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04-20-2004 |
DATE, TIME, PLACE OF MEETING
The Calcasieu Parish School Board met at DeQuincy Middle School at 1603 4th Street, DeQuincy, Louisiana, on Tuesday, April 20, at 5:00 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Joe Andrepont, Vice-President. The prayer was led by Dr. Stephens; Greg Robert led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
The roll was called and the following members were present: Joe A. Andrepont, Billy Breaux, Dale B. Bernard, Clara F. Duhon, Jay L. Duhon, Rev. J.L. Franklin, James W. Karr, Sr., Bryan LaRocque, Sheral A. LaVergne, Gregory P. Robert, Dr. Edward Stephens, Philip Tarver and R.L. Webb.
John M. Falgout and James W. Pitre were absent.
Mr. Andrepont recognized Mr. Karr.
Mr. Karr introduced Mr. Lawrence Henagan, President of the DeQuincy City Council, who is representing the community of DeQuincy.
Mr. Henagan, on behalf of the Mayor of DeQuincy and the City Council, welcomed the Board to DeQuincy. He extended his appreciation to the Board for all of their assistance to the students and families of DeQuincy.
Supplemental Agenda/Agenda Revisions
By general consent the Supplemental Agenda was included as part of the regular agenda and item XIV B, Workers’ Compensation Claim, was deleted and item XIV C, Potential Land Litigation, was moved to item VII E, Take Appropriate Action.
MINUTES APPROVED
On motion by Mr. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Robert and unanimously carried, the minutes of the regular meeting of March 16, 2004, and the amendment to the February 17, 2004, minutes, were approved as presented.
Amend Minutes
On motion by Mr. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Breaux and approved, amendment to the February 17, 2004, minutes was approved:
Correspondence, Item X – H Change Order Number One (1) for the Project “Additions and Renovations to M.J. Kaufman Elementary School,” School District Number 33 Bond Funds, Project Number 2003-21PC, Moss Architects, Inc., Designer; Lewing Construction Company, Contractor (Bessette Construction Company was recorded on document).
PRESENTATIONS
Mr. Andrepont declared a fifteen minute recess and dismissed the Board to the gym for a presentation by the DeQuincy High School Beta Club and Chorus.
DeQunicy High School Beta Club
Mrs. Melonee Cooper, Beta Club and Chorus members of DeQuincy High School performed a skit and sang from the Broadway musical “Ragtime.” The students were honored with a national title in Branson, Missouri, and will continue their competition this summer. The Board commended the students and Mrs. Cooper for a superb performance and wished them success with future endeavors.
Office Depot Back To School
Camelia Gardner, Office Depot Account Manager, presented to the Board a plaque recognizing Calcasieu Parish School Board as an outstanding participant in the 2003 5% Back to School Program. She extended her appreciation to the Board members and all of the schools for allowing Office Depot to serve the school system.
BESE Certificate of Recognition to Calcasieu Parish School Board
Mr. Andrepont presented a certificate to Mr. Theriot from the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Louisiana Department of Education for his outstanding leadership in guiding the schools toward their accountability goals. The certificate states “Among your schools, 4 achieved Exemplary Academic Growth and 9 achieved Recognized Academic Growth. We commend your efforts on behalf of the children of Louisiana.”
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Curriculum and Instruction
Mr. Duhon reported that the Curriculum and Instruction Committee met on March 24, 2004. A quorum was present.
He reported that the first item on the agenda was the Foreign Language (K-12) and Music (K-12) Textbook Committee recommendations.
Mr. Duhon reported that members of the Foreign Language (K-12) and Music (K-12) Textbook Adoption Committees were recognized and thanked for their diligent work. There was a consensus on both committees for the textbooks selected. A motion was made and seconded to approve the committee’s recommendations. Mr. Duhon moved on behalf of the committee to approve the recommendations as presented. The motion carried.
Next, Mr. Duhon stated that there was no change in the Summer School Regulations from last year or the previous year. A motion to accept the 2004 Summer School Regulations as presented was made, seconded and carried. Mr. Duhon moved on behalf of the committee to approve the schedule as presented from committee.
Mr. Webb entertained an amendment to the motion, seconded by Mr. Breaux, to increase the students’ cost to participate in the Driver Education Program from $100.00 to $125.00 to assist with the increasing costs that is incurred by the system. There was discussion relative to increasing the amount to cover the total cost to the system. There was opposition to the motion. Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the amendment. The motion failed due to lack of support.
Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the original motion to accept the committee’s recommendation as presented with no change to the summer school schedule. The motion carried.
Mr. Duhon stated that Mr. Elray Victorian, Chairman of the Magnet School Committee, reported that the Committee has met monthly since its inception in the fall (October) of 2002 and narrated a powerpoint presentation showing the progress of the Committee. At the October meeting, the following five objectives were set:
1) Establish a need for a magnet school for middle and high school students in the Calcasieu Parish School System 2) Develop a plan of action for establishing a magnet school for middle and high school 3) Present plan to Calcasieu Parish School Board 4) Establish methods for informing the community 5) Establish a means of support for the magnet schools
The following tentative timeline was set for accomplishing the above objectives:
November Visit magnet schools in Louisiana December Develop a plan January Present plan to C&I Committee February Present plan to community and obtain its support March Subcommittees will report accomplishments to whole committee April Seek further direction from the Calcasieu Parish School Board
Accomplishments to date include: · Met in October to gather information · Read information and did research · Sent survey to schools · Conducted magnet school visits to gather information (Caddo Parish and East Baton Rouge Parish) · Several committee members met with parent groups to get input · Met with Tom Hatfield to establish pros and cons through the Six Hats Method · Formulate statement of needs for Magnet Schools Statement: We believe that a need for an academic and performing arts magnet school exists and that a professional market analysis should be conducted to determine public opinion on financing, location and participation options · Gathered information from Calcasieu Parish School Board members on the Six Hats and in particular the pros and cons as established by the committee · Met with Dr. Larry Vincent from McNeese to review work he had done as it relates to magnet schools · Subcommittee met to develop a local public opinion survey and then with Dr. Vincent who will conduct the survey
The cost of the survey is $3200 which will be used to pay student workers to call a cross section of registered voters in the parish. Industry expressed an interest and the possibility of helping to offset the cost of the survey.
Keith Leger explained that on the latest draft of the survey several questions from a previous draft had been combined. Question #3 should read, “Would you be in favor of an estimated 1.9 mill property tax for construction of a new school or would you be in favor of an estimated .5 mill property tax to convert an existing school for a comprehensive academic and performing arts magnet middle and high school?” Choices would be: a) 1.9 mill tax for construction of a new school; or b) .5 mill tax to convert an existing school.
Dr. Vincent said the survey should be run near the end of March and should take approximately two weeks to get results back to the school system.
A motion was made and seconded to authorize up to $3,200 for completing the magnet school survey.
Mr. Falgout presented an amendment to the motion, seconded by Mr. Breaux, that the portion of the survey expense not received from private sources would be funded by Calcasieu Parish School Board.
The amendment to fund whatever portion of the survey expense not received from private sources was voted on and carried.
The motion as amended to authorize up to $3,200 for completing the magnet school survey expenses not received from private sources was voted on and carried.
Mr. Duhon moved on behalf of the committee to approve the committee’s recommendation.
There was opposition expressed relative to the concept of additional magnet schools. Mr. Andrepont reminded the Board that the motion on the floor did not warrant discussion on the concept of magnet schools, only the survey.
Mr. Andrepont recognized Lannie Molo and Mary Morris who spoke in opposition of the survey.
After further discussion, Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the motion from committee authorizing up to $3,200 for completion of the magnet school survey expenses not received from private sources. The motion carried with one nay by Rev. Franklin.
Mr. Duhon continued with the committee report by giving the following update On Career and Technical Education:
Medical Assistant Sulphur High or MASH Kathy Boswell, a teacher of Human Anatomy at Sulphur High School and Program Leader, explained the new Medical Assistant Program (or MASH as the students named themselves) at Sulphur High School. This is a year long program in which students pursue certification as nursing assistants, phlebotomists, and First Responders. In addition, each student participates in a preceptorship in which he or she shadows a medical professional in a field of the student’s choice. The program is open to seniors who completed Human Anatomy during their junior year and is a cooperative effort of Sulphur High School, the Calcasieu Parish Career and Technical Education Program, and West Calcasieu-Cameron Hospital. Students attend class at Sulphur High and log clinical hours at West Calcasieu-Cameron Hospital and High Hope Nursing Home. Although 26 students are enrolled for the 2003-2004 school year, that number increases to an anticipated enrollment of 60 students for the 2004-2005 school year.
Pharmacy Technician Class Application has been made to the State Department of Education to offer a Pharmacy Technicians Class at several of the high schools in our system. This on-line course would be offered to graduating seniors only. At the conclusion of this course, these students would be eligible to take the National Pharmacy Technician Exam for certification. This would require finding a teacher at each school to go to Baton Rouge for training for certification in this area.
Culinary Arts Program This new program at College Street T&I Campus will train students in the chef area and all areas of management of a restaurant. The Calcasieu Parish School System will be working in conjunction with Sowela Technical College who has a Culinary Arts Program.
Cosmetology Class at Washington-Marion High School Because of the great interest expressed, an application has been made to the State Department of Education to begin a new cosmetology class at Washington-Marion High School next year.
Computer Science Areas · Offer A+ certification
Welding Shops · AWS (American Welding Society) certified · All welding instructors are AWS certified instructors
Automotive · Moving toward general service technician (NATEF program) · Will be working in that curriculum to give students more rounded automotive skills · More selective students will go into auto dealerships to work
Louisiana Work Ready! Certificate Work Keys Exam (ACT product) is used to assess different levels of vocational skills and work readiness and will help students see which career opportunity would best suit their individual ability. If a student scores high enough on the exam, they will become eligible for a Work Ready! Certificate issued by the State Department of Education. They may then take this certificate, along with their diploma, to an employer who can see that they have at least minimal skills in math, reading, and comprehension.
Options 3 Program James Powers, Consultant to Guidance Counselors (K-12), stated that our teachers are doing an outstanding job addressing the needs of these particular students. The Options 3 Program was set up and designed as an alternative for students who are unable to pass the LEAP GEE Exam over a period of time. Students can not only pursue a GED but must complete a vocational component as well. Vocational concentrations these students may choose are small engines, welding, office practice, automotive technician, and health assistant. There is an open enrollment (can enroll any time during year) and students may stay in the program for two years. A transcript, regulated by the State, will be issued upon graduation from the program. The State now requires Option 3 students who are 9th grade and above to complete the Work Keys (ACT product) which assesses ability in three basic areas: reading, math, and research gathering. Since this mandate was made by the State Department of Education with no funding, Calcasieu Parish Schools articulated with Sowela Technical College to allow our students in small groups to use their computer labs for the Work Keys Assessment. Plans are for the Calcasieu Parish School System to purchase and install the Work Keys Software Program at College Street T&I and Sulphur High School next year. Non-Option 3 students will also have access to Work Keys Assessment. Special Education is a big part of Option 3 and their IEPs follow them into Option Program. Last year there were 42 graduates from the Option 3 program across the parish which was the most of any parish in our state. This item was for informational purposes only.
Tech Prep Program Calcasieu Parish School Board is the fiscal agent for the Imperial Calcasieu Tech Prep Consortium which services a five parish region. This year 80 students are enrolled in the STEPS program at Sowela which is designed for high school seniors who are enrolled both in Sowela and their individual high school to receive dual credit if they complete the program. The students take all the courses at Sowela including their remaining one or two high school required classes. The students are tuition exempt for the whole year and the Tech Prep Consortium pays for their books.
Business Education Five new computer labs will be added next year to the 31 existing networked business labs in our system because of increased enrollment and changes in the TOPS requirement adding 1 1/2 computer courses for the next year’s incoming freshmen. This last summer five teachers attended a summer institute in Baton Rouge and earned National Certification as a Certified Internet Web Master and will be attending again this summer to get Part II of this certification. These teachers plan to offer CIW for students next school year. Students enrolled in word processing are now given the chance to earn Microsoft Office Specialist National Certification with the cost of the test paid out off the Career an Technical Education budget.
Research is presently ongoing for software that will allow teachers to have full screen monitoring of each student’s computer. The Career and Technical Education Department, as well a group of teachers, met with Sowela to update articulation of Introduction to Business Computer Applications and accounting courses so students attending Sowela from our system can transfer credits and not have to retake courses. A new Computer Technology Literacy course has been added.
INTERQUEST Mr. Duhon continued with the report stating that Mr. Miller reported that in the last few months, the staff has become aware of services available from Interquest Detection Canines. Data gathered from the Communities That Care survey that is given to all 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th graders every two years and the annual Student Information Systems (SIS) report indicates that there is a growing concern about the availability and use of alcohol and other drugs on campus.
Kristi Muck, owner of Interquest Detection Canines of Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana, through a powerpoint presentation explained the program to the committee. With over 23 years experience providing detection service for schools, Interquest is a proven deterrent to minimize the presence of contraband on campus, including illicit drugs, alcohol, gunpowder-based items and commonly abused medications. They are licensed and registered by the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Commission on Private Security as well as an approved vendor for use of Federal Safe and Drug Free School Funds (Title IV). Charges are $180 for half-day and $360 for full-day service. Two schools can be serviced per day.
Interquest functions as an extension of the school to locate contraband on campus. Once found, the contraband is turned over to school staff to take whatever action they feel necessary. Records of every canine alert are maintained and each school is provided with a copy of the alert and the results of the search.
Interquest teams are under agreement with the school to provide a specific number of visits for the school year. These visits, although random, are consistent thus serving as an effective deterrent to contraband on campus. Currently over 1000 school districts nationwide are served (8000 campus locations and over 8 million students, faculty, and administration).
A motion that the Interquest Detection Canines Program be piloted in middle and high schools this spring using funding from the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities That Care grant was made, seconded and carried.
Discussion ensued and the following issues were addressed:
· Pilot program for remainder of year · Interquest is nationally certified · Dogs are docile and non-aggressive · Schools will be selected randomly without notification · Contraband problems within the school system · Program will serve as a deterrent to problems · Program has proven to be effective in other parishes
Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the motion from committee to approve Interquest Detection Canines Program to be piloted in middle and high schools this spring using funds from the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities That Care grant. The motion carried.
Mr. Duhon stated that with no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
Administration and Personnel
Mr. Karr reported that the Administration and Personnel Committee met Tuesday, April 6. A quorum was present. A PETITION
In recognition of the contributions and service W.J. "Dub" Whiteard rendered to the schools and the city of Westlake, we, the undersigned recommend that he be rewarded and remembered for his dedication and untiring efforts and assistance in the establishment of the excellent schools in our community, for the following reasons:
Whereas: W.J. "Dub" Whiteard began his career in 1953 in the former Westlake High School building, thus dedicating many years in educating, molding, and building character in the lives of those under his tutelage and guidance, and,
Whereas: After three successful years of teaching, his influence on students continued as he assumed the role of principal of Westwood Elementary in 1956, followed by Western Heights Elementary in 1960, and Arnett Middle School in 1967, and lastly as a professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at McNeese State University until his retirement in 1990, and
Whereas: He held active membership in local, state, and national professional organizations, and chaired many committees for the enhancement of teacher benefits and for the welfare of students, and, Whereas: During his career as an outstanding and recognized educator, his philosophy was simply stated "put the child first" in all decisions, for he believed the school was built for children and they were to be treated with respect, impartiality, and dignity, and,
Whereas: Since quality education was his priority, his goal was to provide educational opportunities and skills which would prepare students to become future productive citizens, and,
Be it hereby resolved that we, the undersigned, Humbly submit this petition requesting that the newly constructed library at Western Heights Elementary School be named "W.J. 'Dub' Whiteard Library" as a tribute to, and in memory of his dedication to the profession and his love for children.
Next, a number of policies were reviewed by the committee. A motion was made, seconded and carried, approving Policy JJ, Employment of Students, Policy JGCE, Child Abuse, Policy DJED, Bids and Quotations, Policy GAK, Personnel Records, Policy GBN, Separation of Professional Staff Members, Policy GBRK, Annual Leave.
Mr. Karr moved on behalf of the committee to approve the policies as presented. The motion carried with one abstention by Rev. Franklin. The policies will layover for two weeks and then presented to the Board for final action.
The policies state: File: JJ
EMPLOYMENT OF STUDENTS
The Calcasieu Parish School Board realizes that some students may need to have part-time employment positions. Senior high school students over the age of 16 may be allowed to complete their senior classes in the morning, if their class schedules can be so arranged, in order for the student to be released for part-time employment in the afternoons. Before release of the student, proof of employment shall be submitted by the student. The school reserves the right to monitor a student's continued employment. EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATES Employment certificates are issued for youth to work only during vacation time and after school hours. No employment certificate can be issued for a high school student to work during the hours that school is in session. Employment certificates for the youth of Calcasieu Parish shall be issued by the Superintendent or his/her designee and submitted to the Louisiana Department of Labor. The original employment certificate shall be signed by the minor and the Superintendent/designee as issuing authority. A copy of each employment certificate shall be retained by the School Board together with documents required to be submitted with the application for employment certificate. Any additional information needed by students or teachers of Calcasieu Parish schools may be obtained by inquiring at the School Board office. Youth between the ages of 18 and 21 are not required to have employment certificates but may be issued certificates of age upon request of the employer. Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. ''23:161 et seq., 23:183, 23:184.
File: JGCE
CHILD ABUSE
The Calcasieu Parish School Board shall endeavor to ensure that all instances of child abuse and/or neglect are reported in accordance with appropriate state and local laws and regulations. Therefore, the School Board directs that all school personnel be informed of their responsibilities under law as mandatory reporters when performing their occupational duties. DEFINITIONS Child, for purposes of child abuse, is defined as a person under eighteen (18) years of age, who prior to juvenile proceedings, has not been judicially emancipated or emancipated by marriage.
Abuse means any one of the following acts which seriously endanger the physical, mental, or emotional health of the child:
(a) The infliction, attempted infliction, or, as a result of inadequate supervision, the allowance of the infliction or attempted infliction of physical or mental injury upon the child by a parent or any other person.
(b) The exploitation or overwork of a child by a parent or any other person.
(c) The involvement of the child in any sexual act with a parent or any other person, or the aiding or toleration by the parent or the caretaker of the child's sexual involvement with any other person or of the child's involvement in pornographic displays, or any other involvement of a child in sexual activity constituting a crime under the laws of this state.
Neglect means the refusal or willful failure of a parent or caretaker to supply the child with necessary food, clothing, shelter, care, treatment, or counseling for any injury, illness, or condition of the child, as a result of which the child's physical, mental, or emotional health is substantially threatened or impaired. In accordance with statutory provisions, the inability of a parent or caretaker to provide for a child due to inadequate financial resources shall not, for that reason alone, be considered neglect. Whenever, in lieu of medical care, a child is being provided treatment in accordance with the tenets of a well‑recognized religious method of healing which has a reasonable, proven record of success, the child shall not, for that reason alone, be considered to be neglected or maltreated. However, nothing herein shall prohibit the court from ordering medical services for the child when there is substantial risk of harm to the child's health or welfare.
A mandatory reporter is any person who provides training and supervision of a child, including any one of the following individuals performing their occupational duties: teacher, teacher's aide, instructional aide, school principal, and school staff member.
Caretaker means any person legally obligated to provide or secure adequate care for a child, including a parent, tutor, guardian, legal custodian, foster home parent, an employee of a public or private day care center, or other person providing a residence for the child.
PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT Any mandatory reporter, notwithstanding any claim of privileged communication, who has cause to believe that a child's physical or mental health or welfare is endangered as a result of abuse or neglect, as defined by this policy, or that abuse or neglect was a contributing factor in a child's death, shall report immediately suspected abuse/neglect in accordance with the following: I. The mandatory reporter having the information shall contact the principal or designee immediately. The principal or other supervising employee shall immediately:
(A) When the suspected abuser is believed to be a parent or caretaker, make the report to the local child protection unit of the Department of Social Services.
(B) When the abuse or neglect is believed to be perpetrated by someone other than a parent or caretaker, and a parent or caretaker is not believed to have any responsibility for the abuse or neglect, make the report to the local law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the place where the abuse/neglect occurred.
II. If the initial report was in oral form, it shall be followed by a written report on the approved form, which written report shall be delivered within five (5) days to the local child protection agency or the local law enforcement agency to whom the initial report was made.
III. The principal, assistant principal, or other supervisory employee to whom the initial reporter gave the report shall have the primary responsibility of reporting the information to the appropriate agency as herein provided. The teacher or other Board employee who was the initial reporter is not relieved of responsibility, however, and to ensure that the report is delivered to the appropriate agency as required by law, the principal/designee/supervisory employee shall confer with the initial reporting employee and confirm that the report was made to the appropriate agency. If the principal/designee/ supervisory employee fails or refuses to make a required report, the initial reporting employee shall make the required report to the appropriate agency and shall, within five (5) days of filing the required written report file a confidential report of the entire matter in writing with the Superintendent.
The report shall contain the following information, if known:
1) The name, address, age, sex, and race of the child.
2) The nature, extent, and cause of the child's injuries or endangered condition, including any previous known or suspected abuse to this child or the child's siblings.
3) The name and address of the child's parent(s) or other caretaker.
4) The names and all the ages of all other members of the child's household.
5) The name and address of the reporter.
6) An account of how this child came to the reporter's attention.
7) Any explanation of the cause of the child's injury or condition offered by the child, the caretaker, or any other person.
8) Any other information which the reporter believes might be important or relevant.
The report shall also name the person or persons who are thought to have caused or contributed to the child's condition, if known, and the report shall contain the name of such person if he/she is named by the child. If the initial report was in oral form by a mandatory reporter, it shall be followed by a written report made within five (5) days to the local child protection unit, or if necessary, to the local law enforcement agency. INVESTIGATION OF REPORTS Admission of the investigator on school premises or access to the child in school shall not be denied by school officials. ALLEGATION AGAINST SCHOOL EMPLOYEES OR VOLUNTEERS When an employee is accused of the use of impermissible corporal punishment or moral offenses involving students, the principal shall initiate an investigation (see procedures under policy GAMC, Employee Investigations). If the offender is a central office employee, or principal, the immediate supervisor will initiate an investigation. Upon any school employee receiving a report of, or information about, child abuse, against another school employee or volunteer, and the employee receiving said information has cause to believe the truthfulness thereof, the reporting procedure as outlined in this policy shall be followed, depending upon whether the employee or volunteer is considered a caretaker or someone other than a caretaker. The school employee shall also, as soon as reasonably possible, notify the appropriate immediate supervisor of the accused individual, and that supervisor in turn will as soon as reasonably possible, notify the Superintendent or designee. The Superintendent and the Board's attorney will determine what appropriate action the school system may take over and above the investigation being conducted by the appropriate state agency. In any incident involving an employee or volunteer which is reported to the Superintendent or designee, the person shall be removed from all activities involving direct contact with students until the matter is resolved. ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL OFFENSES The Superintendent or his/her designee shall be required to notify the local law enforcement agency of any allegation made by a student of the commission of a sex offense as defined by La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §15:541(14.1). Such notification shall be made by the Superintendent or his/her designee within twenty-four (24) hours of the time the student notified the Superintendent or other appropriate personnel. Any school employee who receives information from a student concerning the possible commission of a sexual offense shall immediately inform the Superintendent and/or his/her designee. CONFIDENTIALITY The circumstances and information of the initial report, the fact that a report was made to an agency, and the written report shall be held in confidence and shall not be disseminated to third parties other than those persons or agencies designated by this policy or required by state law. Any written report or other written information regarding the report shall be kept in a confidential file separate from the child's routine school records and accessible only by the principal/designee/supervisory employee or by court order. INSERVICE TRAINING At the beginning of each school year, each principal shall provide mandated inservice training for mandatory reporters and other school personnel and volunteers on how to recognize and report suspected child abuse or child neglect. Each employee and volunteer shall sign a form indicating he/she has received and understands the guidelines for reporting child abuse/neglect. IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY Any person who in good faith makes a report, cooperates in any investigation arising as a result of such report, or participates in judicial proceedings authorized under the Louisiana Children's Code shall have immunity from civil or criminal liability that otherwise might be incurred or imposed. This immunity, however, does not extend to (1) a person who participates in or conspires with a participant or an accessory to an offense involving the abuse or neglect of a child; (2) any person who makes a report known to be false or with reckless disregard for the truth of the report.
LIABILITY The Louisiana Children's Code and Louisiana criminal law provide substantial penalties for mandatory reporters who fail to report facts which would support a reasonable belief that child abuse or neglect has occurred. Additionally, educators or other employees of the Calcasieu Parish School Board who fail or refuse to report child abuse/neglect as provided by law or by this policy may be subject to disciplinary and/or dismissal proceedings for neglect of duty.
Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. ''14:403, 15:542.2, 17:81.6; La. Children's Code, Title VI, Art. 601 et seq.
File: DJED
BIDS AND QUOTATIONS
A. Public Works
The Board shall advertise and let by contract, except in cases of emergencies, as provided below, all public work exceeding $100,000 per project. The contract shall be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder who has bid according to the contract, plan, and specifications advertised, unless stipulated otherwise by the Board.
As an evidence of good faith, each bidder for public works project shall attach to its bid, a bid bond, certified check, or cashier's check in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the bid amount.
All advertisements for bids shall appear in the newspaper selected as the official journal for the School Board, except in emergencies as may be declared by the Board, or designee. The advertisement, when published, shall appear once a week for three (3) different weeks, the first advertisement to appear at least twenty-five (25) days prior to the opening of bids. In addition, the School Board may also publish an advertisement by electronic media available to the general public. The first publication of the advertisement shall not occur on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday.
All bids shall be opened in public in the presence of one or more witnesses at the time and place designated in the invitation for bids. Each bid, together with the name of the bidder, shall be recorded and open to public inspection. The Superintendent and/or other appropriate administrators shall review, summarize and report bids to the Board with recommendations for final action.
Contracts for public works aggregating $100,000 or less shall be subject to the following: (1) $10,000 - $100,000
i) Advertising will be at the discretion of the Superintendent or his/her designee provided that written invitations for quotations are sent to at least five (5) bona fide, qualified bidders if the advertising process is not utilized.
ii) Written invitations for quotations shall contain complete specifications, the quantity required, and any other information, including the delivery point, which is necessary to make an acceptable quotation.
iii) Quotations shall be publicly opened and read at a specified date, time and location. Each bidder shall be notified of the date, time and location.
iv) Award of the contract shall be made by the Superintendent or his/her designee to lowest responsible responding contractor who has provided a quote.
(2) $5,000.00 - $9,999.99 Award will be made after obtaining no fewer than three (3) telephone or facsimile quotations. A written confirmation of the accepted offer shall be obtained and made part of the purchase file. If quotations lower than the accepted quotation are received, the reasons for their rejection shall be recorded in the purchase file.
(3) $0.00 - $4,999.99 Competitive quotations may be received at the discretion of the Buyer.
B. Supplies, Materials and Equipment
The Board shall advertise and let by contract all purchases of supplies, materials and equipment aggregating $25,000 or more. All advertisements for bids shall appear in the newspaper selected as the official journal for the School Board. The advertisement, when published, shall appear at least ten (10) days prior to the date set forth therein for the opening of bids. In addition, the School Board may also publish an advertisement by electronic media available to the general public. Notice shall also be given in writing to persons in a position to furnish the supplies, materials and equipment as shown by the purchasing department's records.
All bids shall be opened in public in the presence of one or more witnesses, at the time and place designated in the invitation for bids. Each bid, together with the name of the bidder, shall be recorded and open to public inspection. The Superintendent and/or other appropriate administrators shall review, summarize and report bids to the Board with recommendations for final action.
The Board may require, as evidence of good faith that each bidder for the purchase of supplies, materials or equipment, attach to its bid a bid bond, certified check or cashier's check in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the bid amount.
Purchases of supplies, material and equipment aggregating less than $25,000.00 shall be subject to the following:
(1) Purchases from $10,000 - $24,999.99 shall meet the same requirements as for purchases of $25,000.00 or more, except:
(a) Advertisement will be at the discretion of the Superintendent or his/her designee. In any event, written invitations for bids shall be sent to at least five (5) bona fide qualified bidders.
(b) Award of the contract shall be made by the Superintendent or his/her designee to lowest responsible bidder who has bid according to the specifications.
(2) Purchases of $5,000.00 or more, but less than $10,000 shall be made by obtaining no fewer than three telephone or facsimile quotations. A written confirmation of the accepted offers shall be obtained and made part of the purchase file. If quotations lower than the accepted quotation are received, the reasons for their rejection shall be recorded in the purchase file.
(3) $0.00 - $4,999.99 Competitive quotations may be received at the discretion of the purchasing department head.
C. In cases of an emergency or extreme emergency when time is not sufficient to advertise for bids for public works or purchase of materials, the Board or designee is permitted by law to declare that a public emergency or extreme public emergency exists and extend a contract for more than the sums mentioned without going out to bid; however, in such cases every effort shall be made by the administration to secure competitive quotations through negotiations. State law permits a person designated by the Board to declare the existence of an extreme public emergency. Notices of an emergency or extreme emergency shall be published in the Board’s official journal within ten (10) days of the emergency being certified by the School Board or designee.
Revised: November, 1987 Revised: August, 1999 Revised: November, 1989 Revised: October, 1999 Revised: December, 1991 Revised: December, 1999 Revised: December, 1992 Revised: November, 2001 Revised: June, 1995 Revised: June, 2002 Revised: December, 1995 Revised: November, 2003 Revised: November, 1997
Ref: La. Rev. Stat. Ann. ''38:2211, 38:2212, 38:2214, 38:2251, 39:1551 et seq.; Board minutes, 10-17-89, 3-17-92, 3-7-95, 1-16-96, 5-7-02, 9-17-02. File: GAK Cf: CG
PERSONNEL RECORDS
The Calcasieu Parish School Board shall require the maintenance of a uniform system of personnel records for all employees. It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent or designee to keep the records updated and complete in accordance with statutory provisions. A School Board member or any other person authorized pursuant to this policy shall be permitted to examine any and all records of the school system, except school employee records relative to evaluations, observations, formal complaints, and grievances. The Board, however, upon a majority vote of the total Board membership, shall have the right to examine any and all records of the school system, including personnel records. A personnel file shall be accurately maintained in the central administrative office for each present and former employee. These files shall contain applications for employment, references, and records relative to compensation, payroll deductions, evaluations, and such other matters as may be considered pertinent to the proper maintenance of all personnel records. It is the duty of the employee to furnish the personnel office with certificates, transcripts, statements of degrees, and other educational experience related documentation. The Superintendent shall be designated as custodian of all personnel files and shall have the overall responsibility for maintaining and preserving the confidentiality of the files. The Superintendent may, however, designate another official to perform the duties of records management on the understanding that this official is to be held responsible for granting or denying access to records on the basis of these guidelines. GENERAL ACCESS TO AN EMPLOYEE'S PERSONNEL FILE
No school employee shall be denied access to his/her personnel file. The contents of a school employee's personnel file shall not be divulged to third parties without the expressed written consent of the school employee, except when ordered by a court or by subpoena, or in accordance with this policy. No school system employee other than the personnel file custodian or the Superintendent for the system, or the designee of either, who shall be a school system employee, shall be allowed access to a school employee's personnel file without the school employee's expressed written consent, unless that employee is charged with the duty of supervising that particular school employee's performance. In case a personnel file should be accessed by the Board or anyone else, the employee whose file was so accessed shall receive written notice of the fact and the name and title of the person who was permitted access. All persons permitted access shall maintain the confidentiality of those documents in the file which are not matters of public record. REQUESTS FOR ACCESS AND INSPECTION
Additions to Personnel File
No complaint, commendation, suggestion, or evaluation may be placed in the evaluation file unless it meets the following requirements: 1. Each document concerning a school employee shall be placed in the employee's personnel file within a reasonable time and no document, except those resulting from routine recordkeeping, shall be placed in a school employee's personnel file by any school system employee, unless and until that school employee is presented with the original document and a copy thereof prior to its filing.
2. Upon receipt of the original document and copy of the same, the school employee shall sign the original document as an acknowledgement of the receipt of the copy of the document. Such signature shall not be construed as an agreement to the contents of the document.
Rebuttal and Response
Each school employee shall be given the opportunity to rebut and to respond to a document placed in his/her personnel file. 1. The rebuttal and response must be in written form and once filed shall be attached to the document to which the response and rebuttal applies, and thus become a permanent part of the school employee's personnel file as long as the document remains a part of the personnel file.
2. No document or copy thereof, to which a response and rebuttal has been filed, shall be used for any purpose whatsoever unless the rebuttal and response or copy thereof is attached to the document or copy sought to be used.
3. A school employee shall have the right to receive proof of any allegations and statements contained in a document placed in his/her file that the school employee believes to be inaccurate, invalid, or misrepresented. If such proof is not presented, the document containing the allegations and statement shall be removed from the school employee's personnel file and destroyed.
Procedure for Filing of Rebuttal and Response
1. Any rebuttal and response to a document placed in a school employee's personnel file shall be filed by the employee within fifteen (15) school days from the date on which the school employee signs the document acknowledging its receipt.
2. The school employee may be granted an additional ten (10) school days for the filing of the rebuttal and response, provided the school employee requests such an extension in writing addressed to the personnel file custodian within the original fifteen-day period. The personnel file custodian's consent to the ten-day extension of time shall not be unreasonably withheld.
3. The rebuttal and response shall be deemed filed by the delivery of the original and one copy of the rebuttal and response to the personnel file custodian. The personnel file custodian shall then sign and date the original rebuttal and response and file the same into the school employee's personnel file. The personnel file custodian sha |