June 6, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 95 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E721]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DR. ISAAC JOSEPH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 6, 2019

  Mr. RICHMOND. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of 
Dr. Isaac Joseph, a veteran educator and the first African-American 
superintendent of the Jefferson Parish Public School System. Dr. Joseph 
passed away on Monday, June 3, 2019 at the age of 64.
  Dr. Joseph was a graduate of Southern University at Baton Rouge, 
where he earned a B.S. degree in Health and Physical Education and a 
Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling. He completed all 
coursework towards a doctoral degree in educational leadership from the 
University of New Orleans.
  Dr. Joseph led Louisiana's largest school district from 2015 to 2018. 
In 2018, Dr. Joseph resigned as the leader of Jefferson schools.
  In 1986 Dr. Joseph began his career in education as a teacher in 
Jefferson Parish. Throughout his career he served in a variety of roles 
including principal, assistant superintendent of human resources, and 
executive director of grants and federal programs.
  In 1987 and 1989, Dr. Joseph was bestowed the Waggaman School Teacher 
of the Year award. Less than a decade later, Dr. Joseph was named 
Educator of the Year by the National Council on Educating Black 
Children.
  Dr. Joseph loved the city and the people of New Orleans. His legacy 
will forever be a part of the city and his dedication to community 
embodies the spirit of New Orleans. We cannot match the sacrifices made 
by Dr. Joseph, but surely, we can try to match his sense of service. We 
cannot match his courage, but we can strive to match his devotion.
  Dr. Joseph is survived by a wife, Faith. The couple had a son and Dr. 
Joseph had two other sons and daughters.
  Madam Speaker, I celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Isaac Joseph.

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