Governance | My Site 11

School Governance

Founding C.E.O.

"Our goal is to holistically provide an exceptional academic foundation that translates to high academic achievement and a passion for lifelong learning."

Mardele S. Early serves as the founding C.E.O. of LFC. Her unwavering school vision is born of her extensive experience as an educator. She is a honors graduate of Dillard University. Her graduate degree in Educational Administration and Supervision was earned from Xavier University Graduate School. In 2021 she was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Grinnell College in Iowa. Her 50-year career began in Orleans Parish as a middle and high school ELA instructor. Ms. Early quickly earned a reputation as a leader who demanded excellence from her students and colleagues. She served as interim principal of John F. Kennedy High School and as the principal of Lorraine Hansberry Elementary School before becoming the second principal of Lake Forest Montessori Elementary School. After one year at the helm, Lake Forest became the second highest performing elementary school in the Orleans Parish School District.

Executive Director of School Quality

Dr. Ryan D. DeRousselle serves as the Executive Director of School Quality at LFC. His role is critical to maintaining our culture of high student achievement. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Xavier University. He also earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Xavier University, in which his research examined co-teaching influences on the first-year teaching practices of special educators trained in a university-based teacher residency program. Dr. DeRousselle holds certifications in both Elementary Education and Educational Leadership.

In accordance with New Orleans Louisiana Public School’s policy in regard to the composition of the Board of Directors, qualified individuals are recommended for consideration as possible board members by the members of the Board and CEO of Lake Forest Charter Elementary School. Once a prospect is established by a committee designated by the Board President, the individual may be elected to become a member of the Lake Forest Charter School Board by a majority of the Board members present and voting. The individual must also meet the qualifications set forth by the Orleans Public School Board.

Please click here for the policy describing the process and timeline for electing or appointing a parent/guardian to the governing board. Policy for Adding Parent Representative to the Board.

Public Records Request

Mrs. Gina Dupart

Pastor Brian Richburg Sr.

Mrs. Fredette Johnson

Bishop Tyrone Jefferson

Mrs. Windi Brown Smith

Ms. Denise Williams

Dr. Ulysses Collins

Board Meetings

2025-2026 Board of Directors

LFC Board of Directors' collective experience and expertise ensure that our school's mission is carried out with integrity.

Lake Forest Charter is governed by The Council for Quality Education d.b.a. Lake Forest Charter Elementary School, a non-profit corporation. We are a Type 3 Charter school authorized by the NOLA-Public Schools.

In accordance with New Orleans Louisiana Public School’s policy in regard to the composition of the Board of Directors, qualified individuals are recommended for consideration as possible board members by the members of the Board and CEO of Lake Forest Charter Elementary School. Once a prospect is established by a committee designated by the Board President, the individual may be elected to become a member of the Lake Forest Charter School Board by a majority of the Board members present and voting. The individual must also meet the qualifications set forth by the Orleans Public School Board.