Vallas Charts New Path for New Orleans

In his first wave of decisions as the head of the state-run school system in New Orleans, Paul G. Vallas plans to open 21 more schools this fall, recruit and train teachers to ensure the schools are fully staffed, and develop a standardized curriculum with intensive catch-up help in a bid to bring struggling students up to grade level.

Mr. Vallas, who took charge of most of the city’s schools this month, offered the first outline of his strategy in a June 20 presentation to the Louisiana board of education . His plans form the foundation of a nationally watched effort to supply good schools to replace the largely dysfunctional system that was nearly wiped out by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

“There is both excitement and a sense of relief,” state board member Leslie Jacobs said of Mr. Vallas’ presentation. “I’m encouraged and I’m optimistic … we are going to significantly improve student achievement in New Orleans over the...