At its meeting Tuesday evening, the Caddo Parish School Board voted to extend Superintendent Keith Burton’s contract by one year, carrying his service through September 30, 2028.
The extension comes just ahead of Burton’s one-year anniversary as superintendent on October 1, marking a moment to reflect on the district’s progress under his leadership.
“I am humbled by the Board’s vote of confidence and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving this community,” Burton said. “Over the past year, we have seen powerful evidence of what is possible when we come together around our students. While I am proud of these accomplishments, the work ahead is just as important. Together with our teachers, leaders, families and community partners, we will keep building on this momentum to ensure excellence is carried on by every one, every day.”
Board President Jasmine Green said the extension reflects the Board’s commitment to keeping momentum moving forward for Caddo students.
“Extending his contract shows stability,” Green said. “With the level of accountability the state has placed on us, we need as much stability in a superintendent as possible.”
Since his appointment in October 2024, Burton has emphasized collaboration, academic excellence and expanding opportunities for every student. His first year has brought measurable growth and important new initiatives, including:
· Literacy Gains – More than 900 additional students in grades K–3 are now reading on or above grade level compared to last year. The district’s overall K–3 proficiency rose across every major student group.
· Math Growth – The 2025 state assessments showed 309 more students scoring Mastery or above in math, equivalent to the size of an entire school making significant progress.
· Enhancing School Choice – Caddo opened two new K–8 academies this fall:
o J.S. Clark Academy, a career and technical education–focused school connecting students to career exploration opportunities in partnership with our local workforce.
o Broadmoor STEM Academy, now expanded with a full K–8 model emphasizing hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and math.
· Workforce Development – Expanded partnerships with local businesses and higher education are giving students more access to internships, credentials, and dual enrollment in high-demand fields such as health sciences and engineering.
· High School Experience – A modified block schedule was implemented in all high schools, increasing instructional time and flexibility for tutoring, enrichment and advanced coursework.
· Family Engagement – For the first time, districtwide Parent–Teacher Conference Days were added to the calendar, giving families structured time to partner with educators on their child’s progress.