Nikisha S. Kelly    Director of Talent and Management

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As the Director of Talent and Management- Nikisha brings over 19 years of experience in education and 15 years of experience in leading teams that have exceeded the status quo for growth and direct impact. She started her career in her home parish of East Feliciana. As a teacher, her students met and exceeded state scores. While serving as an Assistant Principal, Nikisha and her team helped improve literacy and math scores resulting in the school moving from “F” to “C”. In August 2020, Nikisha became the founding principal of Dr. John Ochsner Discovery.  During her tenure as principal, Dr. John Ochsner was recognized as a Top Gains School and the #1 open-enrollment public school in Jefferson Parish. Her roles have included teacher, Assistant Principal, Academic Dean, Division Head, Director, and Founding Principal.  Nikisha is passionate about education and organizational systems that help maximize growth in all capacities. 

Nikisha received her Bachelor of Science from University of Louisiana Lafayette. She earned her Elementary Education certification from THE Southern University-Baton Rouge. Nikisha earned her master’s in education administration from Louisiana State University. Her love for the city of New Orleans has kept her here for 9 years and many more to come.  Nikisha is a woman of faith. She is excited to join such an amazing team of talented individuals.