Lifelong Educator Ignites New Passion: A Conversation with New EBR Schools Principal LaMont Cole – [225]
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Sponsored by the East Baton Rouge Parish School System
EBR Superintendent LaMont Cole not only oversees the East Baton Rouge Parish School System; he is on a mission to bring joy, inspiration and a deep sense of curiosity back into the classroom. With a transformative vision for a school system that ignites passion in students, staff, and community, Cole is reimagining what school can be—a place where learning is joyful, imagination is encouraged, and everyone in the city plays a part in this shared journey.
Q: As a lifelong educator, what sparked your initial interest in education?
A: I was that kid who always loved school. I had so much fun in my days at Capitol Middle and Tara High School. I had teachers who pushed me hard and motivated me to pursue the things I was passionate about. Both my grandmothers were educators, so I guess it’s in my blood too.
Q: Did you always have ambitions to become a superintendent?
A: If you had asked me in my early twenties, I would have told you that my dream was to become the principal of Capitol Middle School. That dream came true very early in my career and I feel that this job really unlocked my true purpose. The students and staff, the campus, the energy of the community, it all just clicked for me.
Q: Who were some of the key mentors who guided you along the way?
A: I have been incredibly fortunate to receive guidance from some of the most outstanding leaders in Baton Rouge. People like Herman Brister, Dujan Johnson, and Sherry Brock really pushed me to pursue leadership roles. They saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself at times. Now my mission is to pass that on to the next generation of leaders.
Q: As a father, former EBR Principal, CSAL CAO, elected official, Mayor Pro-Temps and now Superintendent, what is your vision for the future of EBR Schools?
A: Children need to feel safe, cared for and supported. That comes first. From there, it’s our job to ensure they’re on a learning adventure full of energy, wonder and joy. Learning should be fun. When we create spaces that are alive and engaging, students naturally want to learn. But it’s not just about teaching students; when our teachers and staff are inspired, that excitement flows into the classroom.
Q: How do you plan to make this vision a reality?
A: Every decision and change we make will be centered around what is right for our students. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it will be a challenge at times. From time to time we will have to make decisions that will be unpopular, but we are playing a long game. We take a multi-pronged approach and do not settle for the status quo.
Q: What do you need to succeed?
A: Every morning I try to visit a few of our schools to engage with the students and listen to the leaders who are on the ground every day. I will show up for this team and this community every day. I’m just asking you to do the same. We need to lift up our students, staff and schools. Ask what you can do to show your support and let them know you’re rooting for them to succeed.
Q: What do you want your legacy as chief to look like?
A: I feel extremely blessed to take on this role. The way it all came together was certainly unconventional, but this story is not for me. It’s about making sure every family in Baton Rouge has access to a world-class, free tuition. Growing up, the neighborhood public school was the heart of this community – we’re going back to that and taking it to a whole new level.
By james art 
Q: As a father, former EBR Principal, CSAL CAO, elected official, Mayor Pro-Temps and now Superintendent, what is your vision for the future of EBR Schools?