Carli Francois appointed chief instructional director for Ascension Public Schools

Effective July 1, Carli Francois will be the chief instructional director for Ascension Parish public schools.

“I am confident that she will successfully lead our strong and talented instructional team, which includes leaders at both the district and building levels,” Superintendent David Alexander said. “Carli is committed to continuing the legacy of student success that is a characteristic of our school system.”

Francois leads all four high schools as the director of secondary education, a position she has held since 2022. She will take over the chief instructional director position when the current chief, Edith Walker, becomes superintendent on July 1.

“This is an outstanding opportunity for Carli, and I look forward to the instructional impact she will have on Ascension Public Schools,” said Walker. “Leading instruction is one of the most important tasks within our school system. Carli’s instructional background and leadership experiences will be a great companion to the role of chief instructional director.”

Francois has been an educator for 26 years, serving in many capacities including a teacher, instructional coach, mentor teacher, assistant principal and principal. Prior to becoming director of secondary schools, she spent eight years leading Dutchtown High School, the largest school in the state. In 2019, she was named the 2020 Louisiana High School Principal of the Year.

Francois earned a bachelor’s degree in communications education and a teaching certification in English from Southeastern Louisiana University. She also earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Southern University.

She is married to Reuben Francois, and they have three children: Reuben II, Olivia and Isabella.

“I am sincerely blessed and honored to serve the students, staff, and families of Ascension Public Schools in this new capacity,” Francois said. “I humbly and happily accept the new challenges and responsibilities associated with this position. I know we will continue to grow and improve to better prepare every student in Ascension, and I am so grateful to be part of this important work.”