St. James Parish School Board introduces five new administrators

Superintendent Chris Kimmel introduced five administrative appointments the board approved to start next school year: Lenia Raymond as director of student services, child welfare and attendance; Mika Dennis as director of the Career & College Center; Candace Reishard as principal at Grammarly Elementary; Nicole Weber as principal at Paulina Elementary; and Faren Melisol as principal at St. Louis Academy.

"I look forward to working and serving our students in a different capacity, but with the same heart," Lenia Raymond said after her introduction, noting priorities that include student safety and social-emotional supports and expressing a desire to work toward exiting the district's consent order.

Each appointee spoke briefly about plans and readiness for the new roles. Mika Dennis emphasized career and college center priorities and upcoming partnerships with Southeastern for STEM programming. Candace Reishard and Nicole Weber described community and staff engagement goals at their respective elementary schools, while Faren Melisol said she has already started planning initiatives for student experiences and exposure at St. Louis Academy.

The superintendent said the five bring combined experience across the district and welcomed them as part of a leadership effort to improve student outcomes. Board members offered congratulations and pledged support as the new administrators transition into their roles.