Discovery Schools

Head of School Newsletter

August 2025
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Welcome to the 2025-26 School Year!

We are so excited to begin the 2025–2026 school year with you!

This year, we’re inspired by three powerful words that reflect who we are and where we’re going:
Possibilities. Excellence. Potential.

At Discovery, these aren’t just words—they’re a reflection of our daily commitment to students and families. They remind us that we are building on a foundation of excellence—one shaped by dedicated educators, strong values, and a culture of high expectations. They also point us toward a bright future—a future full of possibilities, where every student’s potential is seen, nurtured, and celebrated.

Whether you're returning or joining us for the first time, we are proud to partner with you. Together, let’s make this year one of growth, joy, and purpose—for every learner, every day.

Here’s to an incredible year ahead!

With Discovery pride,

Sharon Preen

CEO/Head of Schools

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Get to Know Ms. Preen

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Meet Ms. Preen, our Head of School! Originally from Long Island, New York, she has made New Orleans her home since 1986. Fun fact: she used to be the drummer in an all-girl band that toured the country!

Beyond her rockstar past, Ms. Preen is a remarkable instructional leader with a vision for education that enhances student learning and creates new opportunities. She earned her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Special Education, from the University of New Orleans. Prior to that, she completed her undergraduate degree in History and obtained a Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification from Tulane University.

With over 25 years of experience, Ms. Preen has worked with a diverse range of students, including many with special needs and varying abilities. She is one of the founding members of Discovery's administrative team and has collaborated with Dr. Glaser for over two decades. Now, she is excited to continue Discovery's legacy in her new role as CEO and Head of School.

A proud resident of Kenner, Ms. Preen loves spending her free time with her supportive husband, Andrew and their son, Derek.

Network Events

August 11 - First Day of School (1st - 12th)

August 11-12 - 1:30 PM Dismissal

August 13 - Picture Day (Vintage, Loyola)

August 14 - SPED Parent Night (BR)

August 19 - SPED Parent Night (JP)

August 19-20 - PK & K 1/2 Days

August 21 - First Full Day of School (PK&K)

August 21 - Picture Day (Maine, DJOD, BROD)

August 29 - Asynchronous Learning | Staff PD

August 30 - City Park Night - Back to School Bash!

Back to School Bash!

Join us at City Park on Saturday, August 30th, for a Back to School Bash! Get to know your Discovery family while enjoying unlimited rides at City Park's Carousel Gardens. Tickets are on sale now and open to any Discovery family.

Buy Tickets!

city park night
City Park Flyer

Get Involved...Join the PTO!

We invite all Swamp Owl families to join and welcome your time and talents as the PTO plans for an array of activities this school year.

KDHSA, DJOD, and FLEX families can join the PTO here.

BROD families can join the PTO here.

2025-26 Spirit Shirts

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We had many great artwork submissions for the spirit shirt, but ultimately, two designs were chosen. Congratulations to our students whose art will be displayed on the shirts!

Front design by: Elizabeth Gisselle Rivera

Back design by: Albert Touzet

Did you know the annual spirit shirt supports our teachers? The proceeds from the shirts go to the teacher mini-grant program operated by the PTO (another reason to join the PTO is that you get to vote on the projects as a member!)

Students can wear the current spirit shirt every Wednesday.

Shirts are on sale now.

BROD order here.

DJOD, KDHSA, and FLEX order here.

Staff Professional Development

On August 4th, teachers and staff returned to campus to launch the new school year. We are 430 strong! Everyone enjoyed reconnecting with colleagues, celebrating the amazing academic achievements from the previous school year, and focusing on goals for the 2025-26 school year. Our team embodies PEP—Possibilities, Excellence, and Potential!

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Campus Themes

Maine

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Vintage

vintage

Loyola

loyola

DJOD

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BROD

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DiscoveryFlex

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BROD wall

Project Updates

At BROD, we are “racing to the finish line” to create new spaces for our Swamp Owls! To accommodate our growing student body, we are adding 14 newly renovated classrooms, a new library, a maker space/science lab, a middle school science lab, and a new office lobby.

Safe School, Limitless Learning

At Discovery Schools, safety is more than a priority—it’s the foundation for student success. When students feel safe and supported, they can focus, engage, and reach their full potential. 

Together with families, we create an environment where learning can flourish—because a safe school is a strong school.

School Picture Days

picture days

Helpful Links

2025-26 Calendar

2025-26 Student-Parent Handbook

Owl Shop

OnCourse

Discovery Schools Website