University of New Orleans Applies to Run More Public Schools

By Anonymous

The University of New Orleans has applied to open two new public charter schools in Gentilly.

Applications were submitted to the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to reopen Gentilly Terrace Elementary, 4720 Painters St., and to open a new school at the site of the Milne Boys Home on Franklin Avenue.

If approved by BESE, the schools would open in the fall as Type 5 charter schools.

The proposed schools would house pre-kindergarten through eight grades and be operated by the Capital One-UNO Charter School Center.

“This is part of UNO’s strategic vision and commitment to help rebuild neighborhoods in the Gentilly/Lakefront area,” said James Meza, dean of UNO’s College of Education and Human Development.

“In order to have a vibrant university, it must be surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods. One way to accomplish this goal is to anchor neighborhoods with high quality public education,” he said.

The Capital One-UNO Charter School Center would operate five Type 5 charter schools.

UNO already operates charter schools in New Orleans.

In 2004, it took over Pierre A. Capdau Middle School, which had fallen below state academic performance standards four consecutive years.

In taking over Capdau, UNO became the first entity in the state to take control of a failing school.

UNO also operates Medard H. Nelson Charter School and Pierre A. Capdau Early College High School.

The charter school center also advises Edward Hynes Charter School and Benjamin Franklin High School.

“Our growth is planned and systematic,” said Meza. “The decision to open new schools is driven by the demands and needs of the neighborhoods that surround UNO and by our capacity to properly staff and manage these schools.”

(Copyright 2007 Dolan Media Newswires)

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