Juan LaFonta was one of three siblings born and reared in the Voscoville Gentilly Heights area of New Orleans. He attended St. Leo the Great Elementary and St. Raphael the Archangel elementary schools respectively and continued on to graduate from Brother Martin High School in 1991.

Juan attended the University of New Orleans where he received his Bachelors of General Studies and upon graduation began to further his education at the Southern University School of Law.  In Baton Rouge, under the tutelage of many professors, administrators, and staff, Juan got his exposure to the legislative process. He was a graduate assistant to the law institute and department of economic development, staff attorney to Jon Hainkel, and served as legal researcher to Senator Jon D. Johnson.  He credits his success to his strong faith, family, and community support.  Juan truly believes that it takes a village to raise a child.  In fact, Gentilly residents, friends, family, and neighbors played a major roll in his sense of commitment to his community.  His service is a credit to all who believe one can make a difference.