Rapide Parish School Board public meetings in 2021
64 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Board met to take action on several consent agenda items including finance, education, and facility maintenance. Key actions included instructing the Superintendent on history curriculum development and approving multiple construction and service proposals.
- Instruction for Superintendent to develop American History and Civics Curriculum regarding the American Nation, Socialism, and Marxism
- Award of $330,000 proposal for engineering services to enhance indoor air quality in facilities
- Award of $35,000 quote for installation of a batting cage slab at Alexandria Senior High
- Ratification of bids for food processing equipment at Poland Canning Center
- Authorization to advertise and bid for a walkway canopy system at Huddle Elementary
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will discuss and vote on three items: a walkway canopy at Huddle Elementary, a walkway roof retrofit at Alexandria Middle Magnet School, and replacement of a handwashing station and urinal at Mabel Brasher Montessori. Funding for the first item is set at $330 per student allocation.
- Motion to authorize advertising and bidding for a walkway canopy at Huddle Elementary (10' x 85') with funding of $330 per student allocation.
- Motion to authorize advertising and bidding for a walkway roofing system retrofit at Alexandria Middle Magnet School (approx. 1300 linear feet).
- Motion to replace a handwashing station and boys urinal at Mabel Brasher Montessori.
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee met to review staff reports, approve leave requests, and vote on new school board policies. The committee also approved several position changes and job description updates within the Early Childhood and Head Start departments.
- Approved addition of an Early Childhood Instructional Coach position ($65,000.00)
- Approved changes to Head Start Education Facilitator job description ($5,126.00)
- Approved reclassification of Early Childhood Professional Development Facilitator to Instructional Coordinator ($27,153.00)
- Approved revised policy JBA regarding Compulsory School Attendance Ages
- Approved revised policy JR regarding Student Privacy and Education Records
Finance Committee
The committee reviewed several financial matters including budget changes, donations, and grant reports. Discussions also covered insurance renewals, property surveys in Alexandria, and various equipment and service bids.
- Renewal of excess worker's compensation insurance coverage with a $100,000.00 fiscal impact
- Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with CLTCC for mutual use of facilities for the 2021-2022 fiscal year
- Request for title abstract and survey for Block I and J of Thiels Place in Alexandria, LA
- Purchase of food processing equipment for Poland Canning Center for $42,000.00
- Installation of a batting cage slab at Alexandria Sr High for $35,000.00
Education Committee
The Education Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board met to discuss and vote on several items. They approved a motion to instruct the superintendent to develop an American history and civics curriculum emphasizing positive aspects of the nation and negatives of socialism and Marxism. They also received reports on Head Start, census reapportionment, and MTSS impact on discipline and academics, and moved to revise student transfer policy pending legal review.
- Motion to receive report on status of Rapides Head Start and Early Head Start
- Motion to instruct superintendent to develop American History and Civics Curriculum on positive aspects of American Nation and negatives of Socialism and Marxism (approved)
- Motion to receive report on review of 2010 Census Reapportionment Line
- Motion to revise Policy JBCD (Student Transfer and Withdrawal) pending legal review
- Motion to receive report from MTSS - Ripple Effect and Safe Schools on discipline and academic progress
Special Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board will hold a special meeting to consider ratifying a bid for electrical equipment repairs at Alexandria Middle Magnet. The only substantive action is awarding the bid to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, contingent on legal requirements.
- Ratification of bids for 'Purchase of Electrical Equipment for Repairs at Alexandria Middle Magnet' (Bid No. 22-23A)
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met to approve various personal services contracts, budget amendments, and facility maintenance projects. The board considered several bids for equipment and repairs across multiple district schools.
- Professional services contract with Larry Allen for $55,000 to transport USDA Commodities
- Bids for food processing equipment for Poland Canning Center totaling $42,000
- Carpet replacement at Ball Elementary for $47,600
- VCT flooring replacement at Peabody Montessori for $57,000
- Annual purchase of band instruments and equipment for $60,000
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee met to discuss and consider bond options for the district. The committee voted to adopt specific language for a bond call intended to finance capital expenditures, including school construction and improvements.
- Adoption of wording for District 62 Bond Call to finance school construction, acquisitions, and improvements
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee met to review several revised school policies and discuss staff-related matters. The committee also addressed updates to a facilities coordinator job description.
- Approval of revised Kindergarten Policy IDCC
- Approval of revised School Admission Policy JBC
- Approval of revised Public School Choice Policy JBCE
- Discussion regarding membership in the National School Boards Association
- Discussion on revising the Coordinator of Facilities job description
Finance Committee
The committee reviewed several items including a $910,000 bid for school bus air conditioning units. Members also discussed disaster recovery consulting, insurance updates, and various school maintenance projects.
- $910,000 bid for installation of air conditioning units on 79 RPSB buses
- $55,000 contract with Larry Allen to transport USDA commodities from Polar Bear Cold Storage
- $42,000 authorization to advertise bids for food processing equipment at Poland Canning Center
- $47,600 quote for carpet replacement at Ball Elementary
- $35,000 quote for drainage improvements at Phoenix Magnet Elementary School Phase 2
Education Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Education Committee met to receive and discuss four reports: civics and history curriculum standards (deferred from July), curriculum updates for middle schools and magnet programs, the Bolton Conservatory program, and strategic planning with the Louisiana Department of Education and Attuned Education Consultants. All motions carried with no action taken.
- Motion to direct the Superintendent to report on Civics and American History curriculum standards (deferred from July 20 committee)
- Motion to receive report on curriculum updates including district academic goals for Middle Schools and Magnet Programs
- Motion to receive report on the Bolton Conservatory
- Motion to receive report on RPSB Administration's participation with LDOE and Attuned Education Consultants on strategic planning
Special Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board met in a special session to discuss and vote on quarantine protocols. The board decided to implement a system where parents choose whether a student identified as a close contact must quarantine or may remain in school.
- Approval of 'Parent Choice' quarantine option for students defined as close contacts
- Provision of no-cost Covid screening for children under the parent choice option
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee met to discuss and consider bond options for the district. The committee approved a motion to allocate $100 million in bond funds using specific percentage splits for the Bolton, Peabody, and ASH feeder systems.
- Allocation of $100 million in bond money
- 30% allocation to Bolton Feeder System
- 30% allocation to Peabody Feeder System
- 40% allocation to ASH Feeder System
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board will meet on October 5, 2021, to consider consent agenda items including a $73,398 award to Executone, a COVID quarantine policy change, and a $63,970 MOU with Career Compass of Louisiana. The board will also recognize students and teachers and receive reports on construction projects and budgets.
- Award to Executone for $73,398.00
- Motion to direct superintendent to develop policy sending only symptomatic COVID students home, allowing masked students to stay in class
- Motion to direct superintendent to develop consistent COVID protocol across the parish
- MOU with Career Compass of Louisiana for college and career coaching at $63,970.00
- Classroom renovations at Pineville High School awarded to Decker Builders, Inc. for $36,484.00
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board met to discuss and consider various bond options for the district. No specific dollar amounts or final decisions were recorded in the agenda text.
- Discussion and consideration of District 62 Bond options
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee will discuss and take action on several maintenance projects, including a $138,000 canopy repair at Alexandria Middle Magnet, a canopy installation at D.F. Huddle on Stimson Street, and a $330 per student allocation for physical plant improvements across District 62 schools. Other items include blacktopping the front parking lot at Brame and discussion of the field adjacent to Martin Park Elementary. All motions were approved by the committee.
- $138,000 motion to repair Alexandria Middle Magnet walkway canopy from District 62 Fund Balance
- Motion to install a canopy at D.F. Huddle on Stimson Street (no dollar amount listed)
- Motion to allocate $330 per student for physical plant improvements based on October 1, 2021 enrollment
- Motion to discuss blacktopping the front parking lot at Brame
- Motion to discuss the field adjacent to Martin Park Elementary
Personnel Committee
The committee met to review standing personnel items including reports and leave requests. The agenda also included a discussion regarding potential personnel complaints for the full board.
- Reports on new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Approval of leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee approved several contracts and expenditures, including a $65,000 telephone system replacement at Pineville High School, a $35,000 classroom renovation at the same school, and a $55,968 modular classroom lease renewal. They also received updates on ESSER planning and budget, and approved an MOU with LDOE for ACT retests and WorkKeys assessments. Other approved items include professional services contracts for early childhood programs and a Follett software renewal.
- Awarded $65,000 contract for telephone/intercom/bell system replacement at Pineville High School (RFP 22-16)
- Awarded $35,000 quote for classroom renovations at Pineville High School (RFQ 22-12)
- Approved $55,968 renewal of modular classroom lease with Williams Scotsman for four classrooms
- Approved $18,375 MOU with LDOE for ACT retests and WorkKeys assessments
- Approved $59,869.68 annual renewal agreement for Follett software
Education Committee
The Education Committee approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Career Compass of Louisiana to provide college and career coaching. The committee also discussed updates to COVID-19 protocols and student transfer policies.
- Approved $63,970 MOU with Career Compass of Louisiana for student coaching
- Motion to review Policy JBCD regarding student transfer and withdrawal
- Directed Superintendent to develop policy for students showing COVID symptoms
- Directed Superintendent to develop consistent parish-wide COVID protocols
- Received update on curriculum, instruction, and High School Elevation Task Force
Special Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board will meet in a special session to address mechanical issues at Bolton. The board will review actions regarding HVAC system repairs and receive a report on preparation costs for W.O. Hall.
- Review of costs for Bolton HVAC system repair and mitigation
- Report on total costs for preparing W.O. Hall for HeadStart
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The board is meeting to discuss and take action on various educational agreements, professional service contracts, and facility maintenance. Key items include student support services and curriculum development for multiple elementary and high schools.
- Professional service contract for Licensed Clinical Social Workers for student and staff mental health: $230,000.00
- Contract with Edgenuity: $208,500.00
- Cooperative Agreement with LSU AgCenter for 4-H Youth Development: $34,600.90
- Professional Services Contracts with Curriculum Associates for Ready ELA curriculum: $24,000.00
- Bid for demolition and replacement of tractor shed at Rapides High School: $120,000.00
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee will consider and vote on a series of personnel actions including new hires, leave requests, job description revisions, and the creation of a new Principal of Virtual Program position. Notable items include a professional services contract for mentor teacher training and a study on extending junior high secretaries to 12-month positions.
- Creation of a Principal of the RPSB Virtual Program position with a salary of $107,763, funded 50% general fund and 50% ESSERF
- Professional Services Contract with Associated Professional Educators of Louisiana for mentor teacher training at $574 per mentor teacher
- Revision of School Secretary Job Description to include 12-month positions previously approved by the Board
- Study on Junior High Secretaries becoming 12-month employees, including combo secretaries
- Revisions to the Director of Technology and Virtual Learning Job Description
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee approved routine standing items including personal services contracts, budget changes, donations, and a budget update. New business items included contracts for software, consulting, coaching, and facility projects, notably a $480,000 engineering services contract to enhance indoor air quality at RPSB facilities using ESSER funds.
- Approved $480,000 engineering services contract for indoor air quality improvements (RFP No. 22-00) funded by ESSER
- Approved $120,000 demolition and replacement of tractor shed at Rapides High School (Bid No. 21-46)
- Approved $35,000 instructional coach contract for Early Childhood Preschool Development Birth-3 Program
- Approved $57,500 professional development contract for EL ARC CORE for 2021-2022 school year
- Approved $154,100 for ARC Core Materials for ESL Teachers
Education Committee
The Education Committee approved a $230,000 contract for licensed clinical social workers to provide mental health support at selected schools, a $208,500 contract with Edgenuity for online curriculum, and a $34,600 cooperative agreement with LSU AgCenter for 4-H. It also directed the superintendent to develop a summer reading list and explain mask-optional policies, and referred a policy review and school start date study to other committees.
- $230,000 for licensed clinical social workers at selected schools (ESSER II funds)
- $208,500 contract with Edgenuity for online curriculum (DSS funds)
- $34,600 cooperative agreement with LSU AgCenter for 4-H Youth Development
- $24,000 for professional development on Ready ELA curriculum at 12 schools (ESSER II and School Technology Funds)
- Motion for superintendent to explain mask-optional options to board and parents
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee met to discuss the bond calendar and planning. The committee decided to direct Volkert to provide a plan for one large middle school for students in grades 6-8 and one school on each feeder system.
- Direction to Volkert to plan one large middle school for grades 6-8
- Direction to Volkert to plan one school on each feeder system
- Discussion of District 62 Bond calendar and planning
Special Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board met in a special session to address the Bolton HVAC mitigation issue. The board voted to approve funding for this mitigation using the District 62 Funded Balance.
- Approval of Bolton HVAC mitigation funding from the District 62 Funded Balance
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met to approve various educational agreements, budget amendments, and financial contracts. The board focused on preparations for the 2021-2022 school year, including dual enrollment and curriculum updates.
- Ratified $1,499,000.00 bid for Cafeteria Fresh Produce (Bid No. FS10-21-22)
- Approved $201,801.77 for PowerSchool Student Information System license and hosting
- Approved $171,951.40 for Achieve3000 site licenses and $61,985.00 for professional development
- Approved $11,000.00 contract with Frog Street Press LLC for Early Childhood training
- Approved including Nachman Elementary in the Mabel Brasher Montessori overflow attendance zone
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board met and voted on four items. They approved a motion to declare North Bayou Elementary as surplus property, discussed carpet replacement at Peabody Montessori, and authorized moving a portable building from North Bayou to D.F. Huddle Elementary with a $31,232 cost. The committee also discussed the District 62 bond calendar and planning. All motions carried.
- Motion to declare North Bayou Elementary as surplus property (carried)
- Carpet replacement at Peabody Montessori discussed (WOID 191201)
- Move portable building from North Bayou to D.F. Huddle Elementary, $31,232 from District 62 Maintenance (carried)
- Discussion of District 62 bond calendar and planning
Personnel Committee
The Rapide Parish School Board Personnel Committee met to review staffing reports and leave requests. The committee discussed personnel complaints and a limit on board member comments. A motion was carried to make Junior High Secretaries 12-month employees.
- Motion to approve Junior High Secretaries as 12-month employees
- Review of new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Approval of leave requests
- Motion to limit Board Member comments to two minutes per motion
Finance Committee
The committee met to review various financial matters including contract approvals, budget updates, and interfund loans. The session also addressed requests for quotes on school maintenance projects and student information system renewals.
- Ratified a $1,499,000.00 bid for 'Cafeteria Fresh Produce' for the 2021-2022 school year
- Renewed PowerSchool Student Information System license for $201,801.77
- Approved a $300,000 interfund loan from General Fund to Sales Tax Fund #1
- Approved a $50,000 interfund loan from General Fund to Sales Tax Fund #2
- Authorized solicitation of quotes for sink installation at Julius Patrick Head Start Center ($33,000.00)
Education Committee
The Education Committee approved dual enrollment agreements with eight colleges, curriculum updates, and a $233,936 Achieve3000 license and training package. It also voted to make masks voluntary for employees and students and not to force COVID-19 vaccinations. A $11,000 professional development contract with Frog Street Press failed. The committee also discussed reopening guidance and other items.
- Approved dual enrollment agreements with 8 colleges
- Approved Achieve3000 site licenses ($171,951.40) and PD ($61,985)
- Voted to make masks voluntary for employees and students
- Voted not to force COVID-19 vaccinations
- Included Nachman Elementary in Mabel Brasher Montessori overflow zone
Regular Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board is deciding on several professional service contracts for educator training and student health services. The body is also reviewing budget amendments, school construction reports, and facility maintenance bids.
- Professional service contract with The International Center For Leadership in Education for $500,850.00
- Contract with Elevate K12 for the Rapides Virtual Program for $36,400.00
- Annual longevity salary supplement for School Food Service employees totaling $140,000.00
- Bid for removal and replacement of gym floor at Bolton High School for $175,000.00
- Quote for chiller replacement at Oak Hill High School for $78,000.00
Special Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board will hear a report from its insurance consultant on renewal negotiations for property, equipment breakdown, and auto physical damage insurance, then vote on a recommendation and authorize the board president to sign related documents. The estimated cost is $987,483, up from $822,903 last year. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, invocation, roll call).
- Motion to hear report and act on insurance renewal for 2021-2022 (Property, Equipment Breakdown, Auto Physical Damage) — estimated $987,483
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee met to consider several new job descriptions and position reclassifications. The committee also reviewed a revised retirement policy and discussed adding staff roles for food services and educational opportunities.
- Proposed addition of two Food and Nutrition Services Field Manager positions ($92,000.00)
- Proposed new Architect/Construction Manager position ($112,300.00)
- Proposed new Supervisor of Well-Rounded Educational Opportunities position ($93,000.00)
- Proposed reclassification of Drug-Free Schools and Communities Advisor to Safe and Drug Free Schools Coordinator ($24,000.00)
- Review of revised policy GBQ: Retirement
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee will decide on a $2.9 million 'Better Pay' proposal to use general fund surplus for employee compensation, along with a $140,000 longevity supplement for school food service workers. They will also vote on professional service contracts for student services totaling over $727,000, facility projects at Bolton High and Oak Hill High, and an interfund loan. Routine items include approval of personal services contracts, budget amendments, and donations.
- Motion to discuss and approve 'Better Pay' proposal using $2,900,000 from General Fund surplus for employee compensation
- Motion to approve Professional Services Contracts for Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and School Psychologist for $425,352 from General Funds
- Motion to approve Professional Services Contracts for Applied Behavior Analysis, Visual Communication, and Literacy Intervention for $206,950 from IDEA funds
- Motion to ratify bid for removal and replacement of gym floor at Bolton High School for $175,000 from District 62 Fund Balance
- Motion to approve annual longevity salary supplement for School Food Service employees costing $140,000 from federal funding
Education Committee
The Education Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board met on June 15, 2021, and approved three items: a $500,850 professional development contract with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for Data Teams training, a report on Curriculum and Instruction including summer programming and pupil progression, and a $36,400 contract with Elevate K12 for the Rapides Virtual Program. All items were approved by unanimous consent.
- Motion to approve $500,850 contract with The International Center For Leadership in Education (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) for Data Teams professional development, funded by ESSER II
- Motion to receive report on Curriculum and Instruction including summer programming and pupil progression updates
- Motion to approve $36,400 contract with Elevate K12 for Rapides Virtual Program for 2021-22 school year, pending legal review
Regular Board Meeting
The Board approved the purchase of Amplify Science Curriculum for grades 6-8 and several insurance policy renewals. Members also voted to reimburse employees quarantined for COVID-19 during May 2021.
- Approved $461,336.44 purchase of Tier I Amplify Science Curriculum for Grades 6-8
- Approved insurance renewal for Student Accident Insurance (estimated at $402,196)
- Approved insurance renewal for TPA Services, Casualty, Cyber Liability, and Fidelity ($643,907.82)
- Re-established $171,875.00 agreement with Meyers Engineers, Ltd. for District 62 Taxing Bond Initiative
- Approved $15,500.00 contract renewal for Ellevation
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee met to review reports on new hires, promotions, and resignations. The committee also discussed reviewing Policy BCBD regarding agenda preparation.
- Approved job description for School-Based Instructional Coach
- Approved reclassification of Master Teachers to School-Based Instructional Coaches
- Review of Policy BCBD (Agenda Preparation and Dissemination)
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee is meeting to approve routine financial items including personal services contracts, budget amendments, and donations. The committee will also vote on over $5 million in food service contracts for the upcoming school year, consider industrial tax exemption applications from Procter & Gamble and Avant Organics, and authorize several facility repair projects.
- Ratify cafeteria supply and food bids totaling $5,012,691.64 for 2021-2022 school year
- Approve Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) applications from Procter & Gamble Manufacturing and Avant Organics, LLC
- Authorize $480,000 in ESSER funds for engineering services to enhance indoor air quality in RPSB schools
- Approve $450,000 in special reserve funds for damages from Ice Storm Viola
- Authorize canopy replacements at Martin Park Elementary ($65,000), Cherokee Elementary ($75,000), Pineville High School ($25,000), and Oak Hill High School ($65,000)
Education Committee
The Education Committee decided on several contracts and a compensation plan. The body also discussed declaring the Rapides School District a voluntary mask district.
- Approved Transformation Plan for performance-based compensation for $360,600.00
- Approved $11,000.00 professional service contract with Brian Mendler for teacher professional development
- Approved $13,000.00 contract with Educators Rising for the Jump Start Educator Pathway curriculum
- Discussed declaring Rapides School District a voluntary mask district
District 62 Committee
The committee met to consider a donation for a new softball batting cage at Alexandria Sr High School and a bid for gym floor replacement at Bolton High School. Members also discussed conducting a study to consolidate district maintenance funds into a single fund.
- Acceptance of ASH PTO donation for 50% of softball batting cage costs at Alexandria Sr High School
- Authorization to advertise bids for Bolton High School Boy's Gym floor replacement ($175,000.00)
- Motion to study combining district maintenance funds into a single fund based on square footage and occupancy
- Request for information regarding the historical context of District 62 boundaries
- Discussion regarding the District 62 Bond initiative
Special Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board is meeting to review and approve grants. The board is also acting on a bid to replace the press box at Tioga High School.
- Approval of grants and authorization for Board President to sign documentation
- Bid No. 21-19 for Replacement of Press Box at Tioga High School
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board voted to adopt the 2021 tax millage rates and approved distributing $12 million in excess sales tax revenues to permanent contracted employees in a separate May 21 paycheck. The board also approved staffing numbers for the 2021-2022 school year, a new supplemental health insurance option, and several construction contracts. Items 12 and 13 regarding roofing change orders at Northwood High School were deferred to the May Finance Committee meeting.
- Adopted 2021 tax millage(s) (unanimous vote)
- Approved $12,000,000 distribution of excess sales tax revenues to employees on a 2:1 ratio (degree/certified vs. other positions)
- Approved $28,500 contract with Gentry & Holder Floors, Inc. to refinish gym floor at Peabody Magnet High School
- Approved $22,500 contract with Capturing Kids' Hearts for leadership training
- Deferred Change Order #1 ($2,100 increase) and Change Order #2 ($11,875 increase) for reroofing at Northwood High School
Special Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board met to decide on the disposal of the Jackson Street Head Start facility. The board voted to declare the property at 1335 Jackson Street no longer needed for school purposes and approved a contract to sell it.
- Resolution to declare 1335 Jackson Street no longer needed for school purposes
- Buy-Sell Contract with Rapides Parish Indigent Defender Board for $258,972.00
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee will meet to receive reports on personnel actions (new hires, resignations, etc.) and to discuss and vote on recommendations for the 2021-2022 school year staffing, teacher recruitment practices, and a new policy (CC). All actions are recommendations to the full board.
- Motion to discuss and approve administration's recommendation for 2021-2022 staffing
- Motion to present teacher recruitment practices for RPSB
- Motion to consider and take action on a new policy, CC
- Motion to approve leave requests
- Motion to discuss personnel complaints that may go before the full board
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee met to review budget amendments, contract renewals, and various construction bids. The committee authorized a $12,000,000 distribution of excess sales tax revenues to permanent contracted employees via a May 21, 2021 paycheck.
- $12,000,000 sales tax revenue distribution to permanent contracted employees
- $650,000 bid for roof replacement at Buckeye High School
- $250,000 bid for press box replacement at Tioga High School
- $400,000 bid for sanitary maintenance supplies
- Approval of $1,499,000 advertisement for cafeteria fresh produce
Education Committee
The Education Committee will meet to receive a report on Curriculum and Instruction. The discussion includes sophomore ACT results, February enrollment updates, and summer programming.
- ACT summary for sophomore testers
- February enrollment month update
- Update on summer programming
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board is deciding on several action items, including approving a $50,000 grant from The Rapides Foundation for healthy behaviors programs at Acadian and Pineville Junior High schools, adopting a digital employee time and attendance system, and authorizing bids for food processing equipment. The board also discussed revisions to policies on use of school facilities and sabbatical leave, and approved a right-of-entry agreement for drainage maintenance.
- Approve $50,000 Healthy Behaviors Mini Grant from The Rapides Foundation for Acadian and Pineville Junior High schools
- Adopt Alio digital employee time and attendance system starting June 1, 2021
- Authorize bids for $35,000 in food processing equipment for District 50 Food Preservation Center
- Ratify $18,875 canopy at Rosenthal Montessori and $32,480 demolition/construction of batting cage at Buckeye High School
- Approve $905.12 in travel reimbursement and registration fees for board member Sandra Franklin
Special Board Meeting
The board is deciding on a motion to reorganize several schools within the Peabody and Bolton feeder systems, including changing grade configurations, closing Hadnot Hayes and North Bayou, and repurposing other sites. The motion carries with 7 ayes and 2 nays.
- Make Acadian, Martin Park, Alma Redwine Pre-K to 5 in Peabody feeder system
- Make D.F. Huddle, Mabel Brasher, Rugg Pre-K to 5 in Bolton feeder system
- Change Arthur F. Smith to grades 6-8 and AMMS to grades 6-8
- Close Hadnot Hayes (RTA) and send students to RAPPS
- Close North Bayou and repurpose W.O. Hall and Julius Patrick for Head Start
Personnel Committee
The committee will review various personnel reports including new hires, promotions, and resignations. The agenda also includes a motion to approve leave requests and a discussion regarding potential personnel complaints.
- Reports on new hires pending drug screening and background checks
- Review of promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Approval of leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints for full board action
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee will consider approving personal services contracts, budget amendments, and donations. New business includes authorizing insurance renewal negotiations for casualty and property insurance up to $1.4 million, student accident insurance up to $390,000, and several interfund loans totaling $230,000. The committee will also discuss Forest Hill Junior High School capacity and other contract renewals.
- Authorize renewal negotiations for casualty TPA and property/casualty insurance up to $1,400,000
- Authorize renewal negotiations for student accident insurance up to $390,000
- Approve interfund loan of $200,000 from General Fund to District 11 Debt Retirement Fund
- Renew HVAC air filter maintenance contract for $210,240
- Discuss and take possible action on Forest Hill Junior High School capacity issue
Education Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Education Committee will meet to hear a report from Mr. Jonathan Garrett regarding plans for summer programming.
- Report on summer program planning
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet on March 9, 2021, to discuss and consider possible action on the Better Facilities, Better Programs, and Better Pay proposal. The agenda includes a motion to reconfigure several schools, including Peabody feeder schools, and to change grade configurations and facility uses. The recommended action is to send a recommendation to the full Board.
- Motion to discuss and consider action on the Better Facilities, Better Programs, and Better Pay proposal
- Reconfigure Peabody feeder schools (Acadian, Martin Park, Alma Redwine) to Pre-K to 5th grades
- Change Alexandria F. S. (AFS) to grades 6-8
- Reconfigure W. O. Hall as a Head Start Center and move RTA to RAAPS location
- Reconfigure Bolton feeder zone: change D. F. Huddle, Mabel, Brasher, Rugg to Pre-K-5, change AMMS to 6-8, extend Mabel Brasher zone to include North Bayou students, close North Bayou, and reconfigure JPE to Head Start Center
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board voted on several financial and operational items, including a $169,486.78 renewal for the Alio financial and HR system, expansion of Trinity School-Based Health Clinic Centers to 15 additional schools, and multiple staff reclassifications. The board also approved roof replacement projects at Forest Hill Jr High ($50,000) and Buckeye High School ($650,000), and a $35,000 auditorium lighting project at Tioga High School.
- Approved $169,486.78 Alio Maintenance Renewal for financial, HR, and IT systems
- Expanded Trinity School-Based Health Clinic Centers to 15 schools under existing IAA
- Approved $650,000 roof replacement on Jr High Building at Buckeye High School
- Approved $50,000 roof replacement at Forest Hill Jr High (RFQ No. 21-33)
- Approved $35,000 Tioga High School Auditorium Lighting Project (RFQ No. 21-30)
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee will consider approving a $169,486.78 renewal for Alio maintenance services, authorizing bids for a $650,000 roof replacement at Buckeye High School, and ratifying quotes for smaller projects. They will also discuss a proposed $2.89 million one-time salary supplement for all employees, though that item has been pulled for later discussion. Other actions include authorizing bids for cafeteria supplies and approving a change order for Northwood High HVAC upgrades.
- Approve Alio Maintenance Renewal ($169,486.78)
- Authorize bids for Buckeye High roof replacement ($650,000)
- Ratify quotes for Forest Hill Jr High roof replacement ($50,000)
- Approve change order #2 for Northwood High HVAC upgrades ($20,084.50)
- Authorize bids for cafeteria supplies for 2021-2022 (estimated $2.5M for meat, frozen, processed foods)
Education Committee
The Education Committee will receive an update on the K-2 Literacy Initiative from Mrs. Shannon Alford and Dr. Laquanta Jones, and a report on Curriculum and Instruction updates from Mr. Jonathan Garrett, including a discussion on revising the grading policy to use quality points for student averages. Both items were on the consent agenda and were approved unanimously.
- K-2 Literacy Initiative update presented by Mrs. Shannon Alford and Dr. Laquanta Jones
- Curriculum and Instruction update with discussion on grading policy revision by Mr. Jonathan Garrett
- Both items approved on consent agenda with unanimous vote (Mark Dryden, Sandra Franklin, Willard McCall)
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee voted to authorize administration to obtain quotes for a new bus canopy at Rosenthal Montessori Elementary school. The committee also requested cost information regarding repairs to the Alexandria Senior High auditorium stage.
- Authorization to informally quote construction of a bus canopy at Rosenthal Montessori Elementary school not to exceed $25,000
- Request for administration to bring back costs to repair the Alexandria Senior High auditorium stage
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee met on February 23, 2021, after being rescheduled due to weather. The committee approved three position reclassifications with fiscal impacts totaling $20,396, which will be sent to the full board for final action. Standing items included receiving reports, approving leave requests, and discussing personnel complaints.
- Reclassified Title I Clerk position to Secretary II, supporting Title One Coordinators and Director of Early Childhood ($2,807 from Federal Programs/Head Start)
- Reclassified Network Analyst position to Coordinator of Technology ($9,614 from General Fund)
- Reclassified Executive Assistant to Executive Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction to Executive Assistant/Public Relations ($7,975 from General Fund)
- Motion to discuss personnel complaints that may go before the full board
- Motion to approve leave requests
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Board decided on the 2021-2022 school calendar and authorized several facility projects. They also approved the issuance of refunding bonds for Pineville School District No. 52 and an ACT testing initiative for sophomores.
- Adoption of the traditional 2021-2022 school calendar
- Issuance of Taxable General Obligation School Refunding Bonds, Series 2021, for Pineville School District No. 52
- Authorization of $50,000 for roof replacement at Forest Hill Jr High
- Approval of $72,000 for ACT Initiative testing for all parish sophomores
- Approval of $100,000 for Pineville High HVAC repairs
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee approved several personnel actions including new hires, promotions, resignations, and leave requests. They also approved revised policies on teleconference/remote participation in board meetings and sick leave. Notably, they approved continuing COVID leave for employees quarantined due to work-related close contact, funded by ESSER I/II.
- Approved new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements (reports received)
- Approved leave requests
- Approved revised policy BCAD on teleconference/remote participation in school board meetings
- Approved revised policy GBRIB on sick leave
- Approved continuing COVID leave for employees quarantined due to on-the-job close contact, funded by ESSER I/II
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee will meet to consider several consent agenda items, including approval of personal services contracts, budget amendments, donations, and a budget update. New business items include awarding a $100,000 HVAC repair contract for Pineville High, authorizing solicitation of quotes for a $35,000 Tioga High auditorium lighting project, and renewing the Guide K-12 service for $32,117.40.
- Motion to award $100,000 HVAC repair contract for Pineville High (RFQ #21-29)
- Motion to authorize solicitation of quotes for $35,000 Tioga High auditorium lighting project (RFQ #21-30)
- Motion to approve $32,117.40 renewal of Guide K-12 service
- Motion to approve cooperative purchasing agreement with City of Baton Rouge for educational materials
- Motion to approve renewal of interagency agreement with Lifeshare Blood Centers
Education Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Education Committee voted to approve a motion to present components of the ACT Initiative, including testing all sophomores in the parish. The initiative has a fiscal impact of $72,000, budgeted from Carl Perkins Funds/CTE. The motion carried.
- Motion to present ACT Initiative components including testing of all sophomores (Action)
- Fiscal impact: $72,000 from Carl Perkins Funds/CTE
District 62 Committee
The committee will vote on electing Mr. Willard McCall as Chair. Members will also receive an update regarding District 62 funds and school construction projects.
- Election of District 62 Committee Chair
- Update on District 62 Funds and School Construction Projects
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board will elect a president, vice-president, and committee members for 2021, then vote on several contracts and policy revisions. Key action items include a $921,436 E-Rate goods and services contract, a $165,000 welding supplies bid, and a $360,000 playground equipment purchase.
- Elect board president, vice-president, and executive committee for 2021
- Ratify $921,436 E-Rate goods and services contract (RFP #21-32)
- Award $165,000 bid for welding supplies (Bid #21-24A)
- Approve $360,000 purchase and installation of playground equipment (Bid #21-23)
- Authorize solicitation of quotes for Pineville High HVAC repairs ($100,000)