Outstanding leadership in education can come in a variety of styles. At C.T. Janet Elementary School in Marrero, the students and faculty have thrived under the unique and effective leadership of Principal Karen Doyle.

An educator for 16 years, Ms. Doyle brought nine years of teaching experience and one year’s work as an assistant principal to the job when she was appointed principal at Janet Elementary. Described as quiet and diligent, she leads by the example of her own dedicated hard work. She has high expectations for the faculty and helps them reach those expectations by maintaining excellent communication and welcoming new ideas. The faculty is made to feel empowered as well as challenged to excel and lead. Ms. Doyle’s calm demeanor and positive behavior management system have fostered a family feeling in a school of over 700 students.

Under Principal Doyle’s leadership, Janet Elementary has risen from the "Corrective Action" category under the state’s accountability program to recognition as a School of Exemplary Growth for 2003-04. Intense analysis, professional development, parental involvement, open-mindedness to outside help, and strong leadership were all factors in the school’s improvement. So too were Principal Doyle’s efforts to raise money for improved instructional technology and her wise use of an infusion of Title I funds. Now Janet Elementary will benefit from more than $10,000 awarded by the state in recognition of the school’s outstanding progress.