SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS
The Avoyelles Parish School Board met in regular session Thursday, March 6, 2014, at 5:00 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:
Darrell Wiley, President; Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Vice-President; James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, Van Kojis, and John Gagnard.
Absent: Freeman Ford, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, and Lizzie Ned.
An Invocation was offered by Mr. Dexter Compton, Principal of Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America led by District Fifth Grade Student of the Year, Shelby Edgeworth, who attends Lafargue Elementary School.
1. On motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Van Kojis, the Board adopted the minutes of the special Board meeting held Tuesday, February 18, 2014, as printed and mailed to Board members and published in The Weekly News, official journal of the Board. MOTION CARRIED.
2. Mr. John Gagnard, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Beverly Jeansonne, former teacher.
On motion by John Gagnard, seconded by Van Kojis, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Beverly Jeansonne. MOTION CARRIED.
3. Mr. Van Kojis, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Roy Dupont, former teacher and principal.
On motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Roy Dupont. MOTION CARRIED.
4. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine recognized the Students of the Month. Mr. Lemoine presented a plaque to each student. Also, each Board Member read a short biography detailing the accomplishments of each student.
The Students of the Month included: Eriel Washington, Bunkie Elementary School; Na’Kyra Ford, Cottonport Elementary School; Brett Dauzat, Lafargue Elementary School; Key’Von Jacobs, Marksville Elementary School; Olivia Dixon, Plaucheville Elementary School; Angela Patterson, Riverside Elementary School; Angel Drummer, Avoyelles High School; Trent Butler, Bunkie High School; Miracle Oby, LaSAS; and Nuri Jeter, Marksville High School.
On behalf of the Board, President Darrell Wiley commended the students on their accomplishments.
5. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine and Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater recognized the Teachers of the Month. Mr. Lemoine presented a plaque to each teacher, as follows:
Jillian Guillory, Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy; Ashley Ducote, Cottonport Elementary School; Millicent Bonnette, Lafargue Elementary School; Quinton Demouy, Marksville Elementary School; Michel Morgan, Plaucheville Elementary School; William Beebe, Riverside Elementary School; Scott Balius, Avoyelles High School; George Mitchell, Bunkie New Tech High School; Liza Jacobs, LaSAS; and Melody Staff, Marksville High School.
On behalf of the Board, President Darrell Wiley commended the teachers on their achievements.
6. Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater, recognized the 2013-2014 Students of the Year, as follows:
5th Grade Student of the Year:
Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy, Jayden Smith; Cottonport Elementary School, Carlee Carmello; Lafargue Elementary School, Shelby Edgeworth; Marksville Elementary School, Erykah Courtney; Plaucheville Elementary School, Hanna Savoie; and Riverside Elementary School, Ja’mya Duper.
8th Grade Student of the Year:
Avoyelles High School, Loagen Tassin; Bunkie New Tech High School, James Gaspard; LaSAS, Austin Dismer; and Marksville High School, Gracie LaBorde.
12th Grade Student of the Year:
Avoyelles High School, Derrick Foti; Bunkie New Tech High School, Connor Descant; LaSAS, Kerra Franks; and Marksville High School, Blair Barton.
District winners were Shelby Edgeworth, 5th grade, Lafargue Elementary School; Austin Dismer, 8th grade, LaSAS; and Blair Barton, 12th grade, Marksville High School.
7. Mr. Wilfred Ducote, Sales Tax Collector, reported that sales tax collections for the month of December, 2013 totaled $566,679.66. Mr. Ducote stated that of this amount, the 1.5% sales tax generated $485,753.38 and the 0.25% sales tax generated $80,926.28.
Also, Mr. Ducote reported that sales tax collections for the month of January, 2014 totaled $718,528.81. Mr. Ducote stated that of this amount, the 1.5% sales tax generated $616,021.64, and the 0.25% sales tax generated $102,507.17.
8. Mr. Wilfred Ducote, Transportation Supervisor, presented the bus transportation report for the month of February, 2014. Mr. Ducote reported that there was one suspension during the month of February.
9. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine presented a resolution in regards to upcoming MFP funding litigation.
WHEREAS, Louisiana R.S. 17:81(E) provides that each school board “shall exercise proper vigilance in securing for the schools of the district all funds destined for the support of the schools, including the state funds apportioned thereto, and all other funds;” and
WHEREAS, Article 8, Section 13 (B) of the Louisiana Constitution provides, in part, that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education shall annually develop and adopt a formula to determine the cost of a minimum foundation program of education in all public elementary and secondary schools and the Legislature shall annually appropriate funds sufficient to fully fund the current costs to the State of such a program; and
WHEREAS, Article 8, Section 13 (B) also provides that “the last formula adopted by the board or its successor, and approved by the legislature shall be used for the determination of the cost of the minimum foundation program and for the allocation of funds appropriated” “whenever the legislature fails to approve the formula most recently adopted by the board”; and
WHEREAS, for fiscal year 2012-2013, the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education adopted a minimum foundation program formula and submitted that formula to the Legislature for approval pursuant to Senate Concurrent Resolution 99 of 2012; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature approved SCR 99 of 2012 and such approval was challenged in legal proceedings instituted by the Louisiana School Boards Association and others; and
WHEREAS, the Louisiana Supreme Court ultimately held that SCR 99 was unconstitutional and null and void because, in part, it was not properly approved by the Legislature;
and
WHEREAS, the ruling of the Louisiana Supreme Court declaring the 2012-2013 MFP to be null and void required that the 2011-2012 MFP be used for the determination of the cost of the minimum foundation program in 2012-2013; and
WHEREAS, the 2011-2012 MFP approved by the Legislature included a 2.76% growth factor for fiscal year 2012-2013; and
WHEREAS, the State did not fund the 2.75% growth factor for fiscal year 2012-2013 as constitutionally mandated; and
WHEREAS, the School Board has learned that a class action lawsuit entitled St. John the Baptist Parish School Board, et al v. State of Louisiana, et al; No. 622,693, Sec. 24 on the docket of the 19th Judicial District Court for the Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana, has been filed alleging that public school systems across the State of Louisiana were not provided with the proper funding for the 2012-2013 fiscal year under the MFP; and
WHEREAS, the Louisiana School Boards Association supports the efforts of public school systems to receive the state funding to which they are lawfully entitled and has encouraged all public city and parish school boards in the State of Louisiana to participate in the lawsuit captioned above in an effort to obtain such funding; and
WHEREAS, Robert L. Hammonds of the law firm of Hammonds, Sills, Adkins & Guice, LLP, Randy Cangelosi of the law firm of Kean Miller, LLP, and Brian F. Blackwell of the law firm of Blackwell and Associates have special expertise in the issues presented in this litigation and have agreed to represent this School Board in the aforesaid suit and have agreed to do so on a contingency fee basis (subject to the approval by the Louisiana Attorney General) so that no fees or expenses are owed by this School Board unless and until a recovery is made on its behalf;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT DULY RESOLVED, by the Avoyelles Parish School Board in regular session duly convened that:
Section I. The Avoyelles Parish School Board authorized participation as a plaintiff in the matter entitled St. John the Baptist Parish School Board, et al v. State of Louisiana, et al, No. 622,693, Sec. 24 on the docket of the 19th Judicial District Court for the Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana.
Section II. This School Board employs Robert L. Hammonds, Randy Cangelosi, and Brian F. Blackwell as Special Counsel to handle such litigation on its behalf and shall pay counsel for their services according to the contingency fee agreement and power of attorney attached to this Resolution, subject to approval by the Louisiana Attorney General of such arrangement.
Section III. This School Board has been duly advised that the law firm of Kean Miller, LLP, and the law firm of Blackwell and Associates of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has in the past represented, and may in the future represent, school employees in matters in which this School Board is an adverse party. This School Board recognized that such representation may present said law firms with an actual and/or potential conflict of interest. As an inducement to said law firms to undertake its representation on the terms set forth in this Resolution, this School Board irrevocably waives any past, present, or future actual and/or potential conflicts of interest generated by representation of this School Board in said litigation.
Section IV. Subject to approval of this Resolution by the Attorney General, this employment shall be effective immediately upon adoption of this Resolution.
A motion was offered by Van Kojis, seconded by John Gagnard, that the Board grant permission to hire the law office of Hammonds, Sills, Adkins, and Guice, LLP to join in upcoming MFP litigation (St. John the Baptist Parish School Board, et al versus State of Louisiana, et al; Number 622,693, Section 234 on the docket of the 19th Judicial District Court for the Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana). The motion was adopted by the following vote:
Yeas: Darrell Wiley, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, Van Kojis, and John Gagnard.
Nays: None.
Absent: Freeman Ford, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, and Lizzie Ned.
10. On motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Board adopted a resolution to support the 2014 Legislative Framework.
Resolution
Adoption and Support of the 2014 LSBA Legislative Framework
Whereas, the Louisiana School Boards Association (LSBA) is a federation of school boards in the state of Louisiana representing over six-hundred (600) elected school board members;
Whereas, the Louisiana School Boards Association is a mission-driven organization focused on leadership, service, and support for school boards and school systems;
Whereas, the Louisiana School Boards Association strives to work in collaboration with all public education stakeholders including federal officials, statewide elected officials, state legislators, superintendents, principals, teachers, district office support administrators and support staff; and, most importantly parents and students;
Whereas, the Louisiana School Boards Association recognized the importance of the upcoming 2014 Legislative Session that commenced March 10, 2014 and its possible impact on public education;
Whereas, the Louisiana School Boards Association Board of Directors have adopted and approved the 2014 LSBA Legislative Framework that outlines a set of general, guiding principles for its membership regarding legislative advocacy;
Whereas, the Louisiana School Boards Association realizes that we must all work toward the common goal of improving student achievement in a strategic, practical and meaningful manner that includes input from all stakeholders;
Whereas, the Louisiana School Boards Association has recently committed to a set of five general principles at its General Luncheon of the 2014 LSBA Convention in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, that are aligned with several other public education stakeholder organizations such as the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents (LASS), the Louisiana Association of School Executives (LASE), the Louisiana State Parent Teacher Association (LAPTA), the Louisiana Association of Principals (LAP), the Louisiana Federation of Teachers (LFT), and the Louisiana Association of Educators (LAE):
• United advocacy for prioritizing public education funding regarding the state funding formula (MFP)
• United advocacy for a more strategic and comprehensive transition to raising standards and adopting accompanying assessments
• United advocacy for a non-punitive accountability system and flexible employee evaluation system
• United advocacy for addressing issues regarding privatization of public education in Louisiana
• United advocacy regarding meaningful and sincere stakeholder input in all education policy matters
Be it resolved, that the Avoyelles Parish School Board hereby formally adopts via resolution during a duly convened and properly noticed meeting the 2014 LSBA Legislative Framework.
Be it further resolved that, the Avoyelles Parish School Board transmit this resolution along with the attached 2014 LSBA Legislative Framework to all statewide elected officials and state legislators this formal statement of support and commitment to advocating for the principles noted.
Yeas: Darrell Wiley, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, Van Kojis, and John Gagnard.
Nays: None.
Absent: Freeman Ford, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, and Lizzie Ned.
11. Mr. Michael Lacombe, Chairman of the Finance Committee, presented the following report:
Finance Committee Report
February 18, 2014
The Finance Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, February 18, 2014, at 4:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:
Michael Lacombe, Chairman; Freeman Ford, Van Kojis, Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent. Mr. Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr. was absent. Also present were James Gauthier, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, Lizzie Ned, and John Gagnard, Board Members; and Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance.
1. Upon motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Freeman Ford, the Finance Committee recommended to approve requests for overnight travel as presented by Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine. MOTION CARRIED.
2. Mr. Tom Hudson and Ms. Carmel Breaux, representatives from Norris Insurance Consultants, addressed the Finance Committee regarding insurance renewals. Mr. Hudson and Ms. Breaux recommended that the Board bid out general liability insurance, property, and workers’ compensation excess insurance.
Upon motion by Freeman Ford, seconded by Van Kojis, the Finance Committee recommended to bid out insurances as per the consultant’s recommendation. MOTION CARRIED.
3. Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, presented the results of an employee survey regarding the issuance of monthly payroll checks versus semi-monthly.
A motion was offered by Van Kojis to keep the issuance of monthly payroll checks on a monthly basis. The motion died for lack of a second.
4. Mrs. Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent, presented the Needs Assessment Committee Report for the committee’s consideration.
Needs Assessment Committee Report
February 17, 2014
The Needs Assessment Committee met Monday, February 17, 2014, at approximately 10:45 a.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:
Shelia Dupas, Board Member; John Gagnard, Board Member; James Gauthier, Board Member; Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent; Thelma J. Prater, Assistant Superintendent; Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance; and Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor.
Mrs. Mary Bonnette discussed the 2013-2014 Budget with the committee. The committee reviewed the following purchase orders:
1) Purchase Order Number 127
Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, the committee recommended to accept the cost for curtains and installation for Lafargue Elementary School, but not to exceed $6,840. The principal should obtain two (2) more quotes. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee denied the motion by the following vote: Ayes: John Gagnard and James Gauthier. Nays: Shelia Blackman-Dupas.
2) Purchase Order Number 128
Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase floor tile for the library and office area and change the carpet in the band room of Marksville High School in the amount of $10,675. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion. MOTION UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED.
3) Purchase Order Number 129
Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, the committee recommended to replace the worn out carpet in the computer lab at Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy in the amount of $2,795. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
4) Purchase Order Number 130
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase the portable basketball goals for the gymnasium requested by the principal of Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy in the amount of $3,050. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
5) Purchase Order Number 87
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase a school sign for Cottonport Elementary School not to exceed $4,550 with the provision that the principal receives two additional quotes. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
6) Purchase Order Number 131
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase tables and chairs for the library of Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy in the amount of $1,690. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
7) Purchase Order Number 132
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended to purchase playground benches for Cottonport Elementary in the amount of $2,284.96. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
8) Purchase Order Number 133
Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to appropriate $30,000 along with maintenance funds to repair the cafeteria floor and address asbestos abatement at Riverside Elementary School. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion. MOTION UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED.
9) Purchase Order Number 134
Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, the committee recommended to approve enclosure of the welding shop at LaSAS in the amount of $6,500. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion. MOTION UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED.
10) Purchase Order Number 135
Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, the committee recommended to purchase pea gravel for the playground area at Plaucheville Elementary School in the amount of $3,150. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
11) Purchase Order Number 136
Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, the committee recommended to purchase the remaining shades for Avoyelles High in the amount of $3,780. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
12) Purchase Order Number 137
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended to purchase the Accelerated Reader Program for Bunkie New Tech High School in the amount of $3,867. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
13) Purchase Order Number 138
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase table and chairs for the Spanish class at Marksville High School in the amount of $877. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
14) Purchase Order Number 139
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase projectors for the classroom at Marksville High School in the amount of $3,499.93. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
15) Purchase Order Number 140
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase student date books for Marksville High School in the amount of $557.76. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
16) Purchase Order Number 141
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase software renewal for the library at Marksville High School in the amount of $3,366.50. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.
17) Purchase Order Number 82
Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to pay for Dual Enrollment classes for students at Marksville High School in the amount of $7,200. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion. MOTION UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED.
# The committee discussed a request from Marksville High School to purchase ten surveillance cameras and all hardware and software in the amount of $19,300. A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, to table this item in order for the Child Welfare Supervisor to conduct a needs assessment district-wide. MOTION CARRIED.
# The committee discussed a request from the principal of Cottonport Elementary School to repair bleachers in the gymnasium. A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, to table this item and allow the maintenance department to handle the repairs. MOTION CARRIED.
# * The committee discussed a request from Riverside Elementary School to replace the main entrance door and rear entrance door in the amount of $18,764. A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, to table this item in order to address the more hazardous items (cafeteria floors). MOTION CARRIED.
# * The committee discussed a request from Marksville Elementary School to replace door knobs and locks. A motion was offered by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Mary Bonnette, to table this item in order for the Child Welfare Supervisor to conduct a needs assessment district-wide. MOTION CARRIED.
# * The committee discussed a request from Avoyelles High School for the following items:
Replacing Home Economics Windows ----------------------------- $21,800
Replacing Gymnasium Windows ------------------------------------ $64,980
Replacing Door East Side of Main Building ----------------------- $ 2,200
Replacing Gymnasium Side Doors ---------------------------------- $16,500
Camera Installation for Cafeteria, Basketball Court, and
Parking Lot Areas ---------------------------------------------------- $14,300
A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, to refer items to the Capital Needs Assessment Committee and refer camera installation to the Child Welfare Supervisor to conduct a needs assessment district wide. MOTION CARRIED.
# The committee discussed a request from Avoyelles High School to replace the iron fence on each side of the main building and between the gymnasium and agriculture building. A motion was offered by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Mary Bonnette, to allow the maintenance department to address the repairs. MOTION CARRIED.
# The committee discussed a request from Bunkie New Tech High School to purchase a school-wide security camera system in the amount of $7,860. A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, to table this item in order for the Child Welfare Supervisor to conduct a needs assessment district-wide. MOTION CARRIED.
# The committee discussed a request from Bunkie New Tech School to build an auditorium. A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte to refer this item to the Capital Needs Assessment Committee. MOTION CARRIED.
# The committee discussed a request from Plaucheville Elementary School to purchase security cameras in the amount of $7,860. A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, to table this item in order for the Child Welfare Supervisor to conduct a needs assessment district-wide. MOTION CARRIED.
# The committee discussed dedicating $30,000 to School Security across the district as needed and reviewed in the needs assessment evaluation conducted by the Child Welfare Supervisor and approved by the Maintenance Supervisor. A motion was offered by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Mary Bonnette, to dedicate $30,000 to School Security across the district. MOTION CARRIED.
The Needs Assessment Committee denied the motion by the following vote: Ayes: John Gagnard and James Gauthier. Nays: Shelia Blackman-Dupas.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned.
Thelma J. Prater
Assistant Superintendent
Upon motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Freeman Ford, the Finance Committee recommended to accept the Needs Assessment Committee Report as presented by Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater. The motion was adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Van Kojis, Freeman Ford, and Michael Lacombe. Nays: Darrell Wiley.
5. Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, presented an update on the 2013-2014 budget. Mrs. Bonnette stated that revenues totaled $38,640,358 while expenditures totaled $39,780,581 which results in a deficit of $1,140,223. She stated that the ending fund balance totals $7,751,591.
The Finance Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.
Michael Lacombe, Chairman
Finance Committee
On motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by John Gagnard, the Board adopted the Finance Committee Report as presented by Chairman Lacombe. MOTION CARRIED.
12. Mr. Van Kojis, Chairman of the Building and Lands Committee, presented the following report:
Building and Lands Committee Report
February 18, 2014
The Building and Lands Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, February 18, 2014, at approximately 5:15 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:
Van Kojis, Chairman; Michael Lacombe, James Gauthier, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent. Also present were Freeman Ford, Lizzie Ned, and John Gagnard, Board Members; Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor; Jim Guillory, Architect; and Brent Scallan, Contractor.
1. Mr. Jim Guillory, Architect, and Mr. Brent Scallan, Contractor, presented an update on the projects at Bunkie New Tech School and Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy.
A progress update was presented. The Building and Lands Committee did not take any action on this matter.
2. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the Building and Lands Committee regarding a proposal from Mr. Harold Brouillette regarding a building for lease.
The Building and Lands Committee did not take any action on this matter.
3. Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor, discussed Section 16 properties.
The Building and Lands Committee did not take any action on this matter.
4. Mr. Hank Smart with Argent presented an update on property inventory.
Upon motion by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, seconded by James Gauthier, the Building and Lands Committee recommended to have the District Attorney advise the Board on their next steps on researching the Board’s indemnity properties for potential revenues. MOTION CARRIED.
The Building and Lands Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.
Van Kojis, Chairman
Building and Lands Committee
On motion by Van Kojis, seconded by James Gauthier, the Board adopted the Building and Lands Committee Report as presented by Chairman Kojis. MOTION CARRIED.
13. Mr. James Gauthier, Chairman of the Education Committee, presented the following report:
Education Committee Report
February 18, 2014
The Education Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, February 18, 2014, at approximately 6:00 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:
James Gauthier, Chairman; John Gagnard, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent. Mr. Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr. was absent. Also present were Freeman Ford, Lizzie Ned, Michael Lacombe, and Van Kojis, Board Members; Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent; Susan Welch, Supervisor of Secondary Education; Becky Spencer, Tech Coordinator; and Richard Robinson, Network Coordinator.
1. Mrs. Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent, presented a report of the Taskforce Committee regarding the Teacher of the Month Program.
Upon motion by John Gagnard, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Education Committee recommended not to require Teachers of the Month to attend Board meetings. MOTION CARRIED.
2. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the committee regarding the Bunkie New Tech School. Mr. Lemone identified subject, grade level, and student count by race.
The Education Committee did not take any action on this matter.
3. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine presented revisions of the Pupil Progression Plan regarding fifth and ninth grade promotion.
Upon motion by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, seconded by John Gagnard, the Education Committee recommended to accept the revisions of the Pupil Progression Plan regarding High Stakes Testing. MOTION CARRIED.
4. Mrs. Susan Welch, Supervisor of Secondary Education, presented a funding timeline for Carl Perkins.
The Education Committee did not take any action on this matter.
5. Chairman James Gauthier addressed the Education Committee regarding the plant opening in Bunkie in order that the Board may provide the required educated employees.
Mrs. Susan Welch, Supervisor of Secondary Education, presented an update report. The Education Committee did not take any action on this matter.
6. Chairman James Gauthier addressed the Education Committee regarding the progress on computers for testing.
Mrs. Becky Spencer and Mr. Richard Robinson presented an update report. She reported that they are in the process of receiving bids for the computers needed for testing. The Education Committee did not take any action on this matter.
7. Chairman James Gauthier addressed the Education Committee regarding a Board lobbyist.
Upon motion by John Gagnard, seconded by Darrell Wiley, the Education Committee recommended that the Board appoint Mr. Van Kojis as the Board Lobbyist, at no cost to the Board. The motion was adopted by the following vote: Ayes: James Gauthier, John Gagnard, and Darrell Wiley. Nays: Shelia Blackman-Dupas.
The Education Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.
James Gauthier, Chairman
Education Committee
On motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Board adopted the Education Committee Report as presented by Chairman Gauthier. MOTION CARRIED.
14. President Darrell Wiley presented the following report:
Executive Committee Report
February 25, 2014
The Executive Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, February 25, 2014, at 4:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:
Freeman Ford, Chairman; John Gagnard, Lizzie Ned, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent. Also present were James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, and Van Kojis, Board Members.
1. Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Lizzie Ned, the Executive Committee recommended to grant approval of revised policy, File IDFA, Interscholastic Athletics, by Mr. James Prescott of Forethought Consulting, Incorporated. MOTION CARRIED.
The Executive Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.
Freeman Ford, Chairman
Executive Committee
On motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by John Gagnard, the Board adopted the Executive Committee Report as presented by Superintendent Lemoine. MOTION CARRIED.
15. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine presented personnel changes for the Board’s review, as follows:
PERSONNEL CHANGES
BUNKIE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Tina F. Venable, bus aide, effective March 12, 2014, replacing Diana Bonnette.
COTTONPORT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Re-appointment of Tyronnica Mingo, Title I Pre-K teacher, effective February 7, 2014 through May 22, 2014; Re-appointment of Queen Alexander, (retired) special education teacher, effective February 7, 2014 through March 7, 2014; and Re-appointment of Teresa Gauthier, teacher, effective February 7, 2014 through March 7, 2014.
LAFARGUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Crystal Lemoine, bus driver, effective March 12, 2014, replacing Christy Tassin; and Resignation of Darlene Normand, school secretary, effective June 4, 2014, for the purpose of retirement.
PLAUCHEVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Re-appointment of Suzanne Soileau, speech therapist, effective February 17, 2014 through February 28, 2014 (Funding source - IDEA); Correction of date in appointment: Appointment of Suzanne Soileau, speech therapist, effective January 13, 2014, through February 14, 2014 (Funding source - School Based Budget); and Appointment of Alice Johnson, non-categorical paraprofessional, effective March 3, 2014.
AVOYELLES HIGH SCHOOL: Resignation of Lance Oubre, teacher, effective February 12, 2014.
LOUISIANA SCHOOL FOR THE AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES: Re-appointment of Charlotte Kelly, (retired) French teacher, one-half day, effective February 3, 2014 through February 28, 2014.
MARKSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL: Re-appointment of Justin Pierce, teacher, effective March 5, 2014 through May 22, 2014, replacing Randy Price who retired; and Resignation of Minnie L. Lafargue, teacher, effective May 24, 2014, for the purpose of retirement.
AVOYELLES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD CENTRAL OFFICE: Extension of retirement date: Resignation of Sharon Hargis, Food Service Supervisor, effective March 1, 2014, for the purpose of retirement.
ADDENDUM(S)
3/4/2014
BUNKIE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Linda Long, (retired) teacher, effective February 27, 2014 through May 30, 2014.
COTTONPORT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Re-appointment of Teresa Gauthier, teacher, effective March 10, 2014 through April 11, 2014; and Re-appointment of Queen Alexander, (retired) special education teacher, effective March 10, 2014 through April 11, 2014.
LAFARGUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Resignation of Margaret Borrel, teacher, effective at the end of the day May 22, 2014, for the purpose of retirement.
PLAUCHEVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Resignation of Suzanne Soileau, speech therapist, effective March 1, 2014. (Ms. Soileau replaced Ms. Gwen Descant while on leave).
LOUISIANA SCHOOL FOR THE AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES: Appointment of Calvin Bordelon, (retired) French teacher (1/2 day), effective March 3, 2014 through May 22, 2014, replacing Charlotte Kelly.
AVOYELLES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD CENTRAL OFFICE: Appointment of Jennifer Welch, Food Service Supervisor, effective March 24, 2014 through March 23, 2015.
16. Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine proposed revisions to the 2013-2014 school calendar due to the closure of schools on Tuesday, March 4, 2014, secondary to weather conditions. Mr. Lemoine proposed that May 22, 2014 be a full instructional day and be the last school day of the 2013-14 school year and that May 23, 2014 be Teacher Records Day.
On motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Board declares May 22, 2014 to be a full instructional day to make up for the missed school day of March 4, 2014 due to the weather and in the event of school having to close again this school year, that May 23, 2014 be used as a full instructional day to make up for that missed school day. MOTION CARRIED.
There being no further business, on motion by Van Kojis, seconded by John Gagnard, the meeting was adjourned.
AVOYELLES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Darrell Wiley, President
Dwayne Lemoine, Secretary-Treasurer