FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday August 26, 2019
NEW ORLEANS – New Orleans Councilmember-At-Large Jason Williams has announced his support of Kira Orange Jones for the District 2 seat on the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
“Education is a cornerstone of building a stronger New Orleans. Kira has played a major role in moving us in the right direction,” said Jason Williams, New Orleans Councilmember-At-Large. “Under Kira’s leadership, we are seeing positive results across the state and in particular in New Orleans for African American students.”
“Councilmember Jason Williams has worked tirelessly on the council to better our community. He knows the important role education plays in changing the lives of students,” said BESE member Kira Orange Jones. “I am honored to have his support and endorsement.”
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 4th grade 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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