Top Teachers

In conjunction with the College Football Playoff Foundation, New Orleans Public Schools and other educational partners joined together in late May to celebrate the 11 finalists and seven winners of New Orleans Excellence in Teaching Award (NOETA).

The NOETA program was created in 2015 by New Schools for New Orleans. In the fall of 2018, New Orleans Public Schools took over the planning and execution of the program to honor more outstanding public-school teachers throughout all of the schools in New Orleans. The award was created to recognize these wonderful educators’ contributions rarely make headlines, but their impact endures long after their students leave their classrooms.

All of the finalists and award winners were selected based on:

+ their ability to drive student achievement,

+ their commitment to developing their skills as educators,

+ how they build relationships with their students, and

+ the impact they have had on their school community.

New Schools for New Orleans had 18 finalists and ultimately seven award winners. Additionally, all of them have committed to return to their classrooms next year!

The finalists and winners for 2018-19 ranged in experience from three to 25 years, taught all core subjects and served all populations of students from Kindergarten to 12th grade. They included teachers who served special populations such as English Language Learners, students reading far below grade level, and students with special needs. Each winner was presented with a check for $2,000, a proclamation from the city, and a plaque of appreciation.

Congratulations to the 2018 New Orleans Excellence in Teaching Awards Winners!

2018 New Orleans Excellence in Teaching Award Winners

Chiante Cunningham – Harriet Tubman Charter School

Katharine Goforth – Cohen College Prep

Stephen Goodly, Sr. – Warren Easton Charter High School

Kenneth Johnson Arthur – Ashe Charter School

Adam Kohler – KIPP Booker T.Washington

Ingrid Rachal – Mary McLeod Bethune

Camille Zaunbrecher – George Washington Carver High School

Finalists

Ashley Abbott – Akili Academy of New Orleans

Jeff Carver – New Orleans Charter Science and Mathematics High School

Annie Davids – Phillis Wheatley Community School

Katherine Griesberger – KIPP Believe College Prep (Dunbar)

Eboni Jaggers – Renew Cultural Arts Academy

Robert McGriff – Lake Area New Technology Early College High School

Julia Miller – Audubon Charter School

Jestin Moorehead – Morris Jeff Community School

Elaine Pritchett – Cypress Academy

Nia Smith – Eleanor McMain Secondary

Ryan Stivers – Rooted School