The Jefferson Parish Public School System (JPPSS) named its district winners for the Louisiana Department of Education’s Principal of the Year.
The following principals are now eligible to become the 2019 Louisiana Principal of the Year.
Principal of the Year winners are:
- Washington Elementary STEM School – Darlene Turnbull
- Chateau Estates School – Colleen Winkler
- Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies – Andrew Vincent
“I would like to extend my personal congratulations to these educators for being recognized as Principal of the Year,” said JPPSS Superintendent Isaac G. Joseph. “This accomplishment is reflective of their commitment to a significant positive impact on student growth.”
In partnership with Dream Teachers and the Louisiana Association of Principals, the Louisiana Department of Education annually honors the state’s most exceptional educators through the Principal of the Year program. The Louisiana Principal of the Year awards program provides an opportunity to acknowledge those educators who are making exceptional gains with students.
Washington Elementary Principal Darlene Turnbull speaks to her students after being surprised with the big news.
JPPSS Elementary School Principal of the Year Darlene Turnbull is the principal of Washington Elementary STEM School. Under Turnbull’s leadership, Washington Elementary earned Top Gains recognition for exemplary growth from the Louisiana Department of Education and saw its District Performance Score improve by a full letter grade this past school year. Washington Elementary is in its first year under a new STEM focus (science, technology, engineering, and math). As a new addition to the JPPSS Magnet Program, students from the entire East Bank of Jefferson Parish can apply to attend Washington Elementary.
“I remind our students that education is something that no one can ever take away from you,” said Turnbull. “It is the tool that you can use to change your life.”
Chateau Estates Principal Colleen Winkler is treated to a second line after being named Principal of the Year.
JPPSS Middle School Principal of the Year Colleen Winkler is the principal of Chateau Estates School, which serves students in grades prekindergarten through eight. Under Winkler’s leadership, Chateau Estates School earned an A on its most recent District Performance Score. “Kids First” is a mission and theme that is literally seen throughout the school and on Chateau Estate’s active social media accounts. From the college pennants that line the halls to the school and community celebrations, students are surrounded by success and encouragement.
“My vision is to create a positive and nurturing school community,” said Winkler, “where students are empowered to take risks, work collaboratively, and are self-motivated.”
Thomas Jefferson High Principal Andrew Vincent’s daughters can’t wait to greet him after the surprise announcement.
JPPSS High School Principal of the Year Andrew Vincent is the principal of Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies. This A-rated school is the 12th ranked public school in Louisiana. One of Vincent’s goals when he arrived in 2015 was to expand opportunities for students to attain college credit. Along with strategically expanding the AP classes offered, more students are also earning college credit through these courses.
“We strongly believe that student potential, interest, and access are the three biggest drivers to bring about more AP success,” said Vincent. “This formula has proven successful. In 2015, we recorded 23 passing AP scores. In 2017, we more than tripled that figure by posting 78 passing scores.”