Scholarship Program allows New Orleans mother to enroll daughter in historic St. Mary’s Academy

New Orleans’ St. Mary’s Academy has a distinguished history of educating African-American students. Founded by the Sisters of the Holy Family in 1867, St. Mary’s Academy continues as a private Catholic college preparatory co-educational elementary and a middle/high school for young women.

Corrine Celestine saw the historic institution as the perfect school for her daughter Corissa. “I wanted Corissa to be part of that legacy.”

Thanks to the Louisiana Scholarship Program, Corrine received the tuition assistance needed for Corissa to attend St. Mary’s Academy.

Corissa’s older brother is also benefiting from Louisiana’s school choice options. Nicholas has Asperger syndrome, a form of autism. He attends an area charter school that is fostering his unique talents.

“Any parent would be more than grateful to have this opportunity. You want to do the best that you can for your children,” said Corrine.