East Baton Rouge Parish School System public meetings in 2020

Regular Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board voted to relocate the EBR Readiness (HS) Campus from the old Banks Elementary on 72nd Avenue to a temporary facility to be determined, while staff prepare options for a permanent location. The board also renewed Inspire Charter Academy's contract and approved a professional services agreement with The Emerge Center for 2021–2022. Consent agenda items included a $35 million bond resolution, a $24,500 grant for golf programs, and new water-bottle policies.

• Relocation of EBR Readiness (HS) Campus: approved substitute motion to move off Banks Elementary to temporary facilities for spring semester
• Renewal of Inspire Charter Academy contract
• Professional services contract with The Emerge Center for 2021–2022 school year
• Bond resolution authorizing up to $35,000,000 in Revenue Anticipation Notes
• Grant of $24,500 from First Tee of East Baton Rouge for golf training at 7 elementary schools

The School Board selected Adam Smith, Marla Sheppard, and Sito Narcisse for Superintendent interviews. The board also approved a land purchase for new schools near Siegan Lane and I-10 and renewed the Inspire Charter Academy contract.

• Selected Adam Smith, Marla Sheppard, and Sito Narcisse for Superintendent interviews
• Approved professional services contract with The Emerge Center for 2021-2022
• Approved moving EBR Readiness (HS) Campus to a temporary office
• Approved charter renewal for Inspire Charter Academy
• Authorized land purchase for new schools near Siegan Lane and Interstate 10
• Authorized issuance of Revenue Anticipation Note not exceeding $35 million
• Approved $24,500 First Tee of East Baton Rouge Grant for 7 elementary schools
• Adopted policies for water bottle access, discipline, expulsion, and test security

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole discussed several items including a potential land purchase in South Baton Rouge and a superintendent search update. The committee reviewed various professional service contracts, school construction authorizations, and campus relocation requests.

• $24,500.00 grant for First Tee of East Baton Rouge to provide training and equipment to 7 elementary schools
• Professional services contracts: $28,000.00 to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, $26,875.00 to Great Minds PBC, and $60,200.00 to Quality Matters
• $35,000,000.00 Revenue Anticipation Note issuance
• Authorization for Belfair Montessori Magnet School classroom addition construction
• Demolition of University Terrace Elementary School

The Committee of the Whole approved a $35 million bond resolution and several professional services contracts. The board authorized bids for the demolition of University Terrace Elementary and a classroom addition at Belfair Montessori Magnet School. A request to purchase land for a new University Terrace School site was denied.

• Approved $35M Revenue Anticipation Note (9-0)
• Approved $24,500 First Tee of East Baton Rouge Grant (9-0)
• Approved professional services contracts for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt ($28,000), Great Minds PBC ($26,875), and Quality Matters ($60,200) (9-0)
• Adopted water bottle filling station and water bottle policies (8-0)
• Authorized bids for Belfair Montessori Magnet School classroom addition (8-0)
• Authorized bids for demolition of University Terrace Elementary (8-0)
• Denied land purchase request for new University Terrace School site (4-2)
• Sent Inspire Charter Academy renewal and The Emerge Center contract to full Board without recommendation

Regular Meeting

The board approved a consent agenda including a resolution for up to $35 million in Revenue Anticipation Notes, several professional services contracts totaling over $235,000, and policy revisions on health insurance. The board also approved minutes and a proclamation supporting the foundation's annual giving campaign. The meeting was held with limited in-person capacity and mask requirements due to COVID-19.

• Approved preliminary issuance of up to $35,000,000 in Revenue Anticipation Notes
• Approved professional services contracts: Savvas Learning ($19,950), Resilient Leadership ($13,200), A New Beginning Personal Care ($90,000), Manners of the Heart ($73,709), Teachstone ($38,300)
• Approved policy revisions DJD (Compensation and Expenses) and EGA (Staff Insurance Coverages)
• Authorized RFP for benefit consulting services and internet services
• Approved October 15 and November 5 meeting minutes

The Board approved several professional services contracts and authorized the issuance of up to $35 million in Revenue Anticipation Notes. Members also approved policy revisions regarding insurance and authorized RFPs for internet services, benefit consulting, and a strategic plan.

• Approved preliminary issuance of up to $35,000,000 in Revenue Anticipation Notes
• Approved professional services contracts for Savvas Learning Company LLC ($19,950), Resilient Leadership LLC ($13,200), A New Beginning Personal Care LLC (up to $90,000), Manners of the Heart ($73,709), and Teachstone Inc. ($38,300)
• Approved Policy DJD (School Board Health Insurance) and Policy EGA (Staff Insurance Coverages)
• Authorized RFPs for benefit consulting services and internet services
• Authorized RFQQ for the Strategic Plan
• Approved 2019-2020 Semi-Annual Financial Tax Plan Update and Proposed 2020-2021 Tax Plan Budgets for Proposition 1
• Approved delaying Year One land purchase to Year Two in the Tax Plan
• Authorized bidding and contract award for Crestworth Middle School Facility Renovation Project

Committee of the Whole

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board Committee of the Whole voted to approve several action items, including $35 million in revenue anticipation notes, multiple professional services contracts totaling over $235,000, and authorization to seek bids for benefits consulting, internet services, and a strategic plan. The board also approved a tax plan budget update, delayed a land purchase, created a Youth Advisory Council, and authorized construction bidding for Crestworth Middle School renovations. Policy revisions on school board health insurance and staff insurance coverage were referred to the full board without recommendation.

• Approved issuance of up to $35,000,000 in Revenue Anticipation Notes
• Approved professional services contracts: Savvas Learning ($19,950), Resilient Leadership ($13,200), A New Beginning Personal Care (up to $90,000), Manners of the Heart ($73,709), Teachstone Inc. ($38,300)
• Authorized RFPs for benefit consulting services and internet services for the district
• Approved Preliminary Actual Semi-Annual Financial 2019-2020 Tax Plan Update and Proposed 2020-2021 Tax Plan Budgets for Proposition 1
• Authorized advertising and bid award for Crestworth Middle School Facility Renovation Project (Scotlandville Area MS component) funded by Phase 3 Tax Plan

The Committee of the Whole approved the issuance of up to $35 million in Revenue Anticipation Notes and authorized the Crestworth Middle School renovation project. The board also approved several professional services contracts and authorized RFPs for internet and benefit consulting. A resolution to create a Youth Advisory Council failed to pass.

• Approved construction contract for Crestworth Middle School Facility Renovation (6-0)
• Approved $35M issuance of Revenue Anticipation Notes (5-0)
• Approved professional services contracts for Savvas Learning, Resilient Leadership, A New Beginning Personal Care, Manners of the Heart, and Teachstone Inc. (5-0)
• Authorized RFPs for benefit consulting and internet services (5-0)
• Authorized RFQQ for the Strategic Plan (5-0)
• Approved 2019-2020 Semi-Annual Financial Tax Plan Update and proposed 2020-2021 Proposition 1 budgets (5-0)
• Approved delaying Year One land purchase to Year Two in the Tax Plan (5-0)
• Denied resolution to create the EBR School Board Youth Advisory Council (4-1)

Regular Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board will vote on a series of professional services contracts totaling $456,682, covering development and support from several vendors. The meeting also includes approval of prior meeting minutes, adoption of a resolution proclaiming October as I CARE Red Ribbon Month, and consent agenda items such as a construction contract for LaBelle Aire Elementary, a revised high‑school summer school budget, and a litigation recommendation in King v. the Board.

• Approval of professional services contracts: $125,000 to The Achievement Network; $19,950 to Savvas Learning; $114,884 and $93,648 to The Writing Revolution; $70,000 to PresenceLearning; $33,200 to Humanities Amped
• Authorization of construction contract for the LaBelle Aire Elementary School building addition (Phase 4 Tax Plan – Proposition 1 funding)
• Adoption of a resolution proclaiming October "I CARE Red Ribbon Month" and National Red Ribbon Week (Oct 23‑31)
• Approval of the revised 2019‑2020 high school summer school budget
• Approval of the General Counsel’s recommendation in Trina C. King v. East Baton Rouge Parish School Board

The Board accepted the resignation of Superintendent Leslie Brown and appointed Adam Smith as Interim Superintendent for up to six months. The Board also authorized a search for a new superintendent via JG Consulting and approved several professional services contracts.

• Accepted resignation and resignation agreement of Superintendent Leslie Brown
• Appointed Adam Smith as Interim Superintendent for up to six months
• Authorized JG Consulting to conduct the search for Superintendent
• Denied resolution to appoint Dr. T. Nakia Towns as Superintendent
• Approved $125,000 contract with The Achievement Network
• Approved contracts with Savvas Learning Company ($19,950), The Writing Revolution ($114,884 and $93,648), PresenceLearning, Inc. ($70,000), and Humanities Amped ($33,200)
• Approved MOU with Family Engagement Lab for web-based services
• Authorized construction contract for LaBelle Aire Elementary School Building Addition

Committee of the Whole

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board's Committee of the Whole approved seven professional services contracts totaling over $456,000 for professional development, teletherapy, and school programs. They also authorized bidding for construction additions at LaBelle Aire Elementary and Belfair Montessori Magnet School, approved a revised summer school budget, and discussed a pending litigation matter. The meeting was held with reduced capacity and mask requirements due to COVID-19.

• Approved professional services contracts: Achievement Network ($125,000), Savvas Learning ($19,950), The Writing Revolution ($114,884 and $93,648), PresenceLearning ($70,000), Humanities Amped ($33,200 over two years for McKinley High), and Louisiana Workforce Commission (JAG-LA Specialist for four schools).
• Authorized staff to advertise and award bids for LaBelle Aire Elementary School building addition, funded by Phase 4 Tax Plan.
• Authorized staff to advertise and award bids for Belfair Montessori Magnet School classroom addition, funded by Phase 4 Tax Plan.
• Approved revised 2019-2020 High School Summer School Budget.
• Approved memorandum of understanding with Family Engagement Lab for web-based family engagement services.

The Committee of the Whole approved several professional development contracts and a building addition for LaBelle Aire Elementary. The board approved a revised summer school budget and a legal recommendation. A request for a classroom addition at Belfair Montessori Magnet School failed.

• Approved professional services contracts for Achievement Network ($125,000), Savvas Learning Company ($19,950), The Writing Revolution ($114,884 and $93,648), PresenceLearning ($70,000), Humanities Amped ($33,200), and Louisiana Workforce Commission (7-0)
• Approved MOU with Family Engagement Lab for web-based services (6-0)
• Approved Revised 2019-2020 High School Summer School Budget (6-0)
• Authorized bidding and contract award for LaBelle Aire Elementary building addition (7-0)
• Denied authorization for Belfair Montessori Magnet School classroom addition (4-1)
• Approved legal recommendation in Trina C. King v. East Baton Rouge Parish School Board (5-0)

Public Hearing/Meeting

This is a public hearing for the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board to receive comments on adjusted millage rates for tax year 2020. The board will consider setting the adjusted rates after reassessment and rolling them forward to not exceed the prior year's maximum millage.

• Public hearing on adjusted millage rates for 2020
• Discussion on rolling forward millage rates after reassessment
• Resolution documents for adjusted and roll-forward millage attached

Regular Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved minutes and consent items, adopted a resolution to adjust millage rates for tax year 2020 (7-2), and proposed a roll-forward millage resolution. The board postponed approval of BASIS Baton Rouge's Pupil Progression Plan pending an Attorney General opinion. Consent items included grants totaling $45,500 and professional services contracts worth $177,792, plus a stand-alone contract for Simpson Education Consulting ($90,000).

• Adopted resolution to adjust millage rates for 2020 (7-2 vote)
• Proposed resolution to roll forward millage after reassessment
• Postponed BASIS Baton Rouge Pupil Progression Plan pending AG opinion
• Approved professional services contracts: IRRP ($30,292), Arts Council ($29,500), Manship Theater ($15,000), Kids' Orchestra ($20,000), VIPS ($83,000)
• Approved Simpson Education Consulting contract ($90,000 over two years) via 21st Century Grant

The Board approved adjusted millage rates for the 2020 tax year and a $90,000 instructional support contract. It postponed approval of the BASIS Baton Rouge Pupil Progression Plan pending an Attorney General opinion and deferred a decision on rolling forward millage to a special October meeting.

• Approved adjusted millage rates for tax year 2020 (7-2)
• Deferred decision on roll forward millage to October special meeting (9-0)
• Postponed BASIS Baton Rouge Pupil Progression Plan approval pending Attorney General opinion (5-4)
• Approved $90,000 contract with Simpson Education Consulting, LLC (9-0)
• Approved $46,500 in grants for Roman Technology Project and Geaux Get Connected (9-0)
• Approved professional services contracts for Restorative Practices, Art Council, Manship Theater, Kids' Orchestra, and VIPS (9-0)
• Approved district Pupil Progression Plan for 2020-2021 (9-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from August 20 and September 3, 2020 (7-0)

Committee of the Whole

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board considered and approved multiple grants and professional services contracts totaling over $313,000, including funds for hotspot connectivity, restorative practices training, and arts programs. The board also received an update on the Liberty High School renaming cost and approved the district's Pupil Progression Plan for 2020-2021. The BASIS Baton Rouge Pupil Progression Plan was moved to the full board without recommendation.

• Approved $45,500 in grants: Benedict Explorations Grant ($2,500) for Roman Technology Project at Glasgow Middle, and two grants totaling $43,000 for Geaux Get Connected hotspot projects.
• Approved $267,792 in professional services contracts, including $30,292 for restorative practices training, $29,500 for arts integration at Park Elementary, $15,000 for Manship Theater virtual services, $20,000 for Kids' Orchestra after-school enrichment, $83,000 for VIPS literacy programs, and $90,000 for 21st Century Grant instructional support.
• Received update on Liberty High School renaming cost and funding.
• Approved district Pupil Progression Plan for 2020-2021 school year.
• Moved BASIS Baton Rouge Pupil Progression Plan to full board without recommendation (vote 6-2).

The Committee of the Whole approved several grants for technology and hotspots, as well as professional services contracts for arts and restorative practices. The district's Pupil Progression Plan for 2020-2021 was approved. A request regarding the BASIS Baton Rouge Pupil Progression Plan was moved to the full Board without recommendation.

• Approved Benedict Explorations Grant of $2,500 for Glasgow Middle (8-0)
• Approved Deborah Rochelle/Kelly Gene Cook Sr. Foundation Grant of $25,000 for hotspots (8-0)
• Approved UNUM Charitable Giving Grant of $18,000 for hotspots (8-0)
• Approved professional services contracts totaling $137,792 for restorative practices, arts, and literacy (8-0)
• Approved district Pupil Progression Plan for 2020-2021 (8-0)
• Moved BASIS Baton Rouge Pupil Progression Plan to full Board without recommendation (6-2)

Regular Meeting (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved a consent agenda including grants, budgets, and professional services contracts totaling over $1.5 million. The board also received information on return-to-school criteria and a proposed 'Dialogue on Race' initiative.

• Approval of $765,000 Strong Start GEERF budget for educational relief
• Approval of $12,688 Cox Charities Innovation in Education Grant
• Professional services contracts including $290,000 for Career Compass college coaching
• Memoranda of Understanding for dual enrollment with LSU, Southern, BRCC, ULM, and Southeastern
• Discussion of return to school criteria amid COVID-19

The Board approved the 2020-2021 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook & Discipline Policy and accepted the surrender of a charter by the Children’s Charter School Board. A consent agenda was passed covering various grants, budgets, professional service contracts, and dual enrollment MOUs. The Board also renewed an athletic training agreement with Ochsner Clinic Foundation.

• Approved 2020-2021 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook & Discipline Policy
• Accepted surrender of charter by Children’s Charter School Board
• Approved $60,000 athletic training agreement renewal with Ochsner Clinic Foundation
• Approved contracts for Helix Aviation School and Mentorship Legal Academy operators
• Approved $765,000 Strong Start-GEERF budget and $5,000 Believe & Prepare budget
• Approved $12,688 Cox Charities Innovation in Education Grant
• Approved professional services contracts including Career Compass ($290,000) and City Year, Inc. ($180,000)
• Approved dual enrollment MOUs with ULM, Southern University, BRCC, Southeastern Louisiana University, and LSU

Special Meeting (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board held a special virtual meeting on August 6, 2020, to consider Policy EBBI addressing the COVID-19 public health emergency. The policy was approved with a motion by David Tatman and second by Connie Bernard, receiving unanimous yes votes from all nine board members present. Public comments were accepted in writing before and during the meeting.

• Approval of School Board Policy EBBI addressing COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

Committee of the Whole (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board, meeting virtually due to COVID-19, approved a slate of professional services contracts totaling over $877,000, including Nearpod, Career Compass, and City Year. The board also accepted grants, budgets, dual enrollment MOUs with five universities, a renewal of athletic training services with Ochsner, and a Pre-K program MOU. All votes passed unanimously except the Ochsner agreement, which had two abstentions.

• Approved Cox Charities Innovation in Education Grant of $12,688 for classroom projects
• Approved Strong Start-GEERF budget of $765,000 and Believe & Prepare Transition budget of $5,000
• Approved 11 professional services contracts totaling $877,681.92 for software, coaching, and support
• Approved dual enrollment MOUs with ULM, Southern, BRCC, Southeastern, and LSU for 2020-2021
• Approved renewal of athletic training agreement with Ochsner Clinic Foundation for $60,000

Regular Meeting (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board held a virtual regular meeting on July 16, 2020. The board conducted a public hearing/workshop on the proposed 2020-2021 General Fund and Special Revenue budgets and salary schedules. It also voted on a consent agenda including grants, professional services contracts, architect selection, and a disaster recovery grant management agreement.

• Public hearing on proposed 2020-2021 General Fund budget and salary schedules
• Approval of $400,000 Early Childhood Strong Start COVID-19 Community Relief Grant
• Approval of professional services contracts totaling $370,000+ for literacy, math, ELA, and innovation zone support
• Approval of RHH Architects for University Terrace Elementary school project (Tax Plan funded)
• Approval of disaster recovery grant manager CSRS/Tillage with fee not to exceed $1,000,000

The board approved the 2020-2021 General Fund and Special Revenue budgets, including salary schedules. Other key actions included renaming Lee High School to Liberty Magnet High and approving various professional services contracts and grants.

• Approved 2020-2021 General Fund Budget and Salary Schedules
• Approved 2020-2021 Special Revenue Fund Budgets
• Renamed Lee High School to Liberty Magnet High
• Approved $400,000 Early Childhood Strong Start COVID-19 Community Relief Grant
• Approved $20,000 'Painted Playground' agreement with Junior League of Baton Rouge
• Approved 2021 Healthcare Rates and benefit plan changes
• Approved contract with BASIS Charter School operators
• Adopted resolution on Commitment to Equity and Eradicating Racism

Special Meeting-Charter Applications (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board held a special virtual meeting to consider four charter school applications. The board voted to deny all four: Louisiana Rebirth Academy, Pathways in Education East Baton Rouge, Supreme Charter Academy, and Louisiana Connections Academy. Each motion carried with majority votes.

• Denied Louisiana Rebirth Academy charter application (8 yeas, 1 not present).
• Denied Pathways in Education East Baton Rouge charter application (8 yeas).
• Denied Supreme Charter Academy charter application (7 yeas, 1 abstain).
• Denied Louisiana Connections Academy charter application (8 yeas).

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board met to review charter school applications. The Board voted to deny applications from four different organizations.

• Denied Louisiana Rebirth Academy Charter School application (8-0)
• Denied Pathways in Education East Baton Rouge Charter School application (8-0)
• Denied Supreme Charter Academy Charter School application (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Denied Louisiana Connections Academy Charter School application (8-0)

Committee of the Whole (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board, meeting virtually due to COVID-19, considered and approved multiple action items including grants, professional services contracts, an architect selection, a disaster recovery grant manager, a cooperative agreement, a benchmarking assessment contract, compliance questionnaire, and 2021 healthcare benefits. Notable approvals include a $400,000 Early Childhood Strong Start COVID-19 Community Relief Grant, a $1,000,000 disaster recovery grant manager contract with CSRS/Tillage, and professional services contracts totaling $369,994 for literacy, mathematics, and other school programs.

• Approved $400,000 COVID-19 Community Relief Grant for child care centers
• Approved $1,000,000 disaster recovery grant management contract with CSRS/Tillage
• Approved professional services contracts: Nearpod ($154,630), AVID ($19,639), Great Minds ($25,500), Teaching Lab ($25,225), OneGoal ($45,000), Empower Schools ($100,000)
• Approved architect RHH Architects for University Terrace School Project (Tax Plan funded)
• Approved contract with Illuminate Education for system-wide benchmarking assessment platform (CARES Act funded)

The Committee of the Whole approved 2021 healthcare rates and benefit plans for employees and retirees. The board also authorized several professional services contracts for literacy, math, and strategic support, and selected an architect for the University Terrace School Project.

• Approved $20,000 'Painted Playground' agreement and $400,000 COVID-19 relief grant (8-0)
• Approved professional services contracts for Nearpod, AVID, Great Minds, Teaching Lab, OneGoal, and Empower Schools (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved RHH Architects, APAC for University Terrace School Project (8-0)
• Approved CSRS/Tillage as Disaster Recovery Grant Manager, fee not to exceed $1,000,000 (8-0)
• Approved Cooperative Agreement with Capital Area Human Services (7-0, 1 recuse)
• Approved Illuminate Education contract for benchmarking assessment platform (8-0)
• Approved Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for 2019-2020 financial audit (8-0)
• Approved 2021 healthcare rates, plan designs, and benefit administration contracts (8-0)

Public Hearing/Board Workshop-2020-2021 Budget (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board is holding a virtual public hearing/workshop to discuss the proposed 2020-2021 General Fund Budget, Budget Resolution, and salary schedules. The meeting also covers proposed Special Revenue Fund budgets for the upcoming fiscal year. Due to the COVID-19 emergency, the meeting is conducted electronically via Microsoft Teams.

• Presentation and discussion of the proposed 2020-2021 General Fund Budget
• Discussion of the 2020-2021 Budget Resolution and Salary Schedules
• Presentation of proposed 2020-2021 Special Revenue Fund budgets
• Virtual meeting format due to COVID-19 public health emergency
• Board certification under Gubernatorial Proclamation JBE 2020-30 for electronic participation

Special Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board held a special virtual meeting to discuss and vote on the Superintendent's contract. The board approved the contract with a 6-3 vote. The meeting also included procedural items and announcements of future meetings on charter applications, budget, and Lee High renaming.

• Superintendent contract discussed and approved (6-3 vote)
• Virtual meeting due to COVID-19 public health emergency
• Public comment period provided via BoardDocs
• Future meetings announced: Special Meeting (Charter Applications) July 9, Board Workshop (Budget) July 9, Committee of the Whole July 9, Lee High Renaming Committee/Public Forum July 13, Regular Board meeting July 16

The East Baton Rouge Parish School System held a special meeting to consider the Superintendent contract. The Board voted to approve the contract and related matters.

• Approved Superintendent Contract and related matters (6-3)

Regular Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved a Magnet Schools Assistance Program grant with a modified plan to create a magnet school within Crestworth Middle School. The board also approved naming the Glen Oaks High gym after Coach Harvey Adger and the Istrouma High courtyard after Reginald Douglas. Professional services contracts totaling $130,000 with School Leadership Center of Greater New Orleans and Better Lessons were authorized. The board selected The Advocate as the official journal for FY 2020-2021, authorized annual bid advertising, and approved property and casualty insurance renewal and a right-of-way agreement for a construction project at Ardenwood and Choctaw.

• Approved naming Glen Oaks High School gym the 'Coach Harvey Adger Gym'
• Approved naming Istrouma High School courtyard the 'Reginald Douglas Courtyard'
• Approved Magnet Schools Assistance Program grant with magnet school at Crestworth Middle (passed 6-2-1)
• Approved professional services contracts: $32,000 (School Leadership Center) and $98,000 (Better Lessons)
• Approved $532 right-of-way agreement with City of Baton Rouge for property at Ardenwood Drive and Choctaw Drive

The Board appointed Leslie Brown as the new Superintendent and extended the current Superintendent's contract by 30 days. Other actions included approving several professional service contracts, facility namings, and starting the process to rename Lee High School.

• Selected Leslie Brown as new Superintendent (5-4)
• Extended Superintendent employment contract to July 31, 2020 (8-1)
• Adopted resolution to start the process of renaming Lee High School (9-0)
• Approved $32,000 contract for School Leadership Center of Greater New Orleans and $98,000 for Better Lessons (5-0)
• Approved MSAP grant with modified language for Crestworth Middle School (6-2)
• Approved naming of Glen Oaks High School Gym as 'Coach Harvey Adger Gym' (9-0)
• Approved naming of Istrouma High School Courtyard as 'Reginald Douglas Courtyard' (9-0)
• Approved $532 Right of Way agreement with City of Baton Rouge (9-0)

Superintendent Finalists Interviews

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board is conducting interviews for superintendent finalists. The meeting includes public attendance with COVID-19 restrictions: masks required, temperature screening, and 50% capacity. No decisions are being made; this is a discussion/information session.

• Interviews of superintendent finalists Dr. Towns and Leslie Brown
• COVID-19 safety protocols: masks, temperature screening, 50% capacity limit
• Dr. Towns' entry plan and COVID-19 response materials attached
• Leslie Brown's entry plan and COVID-19 strategic plan attached

Town Hall Meeting (Superintendent Search)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board is holding a town hall meeting to gather public input on superintendent finalists. The public may attend in person at reduced capacity or submit written comments before the meeting.

• Discussion with superintendent finalists

Regular Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved multiple action items at its May 21, 2020 regular meeting, including Pre-K grants worth over $5.8 million, a contract renewal for unemployment compensation services, and several interagency agreements and professional services contracts for special education and early childhood programs. The board also approved minutes from the previous meeting and received informational reports on finances and personnel changes.

• Approval of Cecil J. Picard Early Childhood/LA4 grant ($5,038,000.00) and Preschool Development Grant B-5 ($854,205.00) for 2020-2021
• Contract renewal with Unemployment Compensation Control Systems, LLC at $144,00.00 per year for three years
• Interagency agreement with Louisiana Department of Education for Early Childhood Guide Pilot ($224,000.00)
• Nine professional services contracts for Exceptional Student Services totaling over $1.4 million, including nursing, assistive technology, and autism training
• Interagency agreement with Louisiana Department of Education for IDEA curriculum training ($100,767.00)

The Board approved several professional service contracts, Pre-K grants, and a revised general fund budget. It also approved a waiver for teacher and administrator effectiveness stipends for 2019-2020 due to COVID-19 closures. The meeting concluded with the selection of two finalists for the Superintendent of Schools position.

• Approved $144,000 annual contract renewal with Unemployment Compensation Control Systems, LLC (7-0)
• Approved $224,000 interagency agreement with LA Department of Education for CCAP applications (8-0)
• Approved Pre-K grants: $5,038,000 (Cecil J. Picard) and $854,205 (Preschool Development Grant B-5) (8-1)
• Approved $100,767 interagency agreement for curriculum training for teachers of students with disabilities (9-0)
• Approved professional services contracts for Eureka Math and The Writing Revolution totaling $216,389.80 (9-0)
• Approved multiple Exceptional Student Services contracts including nursing and sign language services (9-0)
• Approved 2019-2020 effectiveness/demand stipend waiver due to COVID-19 (8-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Revised 2019-2020 General Fund Budget (9-0)

Regular Meeting (Virtual)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board met virtually to consider several action items, including a waiver from local pupil promotion criteria for K-8 students for 2019-2020 due to COVID-19 school closures. The board also approved a professional services contract for a dropout recovery program and accepted grants for internet hotspots and special education. A proposal to sell Banks Elementary School was delayed to a later date.

• Considered waiver from pupil promotion criteria for K-8 for 2019-2020 due to COVID-19
• Approved $61,000 Sprint grant for home internet hotspots for students
• Authorized acceptance of Crestworth Middle and Glen Oaks Middle facilities from Recovery School District
• Approved $89,840 Ready Start Preschool Development Grant for early childhood education
• Delayed consideration of sale of Banks Elementary to IDEA Public Schools

The Board approved a waiver for pupil promotion and retention criteria for grades K-8 for the 2019-2020 school year. Other actions included approving several grants, a dropout recovery contract, and the return of two school facilities. The sale of Banks Elementary was delayed.

• Approved waiver of K-8 pupil promotion and retention criteria for 2019-2020 (9-0)
• Approved $89,840 Ready Start Preschool Development Grant (9-0)
• Approved professional services contract with Graduation Alliance for dropout recovery (9-0)
• Approved virtual interviews for round 1 of Superintendent Search (9-0)
• Approved grants: Special Olympics ($5,000), Sprint ($61,000), and Teaching Tolerance ($1,000) (9-0)
• Authorized acceptance of Crestworth and Glen Oaks Middle School facilities from RSD and BESE (9-0)
• Authorized Redesign Schools Louisiana to use North Banks Middle School facility (9-0)
• Delayed consideration of Banks Elementary land sale to IDEA Public Schools (9-0)

Special Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board held a special meeting on March 23, 2020, and passed a resolution declaring a state of emergency. The resolution grants special emergency authority to the Superintendent for related matters. The motion carried with a 7-0 vote.

• Resolution declaring a state of emergency and delegating special emergency authority to the Superintendent (passed 7-0)

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved a resolution declaring a state of emergency. This action delegates special emergency authority to the Superintendent.

• Approved resolution declaring state of emergency and delegating authority to Superintendent (7-0)

Special Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board held a special meeting on March 5, 2020 to discuss the selection of candidates for the superintendent position. Board members each nominated up to seven names, the nominations were tallied, and the board agreed to invite the six candidates (or ties) receiving at least four votes to round‑one interviews. The motion was adopted, and an executive session may be called under L.R.S. 42:17(A)(1) to discuss the superintendent selection.

• Discussion of superintendent candidate selection for round‑one interviews
• Motion for each board member to nominate up to seven names
• Board secretary and consultant to tally nominations and announce results
• Invitation of top six candidates (minimum four votes) to round‑one interviews
• Possible executive session under L.R.S. 42:17(A)(1) to discuss superintendent selection

The Board established a nomination process to select candidates for the Superintendent of Schools position. Based on member votes, five individuals met the requirement of receiving at least four votes to proceed to the first round of interviews.

• Approved process for Superintendent nominations and interview selection (9-0)
• Selected Leslie Brown for round one interviews
• Selected Adam Smith for round one interviews
• Selected Quentina Timoll for round one interviews
• Selected T. Nakia Towns for round one interviews
• Selected Marshall Tuck for round one interviews

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole approved multiple action items, including three grants, a $189,000 professional services contract for teacher mentorship training, a memorandum of understanding with Baton Rouge Community College for an Early College Academy, the 2020-2021 school calendar, modifications to the Jefferson Terrace Academy attendance zone, authorization to negotiate the sale of Banks Elementary to IDEA Public Schools, acceptance of returned facilities from the Recovery School District, and a litigation matter. The board also received a COVID-19 update from staff.

• Grants approved: $5,000 Special Olympics Louisiana, $61,000 Sprint 1 Million Project, $1,000 Teaching Tolerance Future Voters
• Professional services contract with A+PEL for $189,000 for teacher mentorship certification
• MOU with Baton Rouge Community College to establish an Early College Academy
• Modifications to the Jefferson Terrace Academy attendance zone (approved 8-1)
• Authorization to negotiate sale of Banks Elementary facility to IDEA Public Schools

The Committee of the Whole approved the 2020-2021 school year calendar and a memorandum of understanding to establish an Early College Academy with Baton Rouge Community College. The board also approved three grants totaling $67,000 and a $189,000 professional services contract for teacher certification. Other actions included modifying the Jefferson Terrace Academy attendance zone and accepting the return of two middle school facilities.

• Approved grants for Special Olympics ($5,000), Sprint ($61,000), and Teaching Tolerance ($1,000) (9-0)
• Approved $189,000 A+PEL professional services contract for teacher certification (9-0)
• Approved MOU with Baton Rouge Community College to establish Early College Academy (9-0)
• Approved 2020-2021 School Year Calendar (9-0)
• Approved modifications to Jefferson Terrace Academy attendance zone (8-1)
• Approved sending Banks Elementary land sale request to full Board without recommendation (9-0)
• Approved return of Crestworth and Glen Oaks Middle School facilities and use of North Banks Middle School facility (9-0)
• Approved legal recommendation in Jane Doe et al vs. Carolyn Grimes and EBRPSB (9-0)

Regular Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board met to review several financial and operational items. The agenda includes the approval of multiple grants for buses and school programs, as well as a request regarding freezer relocation at Jefferson Terrace Elementary.

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Clean Diesel 2019 grant of $526,592.00 to replace 20 diesel fueled buses
• Every Student Succeeds Act-Title III Immigrant budget of $60,241.00
• Pollination Project grant of $1,000.00 for Westdale Middle School Language Immersion Program garden
• Quality Science and Math (QSM) grant of $999.00 for Sherwood Middle students
• Jefferson Terrace Elementary freezer relocation bid request of $83,375.00

The Board approved several grants, including $526,592 for diesel bus replacement, and a budget of $60,241 for the Every Student Succeeds Act-Title III Immigrant program. Members authorized a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the YWCA for the use of the Wyandotte facility. A request to relocate a freezer at Jefferson Terrace Elementary was postponed.

• Approved $526,592 EPA Clean Diesel 2019 grant to replace 20 diesel buses
• Approved $60,241 Every Student Succeeds Act-Title III Immigrant budget
• Authorized Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with YWCA for Wyandotte facility
• Approved $14,276 agreement with Heartland School Solutions for software services
• Approved $1,000 Pollination Project grant for Westdale Middle School garden
• Approved $5,000 Believe and Prepare Formula Transition grant
• Approved $999 Quality Science and Math grant for Sherwood Middle
• Postponed $83,375 Jefferson Terrace Elementary freezer relocation

Board Workshop

This is a board workshop for discussion and information only, not a voting meeting. The main items are the potential return of Recovery School District schools and property updates including appraisals and options in southeast Baton Rouge.

• Discussion on return of Recovery School District schools
• Property updates including appraisals for Wyandotte Center, WHAM/McMains, and Banks
• Quality comparables on requested properties
• Southeast Baton Rouge property options

Special Meeting

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board held a special meeting immediately following a Committee of the Whole. The board considered and approved a motion to accept the recommendation of the Superintendent interview selection process by JG Consultant, with Board amendments.

• Approved Superintendent interview selection process recommendation from JG Consultant

The Board accepted the Superintendent interview selection process recommended by JG Consultant with specific amendments. The process includes candidate interviews and independent profile reviews by Board members.

• Approved Superintendent interview selection process with Board amendments (7-0)

Committee of the Whole

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved several items including a $526,592 EPA Clean Diesel grant to replace 20 school buses, a $60,241 budget for immigrant student services under Title III, and smaller grants for school programs and a garden. They also authorized a $14,276 software upgrade agreement and an $83,375 freezer relocation to prepare swing space for a Tax Plan project. Litigation recommendations were approved and discussed in executive session.

• Approved $526,592 U.S. EPA Clean Diesel 2019 grant to replace 20 diesel buses
• Approved $60,241 Every Student Succeeds Act-Title III Immigrant budget
• Authorized $14,276 agreement with Heartland School Solutions for software license upgrade
• Authorized $83,375 relocation of walk-in freezer/cooler from Jefferson Terrace Elementary to Eva LeGarde Learning Center
• Approved litigation recommendations in two lawsuits (Freddie Lee v. Mesha Culbert, et al.; Ashley Mack and Theadore Tobias v. Michelle Anderson Pursley, et al.)

The Committee of the Whole approved several grants, including funding for bus replacements and school gardens. The board also authorized a software license agreement and the relocation of a school freezer. Legal recommendations for two litigation matters were approved.

• Approved $60,241 Every Student Succeeds Act-Title III Immigrant budget (7-0)
• Approved $526,592 EPA Clean Diesel 2019 grant to replace 20 diesel buses (7-0)
• Approved $1,000 Pollination Project grant for Westdale Middle School garden (7-0)
• Approved $999 Quality Science and Math grant for Sherwood Middle School (7-0)
• Approved $5,000 Believe and Prepare Formula Transition grant (7-0)
• Approved $14,276 agreement with Heartland School Solutions for software services (7-0)
• Authorized bids to relocate Jefferson Terrace Elementary freezer to Eva LeGarde Learning Center (7-0)
• Approved legal recommendations for Freddie Lee vs. Mesha Culbert and Ashley Mack/Theadore Tobias vs. EBRPS (7-0)

Regular Meeting

The School Board met to conduct elections for President and Vice-President. The meeting included the adoption of several commemorative resolutions and the approval of a consent agenda containing contracts and grants.

• Election of School Board President and Vice-President
• Resolution proclaiming February as National Magnet School Month
• Resolution proclaiming February 3-7, 2020, as School Counseling Week
• Resolution proclaiming January 2020 as Louisiana School Board Recognition Month
• Resolution proclaiming February as Black History Month

The Board elected Michael Gaudet as President and Tramelle Howard as Vice-President. Members approved a Superintendent search profile and authorized JG Consulting to advertise for the position. Several resolutions and consent agenda items, including a prison education contract, were also approved.

• Elected Michael Gaudet as President
• Elected Tramelle Howard as Vice-President (5-4)
• Approved Superintendent search documents and authorized JG Consulting to advertise
• Approved $134,110 contract renewal with City of Baton Rouge for prison adult education
• Approved $500 Walmart Community Grant for Northeast Elementary School
• Approved Industrial Tax Exemption application for Etheredge Electric Co, LLC
• Approved policy revisions for Tax and Bond Elections, Sexual Harassment, Employee Dismissal, and Holidays
• Ratified lease with Emerge School for Autism for Eva Legard Learning Center

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole discussed several items including a budget timeline update and a quarterly report from Aramark. The board considered various contracts, policy revisions, and documents related to the superintendent search.

• $500.00 Walmart Community Grant for Northeast Elementary School gifted classroom projects
• Contract renewal with Transformyx for E-Rate services and equipment
• $134,110.00 contract renewal with the City of Baton Rouge for adult education at EBR Prison
• Approval of documents related to the Superintendent search
• Lease ratification and negotiation for Emerge School for Autism at Eva Legard Learning Center

The Committee of the Whole approved a $134,110 contract with the City of Baton Rouge for prison adult education and a $500 Walmart grant. The board also authorized a contract renewal with Transformyx and ratified a lease with Emerge School for Autism. Additionally, several board policies were approved and superintendent search documents were moved to the full board.

• Approved $500 Walmart Community Grant for Northeast Elementary (8-0)
• Authorized contract renewal with Transformyx for E-Rate services (8-0)
• Approved $134,110 contract renewal with City of Baton Rouge for prison adult education (8-0)
• Approved superintendent search profile and application documents for full board review (8-0)
• Approved policy revisions for Tax and Bond Elections, Sexual Harassment, Dismissal of Employees, and Holidays (8-0)
• Ratified lease with Emerge School for Autism for Eva Legard Learning Center (8-0)