By Dana Fergins-Hawthorne
Seventeen years is enough time for a generation of children to enter our schools and approach graduation. Those years matter. The opportunities we provide—and the needs we leave unmet—follow students long after they leave the classroom. As we consider the future of District 6, we must ask: What should our children experience in the next four years, and who is prepared to help make it happen?
I am running for Caddo Parish School Board because I believe our community is ready for a new chapter grounded in experience, accountability, and results. Change must bring clear priorities, informed decisions, and leadership willing to answer to the people it serves.
My more than 24 years in education have prepared me for this responsibility. I have served students as a paraprofessional, teacher, literacy coach, instructional coordinator, assistant principal, university professor, and supervisor of student teachers. My superintendent preparation through Lamar University included an internship in Plano ISD, where I studied district leadership, school board policy, and procedure.
If elected, my work will center on seven commitments:
1. Strong Academics. I will advocate for rigorous instruction, early intervention, and measurable progress in literacy, mathematics, and student achievement. Families deserve clear information about how their schools are performing.
2. Supported Teachers. I will support efforts to recruit and retain effective educators, provide meaningful professional development, and address obstacles that interfere with teaching.
3. Safe and Respectful Schools. Students and employees deserve learning environments built on safety, consistent expectations, dignity, and timely responses to concerns.
4. Engaged Families. I will work to make communication accessible and family participation meaningful. Parents should have opportunities to contribute before major decisions are made.
5. College and Career Readiness. I will advocate for access to dual enrollment, technical education, industry credentials, and partnerships that connect classroom learning to life after graduation.
6. Responsible Stewardship. I will examine spending carefully, ask how investments benefit students, and support decisions that reflect both educational needs and financial responsibility.
7. Transparent Leadership. I will explain my votes, remain accessible, and advocate for understandable information about budgets, policies, and district progress.
After 17 years, the case for change must be measured by what new leadership is prepared to deliver. My commitment is to bring preparation, urgency, and consistent engagement to this work.
What do I hope to gain? The trust of this community and the opportunity to help children move forward with stronger foundations and greater possibilities.
Our children experience the consequences of today’s decisions only once. We owe them leadership that treats every school year as precious. I am ready to serve, ready to collaborate, and ready to be accountable.
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