04-03-2001

DATE, TIME, PLACE OF MEETING

The Calcasieu Parish School Board met in the Conference Room of the Calcasieu Parish School Board located at 1732 Kirkman Street, Lake Charles, Louisiana, on Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at 5:00 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Sheral A. LaVergne, President. L. J. "Berk" Fontenot led the prayer; Joe A. Andrepont led the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL

The roll was called and the following members were present:

Joe A. Andrepont, Randall C. Armentor, Wilridge P. Doucet, Clara F. Duhon, Jay L. Duhon, Carla C. Duplechin, John M. Falgout, L. J. "Berk" Fontenot, James W. Karr, Sr., Sheral A. LaVergne, James W. Pitre, Gregory P. Robert, and Elray T. Victorian. Philip Tarver was absent. Mr. Blackwell entered the meeting later.

MINUTES APPROVED

On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mr. Andrepont and unanimously carried, the minutes of the regular meeting of March 20, 2001, were approved as presented.

Approve Supplemental Agenda

By general consent of the Board, the Supplemental Agenda was included as part of the regular agenda; Item VI-C, Item VIII-G & K was removed from the agenda.

RECOGNIZE SCHOOL REPRESENTATIVES

Ms. LaVergne recognized representatives present from the following schools: Oak Park Elementary, Oak Park Middle, F. K. White Middle and Sulphur High.

PRESENTATIONS

Business Education Award

The Chair recognized Pat McManemin, Business Education Consultant for Calcasieu Parish. Mrs. McManemin announced that Lorna Ellender was named Louisiana Family & Consumer Science Teacher of the Year as well as Louisiana Pro-Start Teacher of the Year.

Ms. Ellender addressed the Board stating 2000-2001 had been a great year with a lot of support from her school. She thanked the Board for their support of the programs.

Mr. Blackwell entered the meeting.

Advanced Placement Program

Mr. Doucet announced that the Advanced Placement Program presentation had been placed on the agenda at his request.

Gay Arnold, Supervisor of Gifted, Calcasieu Parish School System, gave an overview of the Gifted Program and recognized all of the Advanced Placement teachers in the program.

Minh Le from LaGrange High School and Andee Savoy from Sulphur High gave a short presentation regarding their experiences with the Advanced Placement Program.

Advanced Placement teachers, A. J. Reon, Barbe High and June Burke, Itinerant teacher for Sam Houston and Westlake High Schools presented their experiences with the program. The consensus of all was that the program required much time and commitment.

Mr. Theriot stated that a debt of gratitude was owed to the Advanced Placement Program teachers for their commitment in going beyond what was required of regular classroom teachers.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Curriculum & Instruction

Mr. Doucet, Chair, reported that the Curriculum and Instruction Committee met on Thursday, March 22, 2001; a quorum was present.

The first item of discussion of the Reading (K-5), Reading/Literature (6-8) and Language Arts (9-12) Textbook Adoption. Elementary Curriculum Specialists, Johnnie Sue Moore and Shirley McKee introduced members of the Elementary Reading Textbook Selection Committee. The Committee voted unanimously to recommend Scott Foresman Reading as the new reading program for elementary schools, grades K-5. Motion was made, seconded and carried to approve the adoption of Scott Foresman Reading as the new reading program for elementary schools.

Mr. Doucet moved, on behalf of the Committee to accept the Scott Foresman Reading series as the new reading program for elementary schools, grades K-5. Motion carried unanimously.

Fred Hardy, Language Arts Supervisor, 6-8, introduced the Reading/Literature Middle School Textbook Adoption Committee. Mr. Hardy announced that the Textbook Committee’s recommendation was Glencoe, McGraw Hill, Reader’s Choice. A motion was made carried and approved in Committee to accept the Textbook Committee recommendation of Glencoe, McGraw Hill, Reader’s Choice as the Reading/Literature Middle School textbook.

Mr. Doucet moved, on behalf of the Committee to approve the Glencoe, McGraw Hill, Reader’s Choice as the Reading/Literature Middle School textbook. Motion carried unanimously.

Sandra Comeaux, High School Language Arts Consultant, introduced the High School Language Arts Textbook Adoption Committee. The recommendation of the Textbook Committee was the Glencoe Grammar and Composition textbook, Writer’s Choice. Motion was made, seconded and carried to accept the Glencoe Grammar and Composition textbook, Writer’s Choice as the High School Language Arts textbook.

Mr. Doucet moved, on behalf of the Committee to accept the Glencoe Grammar and Composition textbook, Writer’s Choice as the High School Language Arts textbook. Motion carried unanimously.

The next item was the approval of the 2001 Summer School Regulations. Mr. Miller explained the only change in the regular summer school regulations was a site change from E. K. Key to D. S. Perkins.

Mr. Doucet moved, on behalf of the Committee to approve the 2001 Summer School Regulations as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

2001 SUMMER SCHOOL

CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL SYSTEM

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SUMMER SESSION (Grades 1-5):

SUMMER SCHOOL LOCATIONS:

D. S. Perkins Elementary

Pearl Watson Elementary

SCHEDULE:

Teacher Inservice June 1, 2001

Registration June 4, 2001

Session Begins June 5, 2001

Application Approval Due in Central Office June 11, 2001

Session Ends and Final Report Due in Central Office July 24, 2001

CLASSES BEGIN AT 7:30 A.M.

PURPOSE:

To enable students to remove deficiencies and be considered for promotion to the next grade.

To strengthen skills in reading and mathematics.

CONTROL:

Any student may attend summer school for the purpose of promotion to the next grade. The principal of the last school attended shall determine the subject/s to be taken for promotion. This should be sent to the principal of the summer school or his designee on forms provided by the School Board office.

If a student attended a school outside of Calcasieu Parish, the decision to enter summer school for promotional considerations will be left to the discretion of the summer school principal or his designee.

It shall be the duty of the summer school principal or his designee to send a report on each child attending school to the principal of the school which the child regularly attends. The forms for this report shall be provided by the School Board office.

ASSIGNMENT OF TEACHERS:

A teacher who is interested in teaching summer school shall file an application with C&I Elementary, attention: Mr. George Reado or Mrs. Dolores Hicks. The principal of summer school or his designee and supervisory staff shall make teacher assignments.

SCHEDULING:

Summer school principals or designees shall file a schedule of subjects offered with the School Board office no later than the close of the first week of school. Summer school teachers who are teaching subject(s) for the purpose of strengthening or promotion shall meet all certification regulations that regular session teachers are required to meet.

Tutoring during the summer session which is given outside the school is for the purpose of strengthening the pupil and only under unusual circumstances will credit or examination be given. These cases must be cleared with the Central Office prior to the beginning of tutoring.

All courses offered in a school shall be under the supervision of the principal who shall regulate all fees and schedules, according to the regulations stated above.

A principal of summer school or his designee is expected to keep a record of all activities.

FEES AND TUITION:

A teacher is entitled to earn an amount per month not in excess of his/her monthly salary during the past regular session. (Teacher salaries will be contingent upon fees collected from summer school participants.)

The maximum salary to be earned by the principal of a summer school or his designee shall be limited to eighty percent (80%) of his/her annual salary per month.

Tuition shall be $150.00 per subject.

If a student drops out during the first week, he/she will receive a refund; thereafter, no refund will be made.

Substitute pay shall be $15.00 per day or an amount not to exceed the pay of the regular teacher, whichever is less. Payment for substitute teachers shall be deducted from the regular teacher’s salary.

LENGTH OF TERM:

A student shall attend summer school for no more than four (4) hours per day. The working day for teachers shall be five (5) hours per day. The length of the summer term shall be seven (7) weeks. Regular attendance is required during summer school and excused absences shall be the same as those named in the existing compulsory school laws.

ENROLLMENT PER CLASS:

Enrollment in classes offered for promotional consideration will not exceed a pupil-teacher ratio of 1:15 in grades 1-3 and 1:20 in grades 4-8. Classes for strengthening or enrichment could exceed these ratios.

CONDITIONS AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS:

A student may be admitted to summer school under any of the following conditions or any combination of same at the discretion of the principal.

A student attending summer school for promotional purposes cannot enroll for more than one (1) subject.

They must complete at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the subject requirements for that grade level (to be determined by the teacher).

They will receive instruction for a 120 minute period each day in each subject.

Those students attending summer school for enrichment and/or remedial purposes will attend each subject for a minimum of 120 minutes per day in each subject.

SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSES AND CENTERS:

Extended School Year Program is provided ONLY for identified special education students whose IEP indicates a need.

SUMMER SCHOOL LOCATIONS (TENTATIVE):

Drost School for Exceptional Children

LaGrange High School

College Oaks Elementary School

Sulphur High School

Pearl Watson Elementary School

Other sites according to need

SCHEDULE:

Session begins Thursday, June 7, 2001, and will continue throughout the summer. Students will attend according to their IEP. Teachers’ inservice will be Wednesday, June 6, 2001.

CLASS SCHEDULE:

Classes begin at 9:00 a.m.—or in accordance with each student’s IEP.

Classes dismiss at 12:00 Noon—or in accordance with each student’s IEP.

Teachers/aides remain at school until 12:30 p.m.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SUMMER SESSION (Grades 6-8):

SUMMER SCHOOL LOCATIONS:

W. W. Lewis Middle School
F. K. White Middle School
Oak Park Middle School
(If needed, S. J. Welsh Middle School)

SCHEDULE:

Registration (at each school site) May 31, 2001
Beginning classes June 4, 2001
Schedules shall be filed in Middle School Department June 11, 2001
Holidays July 4, 2001
Session Ends (regular) July 20, 2001
(LEAP) July 13, 2001
CLASSES BEGIN DAILY AT 7:00 A.M.

ADMINISTRATION:

Summer school shall be administered and supervised by the principal of the school in which the classes are assembled.

In the event the principal of the school is not available, the Administrative Director of Middle Schools will appoint an acting principal.

Students will attend regular summer school to remove deficiencies for promotion to the next grade. Only courses failed may be taken during regular summer school. The principal of the last school attended will determine the subject/s to be taken during regular summer school for promotion.

TUITION:

Students shall pay $150 per unit of work in regular summer school.
Students attending for LEAP remediation in English/LA and/or Math and also for failed course work in English/LA and/or Math shall pay $32 for continuing in regular summer school for promotion to the next grade.
TEACHER ASSIGNMENT:
Teachers interested in regular summer school employment shall file an application with the principal of the school. The Central Office Staff and the principal of the school will assign teachers.

SALARIES:

During regular summer school, a teacher is entitled to earn up to an amount per month equal to his/her monthly salary during the regular school session.
A teacher assigned for six hours per day shall be considered full-time and salaries shall be prorated accordingly for teachers less that full-time.
During regular summer school, a principal is entitled to earn up to an amount that does not exceed 80% of one-tenth of his/her salary per month during the regular summer session

HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER SESSION (Grades 9-12):

SUMMER SCHOOL LOCATIONS:

A.M. Barbe High School
Lake Charles/Boston High School
LaGrange High School
Sulphur High School

SCHEDULE:

Registration & Session Begins June 1, 2001
Application Approval/Schedule Due in Central Office
(Mr. Jongbloed) June 8, 2001
Holiday July 4, 2001
High School Session Ends (Report Cards) July 31, 2001
Saturday Sessions June 16, July 7, July 21, 2001
CLASSES BEGIN AT 7:00 A.M.

ADMINISTRATION:

Summer school shall be administered and supervised by the principal of the school in which the classes are assembled.

In the event the principal of the school is not available to administer and/or supervise summer school, the principal and the Calcasieu Parish supervisory staff shall appoint an acting principal.

High school summer school must be held in an approved high school building with library and science departments made available.

Any student may attend summer school for the purpose of removing deficiencies for promotion to the next grade. Only remedial work, or repeat course work by students who have failed a course may be taken. No NEW credit may be taken in summer school unless this requirement is waived by the Superintendent. The principal of the last school attended shall determine the subject(s) to be taken for promotion. This information/permission should be sent to the principal of the summer school.

FEES AND TUITION:

A teacher is entitled to earn up to an amount per month equal to his/her monthly salary during the regular session.
A teacher who teaches six (6) hours a day is considered a full-time teacher and salaries shall be prorated accordingly for teachers teaching less than full-time.
Tuition shall be $150.00 per unit of work or $80.00 per one-half (1/2) unit of work.
The maximum salary to be earned by the principal of a summer school shall be limited to eighty percent (80%) of one-tenth (1/10) of his/her annual salary per month.
CURRICULUM AND TIME REQUIREMENTS:
Curriculum and time requirements shall conform to State Department of Education regulations as contained in Bulletin 741.

ASSIGNMENT OF TEACHERS:

A teacher who is interested in teaching summer school subjects shall file application with the principal of the school. The principal and supervisory staff shall make assignments of summer school teachers.

SCHEDULING:

Summer school principals shall file a copy of the schedule and State Report with Mr. Jongbloed at the Central Office by June 8, 2001.
Summer school teachers shall be required to meet all certification regulations that regular session teachers are required to meet.
Tutoring which is given outside the school is for the purpose of strengthening the pupil, and under no circumstances will credit or examinations be given.
Non-credit courses offered in a school shall be under the supervision of the principal who shall regulate all fees and schedules.

2001 Procedures for Reporting Summer Employment Payrolls for Summer Schools, Driver and Vocational Education, and Summer Custodial Personnel

All department heads or supervisors handling summer school employment will be responsible for seeing that all employees eligible for summer school complete the following:

Complete a Summer School Employment form:

The Summer School Employment Form must be signed by the principal or department head as well as the appropriate assistant or associate superintendent.

The assistant or associate superintendent must file the completed Summer School Employment forms in Room 25, Personnel Department, on or before Friday, June 8, 2001.

All employees eligible for summer employment must be listed on the payroll form with their correct social security number, name, total amount to be paid, and the correct budget code from which the summer employment is to be paid. Each payroll must be signed by the respective department head or supervisor.

All elementary, middle, and high school payrolls are to be turned in to the respective assistant superintendent/director for his/her signature and approval.

IRS Regulations require a Fixed Federal Tax Rate of 28% for all supplemental pay NOT paid with an employee’s regular wages. When possible, the Payroll Department will include all supplemental pay with the employee’s regular wages on the regular scheduled pay date.

The two (2) payroll dates in which summer checks will be released will be on June 29, 2001 and August 15, 2001.

In order to comply with these two (2) dates, all payrolls that will be released June 29, 2001 will be due to the payroll department NO LATER than 10:00 a.m. on June 8, 2001. All payrolls that will be released on August 15, 2001 will be due to the payroll department NO LATER than August 3, 2001.

RECAP:

Payrolls Due Checks Released Method of Payment
June 8, 2001 June 29, 2001 Combined with regular check
August 3, 2001 August 15, 2001 Separate check
The paychecks dated June 30, 2001, will be mailed. The method of disbursement for the August 15th paycheck will be determined by the department head or supervisor. Unless the department head picks up ALL his/her respective summer employment checks, the checks will be mailed.
Next the Committee heard a presentation from Gay Arnold, Supervisor of Gifted Program. Students and teachers shared their experiences in working with the program. The common theme was time and commitment. This item was for informational purposes and required no action.

TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION

On motion by Mr. Andrepont, seconded by Mr. Duhon and unanimously carried, the following policies were approved:

Final Action: Policy File JBC/School Admission

FILE: JBC/SCHOOL ADMISSION

The School Board shall admit students to the schools of the school district under such rules and regulations as the Board may prescribe.

No student may be excluded from the appropriate school within the school district except by due process or failure to meet specifications of Board policies. The Board fully recognizes that providing equality of education opportunities for all children requires objectivity. The Board is equally concerned that all admission policies adhere strictly to applicable legal requirements.

No child shall be admitted to school for the first time until her or his parents do the following:

Obtain a Permit to Register form from the Office of Child Welfare and Attendance.

Present to school officials an official birth certificate. A short form birth certification card shall be acceptable. Only records from the registrar of vital statistics will be accepted. Children born in Louisiana will be given a fifteen- (15) day grace period to secure a copy of their birth record. Children born out of this state will be given thirty (30) days grace in which to produce a copy of their birth record. It shall be left to the discretion of the Superintendent or designee, subject to the authority of the Board, as to whether or not a child shall continue in school upon failure to comply herewith.

Present to school officials evidence of being or having been immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, poliomyelitis and measles and other vaccine preventable diseases according to a schedule approved by the Office of Public Health, Department of Health and Hospitals.

Present to school officials all official school records of school previously attended or information needed to access such records when transferring from another school to one inside the school district.

Present to school officials, as a prerequisite to enrolling in the first grade, evidence of having attended at least a full-day public or private kindergarten for a full school year; or of satisfactorily having passed academic readiness screening administered by the school system prior to the time of enrollment in first grade.

Present to school officials evidence of being bona fide residents of the Parish, with limited exception. However, children temporarily residing within the jurisdiction of the Board who have no permanent address, who have been abandoned by their parents, or who are in foster care, shall be admitted to school, except as may be allowed by statute.

Present to school officials satisfactory evidence that at least one of the child's parents or guardians has completed a parent orientation course conducted by a parish or city school board. However, no child shall be denied entry into school because a parent or guardian has not attended an orientation session.

ADMISSION OF EXPELLED STUDENTS

No student who has been expelled in accordance with state law from any school in the state shall be admitted to any school in the school system except upon the review and approval of the Board.
No student who has been expelled from any school outside the state of Louisiana or any nonpublic school within Louisiana for committing any of the offenses enumerated in state law shall be admitted to any school in the school system except upon the review and approval of the Board.

ADMISSION FROM UNAPPROVED SCHOOLS AND HOME STUDY

Student requesting admission from an unapproved school or home study program shall meet all admission requirements specified by state and local statutes and policies.

Revised: November, 1993

Revised: December, 1995

Revised: March, 1999

Revised: August, 2000

Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. d d 17:151.3, 17:221, 17:221.2, 17:222, 17:235.1, 17:238, 17:416; Singleton v. Jackson Municipal Separate School District, 419 F. 2d 1211 (5th Cir., 1970).

Final Action: Policy File IDBB/Alcohol, Tobacco, Drug and Substance Abuse Education Program

FILE: IDBB/ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, DRUG, AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE

EDUCATION PROGRAM

The School Board shall require a comprehensive alcohol, tobacco, drug, and substance abuse prevention education program be incorporated into every school of the parish that shall include grade appropriate programs on the education, prevention, and counseling of alcohol, tobacco, drug, and substance abuse. Such programs shall be included in the school program so that every student in grades kindergarten through nine is involved for a minimum of sixteen (16) contact hours every school year, and every student in grades ten through twelve is involved for a minimum of eight (8) contact hours every school year. The required minimum contact hours shall be incorporated into a comprehensive school health program.

As part of the alcohol, tobacco, drug, and substance abuse program, substance abuse counselors shall be appointed who shall visit every school regularly for the purpose of counseling students who have been identified as having an alcohol, tobacco, drug, or substance abuse problem.

Any student enrolled in school who is identified as having a substance abuse problem, including manufacture or distribution, shall be required to participate in the school drug-counseling program, or an equivalent approved by the Board.

Each school shall have a substance abuse prevention team, who membership shall be in accordance with statutory provisions, that shall investigate, research, and report on all instances or reports of possession of controlled dangerous substances or alcoholic beverages. The team shall adequately report their findings in writing and make appropriate recommendations for treatment, counseling, or other appropriate action to the principal of the school.

DRUG-FREE ZONES

It is unlawful for anyone to use, distribute, be under the influence of, manufacture or possess any controlled substances as defined by statute on or around school property or an area within 1000 feet of any property used for school purposes by any school, or on a school bus. These areas shall be designated as Drug-Free Zones. The School Board, in cooperation with local governmental agencies, and the State Department of Education, shall designate and mark Drug-Free Zones, which surround all schools and school property.

Revised: November, 1999

Revised: March, 2001

Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. d d 14:403.1, 17:154, 17:402, 17:403, 17:404, 17:405, 17:416.

Final Action: File DFI/Lease of School Lands

FILE: DFI/LEASE OF SCHOOL LANDS

The Board may execute a lease of any of its school land. Leases for the production and removal of minerals granted by or on behalf of the Board shall provide for a minimum of royalties of one-sixth on all oil and gas, sulfur, potash, and other minerals produced and saved and five percent (5%) on lignite and salt. All mineral leases shall be advertised, received, opened and accepted/rejected by the Board. The Board may reject any and all bids that may be submitted or may lease a lesser quantity of property than advertised and withdraw the rest.

Leases for the purposes of trapping, grazing, hunting, agriculture/farming or any other legitimate purposes other than for removal of oil, gas, or other minerals, may be executed on such terms and conditions as are in the best interest of the board and in compliance with state law. Such leases shall be awarded only after formal advertisement for and receipt of bids as set forth by state law.

Leases of sixteenth section lands on a share basis for the purpose of planting, cultivating, growing, and harvesting of any agricultural crop, shall not be required to be let by public bid.

The Board shall require all appropriate leases, as determined by the Board's legal adviser, to include the purchase of appropriate liability insurance by the individual or organization leasing the property, which shall hold the Board free from any liability that may result directly or indirectly from the leased property's usage.

GEOPHYSICAL OR SEISMIC SURVEY PERMITS

The School Board may grant permission for geophysical or seismic surveys to be conducted on School Board property. For the privilege of conducting seismograph exploration over and across lands owned by the School Board, application must be submitted to the board seeking permission to conduct surveys. If said application is approved by the Board, the applicant shall be permitted to conduct its seismographic operations in accordance with terms and conditions set forth in the permit agreement for a minimum fee as set by the Board. All applications shall contain pertinent information to adequately evaluate the proposed survey.

RIGHTS-OF-WAY

The Calcasieu Parish School Board may grant rights-of-way on school lands upon formal written request. No application for a right-of-way shall be considered unless certificate of publication of due notice is on file in the office of the School Board, showing advertisement of the pending application has been made two times within ten (10) days in the official journal of the parish wherein the school lands are situated. A fee may be charged for such privilege.

Revised: August, 2000

Ref: La. Const., Art. VII, Sec. 4(c); Art IX, Sec. 4(b); La. Rev. State. Ann d d 17:87, 17:87.1, 17:87.2, 17:87.3, 17:87.8, 30:121 et seq., 30:151 et seq., 41:1211-1224.

Final Action: Policy File GBRID/Military Leave

FILE: GBRID/MILITARY LEAVE

The Board shall grant military leave to employees of the Board upon proper submission of application for such leave. Leave with pay for military purposes shall be granted when leave is not to exceed fifteen (15) days in one calendar year. Leave without pay shall be granted when leave is for more than fifteen (15) days. All requests for military leave shall be presented to the Board for approval and must be accompanied by proper documents attesting to call to duty.

An employee on extended military leave (longer than fifteen (15) days) may be required to apply for reinstatement of his/her former position within thirty (30) days after end of leave; the employee shall then be reinstated at the salary then in force in the salary schedule. The Board may transfer the employee to a position of comparable status if, in the opinion of the Board, such action is beneficial to the school system.

Revised: October, 2000

Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. d d 17:1215, 42:394.

Final Action: Policy File ED/Student Transportation Management

FILE: ED/STUDENT TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

The School Board shall provide to eligible students school transportation services which shall meet the objectives of safety, efficiency, adequacy, and economy. Through the use of publicly and privately owned buses, the Board shall maintain a student transportation program that shall conform to or exceed minimum standards as set forth by pertinent statutes and the State Department of Education, and as may be outlined in the district's School Bus Driver's Operating Handbook. It shall be unlawful for the School Board to permit the transport at one time a number of children on a school bus that exceeds the number of seats on that bus.

All vehicles, owned by either the school district or contract bus drivers, shall carry evidence of insurance and be registered, marked, and equipped according to law. Contract bus drivers who purchase their own insurance shall be required to annually submit to the Supervisor of Transportation proof of proper and valid insurance coverage prior to any usage of the bus. Should any coverage aspects or insurance policy provisions change during the year, the bus operator shall notify the Supervisor of Transportation immediately.

All buses and other vehicles used primarily for the transportation of students shall be inspected by the assigned driver and the Supervisor of Transportation on a regular basis. All school vehicles shall be inspected a minimum of twice a year, once during June, July or August and certified as safe prior to the beginning of the school session, and once during December, January, or February of each school year, by an approved Louisiana Motor Vehicle Inspection Station. Buses fifteen (15) years of age or older shall be inspected more frequently than other buses to assure effectiveness of operation and safety of students.

All school buses used to transport students shall at all times be driven by drivers possessing a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and having completed pre-service certification training provided by an agency licensed by the Louisiana State Department of Education. All school bus operators, including contract bus operators, shall be required to personally operate the school bus assigned or owned, except in the case of illness or emergency. In such cases, a substitute shall be assigned by the Supervisor of Transportation.

A principal shall be required to put in writing any request of a bus driver that deviates from the provisions found in the Operating Handbook.

BUS DRIVER SIGN-IN

All bus drivers shall be required to sign in at the last site of each route, regardless of whether the route is a regular or platoon route.

BUS PURCHASES

It is the policy of the Calcasieu Parish School board that any used school bus purchased for use in the parish shall meet current statutory requirements for motor vehicles and shall meet Louisiana specifications for school buses that were in effect on the date the vehicle was manufactured. All bus purchases shall require prior approval of the Board.

School buses used to transport students, including activity and backup buses, shall not be more than twenty-five (25) years old. All replacement school buses, at any time they are acquired by the owner, shall be ten (10) or less model years old. The number of years shall be reckoned from the date of introduction of the model year. This shall apply to buses purchase by veteran owners/operators, by newly hired owners/operators and by the School board, individual schools, booster clubs, etc., for the purposes of transporting children to and from school and school-related activities and for use as spare buses.

When a new bus is purchased or the ownership of a bus is transferred, the driver shall assure that the bus is in compliance with all requirements contained in applicable laws and school district regulations. All buses so purchased shall be required to satisfactorily pass all mandated inspections prior to any usage.

Revised: May, 1992

Revised: November, 1993

Revised: April, 1997

Revised: October, 1997

Revised: April, 1998

Revised: August, 2000

Ref: La. Rev. State. Ann. d d 17:158 et seq., 17:492, 32:293, 32:378; Olive Mogan v. Livingston Parish School Board, First Circuit Court of Appeals, March 1991; Student Transportation Handbook, Bulletin 1191; Minimum Standards for School Buses, Bulletin 1213; Operational and Vehicle Maintenance Procedures, Bulletin 1475, Louisiana Department of Education.; Board minutes, 4-7-92, 2-4-97, 3-3-98.

Final Action: Policy File IDDFA/Technology Assistive Devices for Disabled Students

FILE: IDDFA/TECHNOLOGY ASSISTIVE DEVICES

FOR DISABLED STUDENTS

The School Board recognizes that, consistent with federal and state statutes, assistive technology devices that are determined necessary by the child's individualized education plan (IEP) team to ensure a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) shall be provided by the Board to a child with a disability or parent or guardian of a child with a disability at no cost to the parents. However, the School board shall not be required to replace or repair any assistive technology device provided if such device is lost, stolen, damaged, broken, destroyed, or otherwise misused while in the possession of the child, parent, or guardian. This provision does not apply to repair or replacement or such a device which needs repair or replacement as a result of ordinary wear.

Ref: 20 U.S.C.A. d 1400 et seq. (Individuals With Disabilities Education Act); 34 CFR d 300.308; La. Rev. Stat. Ann. 17:1948.

Banking Services Agreement

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mrs. Duplechin and unanimously carried, a three year banking services agreements with Hibernia National Bank for a total estimated monthly banking services cost of $2,481.14, was approved. (See Attachment 1 for RFP)

Resolution Authorizing Hiring Outside Counsel for Sales Tax Litigation

On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mr. Doucet, and unanimously carried, the following resolution authorizing hiring outside counsel for sales tax litigation:

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the Calcasieu Parish School Board administers and collects within the Parish of Calcasieu, sales and use tax both individually and as agent for various political subdivisions;

WHEREAS, a dispute and protest has arisen in connection with certain audit assessments;

WHEREAS, there exists a real necessity involving the public interest for the Calcasieu Parish School Board to be represented by special counsel in the protest proceedings and any subsequent litigation; and

WHEREAS, the Calcasieu Parish School Board desires to retain the Rainer, McClindon & Anding Law Firm as special counsel for the Calcasieu Parish School Board in connection with the audit assessment protest proceedings and any subsequent litigation, subject to the attached Attorney Fee Schedule.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ranier, McClindon & Anding Law Firm is hereby retained as special counsel for the Calcasieu Parish School Board in connection with the case of Shirley Avants, et al vs. John Kennedy, Secretary, Department of Revenue, State of Louisiana, et al, protest proceeding and any subsequent litigation, subject to the attached Attorney General Fee Schedule.

/s/Sheral LaVergne

Sheral LaVergne, President

Calcasieu Parish School Board

ATTEST:

/s/Jude W. Theriot, Secretary

Jude W. Theriot, Secretary

Approval of Grant Application – Molo Middle School Multiple Intelligence Center (Molo’s MIC)

On motion by C. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, the Molo Middle School Multiple Intelligence Center (Molo’s MIC) grant application was approved.

School District #34 Bond Issue Discussion

Mr. Robert stated that since all District 34 Board Members were not in attendance, he would not pursue the discussion on the Bond Issue for the district.

BID REPORTS

The following bids were received for Trucks for the Calcasieu Parish School Board Maintenance Department: General Funds:

VENDOR OPTION A: OPTION B: OPTION C:

COMPLETE UNIT TRUCK CHASSIS UTILITY SERVICE
(CHASSIS & BED) ONLY BED ONLY
Bolton Ford $23,118.00 $19,218.00 NO BID
(Lake Charles, LA)

Navarre Chevrolet NO BID $19,540.00
(Lake Charles, LA) (Silverado 2500) NO BID
$19,946.00
(Silverado 2500 HD)

Truck & Trailer NO BID NO BID $4,425.00
Equipment Co., Inc.
(Lake Charles, LA)

U-Tec Truck NO BID NO BID $3,900.00
& Equipment Company
(Lake Charles, LA)

On motion by Mrs. Duplechin, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, the bid was awarded to the low bid of Option A, meeting specifications for six (6) trucks for the Calcasieu Parish School Board Maintenance Department from Bolton Ford for a total cost of One Hundred Thirty-eight Thousand, Seven Hundred Eight and No/100 ----------Dollars ($138,708).

Roof Replacement – Maplewood Middle School – Phase IV; SD#23 Bond Funds; Bid #2001-19PC

The following bids were received for the Project: Roof Replacement – Maplewood Middle School – Phase IV; SD#23 Bond Funds; Bid #2001-19PC:

CONTRACTOR BASE BID

Daughdrill GC & Roofing $696,000
Morgan Roofing $760,300
Ferguson Roofing $684,000
*Vaughn Roofing $729,950

Not able to accept bid due to contractor not including bid bond in bid package.

Mr. Blackwell moved and was seconded by Mr. Andrepont to accept the lowest bid meeting specifications.

Mr. Falgout asked for discussion on the matter.

The Chair recognized Bill Collings, Attorney for Morgan Roofing, who stated that it would be in the best public interest to reject all bids and have the job re-bid with alternate proposals.

Mr. Spruel stated that issues would relate to the process by which specifications were put together and allegations as to whether or not architects chosen had done their job or not. He stated that the Board would have to make a determination as whether or not the Board would receive what they wanted by accepting the lowest bid.

Mr. Collings stated that an alternate proposal using alternate equal material would save the Board a minimum of $100,000. Additionally he said that, in all probability, if a contract were awarded under the facts presented, it could easily be held null and void as a violation of the public bid law. He stated that the specs, as so framed, were closed specifications which was against the law. Mr. Collings then asked that the Board consider rejecting all bids and re-bid with an alternative with alternate products because of substantial savings that could be given to the public.

Bobby Morgan of Morgan Roofing Company was recognized by the Board. Mr. Morgan gave a brief review of what had taken place in the bid process and exposing the bid of the low bidder.

Mr. Spruel stated that Morgan Roofing made allegations that the Board had closed bids. He said there was an onus on the Board to say nothing else that could be provided would be as useful or provide the same utility as what had been specked out by the architects. The second question would be whether or not any substitute would be equal to or do the same job as far as providing a roof at Maplewood Middle. He stated the issue would be that the Board would have to determine, based upon the presentation of both sides, whether or not the architects were attempting to protect the Board and whether or not you are talking about something more than the convenience of a single warranty.

Curtis Vincent and Steven Shows, Architects for the project, were recognized by the Chair. Mr. Vincent stated that Morgan Roofing had not been shut out from the bidding; they were an approved applicator by Garland. He stated the reason for calling for one warranty was due fact that there was an existing flat roof and an existing slope roof that come together. If there were two warranties, and a leak occurred where the two roofs joined, each company would point the finger at the other saying it was not their warranty. Mr. Vincent said this was a special condition and thus the reason for specifying a one-warranty bid. He said the original bids were rejected due to unit pricing and that no legal request was received for an equal approval from anyone. The only thing changed on the form was the unit pricing and that was so everyone would be bidding the exact quantities. Mr. Vincent stated that with specifications such as these, the Board would have the quality control they wanted.

Mr. Spruel stated that you could do nothing to stop someone from suing you but if you properly discharge a legal duty, they would be unsuccessful. He said it would come down to, based on information professionals provided, whether competition was being stifled or whether or not the decision to go with staff recommendation was arbitrary, capricious and without reasonable basis. He said in this case there was reasonable basis for the recommendation and the system designed for this school was the best system.

After further discussion, Mr. Falgout moved to reject all bids, re-bid and open bids to all competitors as long as the materials and work are the same. Mr. Pitre seconded the motion.

Mr. Blackwell said that the architects explained that the bid process was not closed and asked that the Board vote against the motion.

The substitute motion, to reject all bids, re-bid and open bids to all competitors as long as materials and work were the same, was voted on and failed for lack of a majority; Mr. Falgout and Mr. Pitre voted in favor of the substitute motion.

The original motion, to accept the low bid meeting specifications was awarded to Ferguson Roofing, Base Bid in the amount of Six Hundred Eighty Four Thousand and No/100------Dollars ($684,000), as the lowest qualified bidder. Motion carried by majority vote; Mr. Falgout and Mr. Pitre voted nay.

John J. Johnson Elementary School; SD#31 Bond Funds

The following bids were received for the New John J. Johnson Elementary School; SD#31 Bond Funds; Bid #2001-16PC; C. Gayle Zembower, Architect, Inc., Designer:

CONTRACTOR BASE BID ALT #1 ALT #2 ALT #3

Lewing Construction $7,857,000 $288,000 $42,000 $136,000
Alfred Palma, Inc. $6,998,000 $339,000 $31,000 $163,000
Priola Construction $6,878,000 $289,000 $31,000 $116,000
Rudick Company, Inc. $6,887,000 $303,700 $34,700 $187,000

C. Duhon moved and was seconded by Mr. Armentor to award the bid to Priola Construction Company (Base Bid Plus Alternate #3) in the amount of Six Million Nine Hundred Ninety Four Thousand and No/100 - - - - - - - Dollars ($6,994,000) as the lowest qualified bidder.

Mr. Victorian informed the Board that several cuts had been made to the project but that an additional $200,000 was still needed for the project. He said that District 31 was asking for approval of $200,000 from Riverboat Funds to cover the cost of a classroom pod for J. J. Johnson.

Mr. Victorian made an amendment to the original motion to approve $200,000 from Riverboat Funds to cover the cost of a classroom pod for J. J. Johnson Elementary School; C. Duhon seconded the amendment.

Mr. Doucet then offered a second amendment stating that all bonding districts receive the amount planned to replace portable buildings with pods in all districts; amendment to the motion was seconded by Mr. Blackwell

Karl Bruchhaus, Chief Financial Officer, stated that approval of the second amendment was not financially possible. He said the Riverboat Funds would be maxed out as to what the Board could incur in debt. Mr. Bruchhaus said that in all projects ever presented to the Board, Phase III and IV had always had a statement "additional funding and planning required".

Mr. Andrepont encouraged all Districts to look at all projects carefully and ask for assistance at the end of a project, not at the beginning. He said the Board owed it to the taxpayers to look at spending money prudently.

Mr. Karr stated that the Board was talking about spending money they did not have.

Mr. Blackwell said that districts have to live within their means.

Mr. Victorian stated that Board members in District 31 had met and made some cuts to the project as well as made a commitment to use interest money earned in the process.

Mr. Falgout said that makers of the two amendments should agree to send the issue to the Budget/Fiscal Management Committee so that it could be discussed thoroughly.

Mr. Fontenot stated that in Phase I, forty-four portable buildings were to be replaced from Riverboat Funds. He stated that the monies for the portable buildings were included in the cost of construction of a new middle school with approval by the Board.

Mr. Spruel said that he assumed the project was over budget. If the agreement would be there would be an alternate way to make up the $1,000,000, it needed to be in budget. Budget decisions have to be made unless members of the bonding district want to obligate themselves and not have any guarantee that they could go back to the Board to make up the $1,000,000. He said that the issue needed to go back to budget or be settled before it could be voted to accept something unless members of the bonding district were willing to spend that extra money and not have it at the end. Mr. Spruel further stated that the things that have been done to cut dollars from the project were fine but that in terms of taking money for furniture and other items needed in the schools was not an attractive alternate.

After further discussion, the Chair recognized Rosalie Pitre, a concerned parent from Johnson Elementary. Ms. Pitre said she felt the students of Johnson Elementary would benefit from a new school.

Monica Burrell, a representative from Lake Area Community Action NOW was recognized by the Chair. Ms. Burrell said members of the group all live in the vicinity of the school. She said concerns were previously stated regarding the placement of a new building. She again stated some concerns about the new Johnson Elementary School. The reasons were: 1) the bid was above the budgeted amount; 2) the site is located in a flood zone; 3) the site is located in a different school zone than the present J. J. Johnson School; and, 4) what studies have been done to determine the feasibility of a new school? Ms. Burrell then asked that the Board reject the current bids.

Gayle Zembower, Architect, addressed the Board regarding problems encountered on the Johnson Elementary School project. He stated that the biggest problem so far had been problems with the soil. He said that without those problems, the project would have actually been under the budgeted amount.

Being no further discussion, the substitute motion was voted on and failed for lack of a majority vote. Mr. Doucet, Mr. Victorian, C. Duhon and Mr. Fontenot voted for the substitute motion. Mr. Andrepont, Mr. Armentor,

Mr. Blackwell, J. Duhon, Mrs. Duplechin, Mr. Falgout, Mr. Karr, Mr. Pitre, and Mr. Robert voted against the motion.

Mr. Doucet stated that he would prefer lending assistance at the end of the project rather than at the beginning; he said he would like to see further cuts made.

Mr. Falgout called for the question; vote on the call for the question was unanimously in favor.

The amendment to the motion, to approve $200,000 funding from Riverboat Funds for a classroom pod at J. J. Johnson Elementary was voted on; motion carried by majority vote. Mr. Doucet, J. Duhon, Mr. Fontenot and Mr. Blackwell voted nay.

Mr. Victorian moved and was seconded by C. Duhon, to approve the low base bid meeting specifications from Priola Construction, with condition of changes being made ($300,000 architect changes; $100,000 District 31 Bond Funds; $275,000 interest on savings; $200,000 for pod from Riverboat Funds), in the amount of Six Million Eight Hundred Seventy Eight Thousand and No/100--------Dollars ($6,878,000), as the lowest qualified bidder.

Shop & Classroom Addition to T & I Complex for the Calcasieu Parish School Board

The following bids were received for the Shop & Classroom Addition to T & I Complex for the Calcasieu Parish School Board; Riverboat Funds; Bid #2001-21PC; Hackett & Associates, Designer:

CONTRACTOR BASE BID ALT #1 ALT #2 ALT #3

Sam Istre Construction $367,630 $599,830 $755,330 $22,850
Lewing Construction $363,907 $584,157 $727,754 $23,275
Miller & Associates $380,000 $626,000 $787,000 $22,000
Charles Miller Const. $390,000 $650,000 $800,000 $29,000
John D. Myers & Assoc. $357,700 $577,700 $721,700 $23,200
Priola Construction $383,000 $645,000 $815,000 $24,000

On motion by Mrs. Duplechin, seconded by Mr. Falgout and unanimously carried, the bid was awarded to John D. Myers & Associates (Base Bid

Plus Alternate #3) in the amount of Three Hundred Eighty Thousand Nine Hundred and No/100----------Dollars ($380,900), as the lowest qualified bidder.

Vinton High School – Phase I Improvements, SD#26 Bond Funds

The following bids were received for the Vinton High School – Phase I Improvements; School District #26 Bond Funds; Bid #2001-22PC; Ellender Architects & Associates, LLC, Designer:

CONTRACTOR BASE BID ALT #1

Lewing Construction $$574,900 +$243,300
F. Miller & Sons $709,000 +$298,000
John D. Myers & Associates $601,700 +$249,700
Ribbeck Construction $595,778 +$276,888

On motion by J. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Falgout and unanimously carried, the contract was awarded to Lewing Construction (Base Bid plus Alternate #1) in the amount of Eight Hundred Eighteen Thousand Two Hundred and No/100--------------Dollars ($818,200.00), as the lowest qualified bidder.

Washington Marion High School Stadium Improvements SD#31 Bond Funds

The following bids were received for the project Washington Marion High School Stadium Improvements; SD#31 Bond Funds; Bid #2001-23PC:

CONTRACTOR BASE BID ALT #1

Lewing Construction $688,999 +$34,411
Miller & Associates $662,000 +$17,000
Charles Miller Construction $719,000 +$12,000
Alfred Palma, Inc. $633,000 +$10,400
Ribbeck Construction $658,950 +$10,656
Unifab Int. West, LLC $668,500 +$ 9,800

On motion by Mr. Armentor, seconded by Mr. Falgout and unanimously carried, the contract was awarded to Alfred Palma, Inc., Base Bid in the amount of Six Hundred Thirty Three Thousand and No/100-----Dollars ($633,000), as the lowest qualified bidder.

PERMISSION TO ADVERTISE

Sale and Removal of Timber – Moss Bluff Middle School
On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mrs. Duplechin and unanimously carried, permission to advertise for Sale and Removal of Timber – Moss Bluff Middle School, was approved.
Sale of Covered Awnings – College Oaks Elementary
On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mrs. Duplechin and unanimously carried, permission to advertise for Sale of Covered Awnings – College Oaks Elementary School, was approved.
Calcasieu Parish School Board Lunch Department 2001-2002 Procurement Calendar
On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mrs. Duplechin and unanimously carried, permission to advertise for Calcasieu Parish School Board Lunch Department 2001-2002 Procurement Calendar was approved.

CORRESPONDENCE

Change Order #1 for the Project: Reroofing at Western Heights Elementary, SD#23 Bond Funds

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mrs. Duplechin and unanimously carried, Change Order #1 for the Project: Reroofing at Western Heights Elementary; SD#23 Bond Funds, for an increase of $3,429; King Architects, Inc., Designer; Grosjean Contractors, Contractor, was approved.

Change Order #5 for the Project: Roofing & Miscellaneous Improvements to S. P. Arnett Middle School; SD#23 Bond Funds

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Blackwell and unanimously carried, Change Order #5 for the Project: Roofing & Miscellaneous Improvements to S. P. Arnett Middle School; SD#23 Bond Funds; for an increase of $8,371.11; King Architects, Inc., Designer; Morgan Roofing Company, Contractor, was approved.

Change Order #5 for the Project: Miscellaneous Improvements to Westlake High School; SD#23 Bond Funds

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Blackwell and unanimously carried, Change Order #5 for the Project: Roofing & Miscellaneous Improvements to Westlake High School; SD#23 Bond Funds; for an increase of $3,840.11; King Architects, Inc., Designer; Alfred Palma, Inc., Contractor, was approved.

Recommendation of Acceptance for the Project: Reroofing at Western Heights Elementary; SD#23 Bond Funds

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Blackwell and unanimously carried, the Recommendation of Acceptance for the Project: Reroofing at Western Heights Elementary School; SD#23 Bond Funds; was approved.

Recommendation of Acceptance for the Project: Miscellaneous Improvements to Westlake High School; SD#23 Bond Funds

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Blackwell and unanimously carried, the Recommendation of Acceptance for the Project: Miscellaneous Improvements to Westlake High School; SD#23 Bond Funds; was approved.

SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT

Westlake High School

Westlake High School’s Lady Rambler Dance Line recently competed at the regional competition of the Gulf Coast Classic. The competition was sponsored by the American Dance/Drill Team School. The Westlake High dance line received several honors including: BEST OVERALL, PRODUCTION AWARD, BEST IN CLASS AWARD, JUDGES AWARD IN KICK, CASSIE NELL AWARD, SWEEPSTAKES AWARD, and SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

Dance line member Kayla Ortego won 1st place for her solo in the medium school division. The dance line advanced to the national competition at Moody Gardens in Galveston, TX.

Prien Lake Elementary School

A team of fifth grade SPARK students taught by Becky Ford competed with thousands of students in the United States and several foreign countries in the Knowledge Master Open academic competition. More than 450 elementary schools faced their computers to answer 100 challenging questions in the event, earning points for speed and accuracy of their answers.

The 20 students on the Prien Lake Elementary team scored 700 points; the top score in the event was 751 points. Prien Lake placed 9th out of 454 schools and were the only team from Louisiana competing in the event at the fifth grade level.

The event is designed to stimulate learning and recognition for academic achievement. The Knowledge Master Open runs on classroom computers to allow all students the opportunity to compete.

Students on the Prien Lake Elementary team: Caleb Abshire, Elizabeth Bass, Joshua Bowling, Leah Canaday, Garrett Fontenot, Adam Freeland, Hope Fuller, Sarah Griffith, Taylor Harrell, Andy Pirolo, Zach Prendiville, Meredith Queenan, Clare Sanchez Sanjay Saraf, Vaughn Scofield, Chris Smith, Megan Smith, Christine Theriot, Darius Vallier and Anthony Vincent.

Board Meeting Dates

The following are suggested Board Meeting dates for the third quarter of 2001:

July 17th

August 7th & 21st

September 4 & 18th

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Karr and unanimously carried, the suggested Board Meeting dates were approved for the third quarter of 2001.

Educator of Distinction

Nancy Muery, Media Specialist at T. S. Cooley Magnet School, has been named Educator of Distinction by the Louisiana Parent Teacher Association. Ms. Muery will be honored during the Louisiana PTA Convention on April 21, 2001.

Ms. Muery has a BA in Elementary Education, Library Certification and a Master of Education Degree from McNeese State University. Her contributions to education include co-authorship of the book, "Plug", a book about integrating computer skills into the classroom. She also taught computer classes to parents at night for two years. Ms. Muery uses a varied approach to teaching by using games, computer activities, puppets and visual aids.

State Group Benefits Program

According to an article in the Lake Charles American Press, it was reported that action by the Board for State workers to increase premiums by an average of 18.2 percent beginning July 1, 2001 was approved. This is just another indication of the plight of the skyrocketing cost of insurance premiums being passed on to employees.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REQUESTS

J. Duhon requested a report from Gay Arnold, Supervisor of Gifted/Talented, on the progress of the online courses at the next Pupil Personnel Committee meeting.

Mr. Andrepont complimented the Literacy Council on another successful Spelling Bee.

Mr. Victorian thanked Board members for approving the funding of a classroom pods from Riverboat Funds for J. J. Johnson Elementary School.

C. Duhon thanked Board members for their approval of funding a classroom pod for J. J. Johnson Elementary from Riverboat Funds. She gave a special thank-you to Mr. Victorian for his work on the issue. She thanked all for their participation in the spelling bee.

Mr. Falgout congratulated the Barbe Blue Belles for placing 5th in the nation in Dance Team competition.

Mr. Pitre said he was excited about things going on at Prien Lake Elementary; he congratulated the Barbe Blue Belle Dance Team and Andy Priola, Prien Lake Elementary who was named the Spelling Bee Champion.

Mr. Karr expressed his gratitude for receiving two thank-you letters from employees he did not know, thanking the Board for the pay supplement received by employees. He shared a poem given to him by Mr. Fontenot.

Mr. Armentor announced that the J. I. Watson Walk for Literacy was a huge success and thanked Celeste Broussard for organizing the walk. He asked what the cost of transportation for students to the Alternative School was versus transporting students to T. S. Cooley and was told the School Board did not transport T. S. Cooley students. He congratulated Jovita Guidry, elementary site secretary at J. I. Watson for receiving the Class Act Award.

Mrs. Duplechin recognized Martin Guillory, Principal at Oak Park Middle who was in attendance. She announced that Oak Park Middle would host the Board luncheon on May 18th.

Mr. Doucet requested a letter of condolence to be sent to Jamie Schiro on the loss of his father; a letter of condolence to the Hancock family.

Mr. Blackwell requested that a letter of thanks be sent to Westwood Elementary thanking them for hosting the Board Luncheon.

Mr. Falgout requested a letter condolence to be sent to James Schiro on the loss of his father.

Ms. LaVergne announced that Washington Marion would host the Board luncheon on April 25th. She requested a letter of condolence to be sent to Dinah Robinson on the loss of her mother; Christiana White on the loss of her mother.

SCHEDULE STANDING COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Budget/Fiscal Management Committee – Wednesday, April 11, 2001 – 4:45 p.m.

Administration & Personnel Committee – Tuesday, April 24, 2001 – 4:45 p.m.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

On motion by Mr. Falgout, seconded by Mr. Andrepont and unanimously carried, the Board went into Executive Session at 8:06 p.m. to discuss personnel matters. The Board resumed regular open session at 8:39 p.m.

TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION

Personnel

On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Andrepont and unanimously carried, the following personnel changes, including the supplemental agenda, were approved as recommended by the Superintendent:

Resignations

Dylan Wolfe, Sweeper, Westwood Elementary, effective March 21, 2001; Linda Sinquefield, Teacher, Clifton Elementary, effective March 27, 2001; Delbert Calloway, Bus Driver, Gillis Elementary, effective April 31, 2001; Tammy Bordelon, Cafeteria Technician, Barbe High, effective March 20, 2001; Helene Rosen, Tutor, Fairview Elementary, effective March 27, 2001; Ethel Thibodeaux, Teacher Aide, Fondel/Combre Elementary, effective March 29, 2001; David Hennigan, Janitor, DeQuincy High, effective March 15, 2001.

Retirement Notifications

Renee Soileau, Teacher, R. W. Vincent Elementary, effective May 31, 2001; Brenda Peavy, Counselor, LaGrange High, effective June 22, 2001; Veda Bussell, Teacher, Starks High, effective May 31, 2001; Anne Jacobs, Counselor, Fondel/Combre Elementary, effective September 20, 2001; Paula Adams, Teacher, Oak Park Elementary, effective May 31, 2001.

Leave Without Pay

Pearl Keller, Teacher, Reynaud Middle, beginning March 1, 2001 until May 31, 2001; Shauna Turner, Teacher, St. John Elementary School; beginning April 10, 2001 until May 31, 2001; Deborah VanNetta, Teacher, E. K. Key Elementary, 2001-2002 school session; Lynda Payne, Teacher, Aide, Vinton Elementary, beginning April 2, 2001 until May 31, 2001.

Rescind Leave without Pay

Sharon Reed, Cafeteria Technician, Frasch Elementary, rescind and return to work April 2, 2001.

Professional Leave

Kathleen Smith, Teacher, LeBlanc Middle, 2001-2002 school session; Madeline DeLucca, Counselor, Nelson Elementary, 2001-2002 school session; Elwin Brent Washington, Assistant Principal, Lake Charles Boston High, 2001-2002 school session; Melanie LeJeune, Librarian, Fairview Elementary, fall semester of the 2001-2002 school session.

Waive Act 715

Paul Theriot, Teacher, Bell City High, waive Act 715 on his behalf and resignation become effective May 31, 2001.

Recommendations

On motion by Mr. Falgout, seconded by Mr. Armentor and unanimously carried, Kay Victorian was named Principal for T. H. Watkins Elementary School. Mr. Victorian recused himself from the vote.

On motion by Mr. Falgout, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, Fred Galloway was named Head Coach for LaGrange High School.

Permission to Advertise

On motion by C. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, permission to advertise for an Acting Assistant Principal for Lake Charles Boston High School was approved.

On motion by C. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, permission to extend advertisement for a Head Coach for Lake Charles Boston High School was approved.

Meeting Adjourned

On motion by Mr. Armentor, seconded by Mr. Doucet and unanimously carried, the meeting was adjourned at 8:41p.m.

Jude W. Theriot, Secretary

Sheral A. LaVergne, President