Community Academies of New Orleans (CANO) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2020, with a goal to strengthen educational opportunities while honoring the unique cultures and communities of each of its schools.

In 2023, CANO converted Esperanza Academy into New Orleans’ first 50/50 Spanish and English Dual Language Program. As the only program in the city of New Orleans that delivers an education in both English and Spanish equally to its students, CANO’s vision is for students to leave Esperanza Academy in 8th grade bilingual and biliterate, achieving academically in both languages, while displaying social competency and advocacy and leadership skills.

In 2025, this vision advanced with the combination of Esperanza Academy and Foundation Preparatory Academy, into one school with two campuses. Esperanza Foundational Academy, located in Gentilly, hosts PreK-4th grades, and continues the growth of the dual language program that supports students in both English and Spanish.

Esperanza Middle Academy, located in Hollygrove, serves students in grades 5th-8th grade and continues the academic and cultural mission of the network. Together, our schools reflect Community Academies’ commitment to academic excellence in two languages.