Jefferson Parish Schools Executive and Leadership Team

Sarah Caruso, the Chief Financial Officer at Jefferson Parish Schools, directs all fiscal operations for the district's 74 schools. Caruso manages the allocation of resources across both banks of the Mississippi River, ensuring financial stability and compliance with educational funding regulations. This leadership role involves developing and executing financial strategies that support the district's mission of providing quality K-12 education. By optimizing budget management and financial planning, Sarah Caruso directly impacts the district's capacity to serve its student population effectively. Caruso also oversees all financial reporting and audits, maintaining transparency and accountability in public education funding. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to procurement processes and long-term financial forecasting, securing the district's economic health.

Kriss Fortunato, the President, District 3 at Jefferson Parish Schools, provides essential leadership and governance for a specific sector of the district's educational operations. Fortunato advocates for the needs of students and educators within District 3, ensuring alignment with the broader goals of Jefferson Parish Schools, the largest district in Louisiana. This role involves strategic oversight and decision-making that directly impacts educational programming and student outcomes in the designated area. By championing district initiatives, Kriss Fortunato contributes to the overall mission of providing comprehensive K-12 education. Fortunato's responsibilities include fostering community engagement and ensuring accountability within District 3, reinforcing the district's commitment to excellence. The President, District 3, plays a vital part in shaping educational policy and implementation.

Mike Lavelle, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer at Jefferson Parish Schools, architects the district's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Lavelle oversees the integration of advanced technological solutions across all 74 schools, enhancing learning environments and operational efficiency. This critical role involves managing IT systems, cybersecurity protocols, and digital learning platforms to support the district's educational objectives. By driving innovation in technology, Mike Lavelle ensures that students and educators have access to cutting-edge tools. Lavelle also leads initiatives to improve data management and network capabilities, supporting the district's position as Louisiana's largest school system. The Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include developing long-term technology roadmaps aligned with educational advancements.

Patrick Jenkins, the Chief Operations Officer at Jefferson Parish Schools, directs the logistical and operational framework supporting the district's extensive network of 74 schools. Jenkins oversees the daily functioning of facilities, transportation, and support services across both sides of the Mississippi River, ensuring a conducive learning environment. This leadership position involves managing the efficient deployment of resources and personnel to meet the operational demands of Louisiana's largest school district. By optimizing operational processes, Patrick Jenkins directly contributes to the seamless delivery of educational services. Jenkins also leads strategic planning for infrastructure development and maintenance, safeguarding the district's physical assets. The Chief Operations Officer's purview includes ensuring compliance with safety regulations and enhancing overall campus functionality.