SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS

The Avoyelles Parish School Board met in regular session Tuesday, February 1, 2011, at 5:00 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

Van Kojis, President; Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Vice-President; Freeman Ford, Darrell Wiley, James Gauthier, Shelia Blackman-Dupas; Michael Lacombe, Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, and Cynthia “Cindy” Hill.

Absent: None.

An Invocation was offered by Assistant Superintendent Craig Foster.

The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America led by Board Member James Gauthier.

1. On motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Cynthia “Cindy” Hill , the Board adopted the minutes of the regular meeting held Tuesday, January 4, 2011, as printed and mailed to Board members and published in The Weekly News, official journal of the Board.  MOTION CARRIED.

At this point in the meeting, President Van Kojis relinquished the gavel to Vice-President Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr.

Vice-President Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr. presiding.

2. Ms. Cindy Hill, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Ruth Armand, former teacher and guidance counselor.

On motion by Cindy Hill, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Ruth Armand.  MOTION CARRIED.

3. Mr. Michael Lacombe, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Lillian Antoine Sampson, former teacher.

On motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Lillian Antoine Sampson. MOTION CARRIED.

4. Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Amiel Glenn Comeaux, former teacher.

On motion by Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, seconded by Freeman Ford, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Amiel Glenn Comeaux.  MOTION CARRIED.

5. President Van Kojis read a resolution of respect to the late Raymond Nicholson, former teacher.

On motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Raymond Nicholson. MOTION CARRIED.

6. Mr. James Gauthier, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Diana Dauzat, former custodian.

On motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Diana Dauzat. MOTION CARRIED.

7. Ms. Cindy Hill, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Nona R. Gagnard, former food service manager.

On motion by Cindy Hill, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Nona R. Gagnard.  MOTION CARRIED.

President Van Kojis resumed the Chair.

8. Board Member James Gauthier recognized Kinyatta Moore, student at Bunkie High School, for being named Student of the Month.  Mr. Gauthier stated that Kinyatta is a 17 year old eleventh grade honor student, from Bunkie New Tech High School.  She is the daughter of Priscilla Moore and Michael Joubert of Bunkie.  Mr. Gauthier stated that Kinyatta participates in basketball, BETA, and the nursing program at Bunkie High School.  She is also a member of the student New Tech Board Committee.  Outside of school, Kinyatta enjoys reading, watching CSI, playing word games, and is active in her church with choir and youth programs.  Furthermore, Mr. Gauthier stated that Kinyatta is a current member of the Louisiana National Guard and plans to use the tuition assistance to attend Loyola University of New Orleans to major in Forensic Chemistry.  With the degree she will obtain her MOS in the military intelligence department.

On behalf of the Board, President Van Kojis commended Kinyatta on this achievement.

9. Mrs. Thelma Prater, Director of Federal Programs; and Mrs. Irma Andress, Supervisor of Federal Programs, recognized and commended Avoyelles Parish Student of the Year School Level Winners for 2010-2011, as follows:

Elementary School Level Winners: Kali Descant, Bunkie Elementary School; Ian Turner, Cottonport Elementary School; Gracie Laborde, Lafargue Elementary School; Mariyah James, Marksville Elementary School; Ava Coco, Plaucheville Elementary School; and Brian Brouillette, Riverside Elementary School.

Eighth Grade School Level Winners: Hannah Kirby, Avoyelles High School; Akshay Patel, Bunkie High School; Shayna Benjamin, Marksville High School; and Cassidy Lemoine, LaSAS.

Twelfth Grade School Level Winners: Katelyn Hines, Avoyelles High School; Ebony LeBlanc, Bunkie High School; Beau Voinche, Marksville High School; and Lauren LaBorde, LaSAS.

In addition, Mrs. Prater recognized parish winners, as follows: Gracie Laborde, Lafargue Elementary School; Shayna Benjamin (eighth grade), Marksville High School; and Beau Voinche (twelfth grade), Marksville High School.

10. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine recognized Mrs. Pamela Deshotel, teacher at Bunkie High School. Superintendent Lemoine stated that he was notified that Mrs. Deshotel, who teaches Family and Consumer Science at Bunkie New Tech High School, was highlighted in a national magazine, The Advisory,  Furthermore, Mr. Lemoine stated that the article recognized Mrs. Deshotel as one of the few, or only, Project Based Learning Family and Consumer Science Teachers in the nation.
    
    On behalf of the Board, President Van Kojis commended Mrs. Deshotel on this accomplishment.

11. Mr. Wilfred Ducote, Sales Tax Collector, reported that sales tax collections for the month of December 2010 totaled $446,701.14. Mr. Ducote stated that of this amount the 1% sales tax generated $297,800.76 and the ½% sales tax generated $148,900.38.

12. Mr. Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Chairman of the Finance Committee, presented the following report:

Finance Committee Report

January 18, 2011

The Finance Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, January 18, 2011, at 4:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Chairman; Cindy Hill, Michael Lacombe, Van Kojis, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent. Mrs. Shelia Blackman-Dupas was absent.  Also present were Freeman Ford and James Gauthier, Board Members; Craig Foster, Assistant Superintendent; Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance; and Sharon Hargis, Food Service Supervisor.

1)     Upon motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Finance Committee recommended to approve requests for overnight travel  as presented by Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine.  MOTION CARRIED.

2)     Mrs. Sharon Hargis, Food Service Supervisor, presented 2009-2010 CRE review results.  Mrs. Hargis shared audit data with the committee which resulted in an overpayment of lunch claims between two (2) schools for a total amount of $5,614.l4.  The problem has been identified within the software and has since been corrected.

Mrs. Hargis stated that CRE found that the Board owed them $5,614.04 for over claims resulting in students’ status changes from free to paying. The status changes were made when the food service department received free/reduced lunch forms and processed them at the central office. The changes were made in the data base, but due to administrative settings on the software program, it did not update several of the schools’ data bases. These settings were done when the program was purchased in 2005, and it was never caught until the review, which has now been corrected.

Mrs. Hargis stated that the second part of the review focused on Avoyelles High School satelliting meals to APAS. The CRE found that the former APAS students and current APAS students were being entered into the computer and they may or may not have consumed a meal at APAS.  If the student had returned to his home school, he was entered as eating at his home school as well, causing a double reimbursement. It was determined that the food service department was over reimbursed $29,092.74 and had to return these funds for the2009-2010 school year.

3)     Mr. Craig Foster, Assistant Superintendent, discussed the purchase of a Printrack Line Scan Station for the Central Office at a cost of approximately $18,495.00.

Mr. Foster explained to the committee the need for this equipment and informed them that he will obtain necessary quotes and a funding source and then report back to the committee.

The committee agreed to table this item.

4)     Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, addressed the Finance Committee regarding requesting proposals for student data software.  Mrs. Bonnette explained that the current provider is phasing out services to school systems in Louisiana and asked for permission to consider other providers.

Upon motion by Mike Lacombe, seconded by Cindy Hill, the Finance Committee recommended to request proposals for student data software.  MOTION CARRIED.

5)     Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, presented a report on local Certificates of Deposit rates.  She informed the committee of current Certificates of Deposit rates and explained that funds which have been previously invested in LAMP (Louisiana Asset Management Pool) would be considered for possible investment in local banks.

6)     Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, presented an update on self- funded insurance.  Mrs. Bonnette presented a report prepared by Parsons Benefits Services which analyzed the school system’s claims versus premiums paid for all health plan participants. The recommendation was made to consider obtaining quotes for health coverage using the system’s census data, at a cost of $5000.00.

Upon motion by Mike Lacombe, seconded by Cindy Hill, the Finance Committee recommended to contract with Parsons Benefits Services to obtain quotes for health coverage at a cost of $5000.00.  MOTION CARRIED.

7)     Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, presented a methodology of LaSAS funding.  She explained that LaSAS, the Board’s Type 4 Charter School, receives MFP dollars (the state and local portion) through the School Board, its fiscal agent.   The principal meets with the Finance Director periodically to review the budget.

8)     Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, reviewed Board funds.  Mrs. Bonnette reviewed the General Fund along with other Board funds, which includes $4,845,406 in the General Fund along with other committed funds.  She explained that in the event of a fiscal crisis, these funds would be depleted within two (2) months.

Mr. Mike Lacombe requested information regarding a 3% cost of living increase for employees.  Mrs. Bonnette agreed to provide this information at the next Finance Committee meeting.

Mr. Ford reminded the committee that these pay raises would become permanent.

The Finance Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.

Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Chairman

Finance Committee

With regards to Item Number 3, Board Member Shelia Blackman-Dupas questioned whether this item is mandated.  Assistant Superintendent Craig Foster explained that at the present time, this information is now sent from the Sheriff’s Office which takes about two or three months to receive the information back to the Central Office. Mr. Foster advised that this system in the office will allow them to have the information within two (2) hours. Furthermore, he stated that he will submit two other quotes from other companies for the Board’s consideration.

With regards to Item Number 5, Board Member Shelia Blackman-Dupas questioned the status of the LAMP Program?  Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, advised that the interest rates have dropped and that she and the Superintendent will be looking at other banks for their rates.  Mrs. Bonnette further stated according to the terms of the contract, this is permissible.

With regards to Item Number 7, Board Member Board Member Shelia Blackman- Dupas requested that Mrs. Bonnette produce, in writing, an explanation, on the method LASAS is funded. Mrs. Bonnette stated that a statement was presented at the meeting, but she will forward the information to Mrs. Dupas.

On motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Cynthia “Cindy” Hill , the Board adopted the Finance Committee Report as presented by Chairman Mayeux. MOTION CARRIED.

13. Mr. Freeman Ford, Chairman of the Executive Committee, presented the report and requested that each item included in the Executive Committee Report be voted on individually, as follows:

Executive Committee Report

January 18, 2011

The Executive Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, January 18, 2011, at 5:00 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

Freeman Ford, Chairman; Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, Van Kojis, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent.  Also present were Darrell Wiley and Cindy Hill, Board Members; Craig Foster, Assistant Superintendent; and Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance.

1)    Mr. James Gauthier, Member of the Executive Committee, addressed the committee regarding having a parliamentarian at each School Board meeting.

Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Executive Committee recommended to table this item in order to obtain further information. MOTION CARRIED.

Upon motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Board adopted Item Number 1 of the Executive Committee Report. MOTION CARRIED.

2)    Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, discussed revising the position of  Payroll Clerk as listed in the Avoyelles Parish School Board Support Personnel Policy Manual.

Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by James Gauthier, the Executive Committee recommended that the revised Payroll Clerk’s qualifications be accepted by the Board.  MOTION CARRIED.

A motion was offered by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Cynthia “Cindy” Hill, to accept Item 2 of the Executive Committee Report.

The motion was adopted by the following vote:

Ayes : Freeman Ford, Darrell Wiley, James Gauthier, Van Kojis, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, Michael Lacombe and Cynthia “Cindy” Hill.

Nays:  Shelia Blackman-Dupas

3)    Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the committee regarding revising File:  GBD - Employment, as listed in the Avoyelles Parish School Board Policy Manual.

Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by James Gauthier, the Executive Committee recommended to accept the proposed changes to File: GBD - Employment. The motion was adopted by the following vote: Ayes:  Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, and Van Kojis.  Nays:  Freeman Ford.

Board Member Shelia Blackman-Dupas stated that she did not receive any attachments with the minutes.  Mrs. Dupas requested that in the future, she would like the changes to be included with the minutes of the report.

Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Board recommended to table Item Number 3 in order to obtain further information. MOTION CARRIED.

4)    Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the committee regarding revising File:  GBM - Personnel Transfer, as listed in the Avoyelles Parish School Board Policy Manual.

Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Executive Committee recommended to accept the proposed changes in File:  GBM - Personnel Transfer.  MOTION CARRIED.

Upon motion by Cynthia “Cindy” Hill, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Board recommended to table Item Number 4 in order to obtain further information. MOTION CARRIED.

5)    Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the committee regarding revising File:  GBRJ - Substitute Personnel, as listed in the Avoyelles Parish School Board Policy Manual.

Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Executive Committee recommended to accept the proposed changes in File: GBRJ- Substitute Personnel.  The motion was adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, and Van Kojis. Nays: Freeman Ford.

Upon motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Board recommended to table Item Number 5 in order to obtain further information. MOTION CARRIED.

The motion was adopted by the following vote:

Ayes: Darrell Wiley, James Gauthier, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, Van Kojis, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Michael Lacombe, Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, and Cynthia “Cindy” Hill.

Nays: Freeman Ford.

Board Member Freeman Ford stated that the reason he voted “nay” was because the policy gave the principal the sole authority to place whoever they wanted to substitute and the principal did not have to follow a rotation.

Board Member James Gauthier stated that the reason the Board voted for the resolution was because they felt the principal should have the authority to approve hiring of substitute personnel.

6)    Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine requested approval of File:  II - Testing Program, as submitted by Forethought Consulting, Incorporated for inclusion in the Policy Manual.

Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by James Gauthier, the Executive Committee recommended approval of File: II - Testing as submitted by Forethought Consulting, Incorporated. MOTION CARRIED.

Upon motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr. the Board adopted Item Number 6 of the Executive Committee Report. MOTION CARRIED.

7)    Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the committee regarding the Drug Testing Policy.

The Executive Committee recommended to table this item.

Upon motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr. the Board adopted Item Number 7 of the Executive Committee Report. MOTION CARRIED.

The Executive Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.

Freeman Ford, Chairman

Executive Committee

14. Mr. Michael Lacombe, Chairman of the Building and Lands Committee, presented the following report:

Building and Lands Committee Report

January 26, 2011

The Building and Lands Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Wednesday, January 26, 2011, at 4:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

Michael Lacombe, Chairman; Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, Darrell Wiley, Cindy Hill, Van Kojis, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent.  Also present were Freeman Ford, James Gauthier, and Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Board Members; Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor; and Wilfred Ducote, Transportation Supervisor.

1)    Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor; and Mr. Alton Coco, Citizen of Marksville, addressed the Building and Lands Committee regarding granting an easement on the end of Wall Street in Marksville to access property.

Upon motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by Cindy Hill, the Building and Lands Committee recommended that the Board refer this item to Assistant District Attorney James Lee for his legal opinion on the matter. MOTION CARRIED.

2)    Mr. Howard Desselle, Citizen of Marksville, was asked to address the Building and Lands Committee regarding a proposal concerning the construction of one high school in the parish, however, he was not present and the matter was tabled.

Board Member Freeman Ford stated that Mr. Desselle was not in attendance at the meeting and that the minutes should reflect that he was asked by the Chairman to address the committee, however, he was not present.

Upon motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by Cindy Hill, the Building andLands Committee recommended to table Item Number 2.  MOTION CARRIED.

3)    Upon motion by Cindy Hill, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Building and Lands Committee granted permission for the Avoyelles Parish School Board to draft an intergovernmental agreement with the Louisiana Technical College (Adult Education Services) for the Board’s consideration.  MOTION CARRIED.

4)    Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor, addressed the committee regarding an intergovernmental agreement between Avoyelles Parish Police Jury and Avoyelles Parish School Board regarding use of Mansura Middle School facility to house the health unit temporarily until renovations are completed (approximately six months).

Upon motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by Cindy Hill, the Building and Lands Committee recommended that an intergovernmental agreement be drafted between the Avoyelles Parish Police Jury and the Avoyelles Parish School Board regarding the temporary use of the Mansura Middle School for the Board’s consideration.  MOTION CARRIED.

5)    Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor, addressed the committee regarding an intergovernmental agreement between the Avoyelles Parish School Board and Village of Hessmer.

Upon motion by Cindy Hill, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Building and Lands Committee recommended that this item be referred to the next Building and Lands Committee meeting and that the Mayor of Hessmer and his attorney be present. MOTION CARRIED.

6)    Ms. Cindy Hill, Member of the Building and Lands, Committee discussed repairs at Marksville High School press box.

Upon motion by Cindy Hill, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Building and Lands Committee recommended that Mr. Steve Marcotte evaluate the conditions of the press box at all three high schools and insure that all press boxes are equitably constructed.  Also, if needed to approach the Needs Assessment Committee for a funding source.  MOTION CARRIED.

7)    Upon motion by Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, seconded by Cindy Hill, the Building and Lands Committee recommended to table a request from Rev. Floyd Murray to lease the Mansura Middle School Gymnasium until the next Building and Lands Committee meeting; and to invite individuals(s) requesting to lease the Bunkie Middle School Facility and the Mansura Middle School facility to the next Building and Lands Committee meeting.   MOTION CARRIED.

8)    Mr. Darrell Wiley and Ms. Cindy Hill, Board Members, discussed the parish barn located in Marksville. The committee did not take any action on this matter.

The Building and Lands Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.

Michael Lacombe, Chairman

Building and Lands Committee

Upon motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Board adopted the Building and Lands Committee Report with changes as presented by Michael Lacombe. MOTION CARRIED.

15. Mr. Darrell Wiley, Chairman of the Bus Committee, presented the followingreport:

Bus Committee Report

January 26, 2011

The Bus Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Wednesday, January 26, 2011, at 5:00 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

Darrell Wiley, Chairman, Freeman Ford, Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones, Cindy Hill, Van Kojis, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent.   Also present were Shelia Blackman-Dupas, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., and Michael Lacombe, Board Members; Wilfred Ducote, Transportation Supervisor; and Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor.

1)     Mr. Wilfred Ducote, Transportation Supervisor, discussed bus drivers who drive to a second job.

Upon motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Rev. Mary Hayward-Jon the Bus Committee recommended to continue to allow bus drivers to park their buses as previously allowed to park when it is a cost savings to the district. MOTION CARRIED.

Board Member Freeman Ford stated that his motion should read, “that the Board continue to allow bus drivers to park their buses as previously allowed to park.”

2)     Upon motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Cindy Hill, the Board granted permission to advertise for the sale of four (4) used buses.  MOTION CARRIED.

The Bus Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.

Darrell Wiley, Chairman

Bus Committee

On motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Board adopted the Bus Committee Report as presented by Chairman Wiley. MOTION CARRIED.

16. Mr. James Gauthier, Chairman of the Education Committee, presented the following report:

Education Committee Report

January 26, 2011

The Education Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Wednesday, January 26, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

James Gauthier, Chairman; Shelia Blackman-Dupas, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Darrell Wiley, Van Kojis, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent. Also present were Michael Lacombe and Cindy Hill, Board Members; and Susan Welch and Randy Littleton, Supervisors.

1)     Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine recognized Ms. Maggie Mury, Ms. Casey Foret, and Ms. Ginger Gremillion, teachers at Riverside Elementary School, who have received QSM Grants.  The Education Committee commended the teachers for this accomplishment.

2)     Chairman James Gauthier reviewed the attendance policy.

Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Education Committee recommended to invite the District Attorney, District Judges, and Family Services to the next Education Committee meeting scheduled during the month of February for the purpose of discussing attendance concerns.  MOTION CARRIED.

3)     Chairman James Gauthier addressed the committee regarding the Student of the Month policy, including rewards.

Mr. Gauthier presented recommendations for Student of the Month, as follows:

(1)   Guidelines

(a)  grade point average

(b)  improvement shown by student

(c)  behavior of student at school

(d)  works well with other students

(e)  shows respect for others

(f)   extra-curricular activities

(g)  selection made by committee of teachers and principal of each school

Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Education Committee recommended to form a committee for the purpose of making a recommendation to the Education Committee regarding guidelines and rewards for selecting the Student of the Month.  The committee will consists of: Secondary, Elementary, and Special Education  Supervisor;  one high  school  principal,  one elementary school  principal,  and  one teacher (teacher to be named by the principal) from each school. Principals are to be named by the Superintendent. MOTION CARRIED.

4)     Mr. Randy Littleton, Supervisor of Elementary Education; and Ms. Susan Welch, Supervisor of Secondary Education, presented an update on curriculum and instruction support.

The committee did not take any action on this matter.

The Education Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.

James Gauthier, Chairman

Education Committee

Board Member Shelia Blackman-Dupas stated that with regards to Item Number 3 of the Education Committee Report, that careful selection of the committee members be adhered to and that the principals need to be careful in selection of committee members.

On motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Board adopted the Education Committee Report as presented by Chairman Gauthier.   MOTION CARRIED.

17. Mr. Craig Foster, Assistant Superintendent, presented a Transportation Discipline Data Report which indicated a comparison from November and December 2009 to November and December 2010 for the Board’s review.

Mr. Foster stated that in November 2009 bus suspensions totaled 51 for black students and 20 for white students.  In November 2010, Mr. Foster said that bus suspensions for black students totaled 13 and 6 for white students.  Mr. Foster concluded that bus suspensions in November 2009 totaled 71 and in November 2010, bus suspensions totaled 19.

Mr. Foster further stated that in December 2009 bus suspensions totaled 50 for black students and 18 for white students. In December 2010, bus suspensions for black students totaled 8 for black students and 4 for white students.   Therefore, in December 2009 bus suspensions totaled 68 and in December 2010, bus suspensions totaled 12.

18. Board Member Shelia Blackman-Dupas addressed the Board regarding the development of a District-wide School Activities Handbook. Mrs. Dupas stated that this matter was discussed in the Student Activity Meeting.  Mrs. Dupas further stated that the committee accepted the recommendations of Dr. William Gordon which stipulated that the parish adopt a Student Activity Handbook which will detail the requirements for entering into the clubs, fees associated, etc. in order for the policies to be consistent throughout the parish. Mrs. Dupas stated that they are reviewing other parish policies and will soon bring recommendations to the Board.

19.  Mrs. Susan Welch, Supervisor of Secondary Education, discussed a School Improvement Grant for the school district.  Mrs. Welch stated that the Louisiana State Department of Education now has a School Turnaround Office and through this office, they are implementing a program for looking at turning around persistently low achieving schools.  Mrs. Welch explained that they were sent a list of four schools who qualify for these grants and she noted that the mission of these grants is to have significant gain in these schools in two years. Also, she stated that School Turnaround is designed to bring about “urgency” and “time compressed” change in two years.

In addition, Mrs. Welch called the Board’s attention to SIG (School Improvement Grant). She stated that three schools are currently in the process of presenting models to the State Department. Also, she said that Bunkie Elementary School and Bunkie High School have proceeded to look at the Turnaround Model.   Mrs. Welch further stated that a third grant will be written by Marksville High School and the principals and staff are working on a Transformation Model.  A motion was offered by Cynthia “Cindy” Hill, seconded by Michael Lacombe,

Ms. Welch said that all involved are working very diligently on these grants. Also, a report will be presented at the next scheduled Education Committee meeting.

20. Board members presented an update report on the Study Group meetings.

President Van Kojis stated that Dr. William Gordon gave him several of the committees that had lost their chairperson because of the people no longer serving on the Board. He stated that he has been able to replace two so far and is working on the others. Mr. Kojis requested that chairpersons present a brief oral report of each committee.

Board Member Freeman Ford stated that the Student Assignment Committee’s meeting was held with a very disappointing turn out.   Mr. Ford stated that the committee discussed ways to recruit more minority students to attend Lafargue Elementary School and Plaucheville Elementary School, with more emphasis on LaSAS. He stated that various issues were discussed, but with no final decisions made due to the absence of several other members.

President Kojis stated that all members share the same problem with attendance. Mr. Kojis stated that he plans to meet with Mr. Craig Foster in order to write a letter to all existing committee members in order to reaffirm their commitment to serve on the committee.

Board Member Shelia Blackman-Dupas stated that she has had two meetings over the last month and has made a request that the members who have not participated be replaced. Mrs. Dupas stated that the next Board meeting her committee will have some recommendations for policy changes.

Board Member Carlos A. Mayeux , Jr. stated that his committee has met on several occasions and noted that the attendance issues are a concern, however, opportunities were made available for them to attend meetings. He stated that his committee toured the schools and listened to the principals for their concerns and their needs.

21. On motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Board granted permission to advertise for bids for janitorial supplies, paint, paint supplies, light bulbs, and air conditioner filters. MOTION CARRIED.

22. On motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Board granted permission to advertise for bids to lease farmland adjacent to Avoyelles High School. MOTION CARRIED.

23. On motion by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, seconded by Cynthia “Cindy” Hill, the Board granted permission to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Avoyelles Parish Police Jury to maintain and repair school driveways and parking lots at all public schools for  a  one  year  period  beginning  January  2011  through  December  31,  2011.  MOTION CARRIED.

24. A motion was offered by Cynthia “Cindy” Hill, seconded by Michael Lacombe, to extend Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine’s contract, for a period of two (2) years effective July 11, 2011 through July 10, 2013.

The motion was adopted by the following vote:

Ayes:  Darrell Wiley, James Gauthier, Van Kojis, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Michael Lacombe and Cynthia “Cindy” Hill.

Nays:  Freeman Ford, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, and Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones.

Board Member James Gauthier recommended that within the next year, teachers, principals, and supervisors complete an evaluation of Superintendent Lemoine and that said evaluations be provided to the Board.

Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine expressed his thanks to the Board for their support.  Mr. Lemoine stated that he felt the future of education in Avoyelles Parish was going in the right direction which is primarily the education of the students.

25. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine presented personnel changes for the Board’s approval, as follows:

PERSONNEL CHANGES

BUNKIE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Kenneth Ford, teacher, effective January 10, 2011 through May 20, 2011 (new position); and appointment of Ritchie Johnson, (TAT) teacher, effective Januar2011 through May20, 2011, replacing Kim Compton while on leave.

LAFARGUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Resignation of Glenda H. Cole, teacher, effective January 16, 2011, for the purpose of retirement; and appointment of Faye D. Borrell, (retired) teacher, effective January 3, 2011 through May 20, 2011, replacing Glenda Cole who retired.

MARKSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Susan Ussery, (retired) Kindergarten teacher, effective January 28, 2011 through May 20, 2011 replacing Sophia Wood while on leave.

AVOYELLES HIGH SCHOOL: Appointment of Jeremy Hollier, (TAT) teacher, effective January 18, 2011 through May 20, 2011, replacing Jessica Bertrand who transferred to Bunkie High School.

BUNKIE HIGH SCHOOL: Resignation of Dawn Hardy, teacher, effective January 10, 2011; appointment of Andrew J. Halford, II, teacher, effective January 10, 2011 through May 20, 2011, replacing Ken Knight on leave; transfer/appointment of Jessica Bertrand, (TAT) teacher, from Avoyelles High School,   effective January 18, 2011 through May 20, 2011.

LOUISIANA SCHOOL FOR THE AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES: Resignation of Aaron Newsom, teacher, effective at the end of the day January 14, 2011; and appointment of John R. Hill, (TAT) teacher, effective January 18, 2011 through May 20, 2011, replacing Aaron Newsom who resigned.

DISTRICT-WIDE:  Appointment of Gwen Descant, speech therapist, effective February 17, 2011 through May 20, 2011.

ADDENDUM(S)

2/1/2011

BUNKIE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Tara Chachere, (TAT) teacher, effective February 1, 2011 through May 20, 2011.

COTTONPORT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Nathan Laborde, Acting Principal, effective January 10, 2011 through February 21, 2011, replacing Wendy Adams while on sick leave.

RIVERSIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Resignation of Mary Gayle Juneau, bus driver, effective February 15, 2011, for the purpose of retirement.

On motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Board approved the personnel changes as presented by Superintendent Lemoine.

Ayes:  Freeman Ford, Darrell Wiley, James Gauthier, Shelia Blackman- Dupas, Van Kojis, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Rev. Mary Hayward- Jones and Michael Lacombe.

Abstained:  Cynthia “Cindy” Hill.

26. On motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Board agreed to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing (a) a personnel matter, (b) a personnel matter, and (c) pending litigation (Holmes versus Avoyelles Parish School Board bearing Civil Action 12,721 on the docket of the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana

The Board reconvened in open public session at approximately 7:10 p.m.

Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Michael Lacombe, pertaining to one of the personnel matters discussed in Executive Session, the Board accepted the resignation letter of January 27, 2011 as presented.

The motion was adopted by the following vote:

Ayes:  James Gauthier, Van Kojis, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Michael Lacombe and Cynthia “Cindy” Hill.

Nays:  Freeman Ford, Darrell Wiley, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, and Rev. Mary Hayward-Jones.

27. On motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Board agreed to add an item to the agenda to adopt the minutes of the special meeting held Tuesday, January 25, 2011. MOTION CARRIED.

President Van Kojis called for public comment and there being none, a motion was offered by Freeman Ford, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, to adopt he minutes of the special meeting held on Tuesday, January 25, 2011, as printed and mailed to Board members and published in The Weekly News, official journal of the Board and with changes as presented. MOTION CARRIED.

Board Member Freeman Ford requested that the minutes reflect the following corrections: Page 2 - on the third to the last paragraph - “My” should be changed to “May” supercede; and Page 3 , last paragraph - states official “evaluation” should be changed to “evacuation”.

28. President Van Kojis announced the schedule of upcoming committee meetings during the month of February, as follows: Tuesday, February 15, 2011: Building and Lands Committee and Executive Committee; Tuesday, February, 22, 2011: Finance Committee, Bus Committee, and Education Committee.

There being no further business, on motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by Freeman Ford, the meeting was adjourned.

AVOYELLES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD

VAN KOJIS, President

DWAYNE LEMOINE, Secretary-Treasurer