​Claire Heckerman-Whitehead deeply believes in the power of education. She knows that a strong educational foundation can change the trajectory of a child's life is is committed to providing a free, excellent education for the children of Jefferson Parish. 

Claire founded Laureate in 2015 with the vision of providing a college preparatory K-8 school for children on the Westbank of Jefferson Parish. She is proud of the progress Laureate has made since 2015 and can't wait to see Laureate continue to become a transformational school in 2024 and beyond! 

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Claire graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor's in International Studies and Anthropology with a minor in Africana Studies and later earned her Master's in Educational Leadership from Louisiana State University Shreveport.  

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Claire loves to travel, live music, and reading at coffee shops! 

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checkerman@laureatecharter.org

Yann Colin is an experienced and mission-driven school leader who brings over a decade of dedication to academic excellence, equity, and
character development. Originally from Europe—half French and half British—he moved to New Orleans nine years ago to be with his wife, a
proud New Orleans native and fellow educator. Together, they are raising their son, Jude, in the vibrant city they call home.

Yann believes deeply in the transformative power of education. As someone who credits education as the most powerful tool in his life—opening doors and creating opportunity—he is passionate about
ensuring that every child at Laureate Academy receives the same empowering experience.

Throughout his leadership journey, Yann has served in a variety of roles from teacher to principal, in both international and local charter settings.
He is known for his work in instructional leadership, data-driven decision-making, and creating joyful, structured school cultures where every scholar thrives.

As Principal of Laureate Academy, Yann is committed to building strong relationships, promoting academic rigor, and ensuring all scholars are equipped with the skills and character to lead lives of purpose.

Semaj Allen-Raymond eagerly joins the Laureate Academy family as the Director of Scholar Support where she will be responsible for a wide spectrum of duties designed to remove barriers and ensure student access to a quality education.

As native of the Westbank of Jefferson Parish, the success of the future generation of JP residents is a professional and personal priority. Prior to joining the Laureate Academy Team, for the past 23 years, she has served the students and families of Jefferson Parish as an employee of Jefferson Parish Schools. While in JPS she  served in multiple capacities, Elementary Classroom Teacher, Instructional Associate, High School Assistant Principal, Middle School Principal and Director of Charter Schools and School Choice Programs. Before becoming an Educator, Semaj worked as a Territory Sales Manager for Philip Morris International.

Semaj is a proud graduate of Louisiana State University, were she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance with Concentration in Commercial Banking. She also received two Master of Education Degrees in Special Education and Administration and Supervision for the University of New Orleans. I hold professional certifications in Educational Leadership/Principalship(All Grades), Reading Specialist (All Grades), Elementary Education (1-5), and Mild/Moderate (1-12).

Semaj strongly believes that in order to nurture students to become successful and productive citizens, we must create a safe, inclusive, and collaborative school culture.  This includes supporting teachers and staff and building positive relationships with  students, families, and stakeholders to create a fully engaged school community.

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sallenraymond@laureatecharter.org

Eron Jenkins joins the Laureate Academy team as the Director of Operations. Most recently, Eron served as the principal of Peace Preparatory Academy in Atlanta. This marks a return to Louisiana for Eron as he served as a founding team member and Director of Operations at Collegiate Baton Rouge from 2017-2021.

Eron graduated from Georgia State University where he studied journalism. While in college, he learned about the movement toward educational equity. He was inspired to participate in several AmeriCorps programs including Teach for America in the Mississippi Delta. Eron earned a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University in 2017.

Eron loves music, sports, and travel. His favorite thing is spending time with his family: D’Andrea, Hendrix & Evie Lynn, whom he adores.

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ejenkins@laureatecharter.org

With over a decade of service in New Orleans public schools, Ms. Walker brings a unique fusion of instructional expertise and student-centered insight. She holds a Bachelor’s in Education from Xavier University of Louisiana and a Master’s in Psychology with a concentration in Child & Adolescent Development from Southern New Hampshire University—equipping her with a strong foundation in teaching practices and an empathetic lens on student behavior and well-being.

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Her career spans roles as master teacher, mentor, ancillary program lead, education consultant, and instructional coach, most recently specializing in novice teacher support, reading instruction, and literacy acceleration. Drawing from this diverse experience, Ms. Walker adopts a holistic, data-informed approach—collaborating effectively with both educators and learners to tailor instructional strategies that meet varied needs and drive meaningful growth.

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Central to her work is a deeply rooted philosophy of literacy: more than the mechanics of reading and writing, she views literacy as a powerful vehicle for student empowerment, engagement, and equity. By fostering critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence through diverse texts and interdisciplinary connections—from science, math, history and the arts—Ms. Walker champions literacy’s transformative potential to unlock lifelong learning, self-expression, and social agency.

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Guided by a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, she actively pursues a culture of collaboration. Whether implementing research-based best practices, designing cross-curricular literacy initiatives, or mentoring emerging educators. Ms. Walker’s is here to inspire confidence, articulate learners, and drive equitable educational outcomes for the wonderful students we serve in our community. 

Leslie Johnson is an accomplished education leader currently serving as Associate Principal at Laureate Academy Charter School, where they support student success through instructional leadership, school culture development, and staff collaboration. With over 21 years in education, Ms. Johnson brings a deep commitment to academic excellence, equity, and fostering a positive learning environment.

Prior to this role, Mrs.Johnson served as Assistant Principal in Jefferson Parish Schools, Master Teacher, and Middle School Science Teacher, gaining hands-on experience in curriculum development, teacher mentorship, and student engagement. She  holds a Master of Education Degree from the University of Texas at Arlington in Curriculum and Instruction, and possesses certifications in both Educational Leadership and Middle Grades 4th-8th.

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In her current position, Mrs. Johnson will focus on enhancing instructional practices, supporting data-driven decision-making, and building strong partnerships with families and the community. Known for her approachable leadership style and passion for continuous improvement, Mrs. Johnson strives to create a school culture where all students and staff thrive.

Tiffany Roche Moll is native of Louisiana, born and raised in Gretna. She has 13 years of experience in education excelling in various roles. Mrs. Moll has taught over 7 grade levels, alternative programs, and previously owned an early childcare center. Mrs. Moll currently has a Master’s degree in Psychology and is on track to graduate with a second Master’s degree in School Counseling this upcoming December. She serves as an active part of the community, as president of a non-profit organization. Mrs. Moll is an advocate for youth and is very passionate about teaching scholars to embrace education. In her leisure time she enjoys spending time with family, reading, and making birthday pins.

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tmoll@laureatecharter.org

Hi Everyone!

I am so excited to be a part of the Laureate Charter family of educators as the Dean of Sped! I am entering my 25th year in education and nearly all of it has centered around addressing students with special needs. I have had previous roles as District Sped Coordinator, Curriculum and Instruction Coach, and Assistant Principal. I have worked all across America both online and in-person with students with disabilities. This has been a beautiful journey and I am looking forward to my continued mission with Laureate.  I am also married to an educator and together we are helping to raise a 4 year old grandbaby that we absolutely love! 

lleggett@laureatecharter.org

Tess Proctor is thrilled to step into the role of Dean of Instruction for grades 3-8 humanities this year! She has spent 7 years in education covering all subjects, ages, and grades and is so excited to continue honing her humanities skills in her second year of leadership. She learned a lot in year one of leadership and can't wait to continue supporting teachers through live coaching, data-driven instruction, and instilling a love of reading in all our scholars! 

Ms. Proctor has achieved a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology with a minor in visual arts from Loyola University New Orleans and is in the process of earning her teacher certification in middle school ELA. Her personal academic journey and experiences drive her passion for education and creating classroom environments for students to become confident, skilled, and versatile lifelong learners. She finds immense joy and fulfillment in watching students grow and reach their full potential. 

In her free time she highly enjoys playing soccer, exploring restaurants and finding new delicious foods to eat, traveling at any and every chance she gets, and attending concerts and festivals. 

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tproctor@laureatecharter.org

Coming Soon!

Rob Young brings to his role as Dean of Operations a wealth of experience spanning 8 years in the education sector. He has cultivated a deep passion for fostering the growth and development of young people. His career has been dedicated to creating environments where students can thrive academically and personally. He takes immense pride in contributing to his community and strives to ensure it is the best it can be. He believes in the transformative power of education to uplift and empower individuals, and he actively pursues opportunities to enrich the educational experience for all scholars he oversees.

In his role as Dean of Operations, Rob is committed to maintaining a safe, efficient, and supportive atmosphere for all scholars and staff where innovation thrives and where every scholar feels inspired to achieve their fullest potential.

Outside of his professional life, Rob enjoys sports and loves to travel.

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ryoung@laureatecharter.org