NOLA-PS Prioritizes Student Safety During Carnival Season

Click here to watch NOLA-PS' Mardi Gras Safety PSA Video

(New Orleans – February 3, 2026) — Today, NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS) Superintendent Dr. Fateama Fulmore led a Mardi Gras safety press conference, joined by Orleans Parish School Board members school leaders, students, community partners, NOPD, and representatives from the Krewe of Rex and Zulu. The event underscored the district's top priority: ensuring students remain safe while proudly participating in Carnival parades.

"Mardi Gras is a time of joy, tradition, and celebration," said Dr. Fulmore. "We are incredibly proud to see our students shine as they march in the parades that make our city so special. While we encourage everyone to enjoy the festivities, student safety must come first."

Dr. Fulmore shared essential safety reminders for parade-goers:

Keep Your Hands to Yourself: Cheer enthusiastically for students, but do not walk alongside or touch marching bands, dance teams, or walking groups. Avoid throwing beads directly at school bands.

Step Back & Don't Cross: When bands approach, step back to give them space to march. Never cross between school groups and always stay behind barricades.

Stay Vigilant: Face the parade route at all times to avoid being hit by beads, throws, or floats.

Follow Police Instructions: Respect directions from the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) and Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office personnel dedicated to public safety.

If You See Something, Say Something: Immediately report concerns to nearby law enforcement officers.

The press conference included remarks from additional speakers. Booker T. Washington High School Leader Korbin Johnson and student council president and vie president Dylan Butler and Nari Abbott highlighted ways to support schools and protect students during parades. NOPD Officer Anthony "Buddy" Micheu addressed broader Carnival safety protocols. Krewe of Rex representative Ben Dupuy and Krewe of Zulu representative Darren Mire emphasized the vital role of school bands in Mardi Gras traditions and urged spectators to celebrate responsibly to honor student participants.

To view the full press conference, click here.

The NOLA-PS Mardi Gras Safety PSA video reinforces these key messages and can be seen on NOLA-PS' social media platforms. You can also watch the short version here and the long version here to learn how everyone can contribute to a safe, enjoyable season.

NOLA-PS remains committed to fostering a secure environment where our talented students can showcase their skills during this iconic Carnival season. By working together, we can ensure a fun, safe, and unforgettable experience for all.

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About NOLA Public Schools: NOLA Public Schools is the public school district for Orleans Parish. It includes the district's administration and elected school board, known as the Orleans Parish School Board. NOLA Public Schools currently oversees 66 public schools and is led by Superintendent Dr. Fateama S. Fulmore.

For more information, visit www.nolapublicschools.com. For updates, follow NOLA Public Schools on Facebook @NOLAPublicSchools, Instagram @nolaps and Twitter @NOLAPSchools.