Isaac G. Joseph
Jefferson Parish Schools is deeply saddened by the passing of former superintendent and veteran educator Isaac G. Joseph. Joseph was the first African American superintendent of JP Schools. He led the district from 2015-2018.
Joseph started his career in education in 1986 as a teacher for JP Schools. The experience he gained over the next three decades in JP Schools, along with his strong work ethic and student-centered approach, earned his selection as the system’s first African American superintendent. He also served the district as an educator, dean of student services, principal, assistant superintendent of human resources, and executive director of grants and federal programs.
Joseph’s peers chose him as the Waggaman School Teacher of the Year in 1987 and 1989. Joseph’s commitment to students of all cultures was evidenced throughout his career. As a speaker at the National Conference for English Language Learners, he highlighted programs offered by JP Schools that benefit non-English speaking students. Joseph served on the board of the Hispanic Resource Center Once House at Roosevelt Middle. In 2008, the National Council on Educating Black Children named Joseph the Educator of the Year. He was also awarded the Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaque from the MLK Task Force for his work sponsoring student activities in JP Schools.
During his time as the assistant superintendent of human resources, Joseph led the team that developed a skilled workforce. He also successfully implemented the system’s Mutual Consent Placement policy, which gave principals choice in staff selection. As a district-level leader, Joseph was responsible for overseeing $20 million in federal grants.
Joseph held his Master +30 Graduate Hours and completed all coursework towards a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of New Orleans. He earned a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling from Southern University at Baton Rouge, which is where he also earned his B.S. in Health and Physical Education.
Joseph was personally vested in JP Schools. He maintained a strong belief in public education as a true barometer to the strengths of our workforce and the development of our community.