(New Orleans – September 12, 2025) — NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS) is proud to announce a new partnership with Lipscomb University to bolster the pipeline of school psychologists in Orleans Parish amid a nationwide shortage.
The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) recommends a ratio of 1 school psychologist per 500 students, yet the national average stands at approximately 1:1,127, with some states facing ratios as high as 1:5,000. This initiative underscores NOLA-PS' commitment to ensuring every student has access to critical mental health and academic support to thrive.
"This partnership couldn't come at a better time, and I'm incredibly proud of our NOLA-PS team for their hard work in bringing this vision to life," said Dr. Fateama Fulmore, Superintendent of NOLA Public Schools. "We've seen firsthand how the shortage of school psychologists impacts our students and families, and teaming up with Lipscomb University is going to make a real difference. It's about giving our students the tools they need to succeed—not just in the classroom, but in life. I'm excited to see this program grow and support our school community in meaningful ways."
Through this partnership, NOLA-PS and Lipscomb University aim to produce highly qualified graduates equipped to meet the needs of our schools and enhance pupil appraisal services, providing essential support for students and their families. This program reflects our dedication to addressing the growing demand for mental health professionals in our schools and fostering an environment where every child can grow, achieve, and thrive.
We are delighted to congratulate the inaugural cohort of this program, who began their Fall Semester classes in August:
- Kristin Castilla, NOLA-PS Speech/Language Pathologist
- Channel Huff, NOLA-PS Director of Exceptional Children's Services
- Ariane Jones-Pierre, ACSA Executive Master Teacher
- Brittney Lewis, ACSA Director of Diverse Learners
- Brittany Lofton, NOLA-PS Assistant Director of Portfolio Innovation and Accountability
- Julia McGavran, NOLA-PS Speech/Language Pathologist
- Darleen Mipro, NOLA-PS Educational Diagnostician
- Natalia Skef-Promoslovsky, NOLA-PS Qualified School Social Worker
Please join us in celebrating this milestone and supporting these dedicated professionals as they work to strengthen our schools and community.
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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.
About Lipscomb University: Lipscomb University is a faith-based, liberal arts institution in Nashville, Tenn., dedicated to challenging students academically, spiritually and as global community citizens. The colleges of the university include College of Bible & Ministry, College of Business, College of Computing & Technology, College of Education, Raymond B. Jones College of Engineering, College of Entertainment & the Arts, College of Leadership & Public Service, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences and the College of Professional Studies. Lipscomb University was founded in 1891 and is based in Nashville, Tennessee. The university has endowment assets of $70.4 million.