Jefferson Parish Public School System public meetings in 2024

Special Session School Board Meeting

This special session will vote on a memorandum of understanding extending the expired collective bargaining agreement through January 31, 2025. The board will also consider approving a $2,050,000 budget for replacing walk-in coolers/freezers and computers at multiple schools, accepting low bids totaling $781,900. Additional actions include pile testing bid acceptance for the new St. Ville School ($157,800) and approval of construction design for that project.

• Memorandum of understanding to extend expired collective bargaining agreement (through Jan 31, 2025)
• Approve $2,050,000 budget for Project 2024-35: replace walk-in coolers/freezers at multiple sites (Ehret High, Livaudais Middle, Ellender, Estelle, Gilbert, Alexander, Audubon, Chateau Estates, Hearst, Meisler, Schneckenburger, Grand Isle)
• Accept low base bids totaling $781,900 from Associated Food Equipment and Supplies, Inc. for cooler/freezer replacements
• Approve $157,800 bid from L.G. Barcus and Sons for pile testing at St. Ville School (Project 2023-10)
• Approve construction design and authorize bid process for new PreK-8 school at St. Ville

The board extended the terms of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement through January 31, 2025. Members also approved bid acceptances and construction design for the new PreK-8 St. Ville School.

• Approved MOU to extend Collective Bargaining Agreement through January 31, 2025 (8-0)
• Approved budget, engineer, scope of work, and bid acceptance for Project No. 2024-35 A, B, C, D, and E (8-0)
• Approved 24 hour waiver for items 2.3 and 2.4 (8-0)
• Approved Pile Testing Bid Acceptance for St. Ville School, Project No. 2023-10 (8-0)
• Approved construction design and bid process commencement for new PreK-8 St. Ville School (8-0)

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will consider several construction bids and policy amendments. Key actions include electing a 2025 Board President and Vice President and approving a new school construction project.

• Bid for new Pre-K-8 school at Washington School from Broadmoor, L.L.C. for $44,033,700.00
• Emergency roof repair bid for Patrick Taylor Science & Technology Academy for $396,925.00
• Asbestos abatement and budget amendment for St. Pierre Academy for Advanced Studies totaling $274,214.66
• Flooring replacement bid for Matas Elementary School for $45,500.00
• Proposed amendment to Policy KA to implement bi-annual stakeholder surveys

The board elected its 2025 leadership and approved the 2025 meeting schedule. Multiple facility bids, budget amendments, and vendor contracts were approved via the consent agenda. A proposal to amend Policy KA regarding school community relations was deferred.

• Elected Chad Nugent as President and Kriss Fairbairn-Fortunato as Vice President (8-1)
• Approved 2025 Board Meeting Schedule
• Approved bid acceptance for Matas Elementary School
• Approved bid acceptance and budget amendment for St. Pierre Academy for Advanced Studies
• Approved bid acceptance for Patrick Taylor Science & Technology Academy
• Approved bid acceptance for Washington School
• Approved budget increase and change order for Grand Isle School
• Approved scope of work, budget, and architect for Bonnabel Baseball/Softball Stadium

Facilities Committee Meeting - AMENDED

The Facilities Committee will receive presentations on the EPA's Clean School Bus Program and district project tracking. The body will also review updates for New Washington and St. Ville schools and consider a land servitude request.

• Lion Electric presentation for the EPA's Clean School Bus Program
• Traffic study update for New Washington School
• Update on St. Ville School
• Action item: Request for granting of servitude to 343 sq. ft. of land at Estelle Elementary
• Presentation on District Construction and Maintenance project prioritization and tracking

The committee held presentations regarding the EPA's Clean School Bus Program and a traffic study for the new Washington School. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will vote on a student cell phone policy and the sale of two former school sites. The board is also reviewing proposed salary increases for 2025-2026 that depend on a December 7 voter millage approval.

• Proposed cell phone policy including a $20.00 fine for fourth offenses
• Sale of former Miller Wall Elementary School site at 2001 Bonnie Ann Drive for $260,000.00
• Proposed 2025-2026 salary increases: $8,300 for certified teachers and $4,900 for non-certified teachers
• Contract with EveryDay Labs, Inc. for attendance data analysis totaling $137,232.00
• Budget increase for emergency roof repair at Patrick Taylor Science & Technology Academy to $523,314.00

The board approved salary charts for FY 2025-2026, contingent on a December 7, 2024, voter millage. Members also approved several maintenance bids and the sale of the former Miller Wall Elementary School site. A proposal to sell the Washington Elementary School site 'as is' was defeated.

• Approved FY 2025-2026 Salary Charts pending Dec 7 voter approval
• Denied proposal to sell Washington Elementary School site 'as is' (4-5)
• Approved authority to sell former Miller Wall Elementary School site
• Approved 2024-25 EveryDay Labs, Inc. contract
• Approved 2024-2027 NOLA Education, LLC contract
• Approved state-funded pay differential and employee stipends
• Approved maintenance bids for G.T. Woods, Ehret High, and Truman Middle schools
• Approved budget increase for Patrick Taylor Science & Technology Academy

Special Session School Board Meeting

The school board will review the approval of construction designs and authorize the start of the bidding process for Washington Elementary School. The meeting includes a review of project schedules and site elements.

• Approval of construction design for Washington Elementary School
• Authorization to commence the bid process for Washington Elementary School

The Jefferson Parish School Board approved the construction design documents for the new Washington Elementary School. The board authorized the Facilities and Maintenance Department to begin the construction bid process.

• Approved construction design and bid process for Washington Elementary School with a probable cost of 47,587,517.00 (7-0)

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting - AMENDED

The Jefferson Parish School Board will hold second readings on several items, including a new cell phone policy with escalating fines and confiscation rules, and a proposal to sell the Washington Elementary site. The consent agenda includes a $15.7 million Hurricane Ida permanent repair contract for 14 schools and a $90,000 interpretation services contract. The board will also vote on adding benchmarks to the superintendent's evaluation and stipend criteria for employees on assault leave.

• Second reading of cell phone policy banning visible devices during school hours, with fines up to $20 and potential suspension for repeated offenses
• Approval of $15,683,766 in FEMA/general funds for Phase II Hurricane Ida permanent repairs at 14 sites including Alexander School and Patrick F. Taylor Science and Technology Academy
• Second reading to offer Washington Elementary School site for sale "as is" with building intact before any demolition
• $90,000 contract with Language Line Services, Inc. for interpretation services for Limited English Proficient parents
• Second reading to amend superintendent's evaluation to add benchmarks

The board approved a resolution to call a special election for a special tax levy in School District No. 1. Multiple operational contracts and facility project acceptances were approved via the consent agenda. A proposal to add benchmarks to the Superintendent's evaluation was defeated.

• Approved special election for special tax levy in School District No. 1
• Denied amendment to add benchmarks to Superintendent's Evaluation (2-7)
• Approved 2024-25 contracts for Young Audiences of Louisiana, Language Line Services, EverDriven Technologies, SchoolKit Group, Soliant Health, and BookNook
• Approved 2024 Hurricane Ida Phase II Permanent Repair damage assessment
• Approved project acceptance for Joseph Yenni Stadium and Former Haynes Academy
• Approved bid acceptance for Haynes Academy and Bunche School maintenance
• Approved camera system replacement and upgrade at selected sites
• Approved Gambel Communications contract for December Millage voter education

Facilities Committee Meeting

The committee will review a contract related to Hurricane Francine and a budget increase for the Grand Isle School Project. Members will also discuss updates regarding St. Ville construction and a potential new Prek-8 facility at the Bunche Elementary site.

• ICF Contract Approval for Hurricane Francine
• Budget Increase and Change Order No. 7 - Grand Isle School Project No. 2022-13B
• St. Ville Construction Document Schedule and Budget Update
• Discussion to advertise for a new Prek-8 facility at the Bunche Elementary Site
• CSRS Update

The committee held a meeting to address contract approvals and budget updates. The minutes list items for action and discussion, but do not record the final outcomes or vote tallies for these items.

• ICF Contract Approval for Hurricane Francine (outcome not recorded)
• Budget Increase and Change Order No. 7 - Grand Isle School Project No. 2022-13B (outcome not recorded)
• Discussed St. Ville Construction Document Schedule and Budget Update
• Discussed advertising for a new Prek-8 facility at the Bunche Elementary Site

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will hold second readings and votes on several policy proposals, including a cell phone ban for all K-12 students, amendments to superintendent evaluation benchmarks, and stipend eligibility for employees on assault leave. The board will also consider consent agenda items such as lawsuit settlements, contracts for early childhood and STEM programs, and the sale of former Homedale and Bonella St. Ville elementary school sites to Jefferson Parish.

• Second reading of a cell phone ban for K-8 (no exceptions) and grades 9-12 (with locked pouches) with graduated punishments
• Sale of former Bonella St. Ville Elementary site to Jefferson Parish for $330,000
• Sale of former Homedale Elementary site to Jefferson Parish for $140,000 plus $1,800 costs
• Settlement of lawsuit Kenneth Cooper vs JPSB for $100,000
• Contract with STEM NOLA for $37,850 for hands-on STEM sessions at TH Harris Middle School

The Board approved educator workforce retention stipends and the sale of the former Homedale Elementary and Bonella St. Ville Elementary sites to Jefferson Parish. Several proposals, including a K-12 cell phone ban and changes to superintendent evaluation benchmarks, were deferred. The Board also approved multiple school construction project bids and change orders.

• Approved Educator Workforce Retention Stipends (9-0)
• Approved sale of former Homedale Elementary site to Jefferson Parish (9-0)
• Approved sale of former Bonella St. Ville Elementary site to Jefferson Parish (9-0)
• Approved 2024 tax roll millage rates (9-0)
• Rescinded millage rates adopted on July 10, 2024 (9-0)
• Approved STEM NOLA 2024-25 TH Harris Contract (9-0)
• Deferred proposed K-8 and 9-12 cell phone policy
• Deferred proposal to add benchmarks to Superintendent's Evaluation

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Jefferson Parish Public School System Facilities Committee will discuss approving standard construction contracts for two new school projects. The agenda lists several informational updates, including the Russel Street Drainage Project at Bunche, the L.W. Higgins Sports Complex, and ICF/FEMA compliance. The committee will also receive a presentation on the Traversa "My Ride" transportation program and a facilities maintenance update.

• Discussion on approving AIA contracts for two new school project contractors
• Informational update on the Russel Street Drainage Project at Bunche
• Presentation on the Traversa "My Ride" transportation program
• Discussion regarding the L.W. Higgins Sports Complex
• Update on ICF/FEMA compliance and facilities maintenance

The committee approved AIA contracts for two new school project contractors. A 24-hour waiver was also approved regarding Entergy seeking right of way. Other items included presentations on drainage, transportation, and a sports complex feasibility study.

• Approved AIA contracts for two new school project contractors (unanimous)
• Approved 24-hour waiver for Entergy seeking right of way (unanimous)

Special Session School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will consider accepting construction projects for marquee sign upgrades at 18 school sites, totaling $607,000 from ESSER III funds. The projects are reported as substantially complete. This is the only substantive action item on a largely procedural special session agenda.

• Project Acceptance of Marquee Sign Upgrades at Multiple Sites (Nos. 2024-01 A, B, C, D) – $607,000
• Funding source: ESSER III Funds
• List of sites includes Boudreaux Elementary, Collins Elementary, East Jefferson High, Riverdale High, and others

The board approved the acceptance of projects at multiple sites. A notice was read into the record regarding a planned resolution to call an election for an ad valorem tax levy in School District No. 1.

• Approved Project Acceptance for Multiple Sites, Project Nos. 2024-01 A, B, C, and D (7-0)

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will hold second readings on several policy changes, including giving extra points to Louisiana and Jefferson Parish companies in professional services contracts and setting terms for selling vacant land. The board will also accept completion of multiple HVAC replacement projects at schools totaling over $12 million, funded by ESSER III.

• Second reading: give 1 extra point to Louisiana companies and 2 points to Jefferson Parish companies on professional services contracts
• Second reading: sell vacant school board land without future-use contingencies
• Second reading: remove former Haynes Academy site from properties-to-be-sold list
• Accept $4.18M HVAC project at Hearst Elementary, $1.34M at Janet School, $2.75M at Riverdale High, $4.1M at Bonnabel Magnet Academy
• Second reading: employees on Assault Leave receive all qualifying stipends

The board approved the FY 2024-25 Special Revenue and Lunch Fund Budgets and several school construction project acceptances. It also decided that vacant land sales will occur without future-use contingencies and removed the former Haynes Academy site from the sale list.

• Approved FY 2024-25 Special Revenue and Lunch Fund Budgets (Unanimous)
• Approved sale of vacant land without future-use contingencies (7-2)
• Removed former Haynes Academy site from properties to be sold (7-2)
• Designated Board President as representative to local ITEP Committee (8-0)
• Approved purchase offer for former Miller Wall School (Unanimous)
• Accepted projects at Hearst Elementary, Janet School, Riverdale High, Truman School, Bonnabel Magnet Academy, T.H. Harris Middle, Chateau Estates Elementary, and Higgins High (Unanimous)
• Approved bid acceptances for Bunche Elementary and Livaudais Middle (Unanimous)
• Withdrew proposal regarding professional services contract point system for local companies

Legislative Committee Meeting - AMENDED

The Legislative Committee will discuss and vote on revised school board policies to align with legislation passed during the 2024 Louisiana legislative session, including a policy on student use of electronic devices. Multiple policy documents covering smoking, truancy, discipline, suspension, expulsion, and child abuse are attached for action.

• Revision of Policy JCDAE (Student Use of Electronic Devices) to comply with Senate Bill 207
• Revised policies on student smoking (JCDAA), truancy (JBE), discipline (JD), suspension (JDD), expulsion (JDE), and child abuse (JGCE)
• Action on policies GAMA, IDCH, IDE, IDFA, and EB-24 from the 2024 legislative session

The committee discussed the revision of School Board Policy JCDAE regarding student use of electronic devices to comply with Senate Bill 207. The meeting included action on revised policies to align with legislation from the 2024 Louisiana Legislature session.

• Action taken on revised School Board Policies to comply with 2024 Louisiana Legislature session

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Facilities Committee will consider approving design development submissions and issuing notices to proceed for the Washington PreK-8, St. Ville PreK-8, and Transportation Complex projects. Additionally, the committee will discuss approving the schematic design phase for Fisher Middle-High School, as well as the Fisher athletic complex, transportation updates, and potential sale of school board properties. The meeting also includes a discussion of Section 179D and HVAC tax benefits monetization.

• Washington PreK-8 design development submission from Grace Hebert and Curtis (GHC), LLC and notice to proceed
• St. Ville Prek-8 design development submission from Lachin-Architects, LLC and notice to proceed
• Transportation Complex design development submission from N-Y Associates Architects, LLC and notice to proceed
• Verges Rome Architects request to proceed with Schematic Design Phase for Fisher Middle-High School
• Discussion of selected Jefferson Parish School Board Properties available for sale

The committee held a meeting to address design development submissions for several school projects and the sale of specific board properties. The provided minutes list the agenda items and actions discussed but do not record the final votes or outcomes for these items.

• Discussed monetization of Section 179D and HVAC Tax Benefits
• Reviewed Washington PreK-8 Design Development submission from Grace Hebert and Curtis (GHC), LLC
• Reviewed St. Ville Prek-8 Design Development submission from Lachin-Architects, LLC
• Reviewed Transportation Complex Design Development submission from N-Y Associates Architects, LLC
• Discussed Verges Rome Architects request for Fisher Middle-High School Schematic Design Phase
• Discussed Fisher Middle-High School Athletic Complex
• Discussed selected Jefferson Parish School Board Properties available for sale

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will hold a regular meeting with second readings on three proposals: holding an election for board president at the July meeting, scheduling a district-wide budget meeting 30 days before adoption, and giving extra evaluation points to Louisiana and Jefferson Parish companies for professional services contracts. The consent agenda includes several contracts for student services and construction change orders, plus revisions to school board policies on budget posting, audits, and emergency management.

• Second reading: election for board president at July meeting
• Second reading: require budget meeting 30 days before adoption
• Second reading: extra points for local firms in professional services contracts
• Consent agenda: $70,000 contract with Egan Healthcare for LPN services; $375,000 contract with Advantage Medical Professionals; $24,067 with Center for Applied Linguistics; $61,000 with Dr. Rosa Belina-Garcia
• Change Order No. 6 for $69,601 at Higgins High School HVAC project; project acceptance for $907,000 Hurricane Ida repairs at West Jefferson High School

The Board approved a requirement to hold separate budget hearings for the Eastbank and Westbank prior to the adoption of the General Fund Budget. A proposal to give preference points to local companies for professional services contracts was deferred. The Board also approved a large consent agenda including various school construction projects and vendor contracts.

• Approved separate Eastbank and Westbank budget hearings (10-0)
• Deferred proposal for local company preference points in professional services contracts
• Approved Sunshine Bus contract for 10 additional buses 2024-2027 (10-0)
• Approved budget, architect, and scope of work for Bunche Elementary School (10-0)
• Approved project acceptance for West Jefferson High School (10-0)
• Approved project acceptance for Lincoln School for the Arts (10-0)
• Approved contracts for Egan Healthcare, Advantage Medical Professionals, and Imagine Learning (10-0)
• Approved minutes from June 5 and June 28 meetings (10-0)

Jefferson Parish School Board Retreat Amended Agenda

The Jefferson Parish School Board is meeting for a retreat to consider two consent agenda items required by Act 311 of the 2024 Louisiana Legislature. The board will vote on adding job description addenda for certified employees and amending the salary schedule. Both items must be approved before the June 30 deadline.

• Approval of addenda to job descriptions for certified employees to comply with Act 311
• Amendment of the 2024-2025 salary schedule in compliance with Act 311
• Professional development learning session scheduled as a discussion item

The Board approved updates to certified employee job descriptions and the salary schedule to comply with Louisiana Act 311. A professional development session was held with no votes taken.

• Approved addenda to certified employee job descriptions for Act 311 compliance (7-0)
• Approved Salary Schedule Amendment for Act 311 compliance (7-0)

Jefferson Parish School Board Retreat

The Jefferson Parish School Board is meeting for a professional development retreat. No votes will be taken at this session. The agenda includes roll call, invocation, and pledge of allegiance before the learning session.

• Professional Development Learning Session - No votes will be taken at this meeting

The meeting was a professional development learning session. No votes were taken and no official actions were decided.

Special Session School Board Meeting - Budget Hearing

The Jefferson Parish School Board is holding a special session to conduct a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget. The meeting includes standard opening procedures such as roll call, invocation, and the pledge of allegiance.

• Public Hearing - Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting - AMENDED

The Jefferson Parish School Board will discuss the proposed FY 2024-25 General Fund Budget and millage rates for the 2024 tax rolls. The board is also considering funding to maintain assistant principal positions and various equipment and service contracts.

• Proposed increase of Driver's Education course cost from $400 to $470
• EDgear 2024-2025 student information system contract for $561,452.35
• Capital Project Budget Amendment of $750,000.00 for kitchen equipment at multiple schools
• Agreement to provide classrooms and teachers for Grand Isle and Barataria/Lafitte areas (cost not to exceed $259,174.00, to be reimbursed)
• Adoption of millage rates for 2024 tax rolls totaling 29.95 mills

The Board approved the proposed General Fund Budget Book for FY 2024-25 and several facility project bids. Other actions included approving contracts for educational services and food supply tabulations. A resolution regarding millage rates for 2024 tax rolls was withdrawn.

• Approved FY 2024-25 Proposed General Fund Budget Book (7-0)
• Approved increase in Driver's Education course cost and instructor hourly rate (7-0)
• Approved EDgear 2024-2025 contract (7-0)
• Approved Capital Project Budget Amendment for kitchen equipment (7-0)
• Approved CEA to provide classrooms and teachers for Grand Isle and Barataria/Lafitte areas (7-0)
• Approved bid acceptances for East Jefferson High, John Ehret High, Ellis Elementary, St. Ville School, and Woodland West Elementary (7-0)
• Approved bid acceptance for Hoss Memtsas Stadium (7-0)
• Withdrew resolution for JPSB millage rates for 2024 tax rolls

Insurance Committee Meeting

The Insurance Committee is meeting to take action on several insurance policy renewals effective June 15, 2024. The body will also consider a contract renewal for workers' compensation claims management and discuss malicious attack policy coverage.

• Scholastic Entity Retained Limits Policy Renewal
• Excess Workers Compensation Policy Renewal
• Cyber Liability Insurance Policy Renewal
• Broadspire Annual Contract Renewal for Workers' Compensation Claims Management
• Discussion of Malicious Attack Policy Coverage

The committee addressed the renewal of several insurance policies and a claims management contract. The minutes list these items as actions and discussions, but do not record specific votes or final outcomes.

• Action taken on Scholastic Entity Retained Limits Policy Renewal (effective June 15, 2024)
• Action taken on Excess Workers Compensation Policy Renewal (effective June 15, 2024)
• Action taken on Cyber Liability Insurance Policy Renewal (effective June 15, 2024)
• Action taken on Broadspire Annual Contract Renewal for Workers' Compensation Claims Management (effective July 1, 2024)
• Discussed Malicious Attack Policy Coverage

Facilities Committee Meeting - AMENDED

The Jefferson Parish Public School System Facilities Committee will discuss utility issues with Commissioner Eric Skrmetta and hear a solar lighting presentation. The committee will then vote on schematic design submissions for Washington PreK-8, St. Ville PreK-8, and the Transportation Complex, and consider a budget increase for marquee upgrades at multiple sites. Facilities and maintenance project updates and an ICF update will also be presented.

• Discussion with Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta
• Vote on Washington PreK-8 schematic design and notice to proceed
• Vote on St. Ville PreK-8 schematic design and notice to proceed
• Vote on Transportation Complex schematic design and notice to proceed
• Budget increase for Marquee Upgrades at Multiple Sites (Project No. 2024-01)

The committee addressed schematic design submissions for Washington PreK-8, St. Ville PreK-8, and a Transportation Complex. A budget increase for marquee upgrades at multiple sites was also on the agenda. The provided minutes list these as action items but do not record the specific vote tallies or final outcomes.

• Action taken on Washington PreK-8 schematic design and notice to proceed to design development
• Action taken on St. Ville PreK-8 School schematic design and notice to proceed to design development
• Action taken on Transportation Complex schematic design and notice to proceed to design development
• Action taken on budget increase for Project No. 2024-01, Marquee Upgrades at Multiple Sites

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will hold second readings and votes on three policy items: a new 36-month RFQ/RFP process for all vendor contracts exceeding $500,000, maintaining assistant principal positions with ESSER funds, and engaging a state liaison consultant. The consent agenda includes contract awards for translation services, HVAC replacements, parking/drainage improvements, and a revised FY 2024 General Fund budget.

• Second reading: implement 36-month RFQ/RFP process for vendors with annual contracts over $500,000, starting July 1, 2024
• Second reading: authorize superintendent to allocate funds to keep assistant principal positions funded by ESSER
• Second reading: engage Government Consulting Group for state liaison services before BESE
• Accept $4,389,000 project for HVAC upgrades at Pittman Elementary School (ESSER funds)
• Accept low bids: $146,200 each for two cooling tower replacements at Haynes Academy; $399,840 for parking/drainage at Chateau Estates Elementary

The Board approved a motion to negotiate a contract with Government Consulting Group for regulatory liaison services with the Board of Elementary & Secondary Education. The Board also approved the FY 2024 Revised General Fund Budget and several school construction bids via a consent agenda.

• Approved negotiations with Government Consulting Group for BESE liaison services (8-0)
• Approved FY 2024 Revised General Fund Budget (8-0)
• Approved bid acceptance for Haynes Academy Projects 2024-03 A and 2024-03 B (8-0)
• Approved bid acceptance for Chateau Estates Elementary Project 2021-03 (8-0)
• Approved project acceptance for Pittman Elementary Project 2021-09 (8-0)
• Approved bid acceptance for Bonnabel Magnet Academy High School Project 2022-34 C (8-0)
• Approved budget increase and bid acceptance for Bissonet Plaza Elementary Project 2022-22 B (8-0)
• Approved resolution to canvass returns for the April 27, 2024 special tax election (8-0)

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Jefferson Parish Public School System Facilities Committee met to review project updates and approve schematic designs for the St. Ville and Washington PreK-8 schools. The committee also received a presentation from UM Energy Management regarding energy management.

• Approve St. Ville PreK-8 School schematic design and issue Notice to Proceed
• Approve Washington PreK-8 School schematic design and issue Notice to Proceed
• Receive presentation from UM Energy Management
• Review Facilities & Maintenance Project Updates

The Facilities Committee reviewed schematic design submissions for two school projects. The committee issued notices to proceed to design development for both sites.

• Approved St. Ville PreK-8 schematic design and issued Notice to Proceed to Design Development to Lachin Architects, APC
• Approved Washington PreK-8 schematic design and issued Notice to Proceed to Design Development to Grace Hebert Curtis Architects, LLC

Special Session School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board is scheduled to consider a reallocation of $7,819,651.96 in federal ESSER III funds. The board will release remaining budgets from nearly completed projects and redirect the money to address HVAC needs across the district. The agenda contains only procedural items and this single funding recommendation.

• Reallocation of $7,819,651.96 in ESSER III funds
• Release of remaining budgets from nearly completed projects
• Approval of scopes of work for $7,064,651.96 in reallocated projects
• $755,000.00 reallocated to existing ESSER projects
• Meeting location: JPSB Administration Building, 501 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058

The Board approved the reallocation of $7,819,651.96 in existing ESSER III funds. The funds will cover $755,000.00 for project change orders and $7,064,651.96 for 13 prioritized critical-need HVAC projects.

• Approved reallocation of $7,819,651.96 in ESSER III funds (7-0)

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will vote on policy revisions and approve construction projects, including emergency roof repairs at Audubon and Benson schools, HVAC upgrades at Hearst Elementary, and stadium lighting at West Jefferson High School.

• Policy revisions for Homebound Instruction and Disciplinary procedures
• Emergency roof repairs at Audubon School ($25,477)
• Hurricane Ida storm repairs at Benson School ($61,600)
• HVAC system upgrades at Hearst Elementary School ($125,771)
• Stadium lighting and electrical upgrades at West Jefferson High School ($425,341)

The Board approved a wide range of consent agenda items, including school construction change orders, bid acceptances, and revisions to discipline and expulsion policies. Several facility projects were accepted, and a workers compensation settlement was approved. Two motions regarding vendor RFPs and committee scheduling were either deferred or withdrawn.

• Approved March 6, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved revisions to Board Policies JD (Discipline), JBC (School Admission), and JDE (Expulsion) (8-0)
• Approved revision of Board Policy IDDC - Homebound Instruction (8-0)
• Approved scope of work and budget for Audubon and Benson schools (8-0)
• Accepted projects at West Jefferson High School Stadium and Grand Isle School (8-0)
• Approved bid acceptances for Harahan Elementary and Hearst Elementary (8-0)
• Approved Inland Marine Coverage with Markel not to exceed $38,314.00 (8-0)
• Approved settlement of workers compensation claim by Erin Manuel (8-0)

Curriculum & Extracurricular Committee Meeting - AMENDED

The Curriculum & Extracurricular Committee will receive presentations and information on 4-H programs, band programs, district athletics expectations and equity, facilities updates for new schools, and curriculum/scheduling/evaluation updates. No votes are scheduled; all items are for discussion or information.

• 4-H Presentation
• Band Programs discussion
• District Athletics Expectations and Equity for Student Athletes
• Facilities Department Update on Curricular and Extracurricular Programming at New Schools
• Curriculum, Scheduling and Evaluation Updates

The committee meeting consisted of presentations and updates regarding district programs. No substantive decisions, votes, or approvals were recorded in the minutes.

Legislative Committee Meeting

The Jefferson Parish Public School System's Legislative Committee will meet to review education-related bills filed in the current Louisiana legislative session. The agenda includes roll call, invocation, and adjournment. No decisions are scheduled, only discussion of filed bills.

• Review of currently filed education-related bills in the Louisiana legislative session

The committee met to review education-related bills currently filed in the Louisiana Legislative Session. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Jefferson Parish Public School System Facilities Committee is meeting to receive informational updates on facilities and maintenance projects, the Bunche Bridge project, and programming updates at Washington and St. Ville. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting consists solely of procedural items and information presentations.

• Facilities & Maintenance Project Updates
• Bunche Bridge Update
• Programming Updates on Washington & St. Ville

The meeting consisted of procedural items and information updates. No substantive decisions were made.

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will hold a second reading and vote on a policy mandating that all contracts requiring board approval be assigned to a committee before full board approval. The consent agenda includes multiple construction project acceptances and contracts, such as a $3.5 million HVAC replacement at Benson School and $802,550 in marquee sign upgrades at 15 schools. The board will also consider amendments to early childhood care contracts adding $331,000 for additional seats.

• Second reading of policy requiring contracts to go through committee before full board approval
• Approve $159,714 contract with Raptor Technologies for visitor management system at all non-charter school sites
• Accept $3,531,000 HVAC system replacement at Benson School as substantially complete
• Approve $802,550 for marquee sign upgrades at multiple schools (new and replacement signs)
• Approve Change Order No. 4 ($79,459) for Higgins High School HVAC replacement

The Board approved the planning of the new St. Ville School at the former Helen Cox site and mandated a competitive bidding process for construction contractors for St. Ville and Washington. Additionally, the Board approved several facility project acceptances and insurance renewals.

• Approved planning for new St. Ville School at old Helen Cox site (8-1)
• Approved competitive bidding process for St. Ville and Washington construction contractors (9-0)
• Approved property insurance renewal not to exceed $7,455,829.00 (9-0)
• Approved Equipment Breakdown premium of $38,119.00 (9-0)
• Approved Raptor Technologies, LLC 2024-25 contract (9-0)
• Approved project acceptance for Ellis Elementary, Benson School, and Airline Park Academy (9-0)
• Approved bid rejection and acceptance for Worley Middle School and former Helen Cox High School (9-0)
• Withdrawn: Proposal to mandate all contracts be assigned to a committee prior to full board approval

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Jefferson Parish Public School System Facilities Committee will review updates on ongoing maintenance projects and school capacity for the 2024-2025 academic year. The agenda also includes programming updates for the Washington & St. Ville School project, a review of survey results for 2400 Lester St. in Harvey, and discussion of Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contracting services.

• School capacity discussion for the 2024-2025 academic year
• Programming updates for the Washington & St. Ville School project
• Survey results review for 2400 Lester St., Harvey, La. 70058
• Discussion of Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contracting services
• Facilities and maintenance project updates

The meeting agenda listed items for information and action, but the minutes record no substantive decisions, votes, or outcomes. The record is procedural.

Insurance Committee Meeting

The Insurance Committee will discuss and take action on several insurance renewals effective April 1, 2024, including property, inland marine, equipment breakdown, and NFIP flood renewal for 705 Churchill Pkwy. They will also receive an update on cyber insurance improvements and discuss new coverage options. The meeting is primarily action-oriented with procedural items.

• Action on 4/1/24 insurance renewals: property program, inland marine/equipment, equipment breakdown, and NFIP flood renewal for 705 Churchill Pkwy
• Update on cyber insurance improvements
• Discussion of new coverage options
• Information item on 6/15/24 insurance renewal schedule

The committee met to address insurance renewals for April 1 and June 15, 2024. The meeting included an update on cyber insurance improvements and a discussion regarding new coverage. No specific vote tallies or final outcomes for these items were recorded in the minutes.

• Reviewed 4/1/24 Insurance Renewals
• Received Cyber Insurance Improvements Update
• Discussed new coverage
• Reviewed 6/15/24 Insurance Renewal Schedule

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The School Board will consider second reading of a policy amendment and vote on a consent agenda including multiple contracts and approvals. Notable items include a $1.6 million bid acceptance for Hurricane Ida repairs at St. Pierre Academy, an $879,000 amendment for early childhood center seats, a $124,416 network contract, and a $308,000 sign language services contract.

• $1,635,000 bid acceptance for Hurricane Ida damage repair at St. Pierre Academy for Advanced Studies (Veterans Construction LLC)
• $879,000 in amendments for additional seats at multiple Early Childhood Centers
• $124,416 contract with Cox Louisiana Telcom for network/internet services with 90% E-Rate discount
• $308,000 amendment for New Orleans Sign Language Services LLC for ASL interpreters
• $67,500 workers' compensation settlement for Derrick Johnson

The Board approved a series of consent agenda items including facility project bids, contract amendments, and legal settlements. Members also discussed military school survey results and requested a task force to increase ROTC participation.

• Approved minutes of January 10, 2024 meeting (9-0)
• Approved bid acceptances for St. Pierre Academy, Former Butler Elementary, Matas Elementary, and Marrero Middle School (9-0)
• Approved budget increase and bid acceptance for East Jefferson High School (9-0)
• Approved contracts for Ever Driven Technologies, LLC and Franklin Covey - Leader in Me (9-0)
• Approved amendments for New Orleans Sign Language Services, LLC and PowerSchool contracts (9-0)
• Approved workers compensation settlements for Derrick Johnson and Mamie Reed (9-0)
• Approved settlement for Case No. 810-306 (Arielle Reece o/b/o Ja’Corey Hughes v. JPSB) (9-0)
• Approved summer camp fees and worker pay rate adjustments (9-0)

Finance Committee Meeting - Amended

The Finance Committee will review the external audit and consider the CFO's recommendation for a request for proposals for a new outside auditor. Other agenda items are procedural, including roll call and adjournment.

• Review external audit and consider recommendation from CFO for RFP for new outside auditor

The Finance Committee met to review final audit financial statements and findings presented by CFO Sarah Carusso. No formal votes or decisions were recorded regarding the recommendation for a new outside auditor RFP.

Facilities Committee Meeting

The Facilities Committee will discuss and vote on approving funding for the Washington and St. Ville new school projects, as well as AIA contracts for two new school project architects and for Hurricane Ida projects. Informational items include updates on facilities maintenance, electric vehicles, and environmental assessments.

• Discussion and approval of funding for Washington and St. Ville new school projects
• Approval of AIA contracts for two new school project architects (A201-2017, B101-2017)
• Approval of AIA contracts for Hurricane Ida projects facilitated by CSRS (A101-2017, A201-2017, B101-2017)
• Presentation on electric vehicles
• Discussion of Phase I Environmental Site Assessment at Martin Luther King Playground

Regular Scheduled School Board Meeting

The Jefferson Parish School Board will hold second readings on a resolution to authorize defeasance of Hurricane Recovery Revenue Bonds (Series 2022) and a resolution to allow the superintendent to lease surplus property on a month-to-month basis. The board will also consider a consent agenda including over $14 million in contracts and project approvals for school repairs, HVAC systems, and new covered play structures at 19 schools.

• Second reading: Resolution to authorize defeasance of all or part of Hurricane Recovery Revenue Bonds, Series 2022
• Second reading: Authorize superintendent to lease surplus property month-to-month at fair market value
• $3,800,000 scope of work for covered play structures at 19 elementary schools (Project No. 2023-30)
• Project acceptance: $1,219,000 roof replacement at Meisler Middle School (Project No. 2022-05 A)
• Project acceptance: $8,996,228 Hurricane Ida damage repair at Kerner Elementary School (Project No. 2022-02)

The Board approved the 2024-2025 academic calendar and authorized the Superintendent to lease surplus immovable property on a month-to-month basis. Members also approved the defeasance of Hurricane Recovery Revenue Bonds and several school construction project acceptances. Additionally, the Board denied a Type I charter for Ruwad School of Agricultural Sciences.

• Approved 2024-2025 Academic Calendar (9-0)
• Authorized month-to-month leasing of surplus immovable property (9-0)
• Authorized defeasance of Hurricane Recovery Revenue Bonds, Series 2022 (9-0)
• Denied Type I charter for Ruwad School of Agricultural Sciences (9-0)
• Approved 2023-24 Early Childhood Contract for Candyland Kinder Kollege (9-0)
• Approved architect/engineer CICADA, LLC (9-0)
• Accepted projects at Meisler Middle School and Kerner Elementary School (9-0)
• Approved bid acceptance for Worley Middle School and Collins Elementary School (9-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Jefferson Parish Public School System Finance Committee is meeting for a mostly procedural session. The main agenda item is a presentation on the Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP). No votes or decisions are listed.

• ITEP Presentation

The meeting consisted of procedural items and a presentation. No substantive decisions were made.