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Orleans Parish School Board approves KIPP consolidation of Frederick Douglass and John F. Kennedy high schools
Summary
After student testimony and board discussion, the Orleans Parish School Board approved KIPP New Orleans Inc.'s consolidation of Frederick Douglass High School and John F. Kennedy High School into a single John F. Kennedy campus effective July 1, 2026; Vice President Olin Parker recused and the motion carried.
The Orleans Parish School Board voted on March 26 to approve KIPP New Orleans Inc.'s request to consolidate Frederick Douglass High School and John F. Kennedy High School into a single high school to be named John F. Kennedy, effective July 1, 2026.
Board counsel read the proposal, which would amend Frederick Douglass’s charter, rename that campus to operate at the Kennedy facility, and dissolve the existing Kennedy charter. The board took the item earlier on the agenda at Vice President Olin Parker’s request because students from both campuses were present.
Two students spoke in support during public comment. "We want to start by saying thank you to the board and to everyone involved," said Natasia Brown, a John F. Kennedy student. Terrell Brooks, a Frederick Douglass student, said the schools already collaborate in programs such as Bard Early College and urged the board to "build something stronger than a school." Their remarks were repeatedly praised by board members.
Board members reported visiting both campuses. Miss Griffin said she saw strong classroom learning but remained concerned about whether there would be an accessible Tier 1 option in some neighborhoods. Mister Marshall commended the students’ readiness and adaptability. Vice President Olin Parker recused himself from the vote, saying his wife is a principal at KIPP and that created a conflict of interest.
With the recusal and an abstention recorded, the motion carried. Board counsel announced the motion carried after the vote was counted and recorded.
The board did not discuss in the public record detailed staffing, enrollment transfers, or specific facility renovation plans for the merged campus during the meeting; those implementation steps were not specified in the agenda presentation. The board said applicable approvals and charter amendments would follow the standard processes.
The action is effective July 1, 2026, as stated in the board motion. The board did not provide a detailed timeline for student assignment or transportation changes during the meeting.
