What do you think of when you hear Natchitoches Junior High-Frankie Ray Jackson School? It is my contention that your perception does not match reality. I am here today to tell you just a few of the fantastic things going on at this school. My hope is that after hearing about all the wonderful things that the faculty, staff, and students have achieved in just the last few years, you will join me in assisting them, through increased community involvement, to help find innovative ways to support students’ success.
The growing success of Natchitoches Junior High School comes from the transformative initiatives introduced by Mrs. Alexa Bernard-Conday, third year principal, and her leadership team. This group is truly a beacon of inspiration, and the driving force behind NJH-FRJ’s pursuit of academic excellence and unparalleled experiences. Mrs. Conday, a New York native, hailing from Washington D.C., has planted roots in Natchitoches as an NSU graduate and educational leader. Mrs. Conday is not just steering the ship; she’s charting a course towards uncharted academic heights. With the unwavering support of their instructional leadership team, NJH’s assessment index has grown 5 points overall, and the number of students who have a proficient understanding of grade level content has grown 5 percentage points as well. The most impressive growth has been in science, with a growth of 10 assessment index points and six proficiency points. All four subjects (ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies) have grown at least four percent in the number of students who have a mastery level understanding of grade level content.
Initiatives such as the “Dress for Success Room” embody NJH-FRJ’s commitment to addressing community challenges, ensuring no student is hindered by the lack of essentials. Consisting of a dressing room full of shelves and display racks, students have the opportunity to browse and select any items they may need. From toothbrushes to toiletries and an array of clothing and costume jewelry, shelves and racks are stocked with essential items, generously donated by a caring community. This exemplifies the synergy of compassionate teachers, student needs, and community philanthropy—a true testament to the transformative power of unity. This room, supported by members of the Culture Team, Charlotte Collins, Tiffney Allen, and Nurse Wren, stands as a testament to the power of compassion, community collaboration, and the school’s unwavering dedication to student welfare.
Transitioning to the athletic realm, let’s meet Coach Demetric White, a homegrown hero, Natchitoches Central alum, and former police officer. Coach White’s leadership, coupled with a team of dedicated coaches, not only secured triumphs on the field but also fostered academic success. The Study Hall program’s impact resonates beyond the football team, propelling 27 members of the boys’ basketball teams to academic excellence. Mrs. Conday shared an emotional moment when a student, once ineligible, overcame academic challenges to return to the court. The electrifying atmosphere during NJH’s games mirrors the vibrant spirit cultivated within the school community. Recent fundraising efforts through private donations, parent work sessions, and some matching NPSB funds, have birthed a cutting-edge weight and exercise room, with dreams set on a future training room for comprehensive student-athlete care. The goal is to equip the room for taping, injury treatments, and even an ice tub for recoveries. Alongside Coach White are coaches Richard Moody, Collin Monaghan, and Angel Johnson who share the vision of holding student-athletes to high academic and social standards. Together, they work to build students’ success and change a narrative.
Amidst these victories, the school celebrates the rejuvenation of the teacher lounge—a haven for educators seeking respite from their tireless commitment. Anyone who has taught before will acknowledge that a teacher’s job is never done. Whether in the classroom, in the gym, on the field, in the cafeteria, or even when they go home for the day, the teacher switch is always on. Through a generous private donation, counter-height tables for lunch, lounge chairs, a coffee bar, and a new paint job were added to the lounge. The goal being to give the teachers a “recharge” station. Additionally, the Teacher Appreciation Fund is used to recognize and celebrate teachers through gift cards just to say thank you, Teachers of the Month awards, and Teacher Appreciation Week.
Beyond academic achievements, NJH-FRJ’s extensive array of over 20 extracurricular clubs mirrors a commitment to holistic growth, providing students with diverse avenues for exploration. Clubs include Student Council, Ladies of Love, Boys to Men, Science Club, Math Club, Gardening Club, 4-H Club, Reading Club, Drama Club, Kiwanis Builders Club, Robotics, Art, and more!
For those inspired to contribute to the Dress for Success room, the Teacher Appreciation Fund, or the NJH Training Room, or for those eager to lend their time or talents to any of the clubs listed, please reach out to Mrs. Alexa Bernard-Conday at Office #318-238-0066 or via email at alexa.bernard@npsb.la. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to the entire NJH-FRJ faculty and staff, who are not just educators but architects of a transformative educational journey.
