Principal Reassigned in NOLA

As if the climb out of destruction of Hurricane Katrina wasn't enough (which it was!) now this. Schools have had a long struggle after the storm; teachers and students being displaced out of their homes, schools shuttered due to damage, people being moved around like chess pieces, and everyone feeling the psychological effects of all sorts.

In spite of all of the hardships, plenty of the hardest hit schools in areas ravaged by the hurricane have recovered very well five years later. When you get right down to it, the fortitude of everyone involved in education in NOLA has prevailed. Hard working administrators, eager students, terrific teachers, and diligent principals have made huge strides.

One such school, with its staff and students, which has made significant strides forward is Francis Gregory Elementary. I learned yesterday that Gregory's principal, Aldine Lockett, has been reassigned. Reassigned, are you kidding me!?

Here is a school, put in trailers, where the State of Louisiana LEAP test scores have improved three straight years. Beyond that benchmark, I know that Mr. Lockett has committed himself to Gregory. He knows no limits when it comes to supporting staff and students. He has worked tirelessly and in an unselfish manner to help those most in need of assistance.

It would be hard to find a kinder more considerate man that Aldine. I have found him approachable and thoughtful. Over the years that our charity has supported Gregory, I have felt that Mr. Lockett was genuinely appreciative of our work. He was always generous in praise of our efforts and he sought to bring attention to our initiatives in New Orleans schools.

And he is replaced? Well, whoever takes over the reins at Gregory will have big shoes to fill. As the saying goes, 'everyone is replaceable.' The fact of the matter is, the position will be filled but with a person of Mr. Lockett's track record; well, that's a whole other story!

All the best Aldine!
Dick