The Washington Parish School Board met in special session on the above date with the following members present: President Bob D. Bateman, Jimmie Corkern, John Dawsey, Jr., Harold Smith, Bringier H. Barker, Susanne Jones, Richard N. Thomas, and Elaine Whaley. Absent: None.
The meeting was called to order by President Bateman. Invocation was given by John Dawsey.
Agenda Item 11 - Executive Session under LA R.S. 42:6.1A(l) concerning the discussion of character, professional competence or physical or mental health of candidates for the position of Superintendent
It was moved by B. H. Barker, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board enter into Executive Session under LA R.S. 42:6.1A(l) concerning the discussion of character, professional competence or physical or mental health of candidates for the position of Superintendent. Motion carried unanimously.
It was moved by Jimmie Corkern, seconded by Harold Smith, that the Board go out of Executive Session. Motion carried unanimously.
President Bateman stated that out of a total of twenty-two (22) applicants for the position of Superintendent of Washington Parish, the consulting firm of Townley & Watson recommended five (5) finalists to the Board. Out of these five, there was one candidate that opted to withdraw before the interview process started. "The Board has spent a considerable number of hours in the last five days interviewing and reviewing these candidates. The Board, and from the comments we have received in the community, has been pleased with the quality and the professionalism of these people. Due to the quality of these candidates, it has been a very difficult decision for us. They're all top-notch people. At this time, I would like to poll the Board and see if we can reach a decision on which of the candidates we would like to visit in our pursuit for Superintendent. We will do this by district and, if you would, name your first choice for candidate." The poll was as follows:
District I - Harold Smith District 2 - Jimmie Corkern District 3 - Elaine Whaley District 4 - Richard N. Thomas District 5 - John Dawsey District 6 -Susanne Jones District 7 - Bob Bateman District 8 - B. H. Barker
Robert Coleman Robert Coleman Robert Coleman Robert Coleman Robert Coleman Robert Coleman Robert Coleman Robert Coleman
It was moved by B. H. Barker, seconded by Jimmie Corkern, that a committee of board members be sent to LaSalle Parish to visit with Mr. Robert Coleman and some community people. Motion carried unanimously. President Bateman stated he would contact Mr. Hoyt Watson to arrange the visit for Wednesday, May 25, 1994.
On behalf of the Board, President Bateman expressed appreciation and thanks to all who contributed in various ways during the superintendent selection process, including Mrs. Raylene Perry, Mrs. Juanita Barker, Mrs. Gina Dawsey, Ms. Keitha Davidson, Mrs. Aline Smith, Mrs. Carol Bateman, Mrs. Edna Earl Thomas, central office staff, the press and the public. Mr. Bateman thanked the Board for their support of him and their understanding. He also commended the Board on "coming together during this process."
It was moved by Harold Smith, seconded by John Dawsey, that the Board adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
D. BATEMAN, PRESIDENT
GUY VON SCHILLING, SECRETARY