“Not Looking Back”: How a Louisiana Principal Is Redefining Instructional Leadership

To say Principal DeJaneiro “DJ” Davis knows his school like the back of his hand is an understatement. From his years as a coach who could name every squeaky locker in the gym, to his time as a teacher familiar with each classroom’s quirks, he’s experienced it all. Now in his 12th year on campus, Davis draws on his Riser Middle School roles to lead an effective, enthusiastic team.

Davis is known for his initiative and innovation at Riser Middle. He enthusiastically reflects on Riser’s progress with four words: “We’re not looking back.” One of his most innovative moves has been a creative twist on one of the core NIET practices, the Instructional Leadership Team: he took it to the students. 

“We implemented a Student Instructional Leadership Team for the first time here at ‘The Ranch,’” Davis said, referring to his school using its nickname. “We may have the only student involvement in an instructional leadership team in our district, so we hope to start a trend that will continue to impact all students.” 

The Student Instructional Leadership Team offers Davis and his team a deeper insight into student work and data while giving students a seat at the table to share what they feel is working for them instructionally. 

Riser’s ability to launch a Student Instructional Leadership Team is a direct result of the school’s Instructional Leadership Team, which Davis has been strengthening over the past two years. Now, with instructional teams at both the student and leadership level, Davis can drive student success and teacher leader growth.

“Since implementation, we have seen our scholars engaged and more involved in the creation of the criteria,” Davis said. “And our instructional team is the best team on this side of the Mississippi River. My most rewarding aspect of my job is taking an intangible idea and working with a team that is willing to make any adjustments - and seeing them realize how their hard work really does make a difference to our scholars and our community.”

With his deep roots at Riser and commitment to continuous improvement, Principal Davis is shaping a culture that celebrates growth and innovation. Through data-driven teacher support and student involvement in leadership, Davis is fostering a system that is sustainable and measurable for his whole building.