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01-25-2005 |
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, January 25, 2005, 4:45 p.m. The meeting was called to order by James Pitre, President. The prayer was led by Dale Bernard; Mr. Pitre led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
The roll was called and the following members were present: Joe A. Andrepont, Dale B. Bernard, Clara F. Duhon, Jay L. Duhon, John M. Falgout, Rev. J.L. Franklin, James W. Karr, Sr., Bryan LaRocque, Sheral A. LaVergne, James W. Pitre, Gregory P. Robert, Dr. Edward Stephens, Philip Tarver and R.L. Webb.
Clara F. Duhon was absent.
Billy Breaux entered that meeting after it convened.
MINUTES APPROVED
On motion by Mr. LaRocque, seconded by Mr. Webb and unanimously carried, the minutes of the regular meeting of January 11, 2005, were approved as presented.
Supplemental Agenda
By general consent the Supplemental Agenda was included as part of the regular agenda.
PRESENTATIONS
Special Presentation
Board President Joe Andrepont presented a plaque of recognition and appreciation to outgoing Board President Jimmy Pitre.
Teachers of the Year Awards
The following teachers were recognized and presented with a plaque for being named Calcasieu Parish School System Teachers of the Year:
Elementary: Colleen Benoit A.A. Nelson Elementary School
1st Runner-up: Barbara Yancey College Oaks Elementary School
2nd Runner-up: Lisa Dietz Dolby Elementary School
Middle School: Denise Whitley S.P. Arnett Middle School
1st Runner-up: Rhona Wiley-Williams Reynaud Middle School 2nd Runner-up: Dawn Fox Maplewood Middle School
High School: Tammy Hebert Iowa High School
1st Runner-up: Linda Pettaway Sam Houston High School
2nd Runner-up: Delaina LaRocque LaGrange High School
Mr. Breaux entered the meeting.
The Chamber/SWLA Quality Council
The Quality Council of the Chamber/Southwest Louisiana was recognized for initiating and sustaining Baldrige-based quality in education in Calcasieu Parish Schools. Louisiana Pigment Plant Manager and Quality Council Chair Greg Godfrey was presented with a plaque.
By general consent item VII A, Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness for Johnson Controls, Inc., was placed after presentations.
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION
Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness for Johnson Controls, Inc., Project SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1 Lake Charles, Louisiana January 25, 2005
The Parish School Board of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, met in regular public session at 5:00 o’clock p.m. on Tuesday, January 25, 2005, at the regular meeting place of said Board in the Calcasieu Parish School Board Office, Lake Charles, Louisiana, pursuant to the provisions of written notice given to each and every member thereof and duly posted in the manner required by law. President Joe Andrepont called the meeting to order and on roll call, the following members were present: Joe A. Andrepont, Dale B. Bernard, Billy Breaux, Jay L. Duhon, John M. Falgout, Rev. J. L. Franklin, James W. Karr, Sr., Bryan LaRocque, Sheral A. LaVergne, James W. Pitre, Gregory P. Robert, Dr. Edward Stephens, Phillip Tarver, and R. L.. Webb
ABSENT: Clara F. Duhon
Jude W. Theriot, Board Secretary, also attended. The meeting was called to order and the roll called with the above results. Thereupon, on motion made by Mr. Tarver and seconded by Mr. Breaux, the following resolution was unanimously adopted:
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD TO PROCEED WITH DEVELOPMENT OF A PROJECT INVOLVING ISSUANCE OF NOT EXCEEDING $8,000,000 EXCESS REVENUE CERTIFICATES OF INDEBTEDNESS (JOHNSON CONTROLS PROJECT), SERIES 2005, AUTHORIZING APPLICATION TO THE LOUISIANA STATE BOND COMMISSION, AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER MATTERS WITH RESPECT THERETO.
WHEREAS, the Calcasieu Parish School Board (the “Issuer”) is a political subdivision of the State of Louisiana within the meaning of Subsection 2 of Section 44 of Article VI of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974, and Sections 2922 and 2923 of Title 33 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, (the “Act”);
WHEREAS, it is projected that the general fund budget of the Issuer for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2005, will show an estimated excess of revenues over statutory, necessary and usual charges and all other expenses for such fiscal year in the total amount of $15 million, as will more fully appear by reference to said budget;
WHEREAS, after carefully investigating and studying the actual revenues and expenditures and all matters in connection therewith for that portion of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2005, the Issuer has found and does hereby find and determine that the actual surplus for said fiscal year will, in all probability, be in excess of the projected excess set forth above in the aforesaid budget;
WHEREAS, the estimates contained in the aforesaid budget are also deemed reasonable and conservative in view of the operating experience over the past several years, as reflected by the official audits, over the general fund revenues and expenditures;
WHEREAS, the Act authorizes the Issuer to make and enter into contracts dedicating the excess of annual revenues of subsequent years above statutory, necessary and usual charges to the payment of that portion of the cost of public improvements which is to be borne by the Issuer under such contacts, provided all such dedications do not exceed the estimated excess of revenues over said statutory, necessary and usual charges of the year in which the contract is made;
WHEREAS, the Issuer desires to incur debt and issue not exceeding EIGHT MILLION AND NO/100 ($8,000,000.00) DOLLARS in Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness in the manner authorized and provided by the Act and as hereinafter specified, to obtain ready funds to pay a portion of the costs of construction of certain school improvements for energy efficiency (the “Project”);
WHEREAS, it has been determined by the Issuer that after meeting statutory, necessary and usual charges, there will remain ample undedicated funds to pay debt service on the Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness herein authorized;
WHEREAS, the Issuer will seek approval of the Louisiana State Bond Commission on January 20, 2005, for approval of the issuance, sale and delivery of not to exceed EIGHT MILLION AND NO/100 ($8,000,000.00) DOLLARS of Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness of the Issuer, at an interest rate or rates not to exceed five (5%) percent per annum, to be repaid over a ten (10) year period, said funds to be used for the purpose of financing the Project in the various Calcasieu Parish Schools (the “Certificates”), and which Certificates are to be secured by and payable from the excess of annual revenues accruing to the budget of the Issuer for the ten (10) year period during which the Certificates are outstanding, above statutory, necessary and usual charges;
WHEREAS, said Certificates may be sold in a single or multiple series and shall be sold by negotiation a purchaser deemed to be most favorable to the Issuer, at the price of not less than par and accrued interest to date of delivery;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Calcasieu Parish School Board, governing authority of the Calcasieu Parish School System, Lake Charles, Louisiana, as follows:
SECTION 1. The Issuer does hereby authorize undertaking and development of the Project involving the proposed issuance by the Issuer of not exceeding $8,000,000 Calcasieu Parish School Board Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness (Johnson Controls Project), Series 2005 (the “Certificates”), at an interest rate not to exceed five (5%) percent per annum, to be repaid over a ten (10) year period, which Certificates are to be secured by and payable from the excess of annual revenues accruing to the budget of the Issuer for the ten (10) year period during which the Certificates are outstanding, above statutory, necessary and usual charges. The Certificates may be sold in a single or multiple series and shall be sold to a purchaser deemed to be most favorable to the Issuer, at the price of not less than par and accrued interest to date of delivery.
SECTION 2. There being a real public necessity for the retention and employment of legal counsel to provide specialized legal services as described in Section 3 hereof, in connection with the issuance of the Certificates by the Issuer, for the purpose of financing construction of certain classroom facilities for school buildings of the Calcasieu Parish School Board within the Parish of Calcasieu, State of Louisiana, in accordance with the provisions of Sections 2922 and 2923 of Title 33 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and it appearing that the public interest requires the obtaining of such specialized legal services, Joseph A. Delafield, A Professional Corporation, of Lake Charles, Louisiana “Bond Counsel”), is hereby employed in accordance with the provisions of this resolution.
SECTION 3. Legal services to be provided hereunder include comprehensive legal and coordinate professional work described in Paragraphs (A) through (K) as follows:
(A) counseling and advising the Issuer relative to all legal and financial matters in connection with the issuance of the Certificates;
(B) making a survey of the financial resources and debt structure of the Issuer to determine the extent of its borrowing capacity and sources of funds to secure the Certificates;
(C) formulating a plan of finance which contains complete details of the proposed Certificates, the security features thereof, estimated interest rate, and the overall debt service requirements after giving effect to the new financing;
(D) assisting the officials of the Issuer in fixing the final details of the Certificates, including schedules of maturities, redemption features and form of the Certificates;
(E) drafting and submitting to the Issuer all proceedings and documents, including resolutions, indentures and ordinances necessary to authorize the issuance of the Certificates and all legal proceedings and documents relating to marketing and delivery of the Certificates, and supervising the adoption of said proceedings, and execution of said documents by the officials of the Issuer;
(F) assisting local counsel to the Issuer or local associate counsel retained by Issuer in handling all litigation affecting the legality of the Certificates and/or the method of financing;
(G) assisting the Issuer or others in various aspects of preparing the offering statement or any other disclosure document to be disseminated in connection with the sale of the Certificates;
(H) assisting in presenting information to bond rating organizations, if needed;
(I) arranging and supervising the delivery of the Certificates to the original purchaser thereof and, where required, the preparation and execution of trust documents safeguarding the expenditure of Certificate proceeds;
(J) obtaining any occurring or ancillary legal opinions from other persons or firms to enhance the possibilities of sale of the Certificate; and
(K) Preparing a complete transcript of record covering the issuance of the Certificates and furnishing the same to the purchaser(s) of the Certificates.
SECTION 4. The fee for the work to be performed hereunder is contingent upon the issuance, sale and delivery of the Certificates, and shall be in accordance with the maximum fee schedule of the Attorney General of the State of Louisiana for comprehensive legal and coordinate professional work by bond attorneys and bond counsel in the issuance of revenue bonds. Bond Counsel shall pay out of his fee the following expenses: (a) Travel and communication expenses incurred by him in the handling of the Certificates; and (b) Printing and reproduction costs of all financial analysis, reports, and legal proceedings prepared by the Bond Counsel. Bond Counsel shall be reimbursed all other reasonable and necessary costs and expenses incurred in connection with the preparation and distribution of any preliminary and final Official Statements containing detailed and comprehensive financial and statistical data with respect to the Issuer (for example, costs and expenses to include the cost of collecting data, cost of preparing and assembling material, costs of printing or duplicating, postal supplies, and cost of binding copies of the transcript of proceedings).
SECTION 5. It is intended that acceptance and approval of this resolution by entering upon performance by Joseph A. Delafield, A Professional Corporation, of the legal services provided for herein, shall constitute this resolution a contract in accordance with the provisions hereof.
SECTION 6. When the Issuer has received payment in full for the Certificates upon delivery thereof, payment of the fee and expenses is authorized to be made as herein provided.
SECTION 7. The Issuer does hereby authorize and direct Bond Counsel to proceed with the preparation of all necessary and appropriate documents and to file preliminary drafts of said documents and make application with the State Bond Commission in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Commission.
SECTION 8. The employment of Crews & Associates, Inc., Little Rock, Arkansas, as Underwriter in connection with the Certificates is hereby approved. The compensation of the Underwriter shall be payable from the proceeds of the Certificates and shall be subject to the approval of the Issuer and the Louisiana State Bond Commission. The Issuer reserves the right and option to proceed with a public sale of the Certificates should Crews & Associates, Inc., be unable or unwilling to comply with the Issuer’s financial requirements.
SECTION 9. The officers of the Issuer are hereby authorized and empowered to take any and all further action and to sign any and all documents, instruments in writing as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this resolution and to file, on behalf of the Issuer, with any governmental board of entity having jurisdiction over the Issuer’s Project, such applications or requests for approval thereof as may be required by law, including the application to the State Bond Commission for preliminary approval and authorization to proceed with development of the Project.
This Resolution was declared adopted on this 25th day of January, 2005.
/s/ Joe Andrepont JOE ANDREPONT, President Calcasieu Parish School Board
ATTEST:
/s/ Jude W. Theriot JUDE W. THERIOT, Secretary
(Other business not pertinent to the within excerpt may be found of record in the Official Minutes.)
Upon motion duly made and unanimously carried, the meeting was adjourned. /s/ Joe Andrepont JOE ANDREPONT, President
ATTEST:
/s/ Jude W. Theriot JUDE W. THERIOT, Secretary
STATE OF LOUISIANA
PARISH OF CALCASIEU
I, JUDE W. THERIOT, certify that I am the duly qualified and acting Superintendent of Public Schools for the Parish of Calcasieu, Louisiana, and as such, Ex-Officio Secretary of the Calcasieu Parish School Board. I further certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct copy of an excerpt from the minutes of a meeting of the Calcasieu Parish School Board held on January 25, 2005 insofar as said minutes pertain to the matters therein set out, and that the foregoing copy of a resolution adopted at said meeting is a true and correct copy of the original resolution as it is officially of record in my possession. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, witness my official signature and the impress of the official seal of the Calcasieu Parish School Board on this 25th day January, 2005. JUDE W. THERIOT, Secretary
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Administration and Personnel
Mr. Falgout reported that the Administration and Personnel Committee met on Monday, January 24. A quorum was present.
The first item on the agenda was the method in which the voting for the superintendent selection would be followed. Mr. Falgout reported that a motion was made and approved that a majority vote would be required. An amendment to the motion was made and approved to include a super majority vote in which eight votes would be necessary to select the superintendent. On behalf of the committee, Mr. Falgout moved to approve the motion.
Mr. Andrepont recognized Mr. Spruel, legal counsel. Mr. Spruel noted that after review of the minutes of the Administration and Personnel Committee of November 30th, the Board meeting minutes and audio tape of December 7th, the following issues were offered for consideration:
Ø If the motion for a “super majority vote” passes, the record would change from prior action taken by the Board at the December 7th meeting. Ø Based on research and concurrence of the maker of the motion, the Board approved a “majority vote.” Ø “Majority vote” as approved at the December 7th meeting, is defined as “simple majority vote,” which requires a majority of Board members who vote.
For the record and clarification of the Administration and Personnel minutes of the January 24th meeting, Rev. Franklin noted that he voted against the “super majority” motion. Mr. Pitre also stated for the record that he voted in favor of the “super majority” motion.
After discussion regarding the pros and cons of the “super majority vote” and “simple majority vote,” Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the motion from committee to accept the “super majority vote,” which would rescind the motion that was approved on December 7th. The motion failed by a vote of 7 nays to 6 yeas. The current motion stands.
Mr. Falgout continued by reporting that the next item was advertisements relative to the superintendent search. A motion was made allowing staff to proceed with advertising. An amendment was made, seconded and approved, to include:
o Times Shreveport o Times-Picayune New Orleans o Houston Chronicle o Austin American Statesman o Monroe News Star o Town Talk of Alexandria o Advertiser Lafayette o Wall Street Journal
On behalf of the committee, Mr. Falgout moved to approve the motion.
Mr. Spruel noted that, with the inclusion of several listed publication sites, the cost would exceed the total allocation of $30,000.00, which was approved at a previous meeting.
Mr. Bruchhaus, Chief Financial Officer, gave an overview of advertising costs for websites and classifieds.
Mr. Robert offered a substitute motion, seconded by Ms. LaVergne, to send the issue to the Administration and Personnel Committee for cost and process review of advertisements.
There was discussion relative to a delay if the review was referred back to the Administration and Personnel Committee.
Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the motion. Motion failed.
Mr. Bruchhaus added that if the advertisements were run on the recommended websites and in the original seven Louisiana agencies every weekend for four consecutive weeks in the classified section, the cost would remain within the budget of $30,000.00.
Mr. Tarver made an amendment to the main motion, seconded by Mr. Breaux, to approve advertisement in the original seven Louisiana publication agencies and websites. Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the amendment to the motion. The motion carried.
Mr. Spruel advised the Board that the legal requirements stipulate that advertisement must be run in the Official Journal, which is the Southwest Daily News and through another publication if the circulation is limited to a smaller area. In this case, the other publication site would be Lafayette Daily Advertiser.
After a brief discussion, Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the motion as amended, which after concurrence with the maker, includes the Official Journal, Southwest Daily News, and Lafayette Daily Advertiser. The motion carried.
Mr. Falgout reported that it was recommended by Mrs. Chiasson to advertise on all school related websites. A motion was made, seconded and approved, to advertise on school related websites. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee to approve the recommendation. The motion carried.
Mr. Falgout continued by reporting a motion was made, seconded and approved, that the deadline date for submission of applications would be extended from March 1, 2005, to April 1, 2005, and naming the superintendent from July 1, 2005, to August 1, 2005. On behalf of the committee, Mr. Falgout moved to approve the date revisions.
Mr. Tarver offered an amendment to the motion, seconded by Rev. Franklin, to omit the change of July 1, to August 1, for naming the superintendent. The deadline date would remain July 1, 2005.
Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the amendment to the motion. The motion carried with four nays. The motion as amended carried.
Next, Mr. Falgout stated that a motion was made, seconded and approved, to request all applicants to sign a waiver allowing release of information relative to conducting a background check as deemed necessary by the Board and legal counsel. On behalf of the committee, Mr. Falgout moved to approve the waiver.
There was discussion on the correctness of the motion as reported from the committee. Subsequently, Mr. Robert made an amendment to the motion, seconded by Mr. Bernard, to certify background checks on the final three applicants, but not limited to more if necessary. After discussion, legal counsel advised the Board that the intent of the language in the application indicates that the Board has authority to conduct background checks on any applicant.
Mr. Andrepont called for a vote on the amendment as stated. The motion failed. Upon being put to a vote, the main motion carried.
Mr. Falgout stated that a motion was made, seconded and approved, to interview all system applicants who meet qualifications. The motion carried with one nay by Rev. Franklin.
With no further business or discussion, the meeting adjourned.
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION
Resolution Authorizing the Hiring of Special Legal Counsel in Connection with Potential Litigation
On motion by Mr. Bernard, seconded by Mr. Duhon and carried, the following Resolution was adopted:
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 the audit assessment and subsequent litigation by S & R Hotels, dba Best Western Richmond Suites; 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 Scofield, Gerard, Veron, Singletary and Pohorelsky 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 General Fee Schedule. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Scofield, Gerard, Veron, Singletary and Pohorelsky Law Firm is hereby retained as special counsel for the Calcasieu Parish School Board in connection with the above case protest proceedings and any subsequent litigation, subject to the Attorney General Fee Schedule. Joe A. Andrepont, President Calcasieu Parish School Board
Attest:
Jude W. Theriot, Secretary
Resolution Authorizing Extension of Agreement to Provide Educational Counselor for the Truancy Assessment and Service Center
On motion by Ms. LaVergne, seconded by Dr. Stephens and carried, the following Resolution was adopted:
R E S O L U T I O N
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXTENSION OF AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE EDUCATIONAL COUNSELOR FOR THE TRUANCY ASSESSMENT AND SERVICE CENTER
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED BY THE CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD, convened in regular session on the 25th day of January, 2005, that it does hereby approve the extension of an agreement between the Police Jury, Office of Juvenile Justice Services, and the Calcasieu Parish School Board, to provide an Educational Counselor for the Truancy Assessment and Service Center, with associated costs to be paid through funding from Louisiana State University, Office of Social Service Research and Development.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the President of the Calcasieu Parish School Board is authorized to execute all documents related thereto.
PASSED, ADOPTED AND APPROVED at Lake Charles, Louisiana on the date above inscribed.
****************************************************************** ATTEST: _________________________________ JUDE W. THERIOT, Secretary
BID REPORTS
Audio Visual Equipment for Libraries, General Funds, Bid Number 2005-27
The following bids were received:
Vendor Name Bid Price
Aves Audio Visual Systems, Inc., $ 3,742.00 (Sugarland, TX)
Bays Electronics $ 792.00 (Johnson City, TN)
Best Computer Supplies, Inc., $ 4,384.65 (Reno, NV)
C&C Audio Visual and Video $ 2,019.00 (Lake Charles, LA)
Dell Marketing L.P. $ 5,782.82 (Round Rock, TX)
Highsmith Co., Inc., $ 1,505.99 (Fort Atkinson, WI)
Lakeshore Learning Materials $ 359.90 (Carson, CA)
The Library Store $ 87.44 (Tremont, IL)
National Audio Visual Supply $ 5,499.64 (Grafton, VT)
Troxell Communications $12,742.06 (Baton Rouge, LA)
Ward and Associates $ 1,714.50 Total Bid Amount $38,630.00
On motion by Mr. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Breaux and carried, the low bid for each item meeting specifications was approved.
PERMISSION TO ADVERTISE
School Buses, Transportation Department, General Funds, Bid Number 2005-36
On motion by Rev. Franklin, seconded by Mr. Breaux and carried, permission to advertise for school buses, Transportation Department, general funds, bid number 2005-36, was approved.
Playground Equipment for Maplewood Middle School, School District Number 30 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Breaux, seconded by Dr. Stephens and carried, permission to advertise for playground equipment for Maplewood Middle School, school district number 23 bond funds, was approved.
CORRESPONDENCE
Change Order Number Two (2) for the Project “Classroom Pods,” Phase V,Riverboat FundsOn motion by Mr. Duhon, seconded by Ms. LaVergne and carried, change ordernumber two (2) for the project “Classroom Pods,” Phase V, riverboat funds,project number 5004615, for an Increase of $6,961.46, C.R. Fugatt, AIA,designer; Shannon Smith Construction Inc., contractor, was approved.
Change Order Number Five (5) for the Project “Additions and Renovationsto T.S. Cooley Elementary Magnet School,” Phase II, School District Number33 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Bernard, seconded by Mr. Robert and carried, change ordernumber five (5) for the project “Additions and Renovations to T.S. CooleyElementary Magnet School,” phase II, school district number 33 bondfunds, project number 0366, for an increase of $3,403.00 and an extension of 23days, Randy M. Goodloe, AIA, designer; John D. Myers, contractor, wasapproved.
Change Order Number Two (2) for the Project “Additions and Renovationsto Iowa High School Track,” School District Number 25 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Webb, seconded by Mr. Breaux and carried, change ordernumber two (2) for the project “Additions and Renovations to Iowa High SchoolTrack,” school district number 25 bond funds, project number MA0415, for anincrease of $13,470.00 and an extension of 40 days, Moss Architects, Inc.,designer; Asphalt Associates, Inc., contractor, was approved.
Change Order Number Four (4) for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Nelson Elementary School,” Phase II, School District Number 34 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Pitre, seconded by Mr. Bernard and carried, change order number four (4) for the project “Additions and Renovations to Nelson Elementary School,” phase II, school district number 34 bond funds, project number 2004-20PC, for an increase of $3,926.45 and an extension of 4 days, H. Curtis Vincent and Steven D. Shows, designers; Priola Construction Company, contractor, was approved.
Change Order Number Eight (8) for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Dolby Elementary School,” School District Number 34 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Pitre, seconded by Mr. Bernard and carried, change order number eight (8) for the project “Additions and Renovations to Dolby Elementary School,” school district number 34 bond funds, project number 0217, for an increase of $4,638.00 and an extension of 5 days, Champeaux Evans Hotard, designers; Alfred Palma, Inc., contractor, was approved.
Recommendation of Acceptance for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Dolby Elementary School,” School District Number 34 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Pitre, seconded by Mr. Bernard and carried, recommendation of acceptance for the project “Additions and Renovations to Dolby Elementary School,” school district number 34 bond funds, project number 2004-06PC,
Champeaux Evans Hotard, designers; Alfred Palma, Inc., contractor, was approved.
Change Order Number Four (4) for the Project “Additions and Renovations to S.J. Welsh Middle School,” School District Number 34 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Pitre, seconded by Mr. Bernard and carried, change order number four (4) for the project “Additions and Renovations to S.J. Welsh Middle School,” school district number 34 bond funds, project number 0366, for an increase of $15,254.00 and an extension of 13 days, Randy Goodloe, AIA, designer; Bessette Development, contractor, was approved.
Beneficial Occupancy for the Project “Additions and Renovations to S.J. Welsh Middle School Library,” Phase II, School District Number 34 Bond Funds
On motion by Mr. Bernard, seconded by Mr. Falgout and carried, beneficial occupancy for the project “Additions and Renovations to LaGrange High School,” school district number 33 bond funds, project number 200214, C. Gayle Zembower, Architect, Inc., designer; Priola Construction Corporation, contractor, was approved.
SUPERINTEDENT’S REPORT
Children and Youth Planning Board Nominees – Calcasieu Parish Police Jury
The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury created the Calcasieu Parish Children and Youth Planning Board. As noted in the attached Resolution, two members shall represent education, with one member representing early childhood/elementary education, and one member representing secondary and special education, both of whom are to be nominated by the Calcasieu Parish School Board.
Nominees are: Sheryl Piper, Pre-K Coordinator Dr. Betty Washington, Special Education Supervisor
On motion by Ms. LaVergne, seconded by Mr. Bernard and carried, Mrs. Piper and Dr. Washington were approved to serve on the Children and Youth Planning Board.
Suggested Board Dates
March 1, 2005 – Sulphur High School 9th Grade Campus March 15, 2005
On motion by Mr. Breaux, seconded by Mr. Karr and carried, the recommended Board Meeting dates were approved.
Youth Media ACC Feature Story
The Calcasieu Parish School System's Community Technology Center Program, funded through a U.S. Department of Education federal grant, and a project of the district’s Technology Department, was recently chosen by the America Connects Consortium from programs around the country to be featured internationally for its implementation of a youth media program. The Youth Media component of the MASTER (Multiple Applied Strategies and Technology Educational Resources) Plan of the CTC program is in partnership with the Calcasieu Parish School System’s Vocational Education and High School Departments and the Calcasieu Career Center. In compliance with the Board of Education and Secondary Education Board, the CTC program offers elective courses such as Multimedia Productions (1/2 credit) and Digital Graphics and Animation (1/2 credit). The Credit Recovery Program, through the Calcasieu Career Center, offers a unique self-paced computer alternative for students who are having difficulty in a traditional school setting. The addition of the Youth Media elective courses assists with compliance of graduation requirements.
In the elective courses, the youth media component includes multiple software applications teaching digital photo and video editing, animation creation and editing. CTC participants and high school students produced a photo album full of various pictures using scanners and photo-editing software (Jasc PaintShop Pro 8 and Photo Album 4), a research-based news broadcast utilizing digital video, audio, and Visual Communicator, an animated movie using digitized animations edited with Studio 8 DV, and a culminating project incorporating digital stills, digital video, and animation in one final movie using ULEAD Cool 3D software. All projects were produced on a DVD for final publication. Through the CTC and its partners, the combined programs teach skills-based, real-world, job-related, state-of-the-art multimedia strategies and practices that will transfer to economic, educational, and social advancement. Sheryl Abshire, Administrative Coordinator of Technology is the CTC Director and Phyllis Gain serves as CTC Coordinator.
The full feature article may be found at the following web site: http://www.americaconnects.net/field/FS_YouthMedia.asp
CONDOLENCES/RECOGNITIONS
Rev. Franklin recognized Mr. Wilbert Lewis and Mr. Doucet who are representatives of the NAACP.
Mr. Duhon commended the community and all participants who contribute to the success of the 66th District Livestock Show and Rodeo. He added that many scholarships are issued to students in Calcasieu Parish.
Mr. Karr announced that the DeQuincy High School Beta Club placed first in the state competition which was held in Lafayette. He requested a congratulatory letter to the students, Mrs. Cooper, Mrs. Franks and Mrs. Brooks. He also requested letters to Tony Ecker for being named the Calcasieu Parish High School Student of the Year and Claire Galley, Calcasieu Parish Middle School Student of the Year. Tony attends DeQuincy High School and Claire attends Dequincy Middle School.
Mr. Falgout requested a letter of condolence to the family of Lola Abelman. She was a dedicated employee of the school system. He also requested a congratulatory letter to the Washington/Marion High School Band for placing first in the competition at the All American US Army/Reebok Football Classic.
Mr. Tarver requested a letter of condolence to the family of Philip Perry. Mr. Perry served as the principal at Forest K. White Middle School for many years.
Ms. LaVergne commended the Washington/Marion Band for their outstanding award.
Mr. Webb also extended sympathy to the family of Philip Perry. He also requested congratulatory letters to J.I. Watson for raising over $3,000.00 for the tsunami relief and to Brendon Gilroy, Coach at Iowa High School, for receiving the “You Make a Difference Award” from Nicholls State University.
Mr. Andrepont requested a letter to be sent to the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service (4-H) in appreciation for the complimentary Livestock Show and Rodeo tickets.
SCHEDULE STANDING COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Employee Benefits – Monday, February 14, 4:45 Board Meeting – Tuesday, February 15, 4:45
EXECUTIVE SESSION
On motion by Mr. Duhon, seconded by Dr. Stephens and unanimously carried, the Board went into Executive Session at 6:12 p.m. to discuss personnel matters. The Board resumed regular open session at 6:30 p.m.
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION
Personnel
On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mr. Bernard and unanimously carried, the following personnel changes were approved as recommended by the Superintendent:
Resignation
Barbara Mitchell, Teacher, Prien Lake Elementary School. Recommend that her resignation become effective January 28, 2005.
Lisa Self, Bus Driver, LeBleu Settlement Elementary School. Recommend that her resignation become effective January 21, 2005.
Jeremiah Floyd, Custodian, Gillis Elementary School. Recommend that his resignation become effective January 21, 2005.
Naomi White, Teacher, J.J. Johnson Elementary School. Recommend that her resignation become effective January 21, 2005. Justin Fruge', Teacher/Head Coach, Vinton Middle School. Recommend that her resignation become effective January 28, 2005.
Shontill Valentine, Teacher Aide, Pearl Watson Elementary School. Recommend that her resignation become effective January 20, 2005.
Retirement Notification
Nancy Muery, Librarian, T.S. Cooley Elementary School. Recommend that her notification of retirement become effective May 31, 2005.
Maternity Leave
Christine Almaguer, Band Director, Maplewood Middle School. Recommend that she be granted a maternity leave beginning January 26, 2005 until March 14, 2005.
Virginia Cecchini, Teacher, Sulphur High School. Recommend that she be granted a maternity leave beginning January 31, 2005 until March 16, 2005.
Tarinda DeVillier, Teacher, Barbe Elementary School. Recommend that she be granted a maternity leave beginning April 14, 2005 until May 26, 2005.
Cherie Bijeaux, Teacher, J.J. Johnson Elementary School. Recommend that she be granted a maternity leave beginning February 18, 2005 until April 11, 2005.
Leave Without Pay
Stefanie Self, Teacher, Westwood Elementary School. Recommend that she be granted a leave without pay beginning January 1, 2005 until May 31, 2005.
Professional Development
Kristy Rosteet, Teacher, S.P. Arnett Middle School. Recommend that she be granted a leave for professional development for the 2005- 2006 school session.
Medical Sabbatical
Priscilla Hall, Hospital/Homebound Teacher, Special Services Dept. Recommend that she be granted a sabbatical leave for medical purposes for the spring semester of the 2004-2005 school session and the fall semester of the 2005- 2006 school session.
Kathleen Gautreaux, Teacher, LeBlanc Middle School. Recommend that she be granted a sabbatical leave for medical purposes for the spring semester of the 2004-2005 session.
Denise Terro, ELA Teacher, W. W. Lewis Middle School. Recommend that she be granted a sabbatical leave for medical purposes for the spring semester of the 2004-2005 school session.
Carolyn Langley, Kindergarten Teacher, Gillis Elementary School. Recommend that she be granted a sabbatical leave for medical purposes for the spring semester of the 2004-2005 school session.
Medical Leave
Katherine Little, Teacher, Moss Bluff Middle School. Recommend that she be granted a leave for medical purposes for the spring semester of the 2004-2005 school session.
Scheri Billedeaux, Teacher, Maplewood Middle School. Recommend that she be granted a leave for medical purposes for the spring semester of the 2004-2005 school session.
Waive Act 715
Cynthia Mercer, Teacher, Maplewood Middle School. Recommend that Act 715 be waived on her behalf and her notification of retirement become effective June 1, 2005.
Susan Andrus, Teacher, Nelson Elementary School. Recommend that Act 715 be waived on her behalf and her notification of retirement become effective January 28, 2005.
Recommendations
On motion by Mr. Breaux, seconded by Mr. Duhon and carried, Keith Bonin was named Principal for Sulphur High School.
On motion by Mr. Webb, seconded by Dr. Stephens and carried, David Miller was named Head Coach for Iowa High School.
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