SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS

 

The Avoyelles Parish School Board met in regular session Tuesday, October 7, 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; Freeman Ford, James Gauthier, Lizzie Ned, Michael Lacombe, Van Kojis, and John Gagnard.

 

             Absent:   Shelia Blackman-Dupas.

                                                    

An Invocation was offered by Board Member John Gagnard.

                                                                                            

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

 

President Darrell Wiley announced that Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine was on a conference call at the moment; therefore, Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater would preside over the meeting in his absence.

 

             1.          On motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Board adopted the minutes of the regular Board meeting held Tuesday, September 2, 2014, as printed and mailed to Board members and published in The Weekly News, official journal of the Board.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             2.          Mrs. Lizzie Ned, Board Member, read a resolution of respect to the late Lemuel Bassett, former teacher and coach.

 

                           On motion by Lizzie Ned, seconded by Van Kojis, the Board adopted the resolution of respect to the late Lemuel Bassett.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             3.          Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater recognized the Students of the Month.  Ms.  Prater 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: Harlee Ortego, Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy; Gaven Johnson, Cottonport Elementary School; Meadow McNeal, Lafargue Elementary School; Tabitha St. Romain, Marksville Elementary School; Tre’ Perrin, Plaucheville Elementary School; Ericka Adams, Riverside Elementary School; Angel Drummer, Avoyelles High School; Kendricks Doucet, Bunkie New Tech High School; William Gaspard, LaSAS; and Kyra Harris, Marksville High School.

                           On behalf of the Board, President Darrell Wiley commended the students on their accomplishments.

 

                           Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine arrived to the meeting at approximately 5:06 p.m., and Board Member Freeman Ford arrived at 5:12 p.m.

                                       

             4.          Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine and Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater recognized the Teachers of the Month.  Mr. Lemoine presented a plaque to each teacher, as follows:

 

                            Brandi Bubenzer, Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy; Lauren Ducote, Cottonport Elementary School; Brittany Beaubouef, Lafargue Elementary School; Jackie Starns, Marksville Elementary School; Nettie Jeansonne, Plaucheville Elementary School; Vanessa Batiste, Riverside Elementary School; Kelsey Baker, Avoyelles High School; Phyllis Morris, Bunkie New Tech High School; Wayne Lemoine, LaSAS; and Shantella Barton, Marksville High School.

 

                           On behalf of the Board, President Darrell Wiley commended the teachers on their achievements.

 

             5.          Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine recognized students who placed in the Parliamentary Law Contest.  Mr. Lemoine stated that the students listed below were state winners at the FFA contest and won TOP JUNIOR HIGH TEAM in the state for parliamentary law.  He stated that James Desselle won first place in the state in his category at the state FFA science fair and was picked as one of only 15 students to compete at the national level.  Both the parliamentary law team and James will be competing at the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky October 26 - November 1, 2014.

 

                           The following students will participate in the National Parliamentary Procedure Contest: William Gaspard, Elise Turner, Halley Hallmeyer, Rubi Smith, Lauren Bordelon, Maddie Bordelon, Ainsley Gaspard, and Madison Ward.

 

                           James Desselle will also be participating in the National Agriscience Fair.                            

                           On behalf of the Board, President Darrell Wiley commended the students on their outstanding achievements.

 

             6.          Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine recognized and commended Ms. Dawn Pitre, teacher at LaSAS, for securing a “Dollar General Literacy Foundation Youth Literacy Grant” in the amount of $4000. The project is entitled “Moving Beyond the Four Walls of the Classroom.”  In Ms. Pitre’s absence, Principal Blaine Dauzat spoke on her behalf and announced that the grant money was used to purchase four new computers.

 

             7.          Mr. Wilfred Ducote, Sales Tax Collector, reported that sales tax collections for the month of August, 2014 totaled $633,479.76.  Mr. Ducote stated that of this amount, the 1.5% sales tax generated $542,998.65 and the 0.25% sales tax generated $90,481.11.

 

             8.          Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the Board regarding providing a one-time employee supplement.  He announced there was a surplus in the amount of approximately $700,000 in last year’s budget and recommended that teachers and support personnel be given a one-time supplement.

 

                           On motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by Van Kojis, the Board approved a one-time employee supplement in the amount of $600 per teacher and $400 per support personnel due to a surplus in the 2013-14 budget.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             9.          Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine addressed the Board regarding the elementary school PBIS Basketball League.  Mr. Lemoine stated that each elementary school will have a basketball league.  Beginning October 18, 2014, tournaments will begin for all six elementary leagues.  Players must maintain good academic standing and good behavior in order to participate.

 

             10.        On motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., the Board agreed to move an item under miscellaneous business up on the agenda.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           Ms. Andrea Aymond, candidate for Twelfth Judicial District Court, Division A,  addressed the Board regarding her bid for Judge.

 

             11.        On motion by John Gagnard, seconded by Van Kojis, the Board agreed to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing (1) Pending litigation - Stephen Allgood versus Avoyelles Parish School Board; (2) Pending litigation - Avoyelles Parish School Board versus United States of America, United States Department of the Interior for the Use and Benefit of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, et al, Docket Number 08-1374; (3) 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; and (4) a personnel matter.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           On motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by Freeman Ford, the Board reconvened in open public session at approximately 6:58 p.m.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           Board Member Van Kojis made a motion to uphold Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine’s recommendation to terminate the employee who was discussed in the personnel matter addressed during Executive Session.  The motion died due to lack of a second.

 

             12.        Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, requested approval of a Supplemental Course Allocation Collaborative Endeavor Application.

 

                           Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by John Gagnard, the Board granted approval of a Supplemental Course Allocation Collaborative Endeavor Application.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             13.        Mrs. Susan Welch, Supervisor of Secondary Education, presented an update report on the Common Core State Standards.  

 

                           Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine left the meeting at approximately 7:12 p.m. and was replaced by Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater.

 

             14.        Mr. Michael Lacombe, Chairman of the Finance Committee, presented the following report:

Finance Committee Report

September 23, 2014

 

                           The Finance Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, September 23, 2014, at 4:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

 

                           Michael Lacombe, Chairman; Freeman Ford; Van Kojis; Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr.; Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent.  Also present were James Gauthier, Shelia Blackman-Dupas,  Lizzie Ned, and John Gagnard, Board Members; Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance; and other personnel.

 

                           1.          Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Van Kojis,  the Finance Committee recommended to approve requests for overnight travel as presented by Superintendent Lemoine.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           2.          Upon motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr. , the Finance Committee recommended to donate up to $250 each for nine LaSAS students to attend the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky from October 27 - November 1, 2014.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           3.          Mrs. Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent, presented the Needs Assessment Committee Report, as follows:

 

Needs Assessment Committee

September 11, 2014

 

                           The  Needs Assessment Committee met on Thursday, September 11, 2014, at 3:30 p.m. at the School Board Office, with the following members present:

 

                           Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Lizzie Ned, and Darrell Wiley, Board Members; Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent; Thelma J. Prater, Assistant Superintendent; Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance; and Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor.  Also present were James Gauthier, Van Kojis, and Michael Lacombe, Board Members.

 

                           Mrs. Mary Bonnette reviewed the 2014-2015 budget with the committee which provides for $74,159 per semester. 

 

                           A motion was offered by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, to approve the 2014-2015 budget as presented.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

BUNKIE ELEMENTARY LEARNING ACADEMY

 

                           (1)         A request was made for Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy to contract an exterminator for the Pre-K building.  Mr. Steve Marcotte reported there is a contract in place with Orkin for monthly services.

 

                           (2)         Replace cabinet sink and countertop in class.  This request will be addressed by the maintenance department.  Maintenance will clean and check for mold.

 

                           (3)         Entrances to Pre-K restrooms need to be made handicap-accessible.  Mr. Steve Marcotte will have plans drafted to make restroom accessible (establish a budget).

 

                           (4)         Replace door handles/knobs on Pre-K restroom door and back exit doors.  Maintenance will replace the handles/knobs.

 

                           (5)         Replace handmade partition/shelves in Pre-K classroom.  Members of the maintenance department will visit the classroom to evaluate the condition of the handmade cabinets.

 

                           (6)         Replace/paint hardware in current Pre-K entry doors to match the rest of the school.  Maintenance department will address request along with plans to make restrooms handicap-accessible.

 

                           (7)         Install hot water in cafeteria for hand washing.  Maintenance department will address this request. (District-wide concern)

 

                           (8)         Playground needs to be resurfaced.  Maintenance department will address request.

 

                           (9)         Clean ducts and install a cover over vent in restroom. Maintenance department will address this request.                                      

 

                           (10)       Install intercom system in gymnasium.  Maintenance will handle request.

 

                           (11)       Rubber pads to cover ten (10) iron braces in the gym.  Maintenance will handle request.

 

                           (12)       Student desks.  Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, to deny request to purchase desks for Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy for the following reason:  $20,000 is set aside annually to purchase desks and BELA was granted $21,180 for school year 2013-2014 to purchase desks.  MOTION CARRIED.  (This year we are targeting Bunkie New Tech  High school for student desks.)

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (13)       Landscape the area in front and side of new gym.  A quote for services is requested.

 

                           (14)       Landscape the front of the school. This is a custodian concern.

 

                           (15)       Air conditioner is not working in kitchen area.  The air conditioner has been repaired.

 

                           (16)       Computer lab is not up and running.  Maintenance is fixing the floor in lab.

 

                           (17)       Tower in front of school.  Will it be moved?  We will need to contact DETEL.

 

                           (18)       Steam table needs repairing or replacing.  Maintenance has repaired the steam table.

 

The Committee reviewed the following purchase orders:

 

                           Purchase Order Number 150

 

                           (19)       Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase tables and chairs to replace the library furniture at Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy at a cost of $1,682.20.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.

 

                           (20)       Request to build a new auditorium at Bunkie New Tech High School.  Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Thelma Prater, to deny the request to build a new auditorium  at Bunkie New Tech High School.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

                                       

                           (21)       Construct a track field at Bunkie New Tech High School that is comparable to the other high schools. 

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended that Steve Marcotte conduct a study to determine a cost to upgrade the tracks at each of the three (3) high schools to get them completely resurfaced, all at the same equitable condition.  MOTION CARRIED. 

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

                                       

                           (22)       Request to replace bleachers at Bunkie New Tech High School. 

 

                                        Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, to deny the request to replace bleachers at Bunkie New Tech High School in view of the fact that the bleachers have been repaired and are in working condition.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (23)       Purchase Order Number 151

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended to purchase a fence for the home side in front of the bleachers to the concession stand by the track at Bunkie New Tech High School at a cost of $4,490.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.

 

                           (24)       Cottonport Elementary School: Alarm in lobby.  Maintenance is in the process of repairing.

 

                           (25)       Purchase Order Number 152

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended to purchase six (6) telephones for the classrooms at Cottonport Elementary School at a cost of $2,457.  MOTION CARRIED.

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.

 

                           (26)       Purchase Order 153

 

                                        Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, the committee recommended to purchase a fence to be placed around the playground for Cottonport Elementary School, pending two (2) more quotes not to exceed $5,800.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (27)       Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended for Steve Marcotte to assess the condition of the gymnasium doors at Cottonport Elementary School.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

                           (28)       Purchase Order 154

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Thelma Prater, the committee recommended to purchase stage curtains and installation for Lafargue Elementary School at a cost of $4,200.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.

 

                           (29)       Purchase Order 155

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended to renovate the boys’ and girls’ restrooms in the gymnasium at Lafargue Elementary School at a cost of $13,450 in order to bring them up to an equitable level to the other elementary schools in the district.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (30)       Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended for Steve Marcotte to gather more information on the usage of the storage building requested by Marksville Elementary School.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (31)       Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended to purchase a wireless PA system for Marksville Elementary School that is equivalent to the one purchased at Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy, not to exceed the cost of $4,999.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.

 

                           (32)       Purchase Order Number 157

 

                                        Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Dwayne Lemoine, the committee recommended to have the locks re-keyed at Marksville Elementary School after an assessment has been done by the Maintenance Department, not to exceed $5000.     MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.

                           (33)       Purchase Order Number 158

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Thelma Prater, the committee recommended to purchase a five-month subscription for Aleks Math at Riverside Elementary School in the amount of $8250.  A project submission request must accompany the order request.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (34)       Purchase Order Number 159

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Steve Marcotte, the committee recommended to purchase 35 telephones for the classrooms at Plaucheville Elementary School in the amount of $14,332.50.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (35)       Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to deny the request to purchase security cameras for Plaucheville Elementary School in the amount of $7,860.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (36)       Purchase Order 160

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase a fence for the playground area at Plaucheville Elementary School in the amount of $8,600.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee approved the motion unanimously.

 

                           (37)       Purchase Order 161

 

                                        Upon motion by Dwayne Lemoine, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the committee recommended to purchase a sign for the Media Center in the amount of $2,830.  MOTION CARRIED.

                                       

                                        The Needs Assessment Committee did not take any action since the purchase price was below $5000.

 

                           Upon motion by Steve Marcotte, seconded by Mary Bonnette, the meeting was adjourned.

                                                                                Thelma J. Prater, Assistant Superintendent

 

                           Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Van Kojis, the Finance Committee recommended to approve the report.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             4.          Mrs. Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance, reviewed the 2013-2014 General Fund Budget and results of operations. She reported to the committee that a surplus of $690,435 was generated for the 2013-2014 fiscal year.

 

                           The committee discussed the need to purchase a special needs bus as soon as possible and the item will be discussed at the next Bus Committee meeting.

 

                           The possibility of an additional supplement was discussed.

 

                           Mrs. Bonnette reported to the committee that a dividend payment in the amount of  $90,080.63 was received by PCAL. 

 

The Finance Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.

 

                                                                                Michael Lacombe, Chairman

                                                                                Finance Committee

                          

                           A motion was offered by Michael Lacombe, seconded by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., for the Board to adopt the Finance Committee report as presented by Chairman Lacombe.  The motion was adopted by the following vote:

 

                                        Ayes:    Michael Lacombe, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Freeman Ford, James Gauthier, Darrell Wiley, Van Kojis, and John Gagnard.

 

                                        Nays:    Lizzie Ned.

 

             15.        Mr. Van Kojis, Chairman of the Building and Lands Committee, presented the following report:

Building and Lands Committee Report

September 23, 2014

 

                           The Building and Lands Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, September 23, 2014, at 5:00 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

 

                           Van Kojis, Chairman; Michael Lacombe, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, James Gauthier, Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent. Also present were Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Freeman Ford, Lizzie Ned, and John Gagnard, Board Members; Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent; Irma Andress, Director of Federal Programs; Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance; Karen Williams, Special Services Supervisor; Demetria Alexander, Federal Programs Supervisor; and Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor.

 

                           1.          Mr. James Gauthier, Member of the Building and Lands Committee, addressed the committee regarding the former Hessmer High School property.

 

                                        Upon motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by James Gauthier, the Building and Lands Committee recommended that the Superintendent request Assistant District Attorney Anthony Salario to verify the financing package requested by the Town of Hessmer with the School Board bonding attorney and to proceed with the sale of the property, subject to Federal Court approval.  MOTION CARRIED.  Update: Assistant District Attorney Anthony Salario stated that the School Board cannot finance the sale of the property–it must be sold outright.

 

                           2.          Mayor Kenneth Picket and Councilman Gaon Escude addressed the Building and Lands Committee regarding the Town of Mansura purchasing the former Mansura Middle main building.

 

                                        Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Building and Lands Committee recommended to have the former Mansura Middle main building appraised for consideration by the Town of Mansura.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           3.          Mr. Brent Scallan addressed the committee regarding approval for an easement to run a water line on Pecan Drive (Spring Bayou) on Section 16 properties.

 

                                        Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Building and Lands Committee recommended to have the property appraised and draft an agreement for review and approval.  MOTION CARRIED.

                           4.          Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor, addressed the Building and Lands Committee regarding the Avoyelles Child Development Services, Incorporated (Headstart Program.)

 

                                        Upon motion by James Gauthier, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Building and Lands Committee recommended that the Board approve the lease with the Avoyelles Child Development Services with changes.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           5.          Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor, presented an appraisal of the Bunkie Middle School properties.

 

                                        Mr. Arthur Lovall, Citizen of Bunkie, addressed the committee regarding the Bunkie Middle School.

                                        The Building and Lands Committee recommended that no action be taken until the property is placed for public bid to include the gymnasium and cafeteria. 

 

                           6.          Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater addressed the Building and Lands Committee regarding Pre-K buildings at Bunkie Elementary Learning Academy, Cottonport Elementary School, and Marksville Elementary School.

 

                           7.          Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor, discussed campsite insurance.

                                       

                                        Upon motion by Van Kojis, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Building and Lands Committee recommended that the Superintendent form an Ad Hoc Committee to address insurance for the leases.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           8.          Mr. Steve Marcotte, Maintenance Supervisor, presented a report on plans for the Marksville High School Auditorium.

 

                           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 Michael Lacombe, the Board adopted the Building and Lands Committee report as presented by Chairman Kojis.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           Board Member Lizzie Ned left the meeting at approximately 7:30 p.m.

 

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

Education Committee Report

September 23, 2014

 

                           The Education Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, September 23, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

 

                           James Gauthier, Chairman; John Gagnard, Shelia Blackman-Dupas, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Darrell Wiley, President; and Thelma Prater , Assistant  Superintendent.  Also present were Lizzie Ned, Michael Lacombe, and Freeman Ford, Board Members; Mary Bonnette, Director of Finance; and Debbie Bain, Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance.

 

                           1.          Upon motion by John Gagnard, seconded by Shelia Blackman-Dupas, the Education Committee recommended to table a discussion of the common core curriculum and place this item on the October 7, 2014 Board agenda. MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           2.          Ms. Debbie Bain, Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance, discussed discipline reports as compared to reports from this time last year.

 

                           3.          Ms. Debbie Bain, Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance, presented a report on the Avoyelles Virtual Alternative Program regarding the number of students and success rate.

 

                           4.          Mrs. Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent, presented a report on staffing.  Ms. Prater reported on the number of certified and uncertified teachers at each school and the number of vacancies.

 

                           The Education Committee respectfully recommends the adoption of this report.

 

                                                                                James Gauthier, Chairman

                                                                                Education Committee

 

                           On motion by James Gauthier, seconded by John Gagnard, the Board adopted the Education Committee report as presented by Chairman Gauthier.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             16.        President Darrell Wiley, on behalf of Mr. Freeman Ford, Chairman of the Executive Committee, presented the following report:

 

Executive Committee Report

September 30, 2014

 

                           The Executive Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, September 30, 2014, at 4:30 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

 

                           Lizzie Ned, John Gagnard, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent.  Mr. Freeman Ford was absent. Also present were James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, and Van Kojis, Board Members; Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent; Irma Andress, Director of Federal Programs; Debbie Bain, Supervisor of Child Welfare and Attendance; and Richard Robinson, Network Administrator.

 

                           1.          Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine recognized Members of the Avoyelles Parish School Board who qualified for Distinguished Board Member designation: Darrell Wiley, Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., James Gauthier, and Michael Lacombe.

 

                           2.          Superintendent Dwayne Lemoine presented revisions to the Student Handbook for 2014-2015 school year.

 

                                        Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Lizzie Ned, the Executive Committee recommended to accept the revisions to the Student Handbook. MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           3.          Upon motion by John Gagnard, seconded by Lizzie Ned, the Executive Committee recommended to begin the E-Rate process for fiscal year 2015-2016.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           4.          President Darrell Wiley presented revisions to File: BC - Meetings and File: BBC - Board Committees, as follows:

 

                                        File: BC - Meetings

                                        President Wiley recommended to revise the starting time of the meeting to 5:00 p.m.

 

                                        File: BBC - Board Committees

                                        President Wiley recommended to strike, “Letter G. Public Relations Committee”, and strike “EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE - The Executive Committee shall meet on an as-needed basis”.

 

                                        Upon motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by John Gagnard, the Executive Committee recommended to adopt the revisions as proposed.  MOTION CARRIED.

            

                           5.          Mr. Van Kojis, Board Member, discussed File: BBA - Officers which regards election of officers for the School Board.

 

                                        Upon motion by Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., seconded by Lizzie Ned, the Executive Committee recommended to bring this item before the full Board for a vote.

 

                           The Executive Committee respectfully requests the adoption of this report.

 

                                                                                Darrell Wiley, President

 

                           Regarding Item Number 5, Board Member Van Kojis offered a motion to allow the President of the School Board to succeed him/herself for only one year if nominated with a second and receives five (5) votes.  The motion died due to lack of a second.

 

                           On motion by Darrell Wiley, seconded by Michael Lacombe, the Board adopted the Executive Committee report as presented by President Wiley.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             17.        Mr. John Gagnard, Chairman of the Bus Committee, presented the following report:

 

Bus Committee Report

September 30, 2014

 

                           The Bus Committee of the Avoyelles Parish School Board met Tuesday, September 30, 2014, at 5:00 p.m. at the School Board Office with the following members present:

 

                           John Gagnard, Chairman; James Gauthier, Michael Lacombe, Lizzie Ned, Darrell Wiley, President; and Dwayne Lemoine, Superintendent.  Also present were  Carlos A. Mayeux, Jr., and Van Kojis, Board Members; Thelma Prater, Assistant Superintendent; Wilfred Ducote, Transportation Supervisor; and several bus drivers.

 

                           1.          Mr. Wilfred Ducote, Transportation Supervisor, addressed the Bus Committee regarding Act 654 which deals with bus drivers and their routes.

 

                                        The Bus Committee recommended to study this matter and not take any action at this time.

 

                           2.          The Bus Committee discussed the purchase one (1) special needs bus.

 

                                        Upon motion by Lizzie Ned, seconded by James Gauthier, the Bus Committee recommended that the Board purchase a special needs bus.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

                           The Bus Committee respectfully requests the adoption of this report.

 

                                                                                John Gagnard, Chairman

                                                                                Bus Committee

            

                           On motion by John Gagnard, seconded by Van Kojis, the Board adopted the Bus Committee report as presented by Chairman Gagnard.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

             18.        Assistant Superintendent Thelma Prater presented personnel changes for the Board’s review:

PERSONNEL CHANGES

 

BUNKIE ELEMENTARY LEARNING ACADEMY: Resignation of Kadie B. Glaser, teacher, effective at the end of the day October 7, 2014.

 

COTTONPORT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Casey Nastasi, (TAT) Kindergarten teacher, effective August 28, 2014 through December 19, 2014; and Re-appointment of Lontage D. Woods, (TAT) teacher, effective September 12, 2014 through December 19, 2014.

 

LAFARGUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Phyllis Jeansonne, food service technician, effective August 6, 2014, replacing Belinda Mathews; Appointment of Priscilla Whittington, food service technician, effective October 3, 2014, replacing Elizabeth Barron; and Rsignation of Elizabeth Barron, food service technician, effective September 22, 2014, for the purpose of retirement. 

 

MARKSVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Curtis S. Bertrand, (TAT) teacher, effective September 23, 2014 through December 19, 2014; and Resignation of Linda Bernis, teacher, effective at the end of the day September 4, 2014.

 

PLAUCHEVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Resignation of Cheryl Lemoine, teacher, effective October 7, 2014, for the purpose of retirement.

 

AVOYELLES HIGH SCHOOL: Re-appointment of Anne Lemoine, band director, effective September 3, 2014 through October 3, 2014. BUNKIE NEW TECH HIGH SCHOOL: Appointment of Reginald Davis, teacher, effective August 19, 2014 through May 21, 2015, replacing Allen Thomas; Re-appointment of Valerie Chesne, teacher, effective September 16, 2014 through October 17, 2014; Appointment of Candi Williams, (TAT) teacher,  effective September 17, 2014 through October 17, 2014; and Appointment of Brandi Williams, (TAT) teacher, effective September 18, 2014 through October 17, 2014.

 

LOUISIANA SCHOOL FOR THE AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES: Resignation of Curtiss Lindsay, teacher, effective September 10, 2014; and Resignation of Susan Jeansonne, (retired) teacher, effective at the end of the day October 10, 2014.

 

MARKSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL: Appointment of Syril Jackson, (TAT) teacher, effective September 17, 2014 through December 19, 2014; Resignation of Nealie Hale, teacher, effective at the end of the day September 5, 2014; and Resignation of Theresa Dubroc, teacher, effective August 5, 2014.

 

AVOYELLES PARISH PUPIL APPRAISAL CENTER: Appointment of Ronald Roy, (retired) gifted teacher, effective September 16, 2014 through December 19, 2014.

 

ADDENDUM(S)

10/7/2014

 

PLAUCHEVLLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Appointment of Tonya M. Guillory, teacher, effective October 7, 2014 through May 21, 2015.

 

AVOYELLES HIGH SCHOOL: Appointment of Mackenzie Foreman, (TAT) teacher, effective September 26, 2014 through October 24, 2014.

 

LOUISIANA SCHOOL FOR THE AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES: Appointment of Melissa D. Williams, (TAT) teacher, effective October 13, 2014 through November 14, 2014.

 

AVOYELLES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD CENTRAL OFFICE: Renewal of an administrative  contract for Susan Welch, Supervisor of Secondary Education, effective November 1, 2014 through October 31, 2016; and Renewal of an administrative contract for  Demetria Alexander, Supervisor of Federal Programs, effective November 20, 2014 through November 19, 2016

 

             19.        In miscellaneous business, the Board agreed to reschedule the next regular School Board meeting to Thursday, November 6, 2014 due to the fact that Tuesday, November 4, is Election Day.

 

             There being no further business, on motion by Michael Lacombe, seconded by Van Kojis, the meeting was adjourned.

 

AVOYELLES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD

     

Darrell Wiley, President

 

Dwayne Lemoine, Secretary-Treasurer