The Willow School’s Nicolette London

CEO

The Willow School's Nicolette London

After joining The Willow School (formerly Lusher Charter School) in October 2021, CEO Nicolette London has overseen many major developments. In addition to a name change and an expansion, London has also spearheaded a greater focus on student wellness. St Charles Avenue spoke with the dynamic CEO to learn more about The Willow School.

After operating under the Lusher name for many decades, the school officially changed its name to The Willow School on July 1, 2022. At first, the name change was a simple decision: because Lusher School was located on Willow Street, they chose the name of its longtime location. However, it has now grown into a symbolic reflection of the school’s spirit.

“When I think of a willow tree, it can thrive wherever it is planted,” said London. “We like to say that we do everything in the Willow way: a holistic approach that values the social and emotional growth of all students. Our motto cultivates strong roots and core values.” Now the name also matches up with the school’s focus to provide a space for students to flourish.

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Making up three different campuses, The Willow School serves over 2,000 students. This A-rated public school is well-known for its robust arts programs, as well as its arts integration into everyday academics. During their final years at the school, students may choose to earn a Certificate of Artistry in one of six programs: creative writing, dance, theatre, music, visual arts, or media arts.

The Willow School is also home to a renowned STEM program. Their Pride Robotics Team has won the Louisiana FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics Championship for the past three years, and they have competed in the World Championships as well. Meanwhile, the school’s unique Makerspace room encourages both practical problem-solving and creativity, and it holds both art and engineering courses for students.    

In addition to its robust academic, artistic, and athletic offerings, the school also provides resources to help support its students. The Willow School’s team have high expectations, but they also prioritize wellbeing with their student wellness center.

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Lastly, community events such as the Block Party in November invite community members to support the school’s arts programs. This fun event features a selection of student artwork, as well as plenty of food and drink from local restaurants.

One of the most impactful changes introduced at The Willow School is the comprehensive compensation initiative implemented last year. This initiative was designed to demonstrate just how much the school values its teachers and their contributions. By providing a significant raise, the Willow School team aims not only to reward the hard work and dedication of its educators, but also to create a more sustainable and supportive framework for them. This increase in compensation plays a crucial role in sustaining the school’s robust, integrated arts program, which features over twenty talented arts teachers. These educators contribute diverse expertise and creativity, enriching the curriculum and ensuring that the arts remain a vibrant and essential part of students’ educational experiences.

As London explained, the level of family involvement and participation at The Willow School is the most impressive she has witnessed in any educational setting throughout her 30-year career. She emphasized that the school embodies a strong sense of community. “It is a school for families of multiple backgrounds, and families are heavily involved. They are the heart and soul of our community,” said London. This active engagement fosters a supportive atmosphere where parents and caregivers contribute their time and resources, enhancing the educational journey for the students. Such deep-rooted connections between families and the school create a collaborative environment that enriches the learning experience.

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As a nationally recognized organization, The Willow School serves as a model for what a school can provide to each individual family, embodying a holistic approach to education that prioritizes the diverse needs of its students. With a focus on student wellbeing and support, the school creates an environment where learners can thrive. This comprehensive focus on development ensures that students are well-rounded and equipped with the skills necessary to succeed. The integration of these three key programs—academics, arts, and athletics—contributes significantly to the overall success of the school community.

London and her dedicated team are committed to preparing students for adulthood by instilling values of creativity and critical thinking. They understand that a well-rounded education goes beyond the classroom; it encompasses life skills that will serve students in their future endeavors.

“We want to make sure Willow is a well-known school with a tradition of excellence,” said London.

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