Board Member Focus: David Magee

“David sees all students as assets to the community and strives to find the appropriate setting to meet the strengths of each student.  David never gives up on a student.  He is dedicated to finding the best outcome for each and every one, whether it’s through personal interaction or school policy development.” 
– Dawn Palermo, fellow JCFA board member and Judicial Administrator at Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court

How did you become involved with this charter school?
I was invited to visit the Jefferson Chamber Foundation Academy (JCFA) campus by current board member Dawn Palermo and Juvenile Court Judge Ann Keller. They were impressed and thought I would like to be a part of what JCFA was doing.
 
Why did you say yes when asked to serve?
Once I read the research on the need for the school and met the students and staff I wanted to be involved in pushing JCFA to its full potential.
 
What was compelling about the opportunity?
In my experience in the judicial system and working with “At Risk” youth, JCFA provided the perfect environment to reach an almost forgotten population. I am very passionate about the future of our city’s youth and I have dedicated my life to pushing them toward a positive purpose. JCFA affords me the opportunity to further that cause. I believe the board and staff are relentless in their pursuit to reach our youth.

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What leadership roles have you had while serving on the board?
I have been on the Student Success Committee, the Hiring Committee for the Chief Academic Officer for both the Eastbank and Westbank locations. I am currently the Policy Committee chair.
 
Is there anything you know now that you wished you had known before?
Prior to joining current board Dawn Palermo gave me a good idea of the level of commitment needed and the relationship between the Board and administration. Since joining the JCFA board I have no regrets.  I am glad to be a part of changing children’s lives.
 
About Jefferson Chamber Foundation Academy
The Jefferson Chamber Foundation Academy’s mission is to provide a learning environment that allows students to develop their potential; to prepare students for post-secondary education and/or the work force; and to collaborate with community agencies, organizations, and institutions to meet students' needs.  JCFA’s students created the West Bank campus’ mission statement in December 2010: to provide students an alternative path to earning a high school diploma in a safe and nurturing environment.

The Top Shelf
The success of a charter school hinges largely on the decisions of its governing board. The Top Shelf enhances the capacity of charter school boards through professional development, board recruitment and community engagement.