The OPEN Public Education Awards 2015: Honoring Innovators, Exemplars and Trailblazers
The OPEA team prides itself on award standards that are data-driven, objective and measurable. In light of the recent Common Core rollout and changes in accountability structures, student achievement figures for the necessary analysis period were not be available until late in the 2015-16 school year. Therefore, the 2015 awards sought to:
• Celebrate exemplars and innovators;
• Highlight schools and individuals who breaking the mold in their approach, and
• Showcase entities that are expanding and advancing the learning process with new ideas and vision.
From achieving early promising results to making unequivocal contributions to our city, the 2015 awardees are made up of those who look toward the future while building on the lessons of the past.
The 2015 Enduring Impact Award
Co-Founders, New Orleans Charter Middle School
Given to educators whose skill, practice and advocacy have had a resounding influence on their students and on the education landscape as a whole.
The 2015 Distinguished Product of New Orleans Public Schools
Founder, STEM NOLA
Given to a graduate of the New Orleans public school system who has demonstrated leadership, personal and professional achievement, and a profound dedication to the city.
The 2015 Innovative Approaches to School Design & Delivery Award
Patricia Perkins, Principal
Given to a school which has demonstrated a willingness to break the mold in designing a school model that redefines the journey toward excellence inclusive of the needs of students, teachers, parents and community.
The 2015 Innovative Approaches to Early Childhood Integration Award
Lakeysha London, Principal
Given to a school which has taken an innovative approach to bridging the gap between little school and big school in ways that support a more seamless transition for students, teachers and parents and the full development of the child.
The 2015 Exemplary Arts Education Award
New Orleans Center for Creative Arts
Kyle Wedberg, President & CEO
Given to a school which has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to integration of the arts as a holistic approach to student achievement.
The 2015 Excellence in High School Achievement Award
Daniel Casey, Principal
Given to a high school which has demonstrated exceptional results — in both academics and culture — in student achievement and development.
Exemplary Language Immersion Education Award
Melanie Tennyson, Principal
Given to a school which has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to language and culture immersion as a critical skill in the development of 21st century learners.
The 2015 Outstanding Community Partner Award
Lloyd Dennis, Executive Director
Given to a non-school based organization which has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to working with students, helping children develop into healthy and capable citizens.
The 2015 Adult & Opportunity Youth Education Award
Michael Fernandez, Center Director
Melissa Sawyer, Executive Director
Given to organizations which have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to building viable pathways to success for adult learners.
