Our values are who we are. More than just words on the wall, these values inform how we show up and make decisions each day. 

Purpose: We practice forethought and take action that reveals and moves us in the direction of authentic goals.   

Community: We seek to connect with others and deepen our understanding.

Grace: We demonstrate kindness always.

Growth: We urgently develop ourselves and others.

Identity: We intentionally uplift the strengths of our own and each individual's background. 

Power: We seize opportunities all around us.

Next Level NOLA equips fellows with the skills, mindsets, resources, networks and experiences needed to achieve their chosen college, career and life goals.

A one year college and career bridge year fellowship for graduating seniors who have completed all requirements for a high school diploma.  Fellowship participants:

• Receive personalized success coaching

• Earn college credit and industry based credentials

• Gain skills, resources and professional experience

• Develop self-efficacy and networks 

• Develop a strong five year plan with short and long term goals that they are positioned to achieve

Learn more about the Next Level Nola policies and procedures by access our handbook here. 

Meet the Next Level Nola Team

Rhonda Dale, Founding Executive Director

Ms. Dale has more than 20 years of experience in education.  She has served in various capacities in education.  Her experience includes classroom teaching, instructional coaching, culture leading, operations, and eight years as the principal of Abramson Sci Academy prior to launching Next Level Nola. 

Phil Rollins, Director of Finance and Operations

Mr. Rollins serves as our Director of Finance and Operations and our Employer Partner Liaison.  He served as the Director of Technology integration at Abramson Sci Academy and is the Career and Technology lead for the Collegiate Academies network. Mr. Rollins is passionate about putting Next Level Nola on the map so that we can provide opportunities to our fellows that have never been provided before.  He thinks big and works long hours to make it all happen. 

Leah Krandel, Diverse Learning Coordinator 

Ms. Krandel serves as our Diverse Learning Coordinator and as a Success Coach.  She is a Licensed Social Worker and previously served as the Director of Mental Health Services at George Washington Carver.  She has experience in teaching, special education, and counseling. 

Loreal Ivory, Success Coach specializing in Power Skills

Ms. Ivory joins us as an experienced educator.  She is a Xavier University graduate, has impressed everyone she’s ever worked with because of her demonstration of the 21st Century Skills and has a plethora of connections city-wide.  She brings with her excellent facilitation skills and authentic modeling of the Power Skills she’s teaching. 

Justin Johnson, Success Coach specializing in Technology

Mr. Johnson joins us with teaching experience in the D.C. area and fresh out of LSU’s Full Stack Tech Bootcamp. Justin has the tech skills, knowledge, and passion needed to lead our fellows through the obtainment of coding and IT certificates. 

Darshiara Barnes, Success Coach specializing in ACT Prep

Ms. Barnes began her teaching career at George Washington Carver as a Math instructor.  She is returning to Collegiate Academies after spending the last few years working in operations and Alumni Advising for KIPP schools in New Orleans. Darshiara has experience with our scholars in high school and as alums and is bringing her experience along, her content knowledge, and a drive to remove barriers for our fellows.

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