TESTIMONIALS

"When I consider the candidates for Louisiana BESE, District 1, I am thrilled that Lauren Jewett is in the race. As an educator, Lauren is compassionate, engaged, and always keeps the students and their families at the center of her work. She is also a powerful advocate for teachers and someone who continues to focus on creating a more just and equitable educational environment for all. As a colleague and fellow UTNO member, I am proud to vote for Lauren, and I look forward to the knowledge, experience, and drive that she will bring to a role with BESE." - Nina Leuzzi, First Grade Teacher, UTNO Member, and President of Morris Jeff United Educators

"Please consider voting for Lauren Jewett. I had the honor or pleasure of teaching with her for close to 10 years and the way that she advocates for ALLLL kids is a sight to see!! She is an amazing educator and a true advocate." - Danisha Brown, educator and former coworker

"As a veteran special education teacher of 14 years, Lauren unwaveringly advocates for her students, her colleagues, professional excellence and the success of public schools in general. In a profession with particularly high turnover due to the significant workload of special educators, Lauren's long term commitment to her work both in and outside the classroom shows she will be an elected official fully dedicated to the best interests of Louisiana children." - Issy Manley, Orleans Parish resident, educator, and former special education teacher

“I’ve served on a board with Lauren. I hope BESE is ready for someone with as much knowledge, as much compassion, and as much DRIVE. She gets things done. If you want someone on that board who is for students and for families and for teachers, you should support her campaign.” - Matthew Tuttle, 5th grade teacher and fellow UTNO Executive Council member 

"Lauren is caring professional who seeks positive outcomes to challenges. She is wicked smart, and uses that intelligence to find creative solutions. She never forgets that people are complex, and easily damaged, and always seeks compassionate caring solutions." - Anne Marie St. Clair, Jefferson Parish resident and fellow New Orleans Track Club member

"Lauren is extremely passionate about education for ALL children. Her dedication is unmatched and her knowledge of education and the challenges faced by kids, teachers, and administrators is extensive. I cannot think of anyone that would work harder in this role." - Kristin Mann, 20-year veteran teacher in Jefferson Parish Public Schools

"Lauren is not only a phenomenal teacher. She is a phenomenal human being. She excels in everything she's does. She has a heart of gold. I'm definitely glad I met her." - Denise Ricco, parent of Lauren's former student

"I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lauren Jewett for 10 years. She is a dedicated educator, a tireless community advocate, and a voice for those who need it. There is no doubt in my mind that Lauren is the best person to fill a seat on BESE, and that she will pave the way for great changes for students and teachers."           - Megan Johnson, fellow teacher and former co-worker

"I have worked at a couple different schools in New Orleans and I have found Lauren is the most highly qualified, most inclusive, and most passionate special education teacher I’ve ever met. Her work is grounded in DEI [diversity, equity, and inclusion] practices, she meets kids where they are, and works tirelessly to ensure that her students have the tools they need to succeed. Lauren truly cares about students and parents and about serving her community." - Julia DePalermo, former co-worker

"Lauren is someone who truly cares about her community, especially her students. When I first met Lauren, I knew she’d be a perfect candidate for the school board and I know she will make a tremendous impact!" -Sean McAllister, Jefferson Parish resident

"As I got to know Lauren in graduate school, her enormous investment in quality education for all students was immediately clear. I continually admire her passion and endless energy for her community. Lauren approaches education with a breadth of experience and true initiative in leading the way forward for our children." - Ashley Schneider, Louisiana resident and graduate school classmate

"Education is for everyone no matter what barriers they face. Children must be safe in all school environments. Lauren speaks out to make sure this idea is present to all of us. She is a hard-worker and truly dedicated...to rights of all." - Sasha Newstate, community organizer

"Lauren is simply an inspiring human. She's thoughtful and kind. She always thinks before she speaks. She's very passionate for her students as well. It comes through when you speak to her." - Santilla Victorian, fellow member of running and yoga community

"Lauren is one of the best teachers I have ever worked with! She is knowledgeable, passionate and incredibly hard-working! She is an amazing advocate for both current and former students and will do whatever it takes to make sure they get the best education possible! She would be a great asset to the school board where she could help kids all over the parish!" - Mary Elizabeth Chand, School Social Worker and Lauren's co-worker

"Lauren is a truly compassionate and understanding educator. A forever student herself, she’s always on a quest of betterment, growth and learning. Knowing her is one of the greatest joys of my life. She’s truly dedicated to making sure that not only her fellow educators, but also, the students she serves, receive the best and is willing to bend over backwards to make it happen. A hardworking, tenacious and fearless leader; I’m proud to know and support Lauren."- Dr. Benjamin-David Legrand, NBCT and Jefferson Parish Instructional Coach- Dual Language Development and Science/Social Studies

"Lauren Jewett is one of the most effective educators I’ve met. I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Jewett and was and still impressed with her professionalism and authentic care for all students, addressing their needs and challenging them to do their best at all times. She managed to do this while creating and submitting legally required reports for the students she served. No matter her caseload, her reports were always submitted in a TIMELY fashion. Students absolutely love her, this matters as students need someone to believe in them. No matter the situation, you’ll always find Ms. Jewett smiling. It’s a critical attribute in a fast paced environment. Her expertise is just what the school board needs." - April Okpo, Lauren's former co-worker 

"Lauren is a lifelong teacher and learner. I first got to know Lauren through various workshops that she voluntarily attended to improve her teaching craft. Soon, I realized she had so much knowledge to offer to other teachers, that I asked her to lead workshops to support other teachers. She does all of this because she truly cares about supporting all students." - Dr. Brooke Grant, local professor of education 

"Lauren is deeply knowledgeable about how to support students and teachers. She cares deeply about students' needs being met and in helping teachers grow their capacity to best meet their students' needs. She is an excellent listener and works to understand problems to collaboratively find solutions." - Sophie Teitelbaum, fellow K-12 educator and ASCD Emerging Leader ('21)

"Lauren has dedicated her career for educating and advocating with students, families, teachers and the community. Not only has she trained teachers for the classroom, she has served in advocacy organizations and unions for the shared goal of investing in our youth and our democracy. She is admired by her coworkers and families for her passion for justice, detailed organizational skills, ability to balance many responsibilities and collaborative skills. She inspires me with her leadership integrity and will get the job done with creativity and dedication. Lauren is the school board candidate we need for our students and community." - Elora Turner, fellow K-12 special education teacher and union member

"If you have not heard of Lauren Jewett, you soon will. She is running for the BESE District 1 seat. A few words about Ms. Jewett: she is determined to advocate for the mental and emotional health of students and teachers. She has a resume that boasts of her strengths in every aspect of education. She has always had thoughtful and carefully prioritized ideas to address issues that impact our local schools. Through much encouragement and support from her peers, families and community/business leaders, she has decided to run for office to spend her time and energy making a difference in her community. I had the opportunity to work alongside with Ms. Jewett and I can speak confidently that she is the best candidate for this position and will raise the bar of excellence for her fellow board members." - Julie Brue, former colleague and elementary teacher

Want to fill out a testimonial on behalf of Lauren? Click here.