PROCEEDINGS OF
LAFOURCHE PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Thibodaux, Louisiana
June 13, 2001
The Parish School Board of the Parish of Lafourche, State of Louisiana, met in regular session at its regular meeting place, the Parish School Board Office, located at 805 East Seventh Street, Thibodaux, Louisiana, on Wednesday, June 13, 2001, at 7:00 p.m.
The Parish School Board of the Parish of Lafourche, State of Louisiana, was duly convened as the governing authority of Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Lafourche, State of Louisiana, by The Honorable Dave J. DeFelice, Jr., President.
Ms. Rhoda Caldwell read the opening prayer.
President DeFelice led the board and the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Present for roll call were: Mr. Louis E. Thibodaux (District 1); Ms. Rhoda Caldwell (District 2); Ms. Constance T. Williams (District 3); Ms. Martha S. Zeringue (District 4); Mr. Jessie Fabiano (District 5); Mr. G. A. Rodrigue, Jr. (District 6); Mr. Dave J. DeFelice, Jr. (District 8); Mr. Dennis Jean’ Chiasson (District 10); Mr. Roy Landry (District 11); Mr. John Danos (District 13); Mr. Paul Chiquet (District 14).
Absent were: Dr. Judy G. Theriot (District 7); Ms. Loretta Duplantis (District 9); Mr. Aubrey J. Orgeron (District 12); Ms. Rebecca Duet (District 15).
On motion of Mr. Chiquet, seconded by Mr. Thibodaux and unanimously carried, the board approved minutes of the regular school board meeting held May 2, 2001 and of the special school board meeting held May 24, 2001, as recorded.
President DeFelice called on Supervisor Gary Babin to recognize the retiring employees. The retirees were individually introduced by Supervisor Babin and presented with certificates of appreciation by President DeFelice and Superintendent Broussard.
The board received the minutes of the Finance Committee meetings held May 17 and 21, 2001. President DeFelice called on Mr. Landry, who, in the absence of Chairperson Orgeron, gave a brief report on the May 17 committee meeting and submitted the following recommendation of the Finance Committee for the board's consideration:
To increase the cost of mileage reimbursement from $.28 per mile to $.32 per mile for all employees effective July 1, 2001.
Mr. Rodrigue offered a motion, seconded by Mr. Landry, to accept the recommendation of the Finance Committee. A vote was then taken on Mr. Rodrigue's motion; and the motion was carried, although not unanimously -- Mr. Landry cast a dissenting vote. Next, Mr. Landry gave a brief report on the committee meeting held May 21. At the conclusion of his report, Mr. Landry thanked Business Manager Don Gaudet for the work he had done in providing necessary information to the committee members. There being no corrections to the minutes of the committee meetings as received, the board, by general consensus, approved the minutes (as recorded) of the Finance Committee meetings held May 17 and 21, as follows:
A meeting of the Finance Committee was held on Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 5:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the Lafourche Parish School Board building, located at 805 East Seventh Street, Thibodaux, Louisiana.
Members present were Mr. Aubrey Orgeron (Chairperson), Mr. Dennis Jean’ Chiasson, Mr. G. A. Rodrigue, Jr., Dr. Judy Theriot and Ms. Martha Zeringue.
Absent were: Mr. Jessie Fabiano and Mr. Roy Landry.
Also in attendance were: Mr. Elmo Broussard (Superintendent), Mr. Don Gaudet (Business Manager), Ms. Rebecca Duet, Ms. Rhoda Caldwell, Mr. John Danos and Ms. Loretta Duplantis.
Mr. Orgeron opened the meeting by calling on Mr. Gaudet for a roll call of members in attendance.
Under New Business, Mr. Orgeron explained that the committee was meeting in order to review the report based on the compensation survey conducted by Postlethwaite and Netterville and to consider it and other related salary issues and take appropriate action.
Mr. Orgeron called on Mr. Gaudet to discuss the packet of information he had prepared for committee members in regards to salary compensation. Mr. Gaudet proceeded to refer to various areas of his report. In his report titled “Revenue Recap,” Mr. Gaudet explained the various avenues of revenue (ad valorem taxes, sales and use taxes, and the MFP) available to the board for use in providing long-term solutions to salary issues. He went on to explain actual/anticipated amounts each would generate by year-end of June 30, 2001. Mr. Gaudet further explained that he expected the ad valorem tax collections to be approximately $80,400; sales taxes (both pennies) to be an estimated $570,000; and the MFP to be approximately $697,900 above the original figures that were adopted at the beginning of the year. Therefore, it is anticipated that the revenue will generate approximately $1,348,300 more than originally expected; and, of that amount, $510,240 has been committed to the group's health insurance premiums through June 30, 2001, leaving a remaining $838,000 in excess revenues to be used toward salary solutions.
Mr. Gaudet stated that the only revenue which could be safely anticipated is the MFP, and that the expected increase in the MFP will be used to fund the $2,000 pay increase to teachers that the state has recently mandated. Therefore, the MFP will not generate any additional funds that could be used in providing any additional monies to salaries for the next school year.
Mr. Gaudet continued with his report and explained the amounts collected through the 1995 1% sales tax. He explained that approximately $6,300,000 of the collections is committed to the salary schedule in order to pay for the $2,900/$1,900 requirements and approximately 1,500,000 is committed to the thirteenth check for employees this school year. Mr. Gaudet explained that the fund is never depleted in anticipation of a year when tax collections may not be as bountiful as in past years. Dr. Theriot asked Mr. Gaudet if he agreed that based on the last three years of sales tax collections, approximately $1,000,000 could be used to assist in salary increases.
Mr. Gaudet continued to explain that he prepared a comparison of the present Lafourche Parish School Board salary schedule to the median salary as presented by Postlethwaite and Netterville for the different categories of individuals employed throughout the system. This comparison will provide committee members with a better understanding of the anticipated cost the board would be faced with in order to increase salaries at least to the level of the median. Mr. Gaudet also explained that Mr. Orgeron requested that he provide members with an illustration indicating the cost to the board if an “across the board” ($1,000 per certificated employee and $500 per support employee) salary increase were approved.
Mr. Broussard referred committee members to the salary schedule for administrators, which begins at a level of Masters +30. He explained that the +30 is no longer a requirement in order to become an administrator; therefore, eventually, an individual having only a master’s degree could become an administrator, and the salary schedule would not reflect the appropriate salary. After a brief discussion, Dr. Theriot suggested setting priorities -- with the first priority being to review the “step increases” in all salary schedules providing incentive salary increases for individuals who remain for an extended period of time. The present increments vary from one extreme to the other and require adjustments in all categories.
After a brief discussion, committee members agreed that a “plan of action/direction” should be the first step in trying to address salary schedules. Mr. Rodrigue stated he felt the best way was to begin with one group and work through to the next group keeping within the amount of revenue available at the time. Mr. Broussard explained that due to the amount of revenue needed in order to address the inequities in the salary schedules that it would almost be impossible to continue with the additional check recently given to the employees in the form of the thirteenth check. Committee members agreed that the thirteenth check is a very nice gesture on the part of the board, however, it is not permanently added to the salary schedule, therefore it does not help when recruiting individuals to be employed in Lafourche Parish. All members agreed that it is very important to address the inequities in the step increases in the salary schedule.
After a brief discussion, committee members asked Mr. Gaudet to prepare a report adjusting the salary step increases in years 12 and below to be more in line with the first 12 years of employment. This report would allow committee members to see approximately how many individuals would be affected as well as an approximate cost to the board. From this report the committee will be able to decide on a fair amount of increase and also view how many salary schedules could be adjusted according to the available revenue.
Mr. Broussard also addressed the committee concerning the present amount for mileage allowance, the addition of an assistant band director at the three high schools, the administrators’ salary schedule, individuals who provide services in the extra curricula area at the schools, and also coaches’ salaries. Dr. Theriot requested that Mr. Broussard provide the committee with a report on his recommendations as to compensation for the individuals in the categories he addressed above.
After a brief discussion, Dr. Theriot made a motion to increase the mileage allowance from $.28 per mile to $.32 per mile beginning July 1, 2001. The motion was seconded by Mr. Rodrigue and unanimously carried by all members present. The motion will be presented to the full board at the June 6, 2001 meeting.
In an effort to effectively address the salary schedule issue, members of the committee agreed that it would be necessary to meet weekly. The next meeting of the Finance Committee was scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 21, 2001.
Chairperson Orgeron asked if anyone had any questions concerning what the committee was attempting to do. A question was fielded from the audience in reference to the availability of a balance in revenues from the 1995 1% sales tax which could possibly be used to give a thirteenth check to individuals who were not paid on the salary schedules that were adjusted within that fiscal year. Members agreed that this may be a possibility, however, the revenue was based on sales tax collection and that issue would have to be addressed at the proper time.
A motion was made by Dr. Theriot, seconded by Ms. Zeringue and unanimously carried, to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
The Finance Committee submits the following recommendation for board consideration and approval:
The Finance Committee recommends an increase in the cost of mileage reimbursement from $.28 per mile to $.32 per mile for all employees effective July 1, 2001.
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A meeting of the Finance Committee was held on Monday, May 21, 2001 at 5:00 p.m. in the boardroom of the Lafourche Parish School Board building, located at 805 East Seventh Street, Thibodaux, Louisiana.
Members present were Mr. Aubrey Orgeron (Chairperson), Mr. Dennis Jean’ Chiasson, Mr. G. A. Rodrigue, Jr., Dr. Judy Theriot, Ms. Martha Zeringue and Mr. Roy Landry.
Mr. Jessie Fabiano was not in attendance.
Also in attendance were: Mr. Elmo Broussard (Superintendent), Mr. Don Gaudet (Business Manager), Mr. Dave DeFelice, Jr. (Board President), Mr. Louis Thibodaux, Ms. Rebecca Duet, Ms. Rhoda Caldwell, and Ms. Loretta Duplantis.
Chairperson Orgeron and Mr. Chiasson were detained in traffic in route to the meeting; therefore, Mr. Rodrigue opened the meeting by calling on Mr. Gaudet for a roll call of members in attendance.
Under Old Business, Mr. Gaudet explained the motion that was voted upon and approved at the last Finance Committee meeting increasing the mileage reimbursement allowance from $.28 per mile to $.32 per mile. He explained that this would be presented to the full board at the June 6, 2001 board meeting.
Under New Business, Mr. Rodrigue explained that the committee was meeting in order to review various salary adjustment scenarios as requested of Mr. Gaudet during the previous meeting.
At this time Mr. Orgeron and Mr. Chiasson entered the meeting room; and, after acknowledging their presence, the meeting continued.
Mr. Gaudet explained that he had prepared a set of worksheets indicating various changes to the step increments on the Teacher Salary Schedule and the total cost of such increases. Mr. Gaudet went on to explain that step increments in the first 12 years of the salary appear to be of an “adequate” amount and that beginning with year 13 the pattern is established for a lesser yearly increment. He explained that this pattern is the result of the parish-based increase being added to the increments the state allows on the state teacher salary schedule. The pattern of $56 per year increments beginning in the 25th year of employment was established because the state does not allow for any increase at this point on the state salary schedule, and all increments are based solely on parish funding for 25 years and beyond.
Mr. Rodrigue suggested computing what percentage of the entire parish work force would equal to teachers and nurses employed. He felt that the resulting percentage should be used to allocate the total monies available in computing the increments. Dr. Theriot suggested working on a priority basis in adjusting salary schedules and continue until the monies are exhausted. At that point, the remaining salary schedules would be addressed when monies are again available. It was determined that the teacher and nurse work force equals approximately 56% of the entire parish work force.
Committee members proposed several different scenarios regarding the increase in yearly increments. Four different schedules were proposed allowing for identical increases in each degree field. It was apparent to committee members that this type of increase would not be appropriate because it would not allow for a significant increase to individuals earning a higher degree.
Mr. Rodrigue questioned the direction in which the committee would like to follow concerning salary schedule adjustments. He asked if the intent was to address only one group and not provide for the remaining employees, or was the intent to address one group and give across the board percentage increases to the remaining employees with the remaining money. Mr. Orgeron and Mr. Chiasson stated that they were not in favor of addressing only one employee group. Mr. Orgeron stated that if all monies were used this year to adjust the teacher and nurse salary schedule, next year there would be no monies available to adjust the remaining salary schedules. Mr. Gaudet reminded the board that the only money that is dependable is the MFP, and next year there would be no spare money from the MFP because the proposed state salary increase for teachers must come from the MFP. Mr. Orgeron reminded committee members that the sales tax collections had been good over the past several years and this afforded the board the opportunity to pass on to its employees the 13th check. However, if the bulk of the extra money collected through the sales tax were used to address salary increments on only one salary schedule it would not be in keeping with the original tax proposal. All employees were originally included in the distribution of the tax windfall revenues and the same should be considered at this time.
After a discussion attempting several different types of adjustments to the salary schedule, Mr. Chiasson proposed adding the 3% increase used to calculate the thirteenth check into the salary schedule of all employees. This would allow the board to provide an increase for all employees at the present time and continue to work on the salary increment solution over the next several months or year if necessary.
Due to the fact that the Policy and Procedures Committee had a meeting scheduled at 6:00 p.m., Finance Committee members agreed to recess and continue again after the Policy and Procedures Committee had completed its scheduled meeting. Committee members requested that Mr. Gaudet print out the options during the recess in order to better understand what was being proposed. A motion was made by Mr. Rodrigue and seconded by Mr. Chiasson to recess. The motion was unanimously carried, and the committee recessed at 6:16 p.m.
A motion was made by Mr. Chiasson and seconded by Mr. Rodrigue for the Finance Committee to return from recess and continue with the meeting.
Mr. Gaudet provided committee members with copies of the four different options discussed before the recess. Mr. Gaudet explained that sufficient funding presently exists in order to give all employees a 3% increase while continuing to address the salary increment adjustments. Mr. Chiasson reminded committee members that the next large issue to address would be the cost of hospitalization insurance. He stated that the board would have to address the amount needed to help with the anticipated increase in the cost of insurance in order to help maintain the 3% increase presently being considered.
After discussing the options, Mr. Rodrigue asked if committee members agreed that the direction in which to proceed at the present time is to give all employees a 3% increase while continuing to work on adjusting salary schedule increments. Mr. Gaudet explained that the monies as a thirteenth check are derived solely from the sales tax collections. However, if the 3% increase were added to the salary schedule as an increase, each corresponding fund that provides for salaries would be responsible for providing the funding for the increase. Members agreed that this seemed feasible, and requested that Mr. Gaudet report back to them on the total cost including benefits to all funds involved.
A question was fielded from Mr. Ray Barrios as to which revenue was being considered in adjusting the salary schedule increments. Mr. Gaudet and committee members explained that the revenues were being generated from the sales tax, general fund and the MFP.
Mr. Thibodaux questioned the logic in adding the thirteenth check to the salary schedule instead of continuing the present policy. He stated that in adding that amount to the salary schedule, the board would be creating a liability in committing monies that may not be available through sales tax collections in the future. Members agreed that this would create a liability issue, but at the present time, it seemed to be the only feasible avenue to pursue.
Dr. Theriot suggested that the committee meet on a Saturday in order to allow time to discuss salary increment increases. Members of the committee concurred and agreed to set the time of the next Finance Committee meeting for Saturday, June 23, 2001 beginning at 8:00 a.m. at the school board office.
There being no other business to discuss at this time, a motion was made by Mr. Landry and seconded by Mr. Chiasson to adjourn. The motion was unanimously carried, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m.
(This concludes the minutes of the Finance Committee meetings held May 17 and 21, 2001)
Next, the board received the minutes of the Policy and Procedure Committee meeting held May 21, 2001. President DeFelice called on Chairperson Thibodaux, who gave a brief report on the committee meeting. Upon conclusion of the report, the board, acting in line with the recommendation of the committee, received the following information for study and review, with approval to be voted on at the July 11 board meeting:
1. Proposed policy titled Dismissal of Non-Tenured Employees (for inclusion in Section G of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual)
2. Proposed policy titled Substitute/Temporary Employment (for inclusion in Section G of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual)
3. Proposed revisions to Policy IKDB, Graduation Exercises, relative to mid-term graduation
4. Proposed additions to Policy IKDB, Graduation Exercises, as recommended by the Graduation Committee
5. Section I, Instruction, of the Draft of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual
There being no corrections to the minutes of the committee meeting as received, the board, by general consensus, approved the minutes (as recorded) of the Policy and Procedure Committee meeting held May 21, as follows:
The Policy and Procedure Committee of the Lafourche Parish School Board met at the Parish School Board Office, located at 805 East Seventh Street, Thibodaux, Louisiana, on Monday, May 21, 2001, beginning at 6:25 p.m.
The following committee members were present: Mr. Louis Thibodaux (Chairperson); Ms. Rhoda Caldwell, Mr. John Danos, Ms. Loretta Duplantis, and Mr. Aubrey Orgeron.
Members absent: None.
Others present at the meeting included: Mr. Dave J. DeFelice, Jr. (School Board President); Dr. Judy Theriot, Ms. Martha Zeringue, Mr. G. A. Rodrigue, Jr., Mr. Roy Landry, and Ms. Rebecca Duet (Board Members) Mr. Elmo Broussard (Superintendent); Mr. Gary Babin and Mr. Leonard St. Pierre (Supervisors); and Mr. Royce Doucet, Transportation Manager.
Chairperson Thibodaux called on Supervisor Gary Babin, who presented the following proposed policy titled Dismissal of Non-Tenured Employees for the committee's consideration for inclusion in Section G, Personnel, of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual:
Dismissal of Non-Tenured Employees
Complying with the provisions of Act 631 of the 1987 Louisiana Legislature, the Lafourche Parish School Board adopts the following procedures for the dismissal of non-tenured personnel in the parish school system.
The dismissal of a non-tenured employee shall be initiated by the employee’s immediate supervisor (principal, supervisor, or superintendent) by a letter to the superintendent requesting dismissal and enumerating valid reasons therefor. The employee to be dismissed shall be notified by his/her immediate supervisor by copy of the letter mailed to the superintendent.
If the superintendent (or his designee) upholds the recommendation, he/she will notify the employee in writing of his/her dismissal, effective date of dismissal, reasons therefor, and of the employee’s right to a review. At the option of the superintendent, the employee may continue to perform his/her duties until a review has been held.
Upon request and within seven (7) days of the date of the superintendent’s letter, said employee shall be entitled to an administrative review with the supervisor of personnel or his/her designee.
Within seven (7) days of the administrative review, the supervisor of personnel or his/her designee shall submit his/her recommendation with a full report of his/her findings and any documentation provided by the employee to the superintendent. The recommendation may be for dismissal, reinstatement or a probationary reinstatement period with remediation and continued evaluation during this period.
The superintendent may reaffirm his/her initial dismissal decision or reinstatement of the employee by written notice to the employee.
Except as provided in the Lafourche Parish School Board Substitute/Temporary Employment policy, the dismissal of a non-tenured employee under contract with the board shall follow the same procedure if the dismissal is effective at the expiration of the contractual term. However, the dismissal during the contractual term shall include additional procedures. In this case, the school board shall review the administrative procedures using the standard of review as that of seeing whether the administrative procedures were arbitrary and/or capricious, then the board shall act on the superintendent’s recommendation.
During any phase of this process, the employee shall have the opportunity of resigning his/her position.
In accordance with Louisiana Revised Statutes 17:442 and 17:492, probationary teachers and school bus operators shall be dismissed or discharged by the board upon the written recommendation of the superintendent accompanied by valid reasons therefor. The procedure prior to school board action shall follow in accordance with this non-tenured dismissal policy.
Supervisor Babin stated that such a policy was included in the original policy manual; however, it was inadvertently omitted from the draft of the revised policy manual. Acting on the recommendation of Supervisor Babin, a motion was offered by Mr. Danos, seconded by Ms. Duplantis and unanimously carried, to approve the proposed policy titled Dismissal of Non-Tenured Employees for presentation to the full board at its June 6 meeting for study and review, with approval of the policy to be voted on at the July 11 board meeting.
Next, Supervisor Babin presented the following proposed policy titled Substitute/Temporary Employment for the committee's consideration for inclusion in Section G, Personnel, of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual:
Substitute/Temporary Employment
In accordance with school board policy GBM, Transfer of Professional and Support Personnel, any employee assigned to a position after the last day of school of the preceding year is so assigned on a substitute/temporary basis for the term so stated in the executed contract or, in the absence of a contract, for the remainder of the school year only. All temporary employment of non-tenured, first year employees is presumed to be done on an emergency basis and is done without the benefit of the interview process. Non-tenured, first year employees hired to fill temporary positions shall not have an expectation of re-employment or continued employment to their temporary assignment or job position and must apply for permanent employment status and successfully complete the interview process in order to be re-employed with the system. In the event that the temporary employee is not selected to fill the position in a permanent capacity, the failure of the school board to rehire shall not be considered a dismissal of a non-tenured employee.
Supervisor Babin stated that, based on board policy GBM, any employee hired after the last day of school is in a temporary position. He noted that the proposed policy titled Substitute/Temporary Employment states that such an individual would have to go through the interview process in order to be considered for the same job; and it also states that the board is not obligated to rehire said individual. A brief discussion followed regarding the first sentence of the proposed policy wherein it states that an employee assigned to a position after the last day of school of the preceding year is so assigned on a substitute/temporary basis. Supervisor Babin noted that the statement is based on the transfer policy, and it has been in place since last school year. Ms. Duplantis then offered a motion, seconded by Mr. Danos, to approve the proposed policy titled Substitute/Temporary Employment for presentation to the full board at its June 6 meeting for study and review, with approval of the policy to be voted on at the July 11 board meeting. The discussion continued, during which it was suggested that the words unless there is more than one applicant be added at the end of the second sentence of the proposed policy, as follows:
All temporary employment of non-tenured, first year employees is presumed to be done on an emergency basis and is done without the benefit of the interview process unless there is more than one applicant.
Ms. Duplantis, with Mr. Danos' concurrence and with no objection from any of the members of the committee, then included the addition (as stated above) to her motion, which then read as follows:
To approve the proposed policy titled Substitute/Temporary Employment, with the addition of the words unless there is more than one applicant at the end of the second sentence, for presentation to the full board at its June 6 meeting for study and review, with approval of the proposed policy to be voted on at the July 11 board meeting.
A vote was then taken on Ms. Duplantis' motion; and the motion was unanimously carried.
Next, Chairperson Thibodaux called on Supervisor Leonard St. Pierre, who presented the following proposed revisions to Policy IKDB, Graduation Exercises, as recommended by the Graduation Committee.
Additions: Bold Italics
Deletions: Bold Strikethrough
Graduation Exercises
No students will be allowed to participate in commencement exercises until they have successfully completed all graduation requirements as prescribed by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and passed all required components of the state Graduation Exit Examination. Special Education students must meet all program requirements to receive a certificate of completion and participate in commencement exercises.
Beginning with the sophomore class of 2000-2001 (senior class of 2002-2003), all students must carry a full schedule of classes during their senior year, unless the student is attending a post secondary school (university or vocational technical college) or is involved in a curriculum related work program such as, but not limited to, COE, CAE, DECA or academy related apprenticeships/internships.
Students with extenuating circumstances will be referred to the superintendent or his designee for approval on a case-by-case basis.
After completing a half-day of scheduled classes, a senior may seek early dismissal by entering into a contract with the school stating he/she will reenroll in a full schedule of classes if the job is terminated during the school year. The student must show proof of employment to the principal or his designee each pay period. The principal will contact the potential employer prior to issuance of a work permit to request that the employee notify the school immediately if the student's job is terminated for any reason.
Beginning with the senior class of 2001-2002, students must meet the state attendance requirements in all scheduled classes in order to participate in the graduation ceremony.
Graduation exercises at all three senior high schools in the parish shall be held on different nights.
SUMMER GRADUATION
A summer graduation ceremony shall be held for those students who, during the summer, complete all requirements necessary for graduation – specifically, successful completion of (1) all the required Carnegie units of credit necessary for graduation and (2) all sections of the Graduate Exit Examination.
MID-TERM GRADUATION
For the 2000-2001 school year, the
School Board shall conduct a parish mid-term graduation ceremony at one common
site for students who have successfully completed at least three (3) years and
one (1) semester of high school and have met all requirements for graduation as
set forth by the Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
and the Lafourche Parish School Board, thereby bring to an end their high
school career.
After reviewing the proposed changes as submitted, Mr. Orgeron offered the following motion relative to the proposed deletion of the section on mid-term graduation (as shown in bold strikethrough):
To allow a mid-term graduation for those students who have completed the state requirements for earning a diploma and graduating from high school in this state.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Danos. A lengthy discussion followed. Superintendent Broussard suggested that the mid-term graduation be allowed for the 2001-2002 school year; and that, prior to the 2002-2003 school year, the board adopt a policy relative to mid-term graduation that would go into effect beginning with the freshman class of 2002-2003. The discussion continued. Mr. Orgeron then offered an amendment to his original motion -- specifically stating that the mid-term graduation would be conducted at least one more school year, at the end of which the policy relative to mid-term graduation would again be reviewed. The amendment was seconded by Mr. Danos. A vote was then taken on the amendment to the motion. The vote resulted in passage of the amendment by a vote of 3 to 2 -- with the negative votes being cast by Ms. Duplantis and Ms. Caldwell. A vote was then taken on Mr. Orgeron's original motion (as amended). The motion was carried by a vote of 3 to 2 -- with the negative votes being cast by Ms. Duplantis and Ms. Caldwell. Accordingly, the committee approved the following revision to Policy IKDB, Graduation Exercises, relative to mid-term graduation, for submission to the full board at its June 6 meeting for study and review, with approval of the revision to be voted on at the July 11 board meeting:
For at least the 20001-20012
school year, the School Board shall conduct a parish mid-term graduation
ceremony at one common site for students who have successfully completed at
least three (3) years and one (1) semester of high school and have met all
requirements for graduation as set forth by the Louisiana State Board of
Elementary and Secondary Education and the Lafourche Parish School Board,
thereby bring to an end their high school career. completed the state
requirements for earning a diploma and graduating from high school in this
state. At the end of the 2001-2002 school year, this policy will again be
reviewed.
Ms. Duplantis then offered a motion, seconded by Ms. Caldwell, to accept the additions to the policy (as shown in bold italics) as recommended by the Graduation Committee. A brief discussion followed, at the end of which a vote was taken on Ms. Duplantis' motion. The motion was unanimously carried. Accordingly, the committee approved the following additions to Policy IKDB, Graduation Exercises, as recommended by the Graduation Committee, for submission to the full board at its June 6 meeting for study and review, with approval of these additions to be voted on at the July 11 board meeting:
Beginning with the sophomore class of 2000-2001 (senior class of 2002-2003), all students must carry a full schedule of classes during their senior year, unless the student is attending a post secondary school (university or vocational technical college) or is involved in a curriculum related work program such as, but not limited to, COE, CAE, DECA or academy related apprenticeships/internships.
Students with extenuating circumstances will be referred to the superintendent or his designee for approval on a case-by-case basis.
After completing a half-day of scheduled classes, a senior may seek early dismissal by entering into a contract with the school stating he/she will reenroll in a full schedule of classes if the job is terminated during the school year. The student must show proof of employment to the principal or his designee each pay period. The principal will contact the potential employer prior to issuance of a work permit to request that the employee notify the school immediately if the student's job is terminated for any reason.
Beginning with the senior class of 2001-2002, students must meet the state attendance requirements in all scheduled classes in order to participate in the graduation ceremony.
Next, the committee reviewed Section I, Instruction, of the revised Draft of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual. A brief discussion was held with regard to File: IKI, Lesson Plans. The superintendent was directed to make certain revisions to File: IKI and to submit copies of the revised policy to board members before the June board meeting. On motion of Ms. Duplantis, seconded by Ms. Caldwell and unanimously carried, the committee approved Section I, Instruction, including the revisions to File: IKI, of the Draft of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual, for submission to the full board at its June 6 meeting for study and review, with approval of this section to be voted on at the July 11 board meeting.
Chairperson Thibodaux then called on Ms. Rhonda Dempster, parent, who addressed the committee relative to the board's policy on student participation in commencement exercises. Ms. Dempster asked that the board reconsider its policy -- specifically, the section dealing with students who have not passed all required components of the state Graduation Exit Examination (GEE). She asked that the board consider allowing students who have not passed all required components of the GEE to participate in commencement exercises by walking on stage in cap and gown with the rest of their classmates. A lengthy discussion was held; however, the committee took no action.
On motion of Mr. Danos, seconded by Ms. Duplantis and unanimously carried, the meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m.
The committee submits the following for the board’s consideration at its June 6 meeting:
1. To receive proposed policy titled Dismissal of Non-Tenured Employees (for inclusion in Section G of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual) for study and review; and to consider approving this policy at the July 11 board meeting.
2. To receive proposed policy titled Substitute/Temporary Employment (for inclusion in Section G of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual) for study and review; and to consider approving this policy at the July 11 board meeting.
3. To receive proposed revisions to Policy IKDB, Graduation Exercises, relative to mid-term graduation, for study and review; and to consider approving these revisions at the July 11 board meeting.
4. To receive proposed additions to Policy IKDB, Graduation Exercises, as recommended by the Graduation Committee, for study and review; and to consider approving these additions at the July 11 board meeting.
5. To receive Section I, Instruction, of the Draft of the Lafourche Parish School Board Policy Manual for study and review; and consider approving this section at the July 11 board meeting.
(This concludes the minutes of the Policy and Procedure Committee meeting.)
Next, the board received the minutes of the Advisory Committee meeting held June 4, 2001. President DeFelice gave a brief report on the committee meeting. The board, by general consent, approved the minutes (as recorded) of the Advisory Committee meeting held June 4, 2001, as follows:
The Advisory Committee of the Lafourche Parish School Board met at its regular meeting place, the Parish School Board Office, located at 805 East Seventh Street, Thibodaux, Louisiana, June 4, 2001, at 5:30 p.m.
The following committee members were present: Chairman Dave DeFelice, Jr., Mr. Louis Thibodaux, Ms. Rhoda Caldwell, Mr. Dennis Chiasson, and Mr. John Danos.
There were absent: None.
Also present were the following school board members: Ms. Martha Zeringue, Ms. Loretta Duplantis, Ms. Rebecca Duet, and Mr. G. A. Rodrigue, Jr. Staff members in attendance were Superintendent Elmo Broussard, Mr. Gary Babin, Mr. Leonard St. Pierre, and Mr. Francis Hubbell.
Chairman DeFelice called upon Mr. Marcel Fournet, project manager, to report on Phase 1 of the 1997 bond issue. Mr. Fournet asked Mr. Skipper Holloway to report on the progress of the Central Lafourche project. Mr. Holloway told the committee that the project is 99.01% complete. He gave a detailed report about the work being done in the existing building and reported on the completion work in the new building. Mr. Holloway said that the completion date is set for June 18, 2001. Mr. DeFelice asked Mr. Fournet to provide Mr. Degruise with a display of the floor plan of the new building to assist visitors to locate particular areas of the facility. A short discussion arose concerning the cleaning and refinishing of the floors at the existing building.
Mr. G. A. Angelloz next reported on the progress of the field house at Central Lafourche High School. He reported that the work is progressing well. He said he would provide board members with a copy of the contractor’s week-to-week schedule of the remaining work on the field house. Mr. Angelloz reported that the completion date is tentatively set for August 1, 2001.
Next, Mr. Ed Cheramie reported on the progress of the South Lafourche project. He said everything is progressing well. His report included a review of the work in progress, field observations, planned progression of the work, and proposed changes to the project. He reported that the problem with the floors in the labs is being addressed. Mr. Cheramie stated that the renovation work in the existing building is scheduled to begin on June 8, 2001.
Mr. Cheramie next presented a detailed report on Dr. Faye Robichaux’s request to change the layout of the food service kiosk area. He provided the committee with a quote for the cost of the work. Following a lengthy discussion, Mr. Fournet said he would review the quote and make a recommendation to the committee at next month’s meeting.
Next, Ms. Duet inquired about security concerns at the South Lafourche site. Following a brief discussion, it was agreed that security at the site is the responsibility of the contractor.
Mr. Fournet reported that the parish council has not provided the ditch grading at the South Lafourche site as promised. He suggested that the school board members contact the parish council members in the South Lafourche area and request that the work is done.
Mr. Daniel Bruce next provided the committee with a detailed report on the progress of the Thibodaux High School project. He said the work is progressing very well. His report included a review of the work in progress, the contractor’s CPM schedule, field observations, planned progression of the work, and proposed changes to the project. A brief discussion developed concerning the color of the new bricks and the brick mortar. Mr. Bruce reported that the brick mock up should be complete by the end of the week for examination.
Mr. Broussard asked Mr. Holloway to provide the committee with background information regarding the awarding of the bid for the re-roofing of W. S. Lafargue. Following his explanation, Mr. DeFelice said a decision would be made at Wednesday’s board meeting.
Mr. Broussard next reported to the committee that Central Lafourche High School has been designated as an emergency evacuation shelter. He explained that the fire marshal has approved the facility to accommodate 500 people in the halls should an emergency arise.
Following a five-minute break, the committee reviewed agenda items for the June 6, 2001 regular meeting of the Lafourche Parish School Board. The agenda was approved as read.
There being no other official business, on motion of Mr. Chiasson, seconded by Mr. Thibodaux and unanimously carried, the committee meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m.
(This concludes the minutes of the Advisory Committee meeting.)
Next, the board received the minutes of the Insurance Committee meeting held June 5, 2001. President DeFelice called on Chairperson Williams, who gave a brief report on the committee meeting. The board, by general consent, approved the minutes (as recorded) of the Insurance Committee meeting held June 5, 2001, as follows:
A meeting of the Insurance Committee was held on Tuesday, June 5, 2001 at 6:00 p.m. at the Lafourche Parish School Board Office, located at 805 East Seventh Street, Thibodaux, LA.
Members present were, Mr. Paul Chiquet, Ms. Rebecca Duet, Ms. Loretta Duplantis, Mr. Jessie Fabiano, and Mr. G. A. Rodrigue Jr.
Absent was: Ms. Constance Williams (Chairperson).
Other board members present included: Mr. Dave DeFelice Jr. (Board President), Ms. Martha Zeringue, Ms. Rhoda Caldwell, Mr. Louis Thibodaux, and Mr. John Danos. Also present were Mr. Elmo Broussard (Superintendent), Mr. Don Gaudet (Business Manager), and Mr. Doyle Rogers (Insurance Advisory Committee member).
Mr. Rodrigue, acting chairperson, called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone present. He called on representatives of Louisiana Companies, the board's group health agent of record, to present their report on the current status of the board's group health plan. Mr. Eric Pearson and Mr. A. A. "Chard" Richard, III gave the committee a copy of their report titled "1999, 2000 & 2001 Experience Review.” The report contains information on premiums and costs for the three years. The following contains a recap of the information presented in the report:
|
YEAR |
PREMIUMS |
COST |
DIFFERENCE |
|
1999 |
6,276,350 |
7,767,115 |
(1,490,765) |
|
2000 |
6,609,958 |
7,141,583 |
(531,625) |
|
2001 |
2,049,999 |
1,883,251 |
166,748 |
Mr. Richard concluded the presentation by stating that he believed the board has structured the plan so that it is now sound, and that it is a good time to look at self-funding as an alternative to the fully funded plan now in effect.
Superintendent Broussard then told the committee that he would like to meet with the committee on June 21, 2001 to discuss self-funding. He stated the he believed that the school board, its employees and retirees would be better served using a self-funded plan.
There being no further business Ms. Duplantis made a motion to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Fabiano and unanimously carried. The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
(This concludes the minutes of the Insurance Committee meeting.)
President DeFelice then called on the superintendent to offer his recommendation on the appointment of someone to fill the vacancy for assistant principal at Thibodaux High School. The superintendent recommended Mr. Edmond Adams, Jr. for appointment to the position. Mr. Chiquet offered a motion, seconded by Ms. Caldwell, to accept the superintendent’s recommendation. A vote was then taken on Mr. Chiquet's motion; and the motion was unanimously carried. Accordingly, Mr. Adams was appointed to the position of assistant principal at Thibodaux High School, effective with the beginning of the 2001-2002 school year. President DeFelice called on Mr. Adams, who addressed the board members briefly, thanking the superintendent for his recommendation and the board members for their vote of confidence.
Acting in line with the recommendation of the superintendent, Mr. Chiquet offered a motion, seconded by Mr. Danos, to authorize the issuance of a request for proposals for facilities management support (to include custodial, maintenance, and grounds services). A brief discussion followed, at the end of which a vote was taken on Mr. Chiquet’s motion. The motion was carried, although not unanimously -- one dissenting vote was cast by Mr. Thibodaux.
President DeFelice called on Maintenance Manager Francis Hubbell, who reported on quotes received May 4, 2001 for the installation of floor tile at the Golden Meadow Lower Elementary School cafeteria. Maintenance Manager Hubbell presented the following tally of bids:
QUOTES--INSTALLATION OF FLOOR TILE
GOLDEN MEADOW LOWER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
|
A & H Paint, Inc. Thibodaux, LA |
$4,985 |
|
Robichaux Tile Center, Inc. Thibodaux, LA |
$4,212 |
Acting in line with the recommendation of Maintenance Manager Hubbell, a motion was offered by Mr. Danos, seconded by Mr. Rodrigue, to accept the low bid of Robichaux Tile Center, Inc. of Thibodaux, LA in the amount of $4,212. A brief discussion followed, at the end of which a vote was taken on Mr. Danos’ motion. The motion was unanimously carried.
Again, President DeFelice called on Maintenance Manager Hubbell, who reported on bids received on May 10, 2001 for pest control services in schools, as follows:
BIDS--PEST CONTROL
|
|
AMOUNT OF BID |
||||
|
NAME OF BIDDER |
Schools |
Home Ec. |
Lunchrooms |
Stadiums |
TOTAL 1 yr 3 hrs. |
|
DA Exterminating Co. Houma, LA |
$3110 |
$1020 |
$4860 |
180 |
$9170 $27,510 |
|
Fon’s Pest Management, Inc. Houma, LA |
$1,628 |
$1,560 |
$4,800 |
No Charge |
$7988 $23,954* |
Recommended bid award.
Acting in line with Maintenance Manager Hubbell’s recommendation, Ms. Zeringue offered a motion, seconded by Mr. Chiquet and unanimously carried, accepting the bid of Fon’s Pest Management, Inc. of Houma, LA in the total amount of $23,954 for three years.
Next, Maintenance Manager Hubbell reported on bids received on May 10, 2001 for janitorial and paper products to be used in the operation of schools for the period July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2002, as follows:
BIDS--JANITORIAL AND PAPER PRODUCTS
|
|
ITEM 1 |
ITEM 2 |
ITEM 3 |
ITEM 4 |
ITEM 5 |
ITEM 6 |
ITEM 7 |
ITEM 8 |
|
|
Bowl Cleaner |
Mint Deo/Dis |
Deo. Blocks |
T Tissue – pks |
T Tissue - roll |
Paper Towels |
L Hand Soap |
Floor Cleaner |
|
NAME OF BIDDER |
12/case |
Per 5 gal. |
12/box |
60 pks/cs |
96 rls/cs |
250/pk |
Per 1 gal |
Lemon |
|
A & L Sales, Inc. Belle Chasse, LA |
11.17 |
7.89 |
2.51 |
38.96 |
21.99 |
10.94 |
2.23 |
7.89 |
|
Bayou Country Whole Sup Inc. Donaldsonville, LA |
16.14 |
19.50 |
4.64 |
No Bid |
26.78 |
15.30 |
5.46 |
16.20 |
|
Celtic Distributors Kenner, LA |
19.49 |
26.04 |
4.06 |
93.98 |
28.27 |
19.69 |
5.19 |
33.24 |
|
Economical Jan & Paper Sup Inc. Kenner, LA |
11.49 |
9.47 |
2.55 |
25.55 |
23.00 |
9.94 |
3.00 |
9.47 |
|
Fanguy Bros. Wholesale Inc. Houma, LA |
13.29 |
15.93 |
2.80 |
45.00 |
23.30 |
13.14 |
4.89 |
14.30 |
|
Manny's Sanitary Supplies Inc. New Orleans, LA |
21.02 |
17.84 |
3.51 |
No Bid |
27.99 |
15.15 |
10.81 |
31.23 |
|
National American Sales Corp Thibodaux, LA |
13.79 |
17.74 |
4.16 |
No Bid |
24.19 |
13.44 |
2.29 |
14.99 |
|
Nolmar Corporation New Orleans, LA |
18.22 |
23.15 |
4.46 |
No Bid |
33.48 |
14.70 |
No Bid |
23.15 |
|
Pope's Parts Inc. Thibodaux, LA |
14.95 |
29.50 |
4.85 |
35.89 |
31.95 |
16.10 |
3.95 |
12.50 |
|
Richard Arabie Dist Inc. Thibodaux, LA |
13.29 |
16.75 |
4.16 |
No Bid |
23.98 |
14.57 |
5.45 |
14.95 |
Responding to Mr. Hubbell’s recommendation, Ms. Caldwell offered a motion, seconded by Mr. Chiasson and unanimously carried, accepting the low bids of A & L Sales, Inc. of Belle Chasse, LA for items 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 8; and the low bids of Economical Janitorial & Paper Supplies, Inc. of Kenner, LA for items 4 and 6 (as indicated above).
Maintenance Manager Hubbell then presented the following tally of bids received May 29, 2001, for removal of the existing roof and installation of a new roof on the W. S. Lafargue Elementary School kindergarten building:
BIDS--REROOFING OF KINDERGARTEN BUILDING
W. S. LAFARGUE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
|
BIDDERS |
BID BOND |
ADDENDA REC’D |
CERTIFICATION ATTACHED |
BASE BID |
|
Edward J. Laperouse Metal Works, Inc. P.O. Box 9017 Houma, LA 70361 LA Lic. No. 2240 |
X |
#1 X |
#1 X #2 X #3 X |
$ 238,700 |
|
Riverside Roofing & Construction, Inc. 5816 Plauche St. Jefferson, LA 70123 LA Lic. No. 32989 |
|
#1 ________ |
#1 ________ #2 ________ #3 ________ |
DID NOT MEET BIDDING REQUIREMENTS OF CONTRACT DOCUMENTS |
|
Rowell Roofing, Inc. P.O. Box 647 Columbia, MS 39429 LA Lic. No. 13154 |
X |
#1 X |
#1 X #2 X #3 X |
$ 107,243 |
Maintenance Manager Hubbell reported that the lowest bidder, Rowell Roofing, Inc. withdrew its bid within 48 hours due to an accounting error. Accordingly, Mr. Hubbell then recommended that the board accept the next lowest bid. On motion of Mr. Thibodaux, seconded by Mr. Danos and unanimously carried, the board accepted the bid of Edward J. Laperouse Metal Works, Inc. of Houma, LA in the amount of $238,700.
President DeFelice then called on Ms. Eve Clement, who, in the absence of Supervisor Faye Robichaux, reported on bids received June 1, 2001 for large and small food service equipment and a dry goods delivery truck. Ms. Clement presented the following breakdown by companies of the lowest bids meeting specifications:
Kiosk & Walk-in Cooler Freezer:
Delivery Truck:
Golden Motors $ 34,844.04
Large and Small Equipment:
Buckelew Hardware Co., Inc $ 6,300.00
Calico Industries, Inc. $ 15,878.38
Cayard’s $ 4,624.00
Equipment Concept & Design $ 3,595.46
Louisiana Food Service Equipment $ 10,136.00
Louisiana School Equipment Co., Inc. $ 25,575.00
Virco $ 10,600.00
Total Large/Small Equipment $ 76,708.84
Grand Total $ 287,942.88
Acting in line with the recommendation of Supervisor Robichaux (as presented by Ms. Clement), Mr. Chiquet offered a motion, seconded by Mr. Rodrigue and unanimously carried, to accept the lowest bids meeting specifications in each instance. Bids for large and small equipment are not itemized here because of the length of the list; however, bids are on file in the Child Nutrition Department for inspection by interested persons.
President DeFelice called on Mr. Fabiano, chairperson of the Communications Task Force, to report on proposals received June 4, 2001 for document management equipment and services. Mr. Fabiano reported that two proposals were received on the first RFP that was issued; and that neither one of the two proposals met specifications. On motion of Mr. Fabiano, seconded by Ms. Williams and unanimously carried, the board rejected both proposals received and directed that the proposals be sent back to the respective vendors.
Next, President DeFelice called on Mr. Kenny J. Bollinger, parent, who addressed the board regarding Policy Title 2:1.4.c, Graduation. Mr. Bollinger asked that the board review the policy -- in particular, the last sentence of the first paragraph pertaining to valedictorians and salutatorians for the graduating classes. He asked that the board consider removing the last sentence of the policy or revising it and developing specific guidelines parish wide. The superintendent recommended that the board appoint a special committee to review the present policy. There being no objection from any member of the board, President DeFelice then named the following persons to serve on the special committee: Mr. Roy Landry, who will serve as chairperson; Mr. Paul Chiquet; Mr. Louis Thibodaux; Supervisor Leonard St. Pierre; the three senior high school principals (or their designees); Mr. Kenny Bollinger (a parent representative from the central area), and two other parent representatives -- one from the north area and one from the south area.
In considering Agenda Item No. 20, pertaining to revisions to the 2000-2001 Pupil Progression Plan, the board, at the request of Supervisor Francis Rodriguez, postponed action on this item until a later date.
On motion of Mr. Thibodaux, seconded by Ms. Williams and unanimously carried, the board approved revisions to the Lafourche Parish Personnel Accountability Manual for the 2001-2002 school session.
Acting in line with the recommendation of Business Manager Don Gaudet, a motion was offered by Mr. Fabiano, seconded by Mr. Landry, to adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLVED that the following millages are hereby levied on the 2001 tax roll on all property subject to taxation by the Lafourche Parish School Board:
|
DESCRIPTION |
MILLAGE |
|
Constitutional |
3.93 mills |
|
Special Maintenance |
7.49 mills |
|
Air-Conditioning Maintenance |
7.49 mills |
|
Salary Supplement |
7.49 mills |
|
Debt Service |
17.20 mills |
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the proper administrative officials of the Parish of Lafourche, State of Louisiana, be and they are hereby empowered, authorized, and directed to spread said taxes, as hereinabove set forth, upon the assessment roll of said Parish for the year 2001, and to make the collection of the taxes imposed for and on behalf of the taxing authority, according to law, and that the taxes herein levied shall become a permanent lien and privilege on all property subject to taxation as herein set forth, and collection thereof shall be enforceable in the manner provided by law.
The foregoing resolution was read in full, the roll was called on the adoption thereof, and the resolution was adopted by the following votes:
YEAS: Mr. Louis E. Thibodaux, Ms. Rhoda Caldwell, Ms. Constance T. Williams,
Ms. Martha S. Zeringue, Mr. Jessie Fabiano, Mr. G. A. Rodrigue, Jr.,
Mr. Dave J. DeFelice, Jr., Mr. Dennis Jean' Chiasson, Mr. Roy Landry,
Mr. John Danos, Mr. Paul Chiquet;
NAYS: None;
ABSTAINED: None;
ABSENT: Dr. Judy G. Theriot, Ms. Loretta Duplantis, Mr. Aubrey Orgeron,
Ms. Rebecca Duet.
On motion of Mr. Chiasson, seconded by Ms. Zeringue and unanimously carried, the board authorized advertisement for bids for the purchase of one truck for use by the maintenance department.
On motion of Mr. Danos, seconded by Mr. Chiquet and unanimously carried, the board authorized Supervisor Gary Babin to contact Kelly Services about the possibility of recruiting substitute janitors for the Lafourche Parish School System for the 2001-2002 school year or until a decision has been made by the board on proposals for facilities management support.
On motion of Ms. Zeringue, seconded by Mr. Chiquet and unanimously carried, the board authorized advertisement for bids for a hunting lease on Section 16, Township 19 South, Range 23 East, as per request of Karl Senner, Inc.
On motion of Ms. Zeringue, the board adopted the following memorial resolution by general consent:
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Almighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has seen fit to summon to eternal rest the spirit and soul of Ms. Rose Landry, a retired child nutrition technician; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Landry established a record of faithful, efficient service during the ten years she was employed by the Lafourche Parish School Board as a child nutrition technician at St. Charles Elementary School, beginning in 1970 and ending with her retirement on May 30, 1979; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that the members of the Lafourche Parish School Board express our sorrow at the loss sustained by the death of a friend and former employee and extend to the members of her family our deepest sympathy, and bid them take consolation in the thought that her soul has been taken unto the bosom of our Merciful Savior; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this tribute of respect to the memory of Ms. Rose Landry be recorded on a special page of our minute book and that a copy thereof be presented to her family as evidence of our sympathy for them and as a reminder of our attachment to her in life and memory of her in death.
On motion of Ms. Williams, the board adopted the following memorial resolution by general consent:
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Almighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has seen fit to summon to eternal rest the spirit and soul of Ms. Erma Young, a retired child nutrition technician; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Young established a record of faithful, efficient service during the thirty-one years she was employed by the Lafourche Parish School Board as a child nutrition technician at C. M. Washington School and East Thibodaux Junior High School, beginning in September, 1948 and ending with her retirement on May 31, 1979; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that the members of the Lafourche Parish School Board express our sorrow at the loss sustained by the death of a friend and former employee and extend to the members of her family our deepest sympathy, and bid them take consolation in the thought that her soul has been taken unto the bosom of our Merciful Savior; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this tribute of respect to the memory of Ms. Erma Young be recorded on a special page of our minute book and that a copy thereof be presented to her family as evidence of our sympathy for them and as a reminder of our attachment to her in life and memory of her in death.
On motion of Mr. Thibodaux, the board adopted the following memorial resolution by general consent:
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Almighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has seen fit to summon to eternal rest the spirit and soul of Mr. Thomas Fields, retired school bus operator; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Fields was devoted and loyal to the school system, having faithfully and efficiently performed his duties as school bus operator for the Lafourche Parish School Board for a period of eighteen years, beginning on August 19, 1982, and ending with his retirement on May 23, 2000; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that the members of the Lafourche Parish School Board express our sorrow at the loss sustained by the death of a friend and former employee and extend to the members of his family our deepest sympathy, and bid them take consolation in the thought that his soul has been taken unto the bosom of our Merciful Savior; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this tribute of respect to the memory of Mr. Thomas Fields be recorded on a special page of our minute book and that a copy thereof be presented to his family as evidence of our sympathy for them and as a reminder of our attachment to him in life and memory of him in death.
On motion of Mr. Danos, seconded by Mr. Thibodaux and unanimously carried, the board granted a professional improvement sabbatical leave to Ms. Helen Tabor, teacher at W. S. Lafargue Elementary School, for the 2001-2002 school session.
On motion of Mr. Thibodaux, seconded by Mr. Chiasson and unanimously carried, the board granted extended sick leave to the following:
a. Ms. Dianne Andras, teacher, South Thibodaux Elementary School, on April 23 and 24,
2001
b. Ms. Patricia Bonnette, teacher, South Thibodaux Elementary School, on May 1, 2001
c. Ms. Rebecca Cheramie, teacher, Bayou Blue Elementary School, on April 20, 2001
d. Ms. Mary Susan Folse, teacher, Thibodaux Elementary School, on April 20 and May 2,
2001
e. Ms. Angela Gisclair, teacher, Larose Lower Elementary School, from April 19, 2001
through May 4, 2001
f. Ms. Monique Hodson, teacher, Larose-Cut Off Junior High School, from April 26, 2001
through June 1, 2001
g. Ms. Mary Hoffmann, teacher, Central Lafourche High School, on May 16, 2001
h. Ms. Donna Landry, teacher, Central Lafourche High School, on April 30, 2001
i. Ms. Sherryl LeBrun, teacher, South Thibodaux Elementary School, on May 8, 2001
j. Ms. Kaye McCann, teacher, W. S. Lafargue Elementary School, on April 19, 2001
k. Ms. Jennifer Martin, teacher, West Thibodaux Junior High School, on April 23, 2001
l. Ms. Monique Mathes, guidance counselor, Raceland Junior High School, on April 23,
2001 (1/2 day)
m. Ms. Diane Price, teacher (computer lab facilitator), Raceland Lower Elementary School,
from May 7, 2001 through May 11, 2001
n. Ms. Kim Reulet, teacher, South Thibodaux Elementary School, on May 18, 2001
o. Ms. Lisa Richard, teacher, Golden Meadow Lower Elementary School, on May 4, 2001
p Ms. Melissa Tracy, teacher, Raceland Upper Elementary School, from April 30, 2001
(1/2 day) through June 1, 2001
On motion of Mr. Chiquet, seconded by Mr. Landry and unanimously carried, the board authorized the superintendent to accept all resignations (on behalf of the board) for the 2001-2002 fiscal year.
On motion of Mr. Landry, seconded by Ms. Caldwell and unanimously carried, the board renewed the administrator contracts of the following:
a. LTC (Ret) Arthur Rice, director of army instruction, Lafourche Parish schools, effective July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2003
b. Mr. Doyle Rogers, principal, Lockport Junior High School, effective July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2003
c. Ms. Susan Serigny, principal, Lafourche Parish schools, effective July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2003
d. Mr. Ken Friedlander, principal, Golden Meadow Middle School, effective July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2003
e. Ms. Linda Dangerfield, supervisor, Lafourche Parish schools, effective July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2003
f. Mr. Robert Rome, assistant principal, Lockport Junior High School, effective July 3, 2001 through July 2, 2003
g. Mr. Gary Babin, supervisor, Lafourche Parish schools, effective July 3, 2001 through July 2, 2003
h. Ms. Susan Thibodaux, special education program administrator, Lafourche Parish schools, effective July 3, 2001 through July 2, 2003
i. Mr. Danny Landry, principal, East Thibodaux Junior High School, effective July 6, 2001 through July 5, 2003
j. Ms. Catherine Carter, assistant principal, Central Lafourche High School, effective July 15, 2001 through July 14, 2003
k. Ms. JoAnn Brou, assistant principal, East Thibodaux Junior High School, effective July 22, 2001 through July 21, 2003
l. Ms. Judy Babin, assistant principal, Central Lafourche High School, effective July 24, 2001 through July 23, 2003
m. Ms. Lydia Guidry, assistant principal, South Lafourche High School, effective July 24, 2001 through July 23, 2003
n. Mr. Terry Boudreaux, assistant principal, Thibodaux High School, effective July 24, 2001 through July 23, 2003
o. Mr. Ron Briscoe, principal, Larose-Cut Off Junior High School, effective July 26, 2001 through July 25, 2003
On motion of Ms. Caldwell, seconded by Mr. Thibodaux and unanimously carried, the board appointed the following personnel effective August 16, 2001 through May 31, 2002:
a. Ms. Vera Lewis, special education teacher, Bayou Blue Elementary School
b. Ms. Angelique Rodrigue, special education teacher, Chackbay Elementary School
c. Ms. Denise Autin, teacher (CSR), Galliano Elementary School
d. Ms. Shantelle Toups, teacher (CSR), Golden Meadow Lower Elementary School
e. Ms. Greta Terrebonne, teacher, Golden Meadow Middle School
f. Ms. Danielle Thompson, teacher (CSR), W. S. Lafargue Elementary School
g. Ms. Celeste Gisclair, teacher, Lockport Upper Elementary School
h. Ms. Christy Kern, teacher, Lockport Upper Elementary School
i. Ms. Maria Pender, teacher (CSR), Lockport Upper Elementary School
j. Ms. Heather Bellow, teacher (kindergarten) (CSR), Raceland Lower Elementary
School
k. Ms. Krista Savoie, guidance counselor, Raceland Upper Elementary School
l. Ms. Stephanie Lee, teacher, St. Charles Elementary School
m. Ms. Katherin Aupied, teacher (CSR), Thibodaux Elementary School
n. Ms. Michelle Melancon, special education teacher, Thibodaux Elementary School
o. Mr. Ron Loyacano, teacher, Larose-Cut Off Junior High School
p. Ms. Mary Mestmayer, teacher, Larose-Cut Off Junior High School
q. Mr. Landon Aydell, teacher, West Thibodaux Junior High School
r. Ms. Anna Breard, teacher, West Thibodaux Junior High School
s. Mr. Ralph Falcon, teacher, West Thibodaux Junior High School
t. Mr. Shaun Crochet, special education teacher, Thibodaux High School
u. Ms. Dale Boudreaux, paraprofessional, Thibodaux High School
v. Ms. Stacey Allemand, teacher, South Thibodaux Elementary School
w. Ms. Sandy Matherne, teacher, South Thibodaux Elementary School
x. Mr. Shelly Vedros, Jr., teacher, Central Lafourche High School
y. Mr. Jarad Walker, teacher, Larose Lower Elementary School
On motion of Mr. Chiquet, seconded by Ms. Williams and unanimously carried, the board, acting in line with the recommendation of the superintendent, transferred Ms. Gwendolyn Streams to the position of assistant principal at West Thibodaux Junior High School (replacing Ms. Karen Guillot), effective with the beginning of the 2001-2002 school session; and, subsequent to Ms. Streams' transfer, declared a vacancy in the position of assistant principal at Raceland Middle School and set the deadline for the receipt of applications in the superintendent’s office at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 2, 2001, with said appointment to be made at the next regular meeting of the board to be held on Wednesday, July 11, 2001.
On motion of Mr. Chiasson, seconded by Ms. Williams and unanimously carried, the board declared a vacancy in the position of assistant principal at Raceland Upper Elementary School (replacing Ms. Donna Bergeron); and set the deadline for the receipt of applications in the superintendent’s office at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 2, 2001, with said appointment to be made at the next regular meeting of the board to be held on Wednesday, July 11, 2001.
Superintendent Broussard gave a brief report on the storm damage to Raceland Junior High School -- in particular, to the PASS building located on the school campus. The superintendent reported that, in the opinion of the architect, the PASS building should be considered a total loss. Accordingly, Superintendent Broussard recommended that the PASS building be considered a total loss and that the board request proposals for demolition and removal of the damaged structure. Mr. Chiquet then offered a motion, seconded by Mr. Fabiano and unanimously carried, to accept the recommendation of the superintendent and authorize requests for proposals for the demolition and removal of the PASS building.
Next, the superintendent reported on reimbursement claims that will be submitted to FEMA due to the wind damage to Raceland Junior High School and Raceland Upper Elementary School and the flooding in various schools resulting from Tropical Storm Allison. At this time, Mr. Chiquet commended the administrators and staff at both Raceland Junior High School and Raceland Upper Elementary School on how well they handled the emergency, for their quick actions, and for cooperating so willingly in bringing the situation under control. Superintendent Broussard stated that, on behalf of the board, he would send resolutions to Mr. Michael Collins, principal at Galliano Elementary School, Mr. Doyle Rogers, summer school principal at Raceland Junior High School, and to Ms. Pam Folse, principal at Raceland Upper Elementary School commending them for the excellent manner in which they handled the recent emergency situations at their schools.
Maintenance Manager Hubbell then gave a brief report on the damages sustained in the schools as a result of the recent flooding due to Tropical Storm Allison.
Supervisor Marian Fertitta gave an update on the summer school program.
At this time, President DeFelice referred back to earlier in the meeting when the board approved the Finance Committee's recommendation to increase the cost of mileage reimbursement from $.28 per mile to $.32 per mile for all employees effective July 1, 2001. He noted that this action involved a change in board policy and would require a two-thirds vote to waive the waiting period for amendment of policies before voting on amending the policy. The president asked if the board wanted to waive the waiting period for the amendment of Policy DJD, Expense Reimbursement, in order that the amendment to the policy could go into effect immediately. Mr. Danos then offered a motion, seconded by Ms. Williams, asking for a two-thirds vote to waive the waiting period for the amendment of policies in order to vote on the proposed amendment to Policy DJD (tonight) so that it could go into effect immediately. A vote was taken; and the motion was carried, although not unanimously -- one dissenting vote was cast by Mr. Landry. Mr. Danos then offered a motion, seconded by Ms. Williams, to amend Policy DJD, Expense Reimbursement, to increase the cost of mileage reimbursement from $.28 per mile to $.32 per mile for all employees effective immediately. The motion was carried, although not unanimously -- one dissenting vote was cast by Mr. Landry.
Superintendent Broussard announced that the dedication of the new building at Central Lafourche High School would be held on Saturday, August 4, 2001.
On motion of Mr. Rodrigue, seconded by Mr. Landry and unanimously carried, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
DAVE J. DEFELICE, JR. ELMO BROUSSARD
President Secretary