Lafayette Parish School System public meetings in 2023

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISED

The Lafayette Parish School Board discussed and voted on several items, including a rezoning proposal that failed, litigation settlement direction, and consent agenda items. The board approved most consent items but rejected the rezoning adjustment and deferred action on a job description revision.

• Rezoning of Lafayette High and Carencro High attendance zones to Northside High (motion failed)
• Board directed superintendent to pursue settlement in Pat Cooper litigation
• Approved $250/month Pupil Appraisal Mentor Stipend for supervising interns
• Approved adjustment to Resident Teacher Daily Substitute rate in salary schedule
• Deferred action on revisions to Construction Project Manager job description

The Board voted against rezoning portions of Lafayette and Carencro High School zones to Northside High School. Other actions included approving a legal settlement and updating the 2023-24 salary schedule. The Board also approved the December budget-to-actual revisions.

• Denied rezoning of Lafayette and Carencro High School zones to Northside High School (4-4, 1 abstain)
• Approved settlement of Pat Cooper versus Lafayette Parish School Board litigation (7-2)
• Approved Pupil Appraisal Mentor Stipend for 2023-24 Salary Schedule (9-0)
• Approved Resident Teacher Daily Substitute rate for 2023-24 Salary Schedule (9-0)
• Deferred action on Construction Project Manager job description revisions (5-3)
• Approved December Budget-to-Actual/Revisions for FY 23-24 (9-0)
• Approved revisions to Policy DJA; Authorized Signatures (9-0)
• Approved minutes of November 8, 2023 (9-0)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISED

The Lafayette Parish School Board voted to approve a consent agenda including a major reorganization and reclassification of staff, eliminating over 30 positions and creating new ones effective November 13. The board also approved 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 district calendars, a dress code amendment, a sick leave bank policy revision, a conversion of positions from days to months, a second language stipend for immersion teachers, and final plat approval for Truman Early Learning Center. The vote was 7-1, with one member opposed.

• Approval of staff reorganization: 32 positions eliminated, 29 created, and multiple job descriptions revised
• Approval of 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 district calendars
• Amendment to dress code allowing jackets/coats/sweaters/sweatshirts under certain conditions
• Addition of $600 yearly Second Language Stipend for immersion teachers with qualifying certificates
• Final plat approval for Truman Early Learning Center property

The Board approved the contract for Superintendent-Elect Touchet and authorized the purchase of two sites adjacent to the District Office. Other actions included approving school calendars for 2024-2026 and a staff reorganization plan. Several consent items regarding policy updates and budget revisions were also passed.

• Approved Superintendent-Elect Touchet's contract (7-1)
• Approved staff reorganization and re-class plan effective Nov 13, 2023 (7-1)
• Approved District Calendars for 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 (7-1)
• Approved amendment to 2023-2024 Student Parent Handbook dress code (7-1)
• Approved updated Sick Leave Bank policy GBRIA (7-1)
• Approved addition of Second Language Stipend to 2023-24 Salary Schedule (7-1)
• Approved final plat for Truman Early Learning Center property (7-1)
• Authorized purchase of 301 and 307 Rue Beauregard and $2.85M budget revision (5-3)

LPSB - Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee

The Lafayette Parish School Board's Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee meets to receive updates on insurance matters. Key items include notification of a $79,500 budget shortfall for retiree life insurance funded by property tax, a new voluntary benefits administrator, and an acquisition update for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana. The committee also hears reports on fund balances, the self-funded health plan, and OPEB.

• Notification of $79,500 budget shortfall for district-paid retiree Basic/AD&D Life Insurance, funded by property tax revenues
• USAble Life contract cancellation at end of 2023; 71.31% rate increase for 2024 renewal period
• New Voluntary Benefits Administrator AGM Benefits | HUB Intl. starting January 1, 2024
• Update on Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana acquisition by Elevance/Anthem Health
• Report on Self-Funded Group Health Plan performance for Jan–Sep 2023

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the July 25, 2023, minutes. Members received reports on a $79,500 budget shortfall for retiree life insurance and the potential for a new RFP regarding health insurance carriers. The administration is transitioning COVID vaccines to a wellness benefit.

• Approved meeting agenda (11-0-0)
• Approved July 25, 2023, meeting minutes (11-0-0)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISION #2

The Lafayette Parish School Board voted to appoint Francis Touchet as the next superintendent, subject to contract negotiations. The board also entered executive session to discuss two pending lawsuits: Laura Landry vs. LPSB and Sarah Hardy vs. Allstate Insurance. Other actions included approving resolutions for National School Bus Safety Week, National Principals Month, and a Veterans Day fundraiser.

• Appointed Francis Touchet as Superintendent (motion carried 8-0).
• Discussed pending litigation in executive session (Laura Landry and Sarah Hardy cases).
• Heard annual LSU AgCenter report and update on Pre-Educator Pathway.
• Approved 'Show Your Colors for Vets!' fundraiser for Acadiana Veterans Alliance.
• Approved multiple proclamations: National Principals Month, 4-H Week, Custodian Day, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, School Bus Safety Week, Farm to School Month.

The Board appointed Francis Touchet as Superintendent, pending contract negotiations. The Board also accepted legal counsel recommendations regarding two pending lawsuits and approved several commemorative resolutions.

• Appointed Francis Touchet as Superintendent, subject to contract negotiations (9-0)
• Accepted legal counsel recommendation for Sarah Hardy v. Allstate Insurance Company, et al (9-0)
• Accepted legal counsel recommendation for Laura Landry vs. Lafayette Parish School Board (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 10-023-2074 designating October 2023 as National Principals Month (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 10-023-2075 designating October 1-7, 2023 as National 4-H Week in Louisiana (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 10-023-2073 for National Custodian Day (9-0)

LPSB - Board Workshop - Pre-Educator Pathway Grant

The Lafayette Parish School Board will hold a workshop that begins with a roll call of members. The board will receive an informational update on the Pre‑Educator Pathway grant awarded to LPSS, noting its partnership with the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and the grant’s role in recruiting future educators. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment.

• Roll call of board members
• Information update on the Pre‑Educator Pathway grant awarded by LDOE
• Grant partnership with the University of Louisiana at Lafayette
• Description of grant activities: campus visits, mentoring, feeder‑school collaborations
• Adjournment of the meeting

The board held a workshop to receive an informational update on the Pre-Educator Pathway and the Reimagine Schools Grant. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded during this meeting.

LPSB -Blue Ribbon Committee Meeting

The Blue Ribbon Committee will consider and recommend an Excess Distribution scenario to the Lafayette Parish School Board for the 2002 1/2% Sales Tax Fund FY 2023-2024 budget. Four scenarios are presented in an attached spreadsheet for the committee's review.

• Recommendation for Declaration of Excess Distribution from the 2002 1/2% Sales Tax Fund
• Four scenarios for the Proposed Excess Distribution Budget for FY 2023-2024
• Action item: committee to recommend one scenario to the full board

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting

The Lafayette Parish School Board adopted the 2023 millage rates and approved final budget revisions for FY 2022-23. The board directed the interim superintendent to research adding air conditioning to buses, with a report due in January 2024. It also entered executive session on a pending lawsuit (Crystal Vallier vs. Veronica Colbert) and accepted legal counsel's recommendation. Information items included a presentation on the new Lafayette High School project and discussion of traffic concerns at Carencro High and Live Oak Elementary.

• Directed interim superintendent to study feasibility and cost of retrofitting buses with A/C
• Adopted 2023 millage rates via Resolution 09-023-2070
• Designated Lafayette Middle School auditorium as 'John Allen Prejean Auditorium'
• Reorganized Federal Programs staff: eliminated 2 positions, added 2 new ones
• Approved dedication of electrical servitudes to Lafayette Utilities System at Lafayette High School

The Board adopted the 2023 millage rates and approved several administrative updates, including staff reorganizations and budget revisions. Other actions included naming a middle school auditorium and directing research into bus air conditioning.

• Adopted 2023 millage rates: Constitutional (4.92), Special Maintenance and Operational (7.79), Special Maintenance Improvement and Operational (5.00), and Operational (17.88) (9-0)
• Approved designating Lafayette Middle School auditorium as 'John Allen Prejean Auditorium' (9-0)
• Directed Interim Superintendent to research adding air conditioning to buses (9-0)
• Approved reorganization of Federal Programs staff, replacing School Social Worker and Parent Educator positions with Social Worker-Federal Programs and Parent Support Specialist positions (9-0)
• Approved August Budget-to-Actual/Revision for FY 23-24 and Final Budget Revisions for FY 22-23 (9-0)
• Approved electrical servitudes to Lafayette Utilities System at Lafayette High School (9-0)
• Approved adjustment to 2023-24 Salary Schedule Booklet changing 'Ticket Collector' to 'Event Staff' (9-0)
• Approved deletion of Policy DIBA regarding American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Reporting Requirements (9-0)

LPSB-District 6 Town Hall Meeting-New Lafayette High School

District 6 Board Member Justin Centanni hosts a town hall meeting at Lafayette High School to present final renderings and discuss the timeline and construction process for the new Lafayette High School. This is an informational session, not a voting meeting.

• Showcase of final renderings for new Lafayette High School at 3000 W. Congress Street
• Discussion of the New Lafayette High School Timeline and Construction Process

The meeting was held to provide information on the New Lafayette High School timeline and construction process. No substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes.

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISED

The Lafayette Parish School Board will hear an update on the superintendent recruitment process, with applications due by September 29, 2023. The consent agenda includes approval of a one-time $1,200 COVID-19 recovery stipend for eligible employees, increases in substitute pay, and a final guaranteed maximum price amendment for the new Lafayette High School project. Also up for action is an environmental consulting services contract and a budget shortfall for retiree life insurance.

• Update on superintendent recruitment process – applications postmarked by Sept 29, 2023
• Approval of $1,200 COVID-19 Recovery and Retention Stipend for eligible employees
• Increase in certified substitute teacher pay from $100 to $120 per day
• Final Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment #03 for the new Lafayette High School project
• Approval of environmental consulting services contract

The Board approved a one-time COVID-related recovery stipend and updated salary schedules for teacher-substitutes and bus drivers. Other actions included approving a $79,500 budget increase for retiree life insurance and awarding an environmental consulting contract. The Board also approved the final price amendment for the New Lafayette High School project.

• Approved $1,200 one-time COVID Related Recovery and Retention Stipend (9-0)
• Approved 2023-2024 Supplemental Pay Rates for Teacher-Substitutes and Bus Drivers (9-0)
• Approved reclassification and updated job descriptions for School Food Service positions (8-0)
• Approved $79,500 budget increase for Group Basic Retiree Life/AD&D FY 23/24 (8-0)
• Awarded FY24 Environmental Consulting Services contract to Ritter Consulting Engineers (9-0)
• Approved Surface Use Agreement on Section 16 property in Duson (9-0)
• Approved Final Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment #03 for New Lafayette High School (9-0)
• Approved new and revised policies regarding safety, attendance, and board meeting participation (9-0)

LPSB - Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee

The Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee will receive a report from HUB Intl. on the self-funded group health plan for the first half of 2023. Members will also hear updates on the OPEB trust, fund balance, and board policy on staff insurance coverages. The committee will consider approval of minutes from April and May 2023.

• HUB Intl. report on self-funded group health plan for Jan 1 – June 30, 2023
• Update on OPEB Trust standing
• Presentation of Fund 85 audited fund balance
• Summary of Board Policy EGA – Staff Insurance Coverages
• Voluntary Benefits Administrator already appointed (AGM Benefits / HUB Intl. effective Jan 1, 2024) – informational

The committee approved the meeting minutes from April and May 2023 and rescheduled the October meeting to October 25, 2023. Members received reports on the fund balance, OPEB assets, and the appointment of a new voluntary benefits administrator.

• Approved April 25, 2023 minutes (10-0-0)
• Approved May 31, 2023 minutes (10-0-0)
• Moved October meeting date to Wednesday, October 25, 2023 (10-0-0)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISION #2

The Lafayette Parish School Board approved the appointment of Francis Touchet as interim superintendent effective July 20, 2023, with the same salary and benefits as the outgoing superintendent. The board also authorized a superintendent search procedure similar to the last one, including a community forum and input. Additional actions included approving revisions to the 2023-2024 district calendar shifting Easter break, adopting portions of the student handbook, and approving a servitude for the Prairie Elementary replacement school.

• Appointment of Francis Touchet as interim superintendent (Item 4.4)
• Authorization of superintendent search with community input (Item 4.5)
• Revisions to 2023-2024 district calendar moving Easter/Spring break to March 25–April 1 (Item 4.1)
• Approval of proposed 2023-2024 Student/Parent Handbook discipline policy changes (Item 4.2)
• Approval of Act of Dedication of Servitudes for Prairie Elementary Replacement School (Item 4.14)

The Board ratified a reapportionment plan to align school board election districts with new precinct numbers adopted by the Lafayette Parish Council. The Board also approved the 2023-2024 district calendar and student/parent handbook.

• Approved Resolution 09-022-2040 to update election district precinct numbers
• Approved revisions to the 2023-2024 District Calendar
• Approved proposed portions of the 2023-2024 Student/Parent Handbook
• Accepted legal counsel's advice regarding Brenda Joseph, et al v. Lafayette Parish School Board

LPSB-Discipline Policy Review Committee Meeting

The Discipline Policy Review Committee will meet to discuss and possibly take action on district discipline policies. The meeting includes roll call, discussion of policies, and adjournment.

• Discussion and/or action concerning District Discipline Policies

LPSB -Long Range Planning Committee Meeting

The committee selected Kate Labue as chairperson for 2023 and received a presentation on a demographic study by Mike Hefner of Geographic Planning and Demographic Services. The study's projections will inform the district's long-range planning.

• Kate Labue elected chairperson of the Long Range Planning Committee for 2023 by acclamation
• Presentation of demographic study by Mike Hefner with projections for the district
• Motion to add Kate Labue to the committee carried (3 yes, 1 absent)
• Roll call of committee members Britt Latiolais, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard

The committee added Kate Labue to its membership and elected her as Chairperson for 2023. The committee also received a presentation on student population projections for 2023-2027.

• Added Kate Labue to the Long Range Planning Committee (Motion Carries)
• Elected Kate Labue as Chairperson of the Long Range Planning Committee for 2023 (Motion Carries)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting

The school board voted to create the Southside School District and announce a November 18, 2023, election for general obligation bonds to fund athletic facilities at Southside High School. It also authorized negotiating the sale or lease of 6 acres at 2905 Louisiana Avenue for a library, approved naming two facilities at Lafayette High School, and renewed school resource officer agreements with six local police departments.

• Adopted Resolution 06-023-2069 creating the Southside School District for bond and tax purposes
• Called an election on Nov. 18, 2023, for general obligation bonds for Southside High athletic facilities
• Designated Performing Arts Auditorium at new Lafayette High as "Scotty Walker Performing Arts Hall"
• Designated Lafayette High baseball field at Neyland Park as "Sam Taulli Field"
• Authorized new SRO cooperative endeavor agreements with six police departments (Lafayette Sheriff, Carencro, Broussard, Lafayette, Scott, Youngsville)

The Board adopted a resolution to create the Southside School District, defining its boundaries and granting it the authority to levy taxes and issue bonds. Other actions included naming facilities at Lafayette High School and authorizing new school resource officer agreements.

• Adopted Resolution 06-023-2069 to create the Southside School District (5-3)
• Approved designating the new Lafayette High School Performing Arts Auditorium as 'Scotty Walker Performing Arts Hall'
• Approved designating the Lafayette High School baseball field at Neyland Park as 'Sam Taulli Field'
• Authorized new Cooperative Endeavor Agreements for SRO services with six local police departments
• Appointed HUB Intl./Dwight Andrus & AGM Benefits as Voluntary Benefits Administrator effective Jan 1, 2024 (6-2)
• Authorized negotiations to sell or lease approximately 6 acres of land at 2905 Louisiana Avenue to the Parish Council and/or Public Library Board of Control
• Accepted legal counsel advice regarding Martha Lambert and Eva Mae Edmond vs. Sandra C. Martin litigation

LPSB-Joint Meeting of Board Insurance Committee/Employee-Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee

The joint meeting of the Board Insurance Committee and Employee-Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee (ERIAC) heard presentations from three finalists for a contract to provide voluntary benefits and administrative services for district employees and retirees. Following discussion, the ERIAC made a recommendation, and the Board Insurance Committee voted to recommend awarding RFP #62-23 to HUB Intl./Dwight Andrus & AGM Benefits, subject to full board approval. The committee also selected a chairperson for 2023.

• Selection of chairperson for Board Insurance Committee for 2023
• Presentations from three RFP#62-23 finalists: Lockton Companies/AmeriLife Benefits, HUB Intl./Dwight Andrus and AGM Benefits, and Educational Benefits Inc.
• ERIAC discussion and recommendation on RFP #62-23
• Board Insurance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend awarding the contract to HUB Intl./Dwight Andrus & AGM Benefits

The Board Insurance Committee and the Employee-Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee (ERIAC) reviewed three finalists for RFP #62-23. Both committees will submit differing recommendations to the full Board for a final decision on the voluntary benefits and administrative services contract.

• Elected Mary Morrison as Chairperson of the Board Insurance Committee (3-0)
• ERIAC recommended Educational Benefits Inc. (EBi) as voluntary benefits provider (9-4)
• ERIAC denied a substitute motion to recommend Lockton Companies/AmeriLife Benefits (4-9)
• Board Insurance Committee recommended HUB Intl./Dwight Andrus & AGM Benefits for RFP #62-23 (3-0)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISED

The Lafayette Parish School Board approved two rezoning plans affecting about 230 elementary students, revised Magnet Academy procedures, and ratified a reapportionment plan. The board also entered executive session to discuss a workers' compensation claim and pending litigation.

• Rezoning a portion of Martial Billeaud Elementary zone to Katharine Drexel and Ernest Gallet (approx. 180 students)
• Rezoning a portion of Charles Burke Elementary zone to Prairie Elementary (approx. 50 students)
• Approved revisions to Magnet Academy Procedures
• Ratified adoption of Reapportionment Plan 'A' with updated precinct numbers
• Approved Athletic Training Services Management Agreement with Ochsner Lafayette General

The Board approved rezoning for portions of the Martial Billeaud and Charles Burke elementary attendance zones. It also authorized an athletic training services agreement with Ochsner Lafayette General and updated Magnet Academy procedures.

• Approved rezoning of Martial Billeaud Elementary zone to Katharine Drexel and Ernest Gallet Elementary
• Approved rezoning of Charles Burke Elementary zone to Prairie Elementary
• Approved Athletic Training Services Management Agreement with Ochsner Lafayette General
• Approved revisions to Magnet Academy Procedures
• Approved Resolution 05-023-2068 for Teacher Appreciation Week
• Accepted counsel advice regarding Michael Senegal Workers' Compensation claim
• Accepted counsel advice regarding Brenda Joseph, et al v. Lafayette Parish School Board litigation

LPSB-Special Board Meeting (Budget Adoption)

The Lafayette Parish School Board voted to adopt Resolution 05-023-2067, approving the unified budget for fiscal year 2023-2024. The budget covers resource uses of $798,004,373.00 across major funds. This was the sole action item at the special meeting, called specifically for budget adoption.

• Resolution 05-023-2067 adopting the unified budget for FY 2023-2024
• Total resource uses of $798,004,373.00 as detailed in the Summary of Funds
• Motion carried with 8 yes votes and one absence (Tehmi Chassion)

The board approved Resolution 05-023-2067 to adopt the unified budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. This action followed a public hearing held on May 10, 2023.

• Approved Resolution 05-023-2067 adopting the Unified Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 (8-0)

LPSB-Public Hearing on Budget

The Lafayette Parish School Board holds a public hearing to receive public comments on the proposed unified budget for fiscal year 2023-2024. The hearing precedes the formal adoption of the budget. Attachments include the proposed budget document and a draft adoption resolution.

• Public hearing on Proposed Unified Budget for FY 2023-2024
• Draft Adoption Resolution for the budget
• Proposed Budget Document (5,626 KB) for FY 2023-2024

The board held a public hearing regarding the Proposed Unified Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. No comments or discussions were offered by the board or the public. No substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

LPSB - Recognitions/Presentations

This meeting of the Lafayette Parish School Board is a recognition and presentation ceremony only, with no decisions or policy actions. The board will honor students who earned technical diplomas from SLCC, select counselors and elementary students of the year.

• Recognition of 13 students who earned SLCC technical diplomas through dual enrollment at W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center
• Recognition of 2024 Counselor of the Year nominees: Tracie Bordelon, Sarah Del Marmol, Chastity Craven
• Recognition of 2023 Elementary Student of the Year nominees from over 20 schools
• Opening remarks by Superintendent Irma Duplechain Trosclair and Associate Superintendent Francis Touchet

LPSB - Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee

The Lafayette Parish School Board's Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee meets to handle routine business: approve the agenda and previous minutes, elect a new member from the Associated Professional Educators of Lafayette (A+PEL), and receive informational updates on a retracted voluntary benefits RFP, the March 2023 group insurance fund financials, and the self-funded group health plan from HUB International. All items are procedural or informational.

• Election of an ERIAC member representing A+PEL by majority vote
• Voluntary Benefits RFP retracted, then reissued on April 24, 2023, with proposers directed to www.centralauctionhouse.com
• Review of Group Insurance Fund Budget to Actual financial statement for March 31, 2023
• HUB International report on the Self-Funded Group Health Plan for January–March 2023
• Approval of the March 14, 2023 meeting minutes

The committee approved the appointment of Emily Brown to fill a vacancy left by Stephanie James. Staff provided updates on a voluntary benefits RFP and a proposed 4% premium increase for group health insurance pending board approval.

• Approved appointment of Emily Brown as Committee Member
• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved March 14, 2023 meeting minutes

LPSB-Special Board Meeting - Budget #3

The Lafayette Parish School Board held a special budget meeting and voted to authorize staff to proceed with budget adoption for the 2023-2024 General Fund and multiple other funds. The board also approved a transfer of $1,150,000 from the COVID Contingency Line Item for projects including a turf project at Comeaux High and a baseball/softball facility at Lafayette High's Neyland Park, plus $50,000 for a sign at OCHS. Several board members were absent.

• Approved transfer of $1,150,000 from COVID Contingency for Comeaux High turf project ($350,000) and Lafayette High baseball/softball facility at Neyland Park ($800,000)
• Approved transfer of $50,000 from COVID Contingency for a marquee sign at OCHS
• Authorized budget adoption process for 2023-2024 General Fund, Special Revenue, Capital Projects, Self-Funded Construction, 2023 Bond Construction, Southside High School Construction, Truman Pre-K Construction, Debt Service, School Food Service, Group Insurance, Sales Tax, and Combined Sales Tax funds
• Board members Tommy Angelle, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, and Kate Labue were absent

The Board authorized staff to proceed with the budget adoption process for 12 different funds for the 2023-2024 period. Additionally, the Board approved specific fund transfers for athletic facilities and signage. All actions passed with 5-0 votes of the members present.

• Authorized budget adoption process for Special Revenue, Capital Improvement, 2023 Bond Construction, Southside High Construction, Truman Pre-K Construction, Debt Service, School Food Service, Group Insurance, 2002 1/2 Cent Sales Tax, Combined Sales Tax, and General funds (5-0)
• Approved transfer of $350,000 from COVID Contingency to Comeaux High turf project (5-0)
• Approved transfer of $800,000 from COVID Contingency to Lafayette High Baseball/Softball facility at Neyland Park (5-0)
• Approved transfer of $50,000 from COVID Contingency for a marquee sign at OCHS (5-0)
• Authorized budget adoption process for the Self-funded Construction Fund (5-0)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISION #2

The Lafayette Parish School Board considered a consent agenda that included approving the opioid litigation MOU, revisions to student fees, dress code changes, and adding Carencro High School projects to a construction fund. They also approved transferring COVID contingency funds to turf projects at Acadiana High and Northside High. Additionally, they heard presentations on Chinese immersion and a budget timeline, and declared surplus portable buildings at multiple schools.

• Opioid litigation MOU (Resolution 04-023-2065) approved
• Funds transferred from COVID contingency to Acadiana High and Northside High turf projects
• Student fee schedule for 2023-2024 revised and approved
• Dress code guidelines for 2023-2024 approved
• Portable buildings declared surplus at 8 schools

The Board approved resolutions designating April 2023 as School Library Month and National Autism Awareness Month. Members also voted to add a fund transfer for high school turf projects to the meeting agenda.

• Approved adding transfer of COVID Contingency funds to Acadiana High and Northside High turf projects to the agenda (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 04-023-2061 proclaiming April 2023 as School Library Month (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 04-023-2062 recognizing National Autism Awareness Month (Outcome not recorded)

LPSB-Special Board Meeting - Budget #2 - REVISED

This special budget meeting of the Lafayette Parish School Board includes discussion and action on the proposed 2023-2024 General Fund Budget, including a preliminary summary of revenues and expenditures. The board will also consider approving staffing and hiring for the next fiscal year and an early obligation of $5,086,019.50 for textbooks and consumables. Additional items include proposed budgets for group insurance, sales tax fund, capital projects, and construction funds.

• Preliminary 2023-2024 General Fund Budget Summary with projected revenues and expenditures (action item)
• Approval of staffing/hiring line items for FY24 (motion carried, authorizing administration to proceed with hiring)
• Early obligation of $5,086,019.50 for K-12 ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies textbooks and consumables (motion carried)
• Proposed 2023-2024 budgets for Group Insurance Fund, 2002 1/2 Cent Sales Tax Fund, Capital Improvement Fund, Self-Funded Construction Fund, and 2023 Bond Construction Fund
• Discussion and action on budget recap and timeline

The Board approved the staffing portion of the 2023-2024 General Fund Budget Summary. It also authorized the early release of funds for textbooks and consumables. Several other proposed budget items were discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved staffing portion of 2023-2024 General Fund Budget Summary (7-0)
• Approved $5,086,019.50 for ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies textbooks and consumables (7-0)

LPSB-Special Board Meeting - Budget #1

The Lafayette Parish School Board approved an early release of funds for safety and security construction projects, including single point of entry systems at schools and repairs at the new district office. The board also discussed and took action on proposed budgets for multiple funds for FY2023-2024, such as Special Revenue, Southside High Construction, Truman Pre-K Construction, Debt Service, Combined Sales Tax, School Food Service, and 2002 1/2 Cent Sales Tax funds.

• Approved early release of $3.655M for security projects: fencing ($900K), metal/weapon detectors ($2.275M), check-in software ($200K), elevator/fire pump repairs ($280K)
• Reviewed FY2023-2024 budget recap and timeline
• Proposed budget for Southside High School Construction Fund
• Proposed budget for Truman Pre-K Construction Fund (ESSER)
• Proposed budget for Debt Service Fund

The Board approved the early release of funds from the Self-Funded Construction and Capital Improvement Funds to begin installation of safety systems before the 2023-24 school year. Several proposed budgets for the 2023-2024 period were discussed, but no action was taken on them.

• Approved purchase and installation of single point of entry systems at schools (5-0)
• Approved purchase and installation of elevator components and fire pump for new district office (5-0)
• Approved early release of funds from Self-Funded Construction and Capital Improvement Funds (5-0)
• No action taken on Proposed Budget for 2023-2024 Special Revenue Fund
• No action taken on Proposed Budget for 2023-2024 Southside High Construction Fund
• No action taken on Proposed Budget for 2023-2024 Truman Pre-K Construction Fund (ESSER)
• No action taken on Proposed Budget for 2023-2024 Debt Service Fund
• No action taken on Proposed Budget for 2023-2024 Combined Sales Tax Fund

LPSB - Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee

The Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee will discuss and make a recommendation to the School Board on the proposed FY23/24 Group Health Insurance Fund Budget, which includes two options (3% and 4% proposals). The committee will also hear presentations on the OPEB trust, a budget analysis by Hub Intl., and consider proposed bylaws.

• Recommendation on FY23/24 Group Health Insurance Fund Budget (3% and 4% proposals)
• Hub Intl. budget analysis and recommendations for the group health plan
• Presentation on OPEB Trust (Other Post Retirement Benefits) fund balance and deposits
• Discussion and action on proposed ERIAC bylaws
• Approval of minutes from February 9, 2023 meeting

The Employee Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee recommended a 4% premium increase and the implementation of a Patient Assistance Prescription Drug Program to cover a proposed deficit. The committee also approved updated bylaws regarding meeting schedules and member attendance.

• Recommended 4% premium increase and Patient Assistance Prescription Drug Program for FY23/24 budget (13-0)
• Approved proposed ERIAC Bylaws regarding meeting scheduling and member removal for absences (12-0)
• Approved February 9, 2023 meeting minutes (12-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (12-0)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISED

The Lafayette Parish School Board meets to discuss pending litigation and workers' compensation claims, and to consider a right-of-way agreement with Entergy for the new Carencro Bob Lilly Elementary School replacement. Other agenda items include approving summer operating hours, resolutions recognizing Youth Art Month and National School Breakfast Week, and a supplemental pay rate for bus site coordinators.

• Discussion and action on pending litigation in Kristina Gillen et al v. LPSB (Docket 20182822 G) and workers' compensation claims
• Approval of RIGHT-OF-WAY with Entergy Louisiana LLC for Carencro Bob Lilly Elementary School (Replacement School)
• Approval of Summer Operating Hours: 7:15 a.m.–4:45 p.m. Mon–Thu, 7:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Fri, June 5–July 28, 2023
• Revision to Supplemental Pay Rates for Bus Site Coordinator for summer school transportation
• Resolution recognizing Youth Art Month, National School Social Work Week, and National School Breakfast Week / National Nutrition Month

The Board voted to accept the advice of counsel regarding a lawsuit filed by Kristina Gillen and workers' compensation claims by Timothy Richmond and Mark Randall. Additionally, the Board approved summer operating hours for central offices and recognized Youth Art Month.

• Accepted advice of counsel for Kristina Gillen et al v. LPSS and workers' compensation claims for Timothy Richmond and Mark Randall (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 03-023-2058 recognizing Youth Art Month (7-0)
• Approved summer operating hours (7:15 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Mon-Thu; 7:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Fri) for central offices from June 5 to July 28, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 03-023-2059 recognizing National School Social Work Week (7-0)

LPSB - Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee

The Employee/Retiree Insurance Advisory Committee will receive information on the announced acquisition of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana by Elevance Health/Anthem, and a report on the self-funded group health plan for 2022 from HUB International. They will also elect officers for 2023, set meeting dates, and discuss supplemental group term life insurance. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and introduction of a new APEL member.

• HUB Intl. report on Self-Funded Group Health Plan for plan year 2022
• Acquisition of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana by Elevance Health/Anthem
• Election of ERIAC Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary)
• Discussion of Supplemental Group Term Life Insurance for active and retired members
• Establish 2023 ERIAC meeting dates

The committee elected its Chairman, Co-Chair, and Secretary and established four meeting dates for 2023. Members reviewed a report on the 2022 Self-funded Group Health Plan and discussed the acquisition of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Elected Vicki Seaux as Secretary
• Elected Dr. Jon Downs as Co-Chair
• Elected Nancy Mounce as Chairman
• Established 2023 meeting dates: March 14, April 25, July 25, and October 24

LPSB-Board Workshop - ACFR

The Lafayette Parish School Board holds a workshop to review the results of the external audit for the 2021-2022 fiscal year. The external auditor from Kolder, Slaven & Company will present the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). This is an information item; no vote is expected.

• Presentation of the 2021-2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) by external auditor Burton Kolder
• Review of audit results and supplemental report from Kolder, Slaven & Company, LLC

The board held a workshop to review the 2021-2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report presented by external auditor Brad Kolder. The session included discussions on fund revenues, expenditures, and a comparison with St. Tammany Parish School Board. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISION #2

The Lafayette Parish School Board will discuss pending litigation (Bernadette Alleman vs. Roberta Duhon) and consider multiple action items, including approving early release of $3 million for turf and scoreboard projects at Acadiana and Northside High Schools, renaming Carencro Heights Elementary, and adding projects to the committed school sites fund. The board will also recognize distinguished board members and discuss transitioning to an alternative payroll cycle.

• Discussion and action on pending litigation Bernadette Alleman vs. Roberta Duhon (Docket No. C-20205854 B)
• Early release of $3 million from Self-Funded Construction Fund for turf/scoreboard at Acadiana High and turf at Northside High
• Renaming Carencro Heights Elementary School to Carencro A. J. 'Bob' Lilly Elementary
• Approving resolutions for National School Counseling Week, Black History Month, and Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
• Directing cost estimates for Prairie Elementary renovations and adding Carencro High Field House and David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy Gymnasium to committed projects

The Board accepted the advice of counsel regarding pending litigation in the case of Bernadette Alleman vs. Roberta Duhon, et al. Additionally, the Board passed resolutions recognizing Black History Month and National School Counseling Week.

• Accepted advice of counsel in Bernadette Alleman vs. Roberta Duhon, et al (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 02-023-2057 designating Feb 6-10, 2023, as National School Counseling Week (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 02-023-2055 proclaiming February 2023 as Black History Month (9-0)

LPSB-Regular Board Meeting - REVISION #2

The Lafayette Parish School Board elected Tommy Angelle as President and Justin Centanni as Vice-President for 2023. The board entered executive session to discuss pending litigation (Pauline Zehner et al.) and workers' compensation claims, later accepting advice of counsel. Consent agenda items approved include adding Westside Elementary to the committed school sites renovations list, revised 2023-2024 calendars, and an MLK holiday resolution.

• Litigation discussion: Pauline Zehner et al. v. LPSB (Suit C-20210436) and workers' comp claims by Thelma Livingston and Ida Williams
• Addition of Westside Elementary to the self-funded construction project list alongside Prairie, Carencro Heights, Lafayette High, Northside High, J.W. Faulk, S.J. Montgomery, Judice Middle, Acadiana High, Southside High stadium
• Amendment #4 of Achieve! application approved, adding a pod to Truman Early Childhood Education Center
• Revised 2023-2024 district/administrative calendars adding a New Teacher In-Service day (7/31/23) and adjusting August 2 and 9
• Adoption of Resolution 01-023-2053 recognizing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

The Board elected its 2023 leadership and approved revisions to the 2023-2024 district and administrative calendars. Members also accepted legal counsel's advice regarding three litigation matters and approved an amendment to the Pupil Progression Plan.

• Elected Tommy Angelle as Board President for 2023 (9-0)
• Elected Justin Centanni as Board Vice-President for 2023 (9-0)
• Accepted advice of counsel regarding Pauline Zehner, et al v. LPSS (8-0, 1 abstain)
• Accepted advice of counsel regarding Thelma Livingston workers' compensation claim (9-0)
• Accepted advice of counsel regarding Ida Williams workers' compensation claim (9-0)
• Approved addendum to 2022-2023 Pupil Progression Plan for Literacy Support Standards (9-0)
• Approved revised 2023-2024 District/Administrative calendars (7-2)