Celebrating the InspireNOLA Class of 2026!
InspireNOLA Schools proudly celebrates the extraordinary accomplishments of the Class of 2026, a graduating class that continues to raise the standard for academic excellence, leadership, and student success across New Orleans.
Graduating seniors from Edna Karr High School, Eleanor McMain Secondary School, and McDonogh 35 Senior High School have collectively earned more than $180 million in scholarships, reflecting the exceptional talent, perseverance, and dedication of InspireNOLA students.
The Class of 2026 also achieved:
- 99% Graduation Rate
- 99% College Acceptance Rate
- Acceptance into more than 130 colleges and universities nationwide
- 527 industry-based credentials earned
- 32 graduates completed the Inspiring Minds Grow Your Own Teacher Prep Program
- 15 students enlisted in the United States Military
- 100% fulfillment of InspireNOLA’s Four E’s mission — ensuring every senior achieved a pathway through Enrollment, Enlistment, Employment, or Entrepreneurship
These accomplishments represent more than impressive statistics. They represent opportunity, access, resilience, and the transformational power of education. “This milestone reflects the incredible determination and excellence of our students, educators, and families,” said InspireNOLA Schools CEO Jamar McKneely. “The Class of 2026 has demonstrated what is possible when high expectations are matched with opportunity, support, and purpose. We are incredibly proud of what these students have achieved and excited about the impact they will make in the future.”
As the highest-performing charter management organization in New Orleans and the only network in the city to earn a B+ network rating, InspireNOLA Schools remains committed to preparing students not only for graduation, but for lifelong success.
The achievements of the Class of 2026 further reinforce InspireNOLA’s mission to develop the next generation of leaders, innovators, professionals, and changemakers for New Orleans and beyond.
Watch the Class of 2026 Celebration Video
InspireNOLA Schools honored graduating seniors during commencement exercises on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Xavier University Convocation Center.
Missed the ceremonies? Catch them in their entirety by viewing our
InspireNOLA Graduation 2026 playlist:
Congratulations to the InspireNOLA Schools Class of 2026 on a historic and inspiring year of achievement!