Educators for Quality Alternatives (EQA Schools)

About EQA Schools

Mission and Vision

The mission of EQA Schools is to provide struggling students with the skills, confidence, and experiences necessary to succeed in the education and career paths of their choice.  EQA programs are built on the belief that alternative schools should not punish or "fix" young people; they should be vibrant, flexible, and restorative environments that support students in being their best selves. 

EQA serves students aged 12 – 21 through a year-round curriculum. True to the moniker, the schools are designed to meet students where they are, provide them with academic, career, and life training, and raise their own, their families’, and society’s expectations of their abilities and their future prospects.

Students at our high school campuses earn Louisiana High School Diplomas and complete professional internships which help them start their careers.

Hear what our students say about EQA Schools here.

Belonging

We believe that we learn best when we are in a community where adults and students respect, support and challenge each other.

Independence

We believe that we are each unique individuals with agency and responsibility for our own learning and achievement.

Mastery

We believe we can achieve amazing things when we hold each other accountable for ambitious levels of growth.

Generosity

We believe that when we act generously toward ourselves and others, we build a better world.

Why build a career at EQA Schools?

  • Advance justice: be a part of ensuring that there are equitable opportunities for every young person in New Orleans so that, regardless of their challenges, they can leverage their unique brilliance for a great life.
  • Realize your vision: have the time and space to give students the attention they deserve and the tailored supports they need to thrive.
  • Work with like-minded colleagues: join a talented and aligned staff dedicated to the mission of supporting the city’s brightest and most vulnerable young people in an innovative, individualized, restorative and rigorous environment.
  • Develop your skillfulness and build your career: work with leaders who understand this work is complex and provide continual coaching and actively support individual’s interests and careers within the organization.