Three Finalists Chosen for EBR School Board Superintendent Position

East Baton Rouge, La. – The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board has announced three finalists for the superintendent position following a special meeting held on Friday, June 28. The board's decision came after two hours of public comments and deliberation.

The finalists are:

• Kevin George, Director of University Laboratory School at LSU
• Krish Mohip, Chief Education Officer for the Illinois State Board of Education
• Andrea Zayas, former Executive Director of a teacher pathway program in Boston

Each candidate received five votes from the board members.

The meeting, which began at 5 p.m. at the EBR Parish School Board headquarters on South Foster Drive, witnessed passionate pleas from dozens of teachers and parents advocating for Adam Smith. Smith, a long-serving member of the school system who has served as interim superintendent multiple times, was highly favored by many in the community. Despite the overwhelming public support, Smith received only four votes, falling short of the required five to advance as a finalist.

Among the advocates for Smith was Mary Allen, who highlighted Smith’s vision and leadership. “Weeks ago, Mr. Smith told you his vision about growing these schools and programs. Y'all beg for bold leaders, and he is the first in years to try to stop EBR from the staff and student mass exodus and address the problems causing enrollment issues,” Allen stated.

Denise Dupont, a Special Education teacher who worked under Smith at McKinley Middle, emphasized his fair leadership and deep understanding of the community's needs. “Adam Smith knows our problems and can jump in and start fixing them. He has good communication skills with teachers, parents, and community leaders, and he seems to want what is best for the students,” Dupont remarked.

Kevin George, currently the Director of the University Laboratory School at LSU, brings extensive experience in educational leadership and administration. Krish Mohip, the Chief Education Officer for the Illinois State Board of Education, has a background in implementing educational policies and reforms. Andrea Zayas, most recently the Executive Director of a teacher pathway program in Boston, has a strong track record in developing and supporting educators.

The board is scheduled to make its final decision on the new superintendent by July 11. This choice will be critical for the future direction of the East Baton Rouge school system, impacting policies, educational strategies, and community relations.

The special meeting underscored the high stakes and diverse opinions surrounding the selection process, reflecting the community's deep investment in the future of its schools.