NOLA-PS Deputy Superintendent Named to Michael Casserly’s Urban Executive Leadership Institute

Member of Second Cohort

(New Orleans – October 27, 2023) — NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS), congratulates Dr. Fateama S. Fulmore, the Deputy Superintendent of NOLA-PS for being tapped as one of nine individuals to take part in the second cohort of the Michael Casserly Urban Executive Leadership Institute for Superintendents. This prestigious program is part of the Council of the Great City Schools (CGCS) and is named after its long-time former executive director, Mr. Michael Casserly. The institute marked its 1^st triumphant cohort completion during the Council's 67th Fall Conference held in San Diego.

"Being selected to participate in the second cohort of the Michael Casserly Urban Executive Leadership Institute is an immense honor and an exciting opportunity for personal and professional growth. This program represents a commitment to excellence in urban education, and I'm truly humbled to be part of a group dedicated to furthering the cause of our nation's scholars," said Dr. Fulmore. "I look forward to learning, collaborating, and gaining valuable insights that will help us create a brighter future for all students in NOLA Public Schools."

"I extend my warmest congratulations to Dr. Fulmore, for achieving this honor. This recognition is a testament to her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the scholars of NOLA Public Schools," said NOLA-PS Superintendent Dr Avis Williams. "Her participation in this program reflects her passion for improving urban education. We are proud to have her on our team, and I'm confident this experience will further enhance her ability to lead, inspire, and positively impact our students. Her journey is a win not only for her personally but also for NOLA Public Schools and the entire education community."

Dr. Fulmore, along with nine other distinguished participants, will be embarking on an enlightening eight-month journey in the program. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to empower these educators with vital skills in effective leadership, school board relations, academics, media relations, operations, finances, and labor relations. This holistic experience will be further enriched through individual coaching, mentoring, and invaluable insights shared by prominent members of the Council, including Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten.

Through a unique opportunity, the cohort members will shadow accomplished urban school superintendents, receiving guidance and feedback that will undoubtedly shape their futures in educational leadership. Current superintendents will also lend their expertise through monthly sessions, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience.

Ray Hart, Executive Director of the Council, commented on the success of the first cohort and the purpose of the initiative, "This program serves a dual purpose – to nurture the existing knowledge and leadership skills of senior-level education administrators and to cultivate the next generation of urban school superintendents. With the remarkable success of this first cohort, we are excited about the program's future."

Participants for the second cohort, also unveiled during the Council's 67th Annual Fall Conference in San Diego, are nine exceptional education leaders from urban school districts; this group represents a diverse blend of talent, with five men and four women, including six educators of color. Nominated by current or past superintendents. Each underwent a rigorous selection process.

Dr. Michael Hinojosa, the Council's Superintendent-in-Residence, who oversees the program remarked, "Participation in this cohort pushes individuals beyond their comfort zones, offering opportunities for both professional and personal growth. Witnessing the outstanding progress of our first cohort, I eagerly anticipate the transformative impact of this program on these remarkable individuals as they receive mentorship, tools, and guidance to enhance the nation's urban school systems."

The journey for the second cohort of the Institute is set to kick off in February and will extend through monthly sessions until October 2024.

The members of the 2024 cohort include:

• Rochelle Cox, Interim Superintendent, Minneapolis Public Schools

• Drew Echelson, Chief of Schools, Boston Public Schools

• Karla Estrada, Deputy Superintendent, Los Angeles Unified School District

• Fateama Fulmore, Deputy Superintendent, NOLA Public Schools

• Jose Martinez, Chief of High Schools, Orange County Public Schools (FL)

• Dexter Moore Jr., Chief of Staff, Oakland Unified School District

• Eric Rosser, Superintendent, Poughkeepsie City School District

• Andrew Strope, Deputy Superintendent, Indianapolis Public Schools

• Angela Whitelaw, Deputy Superintendent, Memphis-Shelby County Schools

For more information on Dr. Fateama S. Fulmore, please click here.

For bios and photos of all the 2024 cohort of the Michael Casserly Urban Executive Leadership Institute, please click here.

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About NOLA Public Schools: NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS) 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 (OPSB). NOLA-PS currently oversees 72 public schools and is led by Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams, the first woman in the District's 181 years to serve as its permanent superintendent.

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