OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

RAPIDES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD

Alexandria, Louisiana

May 6, 2014

The Rapides Parish School Board of Rapides Parish, Louisiana, met in regular public session at 5:00 o’clock p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at the regular meeting place of said board in the Rapides Parish School Board Office, 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets, in Alexandria, Louisiana.

President Janet H. Dixon called the meeting to order and on roll call the following members were present: 

Janet Dixon, President

Julie McConathy, Vice President

Wilton Barrios, Member

Steve Berry, Member

Keith Breazeale, Member

Stephen Chapman, Member

Darrell Rodriguez, Member

Pam Webb, Member

Absent:           John Allen, Member

Mr. Nason Authement, Secretary for the Board, was present for the meeting.

__________________

District Attorney James Downs was present for the meeting.

___________________

The Colors were presented by the Buckeye High School JROTC. The Invocation was pronounced by Rev. James Paul of Center Point Pentecostal Church after which Mrs. Julie McConathy led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

____________________

(COPY OF OFFICIAL CALL MAILED TO EACH MEMBER OF THE RAPIDES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD AND POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE AT THE MEETING PLACE OF SAID BOARD ON MAY 1, 2014)

Alexandria, Louisiana

May 1, 2014

Dear Sir/Madam:

I, Janet H. Dixon, do hereby give notice that the Rapides Parish School Board will meet in regular public session at its domicile at 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets in the City of Alexandria, Louisiana, at 5:00 p.m. on TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2014 for the purpose of considering, acting upon, deciding, and if deemed advisable, submitting the following propositions, to wit:

1.     Call to order

2.     Invocation, Pledge

3.     Roll call    

4.     Recognize:

a.      the Board’s student guest from Northwood High School – Dr. Stephen Chapman

b.      W. O. Hall Elementary School for the bulletin board display in the lobby of the School Board Office for the month of May 2014 – Mr. Clyde Washington

c.      Outstanding Support Personnel – Mr. Clyde Washington

·       Angel Aaron – D. F. Huddle Elementary

·       Shalonda Warren – Aiken Virtual School

·       Steven Boatner – Bolton High School

d.      Students who placed at the State Literary Rally – Mrs. Kim Bennett

5.     Consent Agenda:  Motion to adopt in globo the items listed on the consent agenda (the consent agenda is established by the Board’s Executive Committee and any board  member may request that any consent agenda item be considered separately - whether considered in globo or separately, board member and public comment shall be permitted on any item listed on the consent agenda; see pages 3, 4, 5 and 6)

*6. Motion for the Board to consider and take action on the request to hire a permanent custodian in lieu of substitute for Plainview High School – Dr. Emily Weatherford

*7. Motion for the RPSB to establish the start date(s) for the 2 year contracts being offered to select employees by the Superintendent as he executes the action in Agenda Item # 8 and passed by the Board at the March 5, 2014 board meeting – Mrs. Janet Dixon

*8. Motion to discuss and approve the recommendation from administration for loaning laptop computers with restricted internet access to parents participating in the district sponsored after-school tutorial program – Mr. Nason Authement

*9. Motion to approve changes to the current retention and acceleration policy in the Pupil Progression Plan for students in grades four and eight as requested by the Louisiana Department of Education for the 2013-2014 Academic school year – Mrs. Kim Bennett

Pages 9-12

*10. Adopt the 2014 millage rate(s) - Ms. Liz Domite

Pages 13-16 

*11. Motion to authorize distribution of excess Sales Tax Revenues in a separate May 22, 2014 paycheck, said distribution to be made to employees on a ratio of two dollars for all positions requiring a degree and one dollar for all other positions - Ms. Liz Domite

Source of funding 1967 Sales Tax & 1987 Sales Tax

12. Motion to approve a 3-year agreement between Alexandria Senior High and Jostens for Jostens to be the official school yearbook publisher beginning with 2015 and authorize the Superintendent to sign any documentation in connection therewith – Ms. Liz Domite

13. Motion to discuss salary schedule of support personnel and have the Administration bring more information to the May Board meeting – Mrs. Julie McConathy and Mr. Wilton Barrios

14. Motion to review, discuss and/or take action on providing options to employees on providers for the Annuity Plan 403B – Mrs. Janet Dixon

Items to discuss:

1. Copy of original contract between RPSB and Horace Mann

2. Copy of current contract between RPSB and Horace Mann

3. The last date the RPSB reviewed and provided additional service provider options to the employees for the annuity

15. Motion for dismissal of an employee for cause – Mr. Nason Authement

16. Motion to approve a Professional Services Contract with Mr. Frank Bruno for state contract licensed electrician as required by state and local governing agencies. Contract period shall be for a six (6) month period with an option to renew at same terms and conditions for an additional six (6) month period upon mutual agreement of both parties and authorize the Superintendent to sign any and all documents in connection therewith – (current contract expires 5-7-14) - Mr. Clyde Washington

17. Motion to approve Diagram for Success proposal to Rapides Foundation – Mrs. Bethanie Herrick

Consent agenda: (Item 5)

A.  Reports:

1.   to receive an update on school construction projects – Mr. Clyde Washington

Pages 22-25

B.   Action – Minutes

1.   to approve the minutes of the 3-18-14 and 4-1-14 meetings, the 3-18-14 Personnel, Education, and Finance Committee meetings, the 3-27-14 Discipline Review Committee meeting and the 3-24-14 Executive Committee meeting of the Board as written and to be published in the official journal, The Town Talk   

C.  Action – Education

*1. to change the name of Glenmora Elementary School and Glenmora High School to Glenmora High School – Dr. Arthur Joffrion

*2. to change the name of Oak Hill Elementary School and Oak Hill High School to Oak Hill High School – Dr. Arthur Joffrion

*3. an updated report on the Elementary Professional Development Series from the  Director of Elementary Education – Mrs. Janet Dixon

Pages 26-52

*4. an update on the Jumpstart Program – Mr. Billy Albritton

Pages 53-64

*5. to receive a report on the Connection Program at Slocum and take necessary action – Mr. Nason Authement 

D.  Action – Finance

*1. to approve personal services contracts, leases, and other such agreements; authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in connection with said contracts; and approve bills paid for the previous month - Ms. Liz Domite  

*2. to approve/adopt any budget changes/amendments – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 65

*3. to receive an update/report on grants, approve grants included therein, and authorize the Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in connection therewith – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 66

*4. to receive a report on donation(s) made to the Rapides Parish School Board on behalf of the RPSB schools, accept and approve donations included therein, and provide any necessary documentation related to the donation(s) – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 67

*5. to receive a quarterly report on Maintenance Funds – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 68

*6. to authorize the secretary to exercise the option to renew the contract under the same terms and conditions for the 2014-2015 school year for Professional Drug Testing Services (Bid No. 14-11) with written mutual agreement of the vendor (Louisiana Occupational Health Services) and authorize the secretary to sign any documentation connected therewith – Ms. Liz Domite

*7. to ratify and confirm bid(s) and RFQ received by the Central Office staff and award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder contingent on low bidder meeting all LA Public Bid Law and Contract Document Requirements and Specifications – Ms. Liz Domite

a.   “Comprehensive Annual Audit” (Bid # 14-40) received on Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

b.   “Alexandria Sr. High Track Renovations” (Bid # 14-33) received on Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. 

c.   “Cherokee Elementary Cafeteria Renovations” (Bid # 14-20) received on Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 11:00 a.m

d.   “Dust Control Services” (Bid #14-03) received on Wednesday April 30, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

e.   “Replace Carpet with Carpet and Tile in Various Areas at Northwood High” (RFQ #14-53) received on Wednesday, April 16, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

*8. to authorize the secretary to advertise for bids and authorize the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office Staff to receive bids and a recommendation to be made to the Board - Ms. Liz Domite

a.   “Forest Hill Cafeteria Expansion” (Bid # 14-37) – Funding District 16 Bonds

b.   “Barron Elementary Cafeteria Equipment” (Bid # 14-50)

c.   “Barron Elementary Cafeteria Serving Line” (Bid # 14-49)

d.   “Cherokee Elementary Cafeteria Equipment” (Bid # 14-51)

Funding School Food Service

*9. to approve Change Order #1 for RPSB Bid #12-37A (Multipurpose Building for Pineville High) between RPSB and Tudor, Inc. decreasing $986.00 to the contract sum, thereby decreasing the original contract to $2,581,014.00 and to authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any documentation – Ms. Liz Domite

*10. to declare salvage inventory per the attached list located at the Morgan Street Warehouse surplus and to authorize the Secretary to advertise for bids for the “Sale of Surplus Vehicle and Inventory” (Bid No. 14-52) and the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office Staff to receive bids, a recommendation to be made to the Board – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 85

*11. to approve the Plaquemines Parish School Board’s request to participate in a cooperative purchasing agreement with the Rapides Parish School Board for the purchase of educational materials (RPSB Bid No. 12-29) – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 86

*12. to approve the St. Tammany Parish School Board’s request to participate in a cooperative purchasing agreement with the Rapides Parish School Board for the purchase of educational materials (RPSB Bid No. 12-29) – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 87

*13. to authorize the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office Staff to receive quotes and a recommendation to be made to the Board for “Glenmora High and Elementary Drainage” (RFQ # 14-48) and to approve Pan American Engineers as the engineer firm for the project – Ms. Liz Domite

*14. to approve the Lafourche Parish School Board’s request to participate in a cooperative purchasing agreement with the Rapides Parish School Board for the purchase of educational materials (RPSB Bid # 12-29) – Ms. Liz Domite

Pages 88-89

*15. to approve Summer Feeding School sites for June 2-27, 2014 – Mrs. Erma Davis

*16. to approve the Professional Service Contract for transporting and delivery of U.S.D.A. Commodities from Polar Bear Ice Company to individual schools in Rapides Parish effective August 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014 – Mrs. Erma Davis

*17. to authorize the Board’s Insurance Consultant to negotiate renewal (or solicit quotes should annual contract amount increase above the CPI) for Third Party Claims Administration Service (TPA) for claims against the GL, E & O, and Auto Liability occurring during the 2014-2015 fiscal year and bring a report and recommendation of award to the Board at the June 3, 2014 Regular Board meeting - Mr. Roy Rachal  

*18. to authorize the Board’s Insurance Consultant to negotiate renewal (or solicit quotes should premiums increase above the CPI) for Property, Liability, E & O, Auto Physical Damage and Fidelity Insurance coverage for the 2014-2015 fiscal year and bring a report and recommendation of award to the Board at the June 3, 2014 Regular Board meeting – Mr. Roy Rachal

*19. to authorize the Board’s Insurance Consultant to negotiate renewal (or solicit quotes should premiums increase above the CPI) for student all activity (Athletics, ROTC, Field Trips, Cheer/Dance, etc.) accident insurance coverage for the 2014-2015 fiscal year and bring a report and recommendation of award to the Board at the June 3, 2014 Regular Board meeting – Mr. Roy Rachal

*20. to authorize the secretary to advertise for the 2014-2015 school year and authorize the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office staff to receive bids, a recommendation to be made to the Board of the following: - Mrs. Erma Davis

*21. to approve Change Order #1 for RPSB Bid #14-00 (Hayden R. Lawrence Chiller Replacement) between Rapides Parish School Board and ACA, Inc. adding 62 days to the contract time, thereby making the date of substantial completion July 11, 2014 and to authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any documentation – Mr. Roy Rachal

Pages 95-96

*22. to approve Change Order #1 for RPSB Bid #14-19 (Oak Hill High Boiler Replacement) between Rapides Parish School Board and ACA, Inc. adding 62 days to the contract time, thereby making the date of substantial completion July 11, 2014 and to authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any documentation – Mr. Roy Rachal

Pages 97-98

E.   Action - Discipline (Motion to go into Executive Session for 1, 2 and 3)

*1. to uphold the Rapides Parish School Board Review Committee’s recommendation – Mrs. Ruby Smith

2.   to receive an update outlining the progress of each student attending the Rapides Alternative Learning Facility (RALF) - Mrs. Ruby Smith

3.   to receive a report for students successfully completing the requirements for a performance contract – Mrs. Ruby Smith

F.   Action – Personnel

*1. receive reports as follows: - Dr. Emily Weatherford

a.   new hires, pending a satisfactory drug screening and background check

b.   new hires in lieu of substitute

c.   promotions

d.   leave requests, rescissions, waivers, etc.

e.   performance contract renewals

f.    resignations and retirements

*2. to discuss any personnel complaints that may go before the full board for action – Dr. Emily Weatherford

*Denotes that these items have been through committee

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, Witness my official signature and the seal of the Rapides Parish School Board this 1^st day of May 2014

/s/Janet H. Dixon

President

ATTEST:

/s/Nason Authement

Secretary

S E A L

___________________

Public comment was solicited prior to the vote on items during this meeting. 

____________________

A motion was made by Dr. Stephen Chapman and seconded by Mr. Steve Berry to add to the agenda to recognize Monte’ Demars, principal of Alexandria Middle Magnet School – Reason to add – Time Sensitive. (Item 4-e)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote to add was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman,
Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mr. Allen

____________________

A motion was by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to recognize the students who placed Platinum or Platinum Plus on WorkKeys – Reason to add – Time Sensitive. (Item 4-f)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote to add was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman,
Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mr. Allen

____________________

Let the record reflect that Mr. John Allen arrived at the meeting at this time.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to adopt a resolution to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement for State Project No. H.011203/F.A.P. No. H011203 for Pineville Elementary Non-Infrastructure purchases and State Project No. H.011204/ F.A.P. No. H11204 for Martin Park Elementary Non-Infrastructure SRTS and authorize the Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in connection therewith pending review and approval of advising counsel – Reason to add: Time sensitive - information was just received. (Item 18)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote to add was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman,
Mr. Allen, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         None

____________________

Dr. Stephen Chapman introduced the Board’s student guest, Curtis Fennell, a senior at Northwood High School, who was recognized for his academic and extracurricular achievements. Also recognized were Curtis’s family and Dr. Dana Nolan, principal at Northwood High School.

(Item 4-a)

____________________

The Board recognized W. O. Hall Elementary for the bulletin board display in the lobby of the School Board Office for the month of May 2014. (Item 4-b)

____________________

The Board recognized the Outstanding Support Personnel. (Item 4-c)

·       Angel Aaron – D. F. Huddle Elementary

·       Shalonda Warren – Aiken Virtual School

·       Steven Boatner – Bolton High School

____________________

The Board recognized Students who placed at the State Literary Rally. (Item 4-d)

            Alexandria Senior High

            Ao Chen

            Skyler Beauregard

            Salim Lutfallah

            Stephanie Lutfallah

            Noah Pope, Peyton Newton, Darrell Poole, Megan Rockhold

            Tyler Jackson, Abbie Bradford, Bernette Fondong

            Ben Knowles, Tyler Jacks

            Ra’Lisa Smith

            Buckeye High School

            Cheyenne Bailey

            Jason Smith

            Carly Ryder

            Glenmora High School

            Jarrett Elliott

            Jami Shows

            Wasana Keohavong

            Cody Ashworth

            Bolton High School 

            Connor Dorian                                     

            Kayleigh McCarty                                Jackie Nguyen

            Katherine Miller                                   Austin Steeleton

            Nketiah Berko                                      James Passman

            Mallory Bacon                                      Michelle Hernadez

            Daniel Townley                                    Blake Tillman

            Northwood High School
            Mary Nichols

            Hunter Spolorich

            Oak Hill High School

            Selena Sinnasone

            Morgan Carlock

            Pineville High School

            Ryan Botts

            Michael Martin

            Bailey Megison

            Kristi Roshto

            Jeong Hwaypyeong

            Plainview High School

            Zachary Cox

            Rapides High School

            Maritza Ruvalcaba

            Jonathan Nixon

            Tioga High School

            Nicolas Swank                                      Kaitlyn Humphries

            Tucker Hyde                                         Morgan Rhymes

            Jacob Tyler                                           Jade Bass

            Britney Smart

            Robin Bergeron                                    Krisalyn Bonnette

            Marisa Ford                                          Aaron Martin

            Ashton Theodore                                  Kaylin Tullis

            Trevor Sonnier                                      Cobi Forte

            Stacy Fussell                                        Lacey Hutchinson

            Chelsea Trantham                                 Austin Mathews

            Paul Penzica                                         Matthew Bell

            Martin Ramirez

____________________

The Board recognized the students who placed Platinum or Platinum Plus on WorkKeys.  (Item 4-f)

            Platinum                                              Platinum Plus

            Bolton High School

            Brian Kiesewetter                                 Conor Dorian

            Buckeye High School

            Charles Logan Franks

            Reese Ryland

            Pineville High School

            Ryan Botts                                           Jasmine Rogers

            Leah Kaplan

            Elizabeth Lee

            Tioga High School

            Matthew LaCroix

____________________

The Board recognized Monte’ Demars, principal of Alexandria Middle Magnet School.  (Item 4-e)

____________________

The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the Alexandria Chapter was recognized and introduced at this time.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to approve the consent agenda. (Item 5)

Discussion ensued and 5D-7a, 5D-7b and 5D-7c were pulled for the regular agenda.

A substitute motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. Steve Berry to adopt the consent agenda with the exception of 5D-7a, 5D-7b and 5D-7c.

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman,
Mr. Allen, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         None

____________________

Consent agenda: (Item 5)

A.  Reports:

1.   to receive an update on school construction projects – Mr. Clyde Washington

Pages 22-25

B.  Action – Minutes

1.   to approve the minutes of 3-18-14 and 4-1-14 meetings, the 3-18-14 Personnel, Education, and Finance Committee meetings, the 3-27-14 Discipline Review Committee meeting and the 3-24-14 Executive Committee meeting of the Board as written and to be published in the official journal, The Town Talk

C.  Action – Education

*1. to change the name of Glenmora Elementary School and Glenmora High School to Glenmora High School – Dr. Arthur Joffrion

*2. to change the name of Oak Hill Elementary School and Oak Hill High School to Oak Hill High School – Dr. Arthur Joffrion

*3. an updated report on the Elementary Professional Development Series from the Director of Elementary Education – Mrs. Janet Dixon

Pages 26-52

*4. an update on the Jumpstart Program – Mr. Billy Albritton

Pages 53-64

*5. to receive a report on the Connection Program at Slocum and take necessary action – Mr. Nason Authement 

D.  Action – Finance

*1. to approve personal services contracts, leases, and other such agreements; authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in connection with said contracts; and approve bills paid for the previous month - Ms. Liz Domite

*2. to approve/adopt any budget changes/amendments – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 65

*3. to receive an update/report on grants, approve grants included therein, and authorize the Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in connection therewith – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 66

*4. to receive a report on donation(s) made to the Rapides Parish School Board on behalf of the RPSB schools, accept and approve donations included therein, and provide any necessary documentation related to the donation(s) – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 67

*5. to receive a quarterly report on Maintenance Funds – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 68

*6  to authorize the secretary to exercise the option to renew the contract under the same terms and conditions for the 2014-2015 school year for Professional Drug Testing Services (Bid No. 14-11) with written mutual agreement of the vendor (Louisiana Occupational Health Services) and authorize the secretary to sign any documentation connected therewith – Ms. Liz Domite

*7. to ratify and confirm bid(s) and RFQ received by the Central Office staff and award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder contingent on low bidder meeting all LA Public Bid Law and Contract Document Requirements and Specifications – Ms. Liz Domite

a.   pulled for the regular agenda.

b.   pulled for the regular agenda.

c.   pulled for the regular agenda.   

d.   “Dust Control Services” (Bid #14-03) received on Wednesday April 30, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. and award to D & L Textiles (order as needed)

Source of funding Maintenance

e.   “Replace Carpet with Carpet and Tile in Various Areas at Northwood High” (RFQ #14-53) received on Wednesday, April 16, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. and award to Floors Unlimited in the amount of $31,528.11.

*8. to authorize the secretary to advertise for bids and authorize the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office Staff to receive bids - Ms. Liz Domite

a.   “Forest Hill Cafeteria Expansion” (Bid # 14-37)

Funding District 16 Bonds

b.   “Barron Elementary Cafeteria Equipment” (Bid # 14-50)

c.   “Barron Elementary Cafeteria Serving Line” (Bid # 14-49)

d.   “Cherokee Elementary Cafeteria Equipment” (Bid # 14-51)

Funding School Food Service

*9. to approve Change Order #1 for RPSB Bid #12-37A (Multipurpose Building for Pineville High) between RPSB and Tudor, Inc. decreasing $986.00 to the contract sum, thereby decreasing the original contract to $2,581,014.00 and to authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any documentation – Ms. Liz Domite

*10. to declaresalvage inventory per the attached list located at the Morgan Street Warehouse surplus and to authorize the Secretary to advertise for bids for the “Sale of Surplus Vehicle and Inventory” (Bid No. 14-52) and the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office Staff to receive bids – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 85

*11. to approve the Plaquemines Parish School Board’s request to participate in a cooperative purchasing agreement with the Rapides Parish School Board for the purchase of educational materials (RPSB Bid No. 12-29) – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 86

*12. to approve the St. Tammany Parish School Board’s request to participate in a cooperative purchasing agreement with the Rapides Parish School Board for the purchase of educational materials (RPSB Bid No. 12-29) – Ms. Liz Domite

Page 87 

*13. to authorize the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office Staff  to receive quotes and a recommendation to be made to the Board for “Glenmora High and Elementary Drainage” (RFQ # 14-48 and to approve Pan American Engineers as the engineer firm for the project – Ms. Liz Domite

*14. to approve the Lafourche Parish School Board’s request to participate in a cooperative purchasing agreement with the Rapides Parish School Board for the purchase of  educational materials (RPSB Bid # 12-29) – Ms. Liz Domite

Pages 88-89

*15. to approve SummerFeeding School sites for June 2-27, 2014 – Mrs. Erma Davis

*16. to approve the Professional Service Contract for transporting and delivery of U.S.D.A. Commodities from Polar Bear Ice Company to individual schools in Rapides Parish effective August 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014 – Mrs. Erma Davis

*17. to authorize the Board’s Insurance Consultant to negotiate renewal (or solicit quotes should annual contract amount increase above the CPI) for Third Party Claims Administration Service (TPA) for claims against the GL, E & O, and Auto Liability occurring during the 2014-2015 fiscal year and bring a report and recommendation of award to the Board at the June 3, 2014 Regular Board meeting - Mr. Roy Rachal

*18. to authorize the Board’s Insurance Consultant to negotiate renewal (or solicit quotes should premiums increase above the CPI) for Property, Liability, E & O, Auto Physical Damage and Fidelity Insurance coverage for the 2014-2015 fiscal year and bring a report and recommendation of award to the Board at the June 3, 2014 Regular Board meeting – Mr. Roy Rachal

*19. to authorize the Board’s Insurance Consultant to negotiate renewal (or solicit quotes should premiums increase above the CPI) for student all activity (Athletics, ROTC, Field Trips, Cheer/Dance, etc.) accident insurance coverage for the 2014-2015 fiscal year and bring a report and recommendation of award to the Board at the June 3, 2014 Regular Board meeting – Mr. Roy Rachal

*20. to authorize the secretary to advertise for the 2014-2015 school year and authorize the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent and Central Office staff to receive bids as follows: - Mrs. Erma Davis

*21. to approve Change Order #1 for RPSB Bid #14-00 (Hayden R. Lawrence Chiller Replacement) between Rapides Parish School Board and ACA, Inc. adding 62 days to  the contract time, thereby making the date of substantial completion July 11, 2014 and to authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any documentation – Mr. Roy Rachal

Pages 95-96

*22. to approve Change Order #1 for RPSB Bid #14-19 (Oak Hill High Boiler Replacement) between Rapides Parish School Board and ACA, Inc. adding 62 days to the contract time, thereby making the date of substantial completion July 11, 2014 and to authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any documentation – Mr. Roy Rachal

Pages 97-98

E.   Action - Discipline (Motion to go into Executive Session for 1, 2 and 3)

*1. to uphold the Rapides Parish School Board Review Committee’s recommendation – Mrs. Ruby Smith

·       Motion that Joshua Thomas be re-admitted to the zoned school effective May 7, 2014 all conditioned upon a probationary agreement to be executed by the student, parent and Superintendent within five (5) days otherwise the principal’s recommendation is upheld. 

·       Motion that no action be taken on the request from Evan Dole.  

·       Motion that in lieu of expulsion, Michael Walley, a student with 504 modifications, be admitted to the Rapides Alternative Learning Facility effective May 7, 2014 with the following stipulations: there be no discipline problems, grades shall be improved, a log showing daily activities as directed by the staff, a report shall be presented to the Discipline Review Committee in June to determine eligibility for enrollment in a zoned school all conditioned upon a probationary agreement to be executed by the student, parent and Superintendent within five (5) days otherwise the principal’s recommendation is upheld. 

·       Motion that in lieu of expulsion, Derionte Hunter be admitted to the Rapides Alternative Learning Facility effective May 7, 2014 with the following stipulations: there be no discipline problems, grades shall be improved, a log showing daily activities as directed by the staff, random drug testing at the expense of the parents coordinated by the Drug Coordinator and a report shall be presented to the Discipline Review Committee in June to determine eligibility for enrollment in a zoned school all conditioned upon a probationary agreement to be executed by the student, parent and Superintendent within five (5) days otherwise the principal’s recommendation is upheld.

2.   to receive an update outlining the progress of each student attending the Rapides Alternative Learning Facility (RALF) - Mrs. Ruby Smith

3.   to receive a report for students successfully completing the requirements for a performance contract – Mrs. Ruby Smith

F.   Action – Personnel

*1. receive reports as follows: - Dr. Emily Weatherford

a.   new hires, pending a satisfactory drug screening and background check

b.   new hires in lieu of substitute

c.   promotions

d.   leave requests, rescissions, waivers, etc.

e.   performance contract renewals

f.    resignations and retirements

*2. to discuss any personnel complaints that may go before the full board for action –  Dr. Emily Weatherford

*Denotes that these items have been through committee

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mr. John Allen to ratify and confirm bid(s) and RFQ received by the Central Office staff and award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder contingent on low bidder meeting all LA Public Bid Law and Contract Document Requirements and Specifications. (Item 5D-7a)

“Comprehensive Annual Audit” (Bid # 14-40) received on Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mrs. Julie McConathy and seconded by Mr. John Allen to accept Allen, Green and Williamson for the “Comprehensive Annual Audit”.

Discussion ensued.

A second substitute motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mrs. Pam Webb to accept Payne, Moore and Herrington for the “Comprehensive Annual Audit” (Bid # 14-40) received on Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. for $79,000 the absolute total for the services for 2014-2015 year.

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote on the second substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman

NAY:               Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Allen, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon

ABSENT:         None

THE SECOND SUBSTITUTE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY MAJORITY VOTE.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to ratify and confirm bid(s) and RFQ received by the Central Office staff and award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder contingent on low bidder meeting all LA Public Bid Law and Contract Document Requirements and Specifications. (Item 5D-7b)

“Alexandria Sr. High Track Renovations” (Bid # 14-33) received on Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. 

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Dr. StephenChapman to award to Quality Court Industries, LLC and accept the base bid plus Alternate #1 with warranty of 5 years and increase the budget by $42,000.00 with the total project cost being $202,000.00 for “Alexandria Sr. High Track Renovations” (Bid # 14-33) received on Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. 

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         None

ABSTAIN:       Mr. Barrios, Mrs. McConathy

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mr. Keith Breazeale to ratify and confirm bid(s) and RFQ received by the Central Office staff and award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder contingent on low bidder meeting all LA Public Bid Law and Contract Document Requirements and Specifications. (Item 5D-7c)

 “Cherokee Elementary Cafeteria Renovations” (Bid # 14-20) received on Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon to award “Cherokee Elementary Cafeteria Renovations” (Bid # 14-20) received on Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. to Skip Converse, Inc. and add to the budget $64,700.00 and accept the low bid of $299,700.00.

Discussion ensued.

Let the record reflect that Mrs. Janet Dixon left the meeting at this time.

On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. Dixon

ABSTAIN:       Mrs. McConathy

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mr. John Allen for the Board to consider and take action on the request to hire a permanent custodian in lieu of substitute for Plainview High School. (Item 6)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mrs. McConathy

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. Dixon

____________________

Let the record reflect that Mrs. Janet Dixon returned to the meeting at this time.

Let the record reflect that Mrs. Julie McConathy left the meeting at this time.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Darrell Rodriguez and seconded by Mr. Steve Berry for the RPSB to establish the start date(s) for the 2 year contracts being offered to select employees by the Superintendent as he executes the action in Agenda Item # 8 and passed by the Board at the March 5, 2014 board meeting. (Item 7)

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. Darrell Rodriguez to direct the Superintendent of RPSB to offer the two year contracts to the selected employees who were awarded a four year contract and the start date for the new contracts will be the date on which the Superintendent and employee sign the new two year contract aggregating the older four year contract effective immediately.

Discussion ensued.

A second substitute motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mr. Steve Berry to direct the Superintendent to offer employees with four year contracts a new two year contract starting at the mid-point of the current four year contract aggregating the older four year contract.

Discussion ensued.

A third substitute motion was made by Mr. Wilton Barrios and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman to direct the Superintendent to determine the dates of issuance of the new contracts and come back to the June Board to make a decision.

Mrs. Janet Dixon withdrew her motion at this time.

On roll call the vote on the third substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy

_____________________

Let the record reflect that Mr. John Allen and Mr. Darrell Rodriguez left the meeting at this time.

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A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mr. Keith Breazeale to discuss and approve the recommendation from administration for loaning laptop computers with restricted internet access to parents participating in the district sponsored after-school tutorial program. (Item 8)

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon to fund Laptop Checkout Program for one (1) year according to the information provided and that the Board receive a six (6) month update on the Laptop Checkout Program.

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Allen

_____________________

Let the record reflect that Mr. John Allen returned to the meeting at this time.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon to approve changes to the current retention and acceleration policy in the Pupil Progression Plan for students in grades four and eight as requested by the Louisiana Department of Education for the 2013-2014 Academic school year. (Item 9)

Discussion ensued.

On motion by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon, the Board voted unanimously to approve changes to the current retention and acceleration policy in the Pupil Progression Plan for students in grades four and eight as requested by the Louisiana Department of Education for the 2013-2014 Academic school year.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman to adopt the 2014 millage rate(s). (Item 10)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy, Mr. Rodriguez

_____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mr. Keith Breazeale to authorize distribution of excess Sales Tax Revenues in a separate May 22, 2014 paycheck, said distribution to be made to employees on a ratio of two dollars for all positions requiring a degree and one dollar for all other positions (degreed - $2,850 and all others - $1,425). (Item 11)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy, Mr. Rodriguez

ABSTAIN:       Dr. Chapman

_____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Pam Webb toapprove a 3-year agreement between Alexandria Senior High and Jostens, for Jostens to be the official school yearbook publisher beginning with 2015 and authorize the Superintendent to sign any documentation in connection therewith. (Item 12)

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon to allow the Superintendent or Board President to enter into a 3-year agreement between RPSB and Jostens to be the official school yearbook publisher for Alexandria Senior High beginning with 2015.

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy, Mr. Rodriguez

_____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon todiscuss salary schedule of support personnel and have the Administration bring more information to the May Board meeting. (Item 13)

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mr. Wilton Barrios and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman to direct the Superintendent and Staff to develop a plan for a one-time payment in a separate December 2014 check to all employees contingent upon completion of an in-service or professional development and the feasibility of that plan.

Discussion ensued.

On the substitute motion made by Mr. Wilton Barrios and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman, the Board voted unanimously to direct the Superintendent and Staff to develop a plan for a one-time payment in a separate December 2014 check to all employees contingent upon completion of an in-service or professional development and the feasibility of that plan.

_____________________

Let the record reflect that Mr. Darrell Rodriguez returned to the meeting at time.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman to review, discuss and/or take action on providing options to employees on providers for the Annuity Plan 403B. (Item 14)

Items to discuss:

a.   Copy of original contract between RPSB and Horace Mann

b.   Copy of current contract between RPSB and Horace Mann

c.   The last date the RPSB reviewed and provided additional service provider options to the employees for the annuity

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen to ask administration to do the research and/or conduct a meeting with the Insurance Committee and bring some options for our employees in regards to the 403B annuity to the July Board meeting.

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy

THE MOTION FAILED DUE TO A TIE VOTE.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mr. Darrell Rodriguez to approve a Professional Services Contract with Mr. Frank Bruno for state contract licensed electrician as required by state and local governing agencies. Contract period shall be for a six (6) month period with an option to renew at same terms and conditions for an additional six (6) month period upon mutual agreement of both parties and authorize the Superintendent to sign any and all documents in connection therewith – (current contract expires 5-7-14). (Item 16)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon to approve Diagram for Success proposal to Rapides Foundation. (Item 17)

Mrs. Bethanie Herrick presented information to the Board and discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman,
Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Darrell Rodriguez and seconded by Mr. John Allen toadopt a resolution to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement for State Project No. H.011203/F.A.P. No. H011203 for Pineville Elementary Non-Infrastructure purchases and State Project No. H.011204/F.A.P. No. H11204 for Martin Park Elementary Non-Infrastructure SRTS and authorize the Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in connection therewith pending review and approval of advising counsel. (Item 18)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman,
Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mrs. Pam Webb to go into Executive Session to discuss dismissal of an employee for cause. (Item 15)

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy

THE BOARD WENT INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION.

_____________________

On motion by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon, the Board voted unanimously to reconvene in Open Session.

THE BOARD RECONVENED IN OPEN SESSION.

____________________

Let the record reflect that Mr. John Allen left the meeting at this time.

____________________

A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon for dismissal of an employee for cause.  (Item 15)

Discussion ensued.

A substitute motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mr. Steve Berry to uphold the Superintendent’s recommendation for dismissal of Suzanna Tuma, a paraprofessional, effective immediately, May 6, 2014.

Discussion ensued.

On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:

AYE:                Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman,
Mrs. Dixon

NAY:               None

ABSENT:         Mrs. McConathy, Mr. Allen 

____________________

Pursuant to motion duly carried, the Rapides Parish School Board adjourned.

/s/Janet H. Dixon

President

ATTEST:

/s/Nason Authement

Secretary

S E A L