Jefferson Parish Schools Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Jefferson Parish Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including finance, technology, operations, and district governance.

Dedicated to educational excellence, Jefferson Parish Schools serves students across Louisiana, driving academic achievement and fostering community engagement through a robust network of 74 schools.

Leadership Roles at Jefferson Parish Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - Sarah Caruso
  • President, District 3 - Kriss Fortunato
  • Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer - Mike Lavelle
  • Chief Operations Officer - Patrick Jenkins
  • Sarah Caruso - Chief Financial Officer

    Sarah Caruso, the Chief Financial Officer at Jefferson Parish Schools, directs all financial operations for the district's 74 schools. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Caruso ensures fiscal responsibility across the largest school district in Louisiana. This leadership role involves managing expenditures, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining financial compliance with state and federal regulations. By implementing sound financial strategies, Sarah Caruso directly supports the district's mission of providing quality education. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to auditing processes and financial reporting, guaranteeing transparency and accountability in all fiscal matters. Caruso's expertise is critical for sustaining the operational capacity of the district and facilitating its growth initiatives.
    Sarah Caruso

    Kriss Fortunato - President, District 3

    Kriss Fortunato, the President, District 3 at Jefferson Parish Schools, provides essential governance and strategic direction for educational initiatives within a specific district zone. Leading the oversight of academic programs and resource allocation for District 3 schools, Fortunato champions student success and community engagement. This vital role involves collaborating with administrators, educators, and stakeholders to uphold the district's commitment to educational excellence across Louisiana. By ensuring alignment with the broader mission of Jefferson Parish Schools, Kriss Fortunato directly influences the quality of education delivered to students in District 3. The President, District 3's focus includes advocating for student needs, supporting professional development for staff, and fostering a positive learning environment. Fortunato's leadership is integral to the effective operation and continuous improvement of the schools within the district.

    Mike Lavelle - Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer

    Mike Lavelle, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer at Jefferson Parish Schools, architects the district's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all IT operations, Lavelle drives innovation in educational technology to enhance learning experiences for students across Louisiana. This critical role involves managing network systems, cybersecurity protocols, and the implementation of new technological solutions that support academic and administrative functions. By ensuring robust and secure technology platforms, Mike Lavelle directly enables efficient operations and access to digital resources for 74 schools. The Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer's focus includes digital transformation initiatives, data management, and providing essential technical support to staff and students. Lavelle's leadership ensures Jefferson Parish Schools remains at the forefront of technological advancement in education.

    Patrick Jenkins - Chief Operations Officer

    Patrick Jenkins, the Chief Operations Officer at Jefferson Parish Schools, oversees the comprehensive operational framework supporting the district's 74 educational institutions. Directing facilities management, transportation, food services, and safety protocols, Jenkins ensures the smooth functioning of daily operations across both banks of the Mississippi River. This leadership position involves optimizing resource deployment, managing large-scale logistical challenges, and maintaining the physical infrastructure necessary for effective learning environments. By ensuring operational efficiency, Patrick Jenkins directly contributes to the district's ability to serve its student population effectively. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities also encompass strategic planning for operational scaling and emergency preparedness, safeguarding the well-being of students and staff. Jenkins's expertise is vital for the sustained delivery of educational services throughout Louisiana.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Jefferson Parish Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Jefferson Parish Schools?
    Jefferson Parish Schools is led by Sarah Caruso (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Kriss Fortunato (President, District 3) and Mike Lavelle (Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Jefferson Parish Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Jefferson Parish Schools includes leaders such as Sarah Caruso (Chief Financial Officer), Kriss Fortunato (President, District 3), Mike Lavelle (Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Jefferson Parish Schools have?
    Jefferson Parish Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Jefferson Parish Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Jefferson Parish Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, District 3, Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer, Chief Operations Officer.