.S. Congressman Cedric Richmo
“I’m so grateful for the Congressman’s endorsement and recognition of the progress we are making,” said BESE member Kira Orange Jones. “He continues to be a valuable partner for education reform in Louisiana and continuing the progress resulting from our reform efforts at BESE.”
Kira Orange Jones was first elected to BESE in 2011, where she has been a strong advocate for students, teachers and schools. Kira’s personal journey is a testament to how education can change lives. Raised by a single mother, Kira went from remedial classes in high school to earning a college degree from Wesleyan University and then a master’s in education from Harvard. Kira’s passion for education and desire to give back led her to start her career as a 4thgrade teacher, eventually rising to an administrative position supervising over 5,000 teachers and education leaders. On BESE, she has supported teacher pay raises, increased funding for early childhood education and advocated for better college and career preparation for high school students.
During Kira’s tenure, more students are graduating better prepared for college and careers, especially students of color. In 2018, we saw the largest graduating class in state history and for the first time African American student on-time graduation rates surpassed the national average.
More students in Louisiana, and more African American students in particular, are:
● Scoring 21 and above on the ACT;
● Graduating from high school in four years and with early college credit and industry career credentials;
● Eligible for TOPS scholarships; and,
● Enrolling in college.
BESE District 2 includes the east and west banks of New Orleans, the west bank of Jefferson, and St. Charles, St. John, St. James and Assumption parishes. The primary election is Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019.
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