About Our School
Meet Our Staff
Dr. Herman Brister | Head of School
Dr. Herman Brister serves as head of school for Louisiana Rebirth Academy. He earned his Bachelor of Science in secondary education from Southern University, a Master of Education in special education from Louisiana State University, and a doctorate in organizational/educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. With more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Brister has held various positions in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, including chief academic officer, assistant superintendent for middle schools, and principal of multiple schools. His dedication to academic excellence and ensuring quality education for all students is evident throughout his career, and he is honored to lead Louisiana Rebirth Academy.
Darcy Franklin | Assistant to Head of School
Darcy Franklin was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and is a 1991 graduate of Tara High School. He serves as the assistant to the head of school at Louisiana Rebirth Academy. Darcy worked in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System for 15 years before joining CSAL Middle in August 2013, where he served as principal and assistant principal for 10 years. With 25 years of experience working with children, Darcy holds a bachelor’s degree from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri, and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Southern University and A&M College. He is also a proud Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. member, and has experience coaching high school football and basketball, including two years as a head football coach. Darcy is the husband of Chantel and the proud father of Darcy II and McKenzie.
Michele Whitehouse | Accountability/Testing Coordinator
Michele Whitehouse is a dedicated educator with more than 20 years of experience in elementary and secondary education. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a passion for fostering a love of learning in students, creating inclusive and engaging classroom environments, and implementing innovative teaching strategies to reach all students. With an array of educational and leadership backgrounds and strong curriculum development skills, she continuously delivers confidence, passion, and knowledge to enable each student and teacher to reach his or her full potential. She is a proud alumnus of Louisiana State University and mother to four children.
Carolyn Coleman | Child Welfare and Attendance
Carolyn Coleman is an educator with more than 40 years of experience, dedicated to serving as a lifeline for students and their families academically, socially, and emotionally. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she tirelessly seeks out resources to improve the lives of children, ensuring they have the support they need to succeed.
David Johnson | Student Support Coordinator
David Johnson is the student support coordinator at Louisiana Rebirth Academy. With five years of experience in education, he previously served as a student support advisor at the school’s sister institution, Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy. A proud graduate of Southern University, David is dedicated to supporting students and ensuring their continued engagement and success in their academic journey.
Ewineya Williams | Special Education Compliance Coordinator
Ewineya Williams is the special education compliance coordinator at Louisiana Rebirth Academy. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Southern University and an MBA from the University of Maryland. With 24 years of experience in education, Ewineya is dedicated to ensuring that students receive a safe and conducive learning environment while maintaining all compliance regulations. She is honored to contribute to the development, promotion, and maintenance of the shared vision at Louisiana Rebirth Academy.
Tramelle Neldare | School Resource Officer/Science Teacher
Tramelle D. Neldare is a science and biology teacher, as well as a school resource officer, originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A proud graduate of Southern University, Tramelle is married to his wife, Tracey, and has two adult children and four grandchildren.
Jamile Emile | Social Studies Teacher
Jamile Emile is a seasoned expert in educational leadership with more than 32 years of experience empowering individuals and organizations. He has dedicated his career to developing innovative leadership programs and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Jamile has worked with a diverse range of industries, focusing on cultivating strong leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking. His passion for education and commitment to lifelong learning have made him a respected figure in the field. Outside of work, Jamile enjoys public speaking, learning leadership trends, and volunteering in his community.
Dr. Melissa Porter | Math Teacher
Melissa Porter serves as a mathematics teacher at Louisiana Rebirth Academy. She holds degrees from Baton Rouge Community College, Southern University, and Louisiana State University (LSU). With more than 15 years of teaching experience since beginning her career in 2007, Melissa is dedicated to working closely with students and their families to ensure a successful academic year.
Jennifer M. Gaines | English Teacher
Ms. Jennifer M. Gaines is an English teacher at Louisiana Rebirth Academy, where she teaches English I through English IV. A native of Woodville, Mississippi, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature, a Master of Arts in teaching in elementary education and reading, and a certificate in educational leadership. With more than 20 years of teaching experience, Ms. Gaines has taught all core subjects from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and served as a dean of instruction and literacy coach. She is also a proud U.S. Army veteran, having served 8 years as a food service sergeant. Ms. Gaines is passionate about education and is a dedicated mother to her daughter. She reminds her students, “Because you were chosen, you will ALWAYS rise from the ashes!”