The Washington Parish School Board met in regular session on the above date with the following members present: President Bob Bateman, John Dawsey, Jr., Harold Smith, Bringier H. Barker, Susanne Jones, Richard N. Thomas, and Elaine Whaley. Absent: Jimmie Corkern. The meeting was called to order by President Bateman. Invocation was given by Freddie Jefferson. President Bateman welcomed the news media, School Board Attorney Wayne Kuhn, and guests.
It was moved by Harold Smith, seconded by Susanne Jones, that the Board adopt the minutes of the February 10, 1994, board meeting as submitted to each board member. Motion carried unanimously.
It was moved by John Dawsey, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board adopt the minutes of the February 15, 1994, special board meeting as submitted to each board member. Motion carried unanimously.
It was moved by Susanne Jones, seconded by John Dawsey, that the Board adopt the minutes of the March 5, 1994, special board meeting as submitted to each board member. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #1 - Open and consider bids received for the purchase of Desktop Computers for Franklinton Jr. High School
It was moved by Harold Smith, seconded by John Dawsey, that the Board open and consider bids received for the purchase of Desktop Computers for Franklinton Jr. High School. Motion carried unanimously. Bids from the following vendors were opened by President Bateman: (1) Value Business Center, Metairie, LA - $40,897.00; (2) Computer Services USA, Inc., Baton Rouge, LA $44,825.00; Franklinton Computers, Franklinton, LA - $40,500.00; (4) Entre' Computer Center, Metairie, LA - $51,394.75; (5) Dale's Computer Supplies, Mt. Hermon, LA - $62,064.00; (6) Computerland, Baton Rouge, LA - $46,355.50 (without training and installation) - Bid unacceptable - Not accompanied by a certified check, cashier's check or bid bond in an amount equal to at least 5% of the amount of the bid, as required in bid specifications; (7) New MMI Corporation, Williamsport, PA - $40,107.00; (8) Compu-Cure, Baton Rouge, LA $39,163.14; (9) Computers Etc., Inc., Metairie, LA - $50,806.00 -Bid unacceptable - Not accompanied by a certified check, cashier's check, or bid bond, as required.
The bids were referred to Ms. Beth Fussell, Chief Accountant, Ms. Beverly Young, Principal, Franklinton Jr. High School, and Mrs. Martha Sumrall, Teacher for Academically Gifted, Franklinton Jr. High School, for review and possible recommendation prior to adjournment.
Agenda Item #2 -Presentation by Ricky Payne, President, Washington Parish Association of Educators, regarding tax renewal support and 9-point discipline plan
Mr. Payne stated the Washington Parish Association of Educators has voted to support and work toward the passage of the upcoming property tax renewal for the maintenance and operation of parish schools.
Mr. Payne requested that the Board write letters to area legislative delegation asking their support of the discipline program being promoted by the Louisiana Association of Educators and Louisiana Attorney General Richard Ieyoub, which will be introduced in the Legislature. The plan encourages and promotes discipline in the classroom, with parental and community involvement. It was moved by Harold Smith, seconded by B. H. Barker, that the Board go on record as supporting the discipline program, and send letters to the area legislative delegation asking their support of the program. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #3 - Presentation by Leland Lee, Chairman, United School Employees of Washington Parish, regarding tax renewal election, pay increases for all employees, and collective bargaining
Mr. Leland Lee made the following presentation:
"The United School Employees of Washington Parish Chairperson, Leland Lee, addresses the Washington Parish School Board on three issues: (1) the upcoming tax renewal for maintenance purposes; (2) a collective bargaining election for the employees of the Washington Parish School System, and (3) salary increases for the employees of the Washington Parish School System.
First the tax renewal: The members of the USEWP will actively participate in the campaign to pass the tax renewal. We will do this through personal contact with voters, with signs, phone banks, and other methods which will present this tax in a positive light to the voters of School District Two.
Secondly, the matter of collective bargaining and salary increases for the employees of the Washington Parish School District will be discussed collectively. The members of the USEWP are asking the school board to form a Bargaining Committee composed of current members of the school board. This committee will meet with a committee of USEWP members to professionally and diligently work together to resolve the question, "Do the employees of the Washington Parish School System want collective bargaining or not?" This can only be done through the democratic process of voting in a collective bargaining election. A ' second function of this committee will be to negotiate pay raises. for the employees of the Washington Parish Schools.
The USEWP believes strongly that these subjects can and will be resolved to satisfy both the USEWP and the Washington Parish School Board. The establishment of a professional dialogue is crucial to reaching this objective.
The USEWP is asking that the Washington Parish School Board respond to the following questions at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board.
1. Does the Washington Parish School Board want the endorsement of the USEWP in the upcoming tax renewal election? The reply to this question is unconditional. The USEWP stands firm in its belief that this tax renewal is important to the schools of Washington Parish and will support it regardless of other outcomes.
2. Will the Washington Parish School Board enter into professional dialogue with the USEWP to resolve the issue of a collective bargaining election and a salary increase for the employees of the Washington Parish School System?
If the Washington Parish School Board agrees that these issues can be resolved professionally through negotiation, we ask that the names of the board's committee be given at the next scheduled board meeting. We also request that the first meeting of the two committees take place between March 25, 1994, and March 31, 1994."
President Bateman thanked the two organizations, Washington Parish Association of Educators and United School Employees of Washington Parish, for their support of the tax renewal.
Agenda Item #4 - Report from Anthony Triola, Transportation Supervisor
Mr. Triola informed the Board of a Bus Operator vacancy in the Enon School District. According to policy, bus operators with seniority are given the opportunity to transfer to vacant routes. If no operator with seniority requests a transfer, then any other operator can so request. Following advertisement of the vacancy, only one (1) bus operator, Aulton Carter, requested a transfer. This transfer request resulted in another transfer request and the employment of a bus operator. These transfers/ employment, as recommended by Mr. Triola, are listed on the Personnel Adjustments, which will be considered later in the meeting.
Mr. Triola reported that all regular bus operators are required to take 8 hours in-service training this year. Pre-service training (40 hours) for new applicants who want to become certified drivers needs to be offered in order for the system to have an adequate number of certified substitutes. Mr. Triola obtained two quotations from interested parties to conduct the in-service and pre-service, as follows: (1) Horn Enterprises, Metairie, LA - $750.00 (in-service and pre-service); and (2) Gwen Michaels, Amite, LA - $850.00 (in-service and pre-service). Mr. Triola recommended the Board accept the quotation of Horn Enterprises. The dates for the in-service and pre-service training will be March 23, 24, & 26, 1994.
It was moved by Harold Smith, seconded by B. H. Barker, that the Board accept the quotation of $750.00 for bus operator in-service and preservice training submitted by Horn Enterprises. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #5 -Review of Progress Profiles for the Washington Parish School System
Superintendent Schilling stated that Dale Varnado reviewed the system's Progress Profiles at the March 7, 1994, committee meeting and was now available to answer any questions the board members may have, since they've had a chance to review the report. There were no questions from board members, but Mr. Barker stated he felt the drop-out rate and number of suspensions should be addressed.
Agenda Item #6 - Approve Frank Green's appointment as Acting Supervisor for the period February 18, 1994, through June 30, 1994
It was moved by Susanne Jones, seconded by Richard N. Thomas, that the Board approve Frank Green's appointment as Acting Supervisor effective February 18, 1994, and that the appointment be concurrent with the Acting Superintendent's appointment, rather than for a definite period of time. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #7 - Approve Special Education Advisory Council members for 1994-95
It was moved by John Dawsey, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board appoint the following recommended members of the Special Education Advisory Council for the 1994-95 school year: Murdock Brumfield, Elizabeth Shipley, Brenda Williams, Guy Hunt, Donna Givens, Dr. Gail Melville, Sue Jones, B. H. Barker, and Angela McVea. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #8 - Consider re-employment of insurance consultant
Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Schilling and Director of Finance Adren Raybourn, it was moved by B. H. Barker, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board re-employ Mr. John Norris as insurance consultant to the Board and authorize Superintendent Schilling to enter into contract with Mr. Norris for a one-year period at a fee of $5,000, plus out-of-pocket, expenses. Motion carried unanimously. The fee is the same as last year's fee, and last year's out-of-pocket expenses amounted to $300.00.
Agenda Item #9 - Authorize Superintendent Guy Schilling to sign signature cards which give access to safety deposit box at fiscal agent bank
Upon the recommendation of Mr. Adren Raybourn, it was moved by Harold Smith, seconded by Richard N. Thomas, that the Board authorize Superintendent Guy Schilling to sign signature cards giving access to the School Board's safe deposit box at the fiscal agent bank and, also, to withdraw the access authority of Earle Brown. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #10 - Consider request from Pine School for a loan from the Board to install a new lighting system in the football stadium
Superintendent Schilling reported that four (4) quotes had been obtained for the purchase of the basic materials to install a new lighting system for the Pine School football stadium. The lowest quote, of which he is recommending acceptance, was submitted by The Lite House, Picayune, MS, in the amount of $8,680.00. Mr. Frank Green and members of the maintenance crew worked up a complete listing of materials and costs which would be required in order to complete the project, and the total amount was $11,012.51. Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Schilling, it was moved by Richard N. Thomas, seconded by B. R. Barker, that the Board loan to Pine School $11,012.51 to accomplish the work necessary in installing the new lighting system at Pine High School football stadium, said loan to be re-paid to the School Board. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #11 - Approve Summer Food Program Agreement with the Washington Parish Police Jury
Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Schilling, it was moved by John Dawsey, seconded by B. H. Barker, that the Board enter into contract with the Washington Parish Police Jury, whereby the police jury will use the following school lunchrooms for the Summer Feeding Program: Angie Jr. High School, Franklinton Primary School, Pine School, Thomas Jr. High School, Varnado High School, and Wesley Ray Elementary School, contract period being June 6, 1994, through July 29, 1994. Motion carried unanimously. (SEE ATTACHED COPY.)
Return to Agenda Item #1
Following a report and recommendation from Ms. Beth Fussell, Ms. Beverly Young, and Mrs. Martha Sumrall, it was moved by Susanne Jones, seconded by B. H. Barker, that the Board award the contract for the purchase of 30 Desktop Computers for Franklinton Jr. High School to CompuCure, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, who submitted the low bid of $39.163.14. Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #12 - Consider adoption of policy relating to Employee Conferences/Relations
Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Schilling, it was moved by B. H. Barker, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board adopt the following policy, which has been reviewed by Attorney Wayne Kuhn:
EMPLOYEE CONFERENCES/RELATIONS
The Washington Parish School Board requires that its employees conduct themselves in a professional and appropriate manner at all times in the work environment. Conferences between employee-employee, administrator-employee, or employee-parent are to be conducted in an appropriate manner and place. When employee conferences involve reprimand or criticism, such communications are best conducted in private with the parties involved, except for certain extenuating circumstances at the moment, such as in cases of an emergency or threatening situation.
Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #13 - Personnel and Transportation Adjustments
Upon the recommendation of Superintendent Schilling, it was moved by John Dawsey, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board approve the following Personnel and Transportation Adjustments as presented by Mr. Freddie Jefferson, Assistant Superintendent:
PERSONNEL ADJUSTMENTS
REQUEST FOR LEAVE:
Franklinton High School: Justine N. Burris, Regular Teacher, Sick Leave effective March 1, 1994, through March 7, 1994 (5 days), and Extended Sick Leave effective March 8, 1994, through April 15, 1994 (24 days), for a total of 29 days.
Franklinton High School: Clarice Dianne Corkern, Lunchroom Clerk, Leave Without Pay effective March 7, 1994, through April 29, 1994 (35 days).
Franklinton Jr. High School: Donna Elise Knight, Regular Teacher, Extended Sick Leave effective February 16, 1994, through March 25, 1994 (28 days).
Vocational Center: Alfred A. Fuller, Welding Teacher, Military Leave effective April 4, 1994, through April 22, 1994 (15 days).
TRANSFER:
Franklinton Schools: Transfer Aulton Carter, Bus Operator, to Ann Jenkins' bus route due to her retirement. Effective date of transfer: March 14, 1994.
Franklinton Schools: Transfer Evelyn Polk, Bus Operator, to Aulton Carter's old bus route. Effective date of transfer:
March 14, 1994.
EMPLOY:
Franklinton Schools: Douglas Talley, Bus Operator, effective March 14, 1994 (Evelyn Polk's old bus route).
Varnado Elementary School: Robert Bickham, Part-time Custodian, effective March 14, 1994.
EMPLOY:
Wesley Ray Elementary School: Devoria Foster, Child Specific Aide, effective March 14, 1994, and for the remainder of the 1993-94 school year only.
TRANSPORTATION ADJUSTMENTS
Angie Jr. High School: Extend the route of David Scott 4.5 miles one way due to detour (bridge out). Effective date: February 2, 1994.
Extend the route of Marsha M. Miley .8 mile one way due to detour (bridge out). Effective date: February 2, 1994.
Enon Elementary School: Deduct 7.3 miles one way from the route of Ann Jenkins detour due to road construction no longer necessary. Effective date: February 1, 1994.
Franklinton Elementary School: Extend the route of Violonia Edwards .9 mile one way to pick up a Special Education student. Effective date: February 21, 1994.
Varnado, High School: Extend the route of Opal Boone 6.1 miles one way due to detour (bridge out). Effective date: February 2, 1994.
Wesley Ray Elementary School: Extend the route of Mary Knight 6.2 miles one way to pick up a Special Education student. Effective date: January 31, 1994.
Motion carried unanimously.
Agenda Item #14 - Superintendent's Report
1. It was moved by B. H. Barker, seconded by Susanne Jones, that the Board add to the agenda a request from Franklinton High School Band Boosters regarding authorization to advertise for the purchase of new uniforms for Franklinton High School. Motion carried unanimously. It was moved by B. H. Barker, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board authorize advertisement for bids for the purchase of band uniforms for Franklinton High School. Motion carried unanimously. Advertising dates will be March 16, 23, & 30, 1994. It was moved by B. H. Barker, seconded by Susanne Jones, that the full cost of the uniforms will be borne by Franklinton High School Band Boosters. Motion carried unanimously.
At the request of Superintendent Schilling, it was moved by John Dawsey, seconded by B. H. Barker, that the following item be added to the agenda: Consider calling a special board meeting for April 4, 1994, at 6:00 P.M., for the purpose of opening, reviewing and accepting the low bid meeting specifications for the purchase of band uniforms for Franklinton High School. Motion carried unanimously. It was moved by John Dawsey, seconded by Susanne Jones, that the Board calla special board meeting for April 4, 1994, at 6:00 P.M. (prior to the committee meeting) for the purpose of opening, reviewing, and accepting the low bid meeting specifications for the purchase of band uniforms for Franklinton High School. Motion carried unanimously.
2. Superintendent Schilling reported he has been in contact with officials at Louisiana School Boards Association regarding training sessions for board members and they are in the process of agreeing on the date(s),
3. Superintendent Schilling reported that, after re-takes on the Graduation Exit Exam in February, we still have fourteen (14) 1994 seniors who have one(1)or more sections of the test to pass in order to graduate, and four (4) who should have graduated previously.
Requests to address the Board:
President Bateman stated that four (4) requests to address the Board were submitted. It was moved by John Dawsey, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board permit Hayward Boone, Reggie Kennedy, and Linda Thomas to address the Board regarding employment of consulting firm. Motion carried unanimously. It was moved by Susanne Jones, seconded by John Dawsey, that the Board permit Dorothy Stogner to address the Board. Motion carried unanimously.
The Board first heard Mrs. Stogner's concerns regarding the investigation of an altercation on a school bus involving her son and some other students. Mrs. Stogner inquired if any further investigation had been conducted regarding the bus operator. Dr. Schilling reported that the incident was investigated by the principals of Franklinton Jr. High School and Franklinton High School and Anthony Triola, and it is his understanding that the Franklinton Police Department is conducting an investigation. The report of the investigation made by the Washington Parish School Board personnel, along with the report of the actions taken, was given to Dr. Schilling. No further investigation is being conducted by the Washington Parish School Board. Dr. Schilling stated that, as a result of the incident, a change has been made in the placement of one student, and appropriate suspensions have been issued. Mrs. Stegner asked that the Board review the situation, particularly the operation of the school bus. President Bateman requested that Mrs. Stegner give the Board time to review the information given to the Board and then the Board would be in contact with her.
Hayward Boone, Linda Thomas, and Reggie Kennedy spoke in opposition of hiring a consulting firm to conduct the search for a new superintendent.
Agenda Item #15 - Other business from board members
1. Harold Smith requested that copies of job descriptions for all supervisors be made available for all board members.
2. At the request of John Dawsey, the Board agreed to discuss 6-period school day versus 7-period school day at the next committee meeting, with feedback from the schools being obtained prior to the meeting.
3. President Bateman stated a special Board committee meeting will be called for Sunday, March 13, 1994, at 2:15 P.M., for the purpose of meeting with Hoyt Watson, Townley & Watson Consulting Firm, to set the groundwork for the search for a new school superintendent.
4. President Bateman stated United School Employees of Washington Parish', requests will be placed on the agenda for discussion at the next committee meeting (April 4, 1994).
5. B. H. Barker asked what the Board is doing for the academic program at Pine School now that something has been done for the athletic program. Superintendent Schilling responded that the Pine PTO will be requesting funds to take care of emergency needs in the classrooms.
6. B. H. Barker mentioned a letter to the editor of the Daily News regarding payroll check handling. Dr. Schilling stated that the next payroll checks will be placed in envelopes and delivered to employees.
7. B. H. Barker stated concerns regarding the Franklinton High School altercation and whether or not all students received due process. Dr. Schilling stated that he had scheduled a meeting with a group of parents for March 11, 1994. Mr. Barker asked that Attorney Wayne Kuhn be present at that meeting to interpret the law to the parents. Mr. Barker asked to be present at that meeting, also.'
It was moved by Harold Smith, seconded by B. H. Barker, that the Board adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
BOB D. BATEMAN PRESIDENT
GUY VON SCHILLING SECRETARY
ORDINANCE NO.___________
AN ORDINANCE, authorizing the President of the Washington Parish Police Jury to enter into a contract or lease agreement between the Washington Parish Police Jury and the Washington Parish School Board with regard to the use of Washington Parish School Lunchrooms for the Summer Food Program to be sponsored by the Washington Parish Police Jury; providing the details thereof.
BE IT ORDAINED, by the Washington Parish Police Jury, Parish of Washington, Louisiana, that:
WHEREAS, THE HONORABLE James Larue Martin, President of the Washington Parish, Police Jury, be and he is hereby authorized to enter into a contract or lease agreement between the Washington Parish Police Jury as the Sponsoring Agency and the Washington Parish School Board, providing for use by the Sponsoring Agency of the Washington Parish School lunchrooms for the Summer Food Program for a period between June 6, 1994 and July 29, 1994, according to the following provisions:
I The Washington Parish Police Jury shall be the Sponsoring Agency. (Throughout this Lease Agreement, they shall be referred to as the Sponsoring Agency).
II The Sponsoring Agency shall have the responsibility of administering the program.
III The Sponsoring Agency shall have the responsibility for hiring managers and cooks for food preparation. (Must be those in employment at the school to be used).
IV. The Sponsoring Agency shall pay 100% of all utilities along with total cost of garbage and other costs applicable to this use and program.
V. The Sponsoring Agency shall be responsible for all kitchen and dining room equipment and facilities. Any damaged or lost equipment shall be replaced.
VI. Inventories shall be made prior to June 1, 1994 of all equipment in lunchrooms and kitchens. This inventory will be reviewed by both parties. The Sponsoring Agency will be able to serve meals on June 6, 1994
VII. Lunchrooms will be the only part of the building open; no other area will be available for use.
Vill. The Sponsoring Agency shall provide adequate supervision, inside lunchrooms and on the yard, prior to and when meals are being served.
IX. Periodic checks will be made by the Washington Parish Schools Administrative Staff to determine the condition of the buildings and equipment.
X. The Summer Food Program will not use food belonging to the Washington Parish School System.
XI. The Washington Parish School Board shall not be responsible for any debts or financial obligations incurred by the Sponsoring Agency.
XII. The Sponsoring Agency shall provide general liability insurance which will prevent the Washington Parish School Board from being responsible for any accidents occuring during the time of operation of the Summer Feeding Program, and shall furnish the Washington Parish School Board with a Certificate of Insurance.
XIII. All inventory of all equipment will be made and reviewed by both parties at the conclusion of the Summer Feeding Program.
XIV. The Sponsoring Agency shall provide a lease cost agreement for maintenance repair and upkeep when funds are available.
PRESIDENT PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON PARISH POLICE JURY WASHINGTON PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
WASHINGTON PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
INTRODUCED AT POLICE JURY MEETING AND ADOPTED, February 14, 1994
INTRODUCED AT WASHINGTON PARISH
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING AND ADOPTED
MARCH 10, 1994