St. Bernard Parish board honors Special Olympics athletes and LEAP Connect dual-enrollment students

The St. Bernard Parish School Board recognized Special Olympics athletes and LEAP Connect dual-enrollment students during its June meeting, celebrating statewide competition results and high program success rates.

Mr. Joe Cippolo told the board the Special Olympics team "earned five gold medals, three silver medals, three bronze medals, and one fourth place finish" after advancing from local games to the state meet in Hammond. The athletes were invited to the dais to receive certificates from Miss Diana Daer and board members.

Cippolo also reviewed the LEAP Connect dual-enrollment program with Nunez and LSU partners. "100% of our kids that were eligible enrolled in Nunez dual enrollment classes this year," he said, adding that "100% of the kids that were in the program this year earned the basic and advanced custodial technician credential," and that all program graduates were employed or had summer job plans. The board highlighted internships and local employer participation, listing placements that included the St. Bernard Parish government complex, the sheriff's office, the civic center, local businesses, and Ashner.

Board members praised the students and program staff and encouraged the cohort as the district prepares to showcase LEAP Connect before the Louisiana College and Technical Schools Board of Supervisors. The board noted the presentation and workforce ties as a model the district hopes legislators and state partners will examine.

The recognition concluded with individual students receiving certificates and board congratulations. The district said a staff presentation on the program is scheduled for the LCTCS meeting in Baton Rouge the following morning.