The New Orleans school system is much different in the post-Katrina world we are living in. Gone are the days of going to the school closest to your house.
How does it work now? Ask ten different parents, and you will get ten different responses. After much research, your New Orleans real estate agents have compiled the best information we could gather to help you navigate the school system in New Orleans and the metro area.
Orleans Parish
Using the website EnrollNOLAPS.org, you can register your child for school. Before heading here, you need to research schools ahead of time. You will need to find the location, grades served, and extracurriculars. Make a list of your favorites because you will need to list your top 3 choices when enrolling.
Their website says they prioritize students living in the neighborhood of their school choice. But this only applies to 25% of the open seats there.
There are also considerations if you have a child already in school. They do consider when you have multiple children enrolling at one time too.
Here’s a link to the most frequently asked questions.
The info they don’t tell you: There is a chance your child will not get chosen for any of the schools you picked. What to do then? Apply for their lottery in hopes of another kid not taking the spot. Otherwise, your child will be placed at another school.
Is every New Orleans school a charter? Not all, but just about. One of the top high schools in the country is right here in New Orleans. Benjamin Franklin High School is not a charter, but you must pass a test and meet academic standards to be admitted. This is the only school we know of that isn’t a charter school.
Jefferson Parish
Jefferson Parish gives you the ability to attend the school that is assigned to you by area. Not only is that an option, but you can also apply for a charter school.
There are also magnet schools and advanced studies academies – both options have their own enrollment process.
Check out the Jefferson Parish Public School System website for more info.
Plaquemines Parish
Plaquemines Parish offers public schools that are based on where you live.
St. Bernard Parish
St.Bernard Parish also offers public schools based on your location.
Private Schools
If you prefer your child to go to private schools, there are plenty of options in New Orleans and the metro area.
There is the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest. This group has schools such as Trinity Episcopal, Newman, McGehee, & St. Martin’s – to name a few.
And since you’re in New Orleans, you know there are plenty of Catholic school options as well.
Questions about other parishes? We would be happy to help track down some info for you!
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