Rapide Parish School Board public meetings in 2023
64 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Board is deciding on several facility improvements, budget amendments, and inter-fund loans. The meeting includes reviews of school construction projects and the awarding of multiple vendor contracts.
- Inter-fund loans from General Fund to Special Programs totaling $900,000
- Mary Goff Elementary Roofing Project bid for $525,000
- Ball Elementary Campus Improvements bid for $518,000
- Digital Signs installation at various District 62 Schools for $167,000
- Bolton High School Band Room Floor Restoration for $46,500
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond. Mr. Jeff Powell will present the update. The meeting is at 5:00 p.m. on November 14, 2023, at the School Board office, 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets, Alexandria, Louisiana.
- Motion to receive update on District 62 Bond progress from Mr. Jeff Powell
Education Committee
The Education Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board voted to require a 2.0 GPA for current Bolton students to continue attending in 2024, and a 2.5 GPA plus Basic on state assessments thereafter. The committee also discussed rezoning feeder schools and received a report on 2022-2023 School Performance Score data.
- Motion to direct administration to present a strategic plan for Bolton students and review rezoning opportunities
- Substitute motion passed: 9th-12th graders at Bolton must have 2.0 GPA for 2024, then 2.5 GPA and Basic on state assessments
- Vote: 3-0 (Burgess, Fall, Franklin)
- Motion to receive report on 2022-2023 School Performance Score data
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee reviewed several items including inter-fund loans totaling $900,000 and multiple construction bids for school improvements. The committee also moved to send an ITEP application from Plastipak Packaging, Inc. to the full Board for consideration.
- Approved $900,000 in inter-fund loans from the General Fund to Special Programs
- Reviewed ITEP application from Plastipak Packaging, Inc. for board action
- $525,000 bid for Mary Goff Elementary roofing project
- $518,000 bid for Ball Elementary Campus improvements
- $167,000 contract for digital signs at various District 62 schools
Personnel Committee
The committee met to review standing personnel items including reports and leave requests. The agenda also included a discussion of potential personnel complaints for the full board.
- Review of new hires pending drug screening and background checks
- Review of promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Discussion of personnel complaints for full board action
- Approval of leave requests
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board will consider and vote on a contract to bring the Star Academy program to Carter C. Raymond, pending legal review and funding availability. The meeting includes procedural items such as call to order, invocation, and roll call.
- Motion to discuss and approve a contract for the Star Academy at Carter C. Raymond, pending legal review and funding availability
- Substitute motion by Steve Berry, seconded by Willard McCall, resulted in a carried motion
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Board met to review consent agenda items including school construction reports, inter-agency agreements, and budget updates. Significant actions included awarding large contracts for school enhancements and renovations.
- Awarded $5,400,000.00 bid for Bolton High School IAQ Enhancements
- Awarded $3,400,000.00 bid for L S Rugg Renovations
- Approved $300,000.00 agreement with Ballard CLC for Northwood High batting cage project
- Authorized advertisement for $170,000.00 Oak Hill High School Auditorium roof replacement
- Authorized advertisement for $84,500.00 purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee will meet to discuss an update regarding the progress of the District 62 Bond. The meeting includes a motion to receive this report from Mr. Jeff Powell.
- Update on the progress of the District 62 Bond
Education Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Education Committee met on October 17, 2023, and voted on seven action items. Key decisions include approving a plan to use $800,233 in one-time state funds for differentiated pay for employees on critical goals task forces, directing administration to present a strategic plan for Bolton students and rezoning options, and approving inter-agency agreements with the Masonic Learning Center and COPE Inc/Trio Programs for academic services.
- Approved $800,233 in state appropriation funds for differentiated pay for employees on critical goals task forces
- Directed administration to present a strategic plan for Bolton students and review rezoning opportunities for feeder schools
- Approved inter-agency agreement with Masonic Learning Center for remediation support services
- Approved inter-agency agreement with COPE Inc/Trio Programs for academic services on RPSB campuses, pending legal review
- Approved continuation of transportation agreement with COPE/TRIO, pending legal review
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee is meeting to vote on a series of routine financial actions, including approving contracts, budget changes, donations, and bids. Notable items include awarding a $5.4 million contract for Bolton High School IAQ enhancements, a $3.4 million renovation at L S Rugg, and rejecting bids for the sale of North Bayou Rapides School. The committee will also consider change orders for synthetic turf fields at Peabody and Alexandria Senior High, and several smaller facility projects.
- Award $5,400,000 contract for Bolton High School IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-08) using ESSER funds
- Award $3,400,000 contract for L S Rugg Renovations (Bid #62-24-07) using District 62 Bonds
- Reject all bids for sale of North Bayou Rapides School (Bid #24-01) as non-responsive
- Approve change order increasing Peabody Magnet synthetic turf field contract by $13,335 to $1,355,355
- Approve change order increasing Alexandria Senior High synthetic turf field contract by $20,296 to $1,377,521
Personnel Committee
The committee will receive reports on personnel actions including new hires, promotions, resignations, and performance contract renewals. It will also approve leave requests, discuss personnel complaints, and consider a revision to policy GBRIB on sick leave pending legal review. All items were sent to consent and carried.
- New hires pending drug screening and background check
- Promotions, rescissions, and resignations
- Leave requests approval
- Personnel complaints discussion
- Revision of sick leave policy GBRIB
Special Board
The board met in a special session to consider the annual Head Start application and budget due by November 1st. The board voted to approve the submission of the application and budget.
- Approval of the annual Head Start application and budget due November 1st
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board will vote on a consent agenda that includes awarding contracts for renovations at Acadian Elementary ($1.65M), Alma Redwine Elementary ($1.62M), Martin Park Elementary ($1.65M), Peabody Magnet ($4.26M), and Alexandria Middle Magnet IAQ enhancements ($300K), plus band instrument purchases ($100K). The board will also consider interagency agreements with The Reading Center and Speech Buds for student support services, and an ITEP application from Beaver Lake Renewable Energy.
- Award $1,650,000 bid for Acadian Elementary Renovations (Bid #62-24-02) funded by District 62 Bonds
- Award $1,620,000 bid for Alma Redwine Elementary Renovations (Bid #62-24-03) funded by District 62 Bonds
- Award $1,650,000 bid for Martin Park Elementary Renovations (Bid #62-24-04) funded by District 62 Bonds
- Award $4,256,000 bid for Peabody Magnet Renovations (Bid #62-24-05) funded by District 62 Bonds
- Discuss Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) application from Beaver Lake Renewable Energy, LLC
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee will vote on awarding bids for multiple school renovation projects funded by District 62 bonds, including Peabody Magnet ($4.3M), Acadian Elementary ($1.65M), Alma Redwine Elementary ($1.62M), and Martin Park Elementary ($1.65M). The committee will also consider an Industrial Tax Exemption Program application from Beaver Lake Renewable Energy, LLC, approve budget changes, and ratify the sale of North Bayou Rapides School. Most items were moved to the consent agenda and approved unanimously.
- Consideration of Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) application from Beaver Lake Renewable Energy, LLC
- Award of $4,256,000 bid for Peabody Magnet renovations (Bid #62-24-05)
- Award of $1,650,000 bid for Acadian Elementary renovations (Bid #62-24-02)
- Award of $1,650,000 bid for Martin Park Elementary renovations (Bid #62-24-04)
- Sale of North Bayou Rapides School (Bid #24-01)
Education Committee
The Education Committee met to review reports on student enrollment, specialized programming, and district plans. The committee voted to approve the 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan and send it to consent.
- Approval of the 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan
- Report on Rapides Head Start/Early Head Start including enrollment, teacher ratios, and the status of the Heyman Lane property
- Progress update on students in the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS)
- Report on 2023-2024 enrollment capacity for SPED, 504, EBD, and CBT students by school location
- Report on Gifted and Talented Program participation and Severe and Profound student enrollment
Personnel Committee
The committee reviewed reports on new hires, promotions, and resignations. Members also moved to revise policies regarding sick leave, executive sessions, and COVID-19 public health emergencies. Additionally, the committee prepared to receive a recommendation from the Superintendent regarding principal and assistant principal applicants.
- Proposed revisions to policies GBRIB (Sick Leave), BCBK (Executive Session), and EBBI (COVID-19 Public Health Emergency)
- Review of new hires, promotions, and resignations
- Recommendation from the Superintendent regarding principal/assistant principal applicants
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee will meet to discuss three items: an update on the District 62 Bond, a motion to approve a $150,000 budget increase for gym floor replacement at Phoenix Magnet Elementary (raising total to $250,000), and a discussion of Bolton renovations. The committee will vote on the budget increase and send recommendations to the full board.
- Update on District 62 Bond progress
- Motion to approve $150,000 budget increase for Phoenix Magnet Elementary gym floor replacement (WOID #180565)
- Discussion of Bolton renovations
- Committee vote to send recommendations to full board
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board will consider a consent agenda that includes awarding a $3 million renovation contract for D F Huddle Elementary, a $722,020 contract for Jobs for America's Graduates programs, and several other bids and contracts. The board will also receive reports on school construction projects and budget updates.
- Award $3,000,000 bid for D F Huddle Elementary Renovation Project (Bid #62-24-06) funded by District 62 Bond
- Approve $722,020 contract for continuation of Jobs for America's Graduates-Louisiana (JAG-LA) programs in middle and high schools
- Award $142,299 bid for Tioga Elementary School IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-40) using ESSER funds
- Award $225,000 proposal for turnkey purchase and installation of LED scoreboard at Tioga High School (RFP #23-59B) funded by District 11 Bonds
- Approve $130,000 renewal of professional services contracts for NCCER welding instructors at Northwood, Pineville, and Rapides High Schools
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board held a special meeting to consider and vote on a motion regarding the grade configuration of Bolton Academic and Performing Arts Magnet School for the 2024-2025 school year. The board approved a substitute motion to establish a pre-K–12 magnet school at the current Bolton facility, starting with grades 6–12 in 2024-2025 and adding pre-K–5 in 2025-2026, subject to remodeling. The vote was 6-3 in favor.
- Motion to create a pre-K–12 Academic and Performing Arts Magnet School at Bolton, starting with grades 6–12 in 2024-2025 and pre-K–5 in 2025-2026
- Substitute motion offered by Steve Berry, seconded by Linda Burgess
- Final vote: 6 ayes (Chapman, Johnson, Fall, Berry, Burgess, Dryden) and 3 nays (McCall, Franklin, Barrios)
- Motion carried; no further action items on the agenda
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee met to review staffing reports, leave requests, and personnel complaints. The committee moved to address a critical staffing shortage in the Student Information System (SIS) data analysis area. They also discussed the process for appointing principals and assistant principals from an applicant pool.
- Proposed creation of a 'SYSTEM ANALYST/DATA PROCESSOR' position with a fiscal impact of $104,000.00
- Motion to have the Superintendent and staff study the reinstatement of the principal/assistant principal applicant pool
- Review of new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Approval of leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints for potential full board action
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee will consider multiple capital projects, including Bolton High renovations ($5.7M), Cherokee Elementary renovations ($4.35M), and D F Huddle Elementary renovation ($3M), funded by bonds. They will also vote on a study for school secretary raises, approve budget amendments, and ratify bids for services and supplies. Most items are expected to be sent to the consent agenda.
- Motion to authorize bids for Bolton High Renovations ($5,700,000) funded by District 62 Bonds
- Motion to authorize bids for Cherokee Elementary Renovations ($4,350,000) funded by District 62 Bonds
- Motion to award bid for D F Huddle Elementary Renovation Project ($3,000,000) funded by District 62 Bond
- Motion to award LED scoreboard at Tioga High School ($225,000) funded by District 11 Bonds
- Motion to direct study on possibility of a raise for school secretaries
Education Committee
The Education Committee received a report on creating a pre-K to 12th grade academic and performing arts magnet school at Bolton High School and voted to send the matter to the full board. It also approved a $722,020 contract for the continuation of Jobs for America's Graduates-Louisiana (JAG-LA) programs in current middle and high schools, and a Youth Empowerment Services (YES) agreement to coordinate services for disconnected youth. Additionally, the committee discussed modifying policy KG on the use of school facilities.
- Motion to receive report on creating a pre-K to 12th grade academic and performing arts magnet school at Bolton High School; substitute motion to consider 3 options (pre-K–12, 3rd–12th, or 6th–12th) for 2024–2025; sent to full board
- Motion to approve $722,020 State of Louisiana Workforce Commission contract for JAG-LA programs in current middle and high schools (carried)
- Motion to approve Youth Empowerment Services (YES) agreement between Rapides Parish School Board and Rapides American Job Center for disconnected youth outreach (carried)
- Report on Rapides Head Start/Early Head Start including enrollment, student/teacher ratios, cost per student, and status of Heyman Lane property
- Motion to discuss and take possible action on modifying policy KG: Use of School Facilities (carried)
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to discuss a single item: a motion to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond, presented by Mr. Jeff Powell. The meeting is scheduled for August 15, 2023, at the School Board office in Alexandria, Louisiana. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Motion to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met in regular session on August 1, 2023, and approved a consent agenda that included several financial and educational items. Key actions included entering into a $34,600.90 cooperative agreement with LSU AgCenter for 4-H youth development, approving dual enrollment agreements for 2023-2024, and awarding contracts for new telephone and intercom systems at two schools.
- Approved $34,600.90 cooperative agreement with LSU AgCenter for 4-H Youth Development
- Approved dual enrollment agreements for 2023-2024 with multiple colleges including LSUA, SOWELA, and Southern University
- Awarded $100,000 contract for telephone, bell, and intercom system at Alexandria Sr High (RFP #62-24-00)
- Awarded $67,000 contract for telephone, bell, and intercom system at J B Nachman Elementary (RFP #62-24-01)
- Approved $65,300 MOU with Career Compass of Louisiana for college and career coaching
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond and to discuss arbitrage rebate services requirements for those bonds. Both items are motions for discussion or action.
- Motion to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond
- Motion to discuss arbitrage rebate services requirements for District 62 bonds
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee is meeting to review staffing reports and leave requests. The body is also addressing a request to reclassify specific secretary positions to Certification Specialist and Secretary II roles.
- Reclassification of two Secretary 2 positions to Certification Specialist positions with a dollar amount of $18,900.00
- Reclassification of current Secretary IV to Secretary II
- Review of new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Approval of leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints for potential full board action
Education Committee
The Education Committee will discuss and consider action on changing the 2023-2024 student code of conduct regarding hair color. Other items include recognizing Montessori-certified teachers, hearing a summer programs report, and approving several cooperative agreements and contracts.
- Motion to modify student code of conduct on hair color
- Cooperative agreement with LSU AgCenter for 4-H Youth Development ($34,600.90)
- Dual enrollment agreements for 2023-2024 with multiple universities
- Memorandum of Understanding with Career Compass for college/career coaching ($65,300.00)
- Policy revisions on safety, attendance, and continuous learning
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is reviewing budget amendments, grant reports, and several high-value construction and equipment bids. The body is also deciding on inter-fund loans to support special programs and emergency facility repairs.
- Proposed $1,800,000 inter-fund loan from General Fund to Special Programs
- $950,000 bid for Northwood High School Softball Field House
- $750,000 bid for Auditorium Stage Renovations at Alexandria Sr High
- $402,196 estimated cost for 2023-2024 student accident insurance renewal
- Proposed $50,000 loan from General Fund for Ruby Wise Elementary gym floor replacement
Special Board
The board met in special session to approve employee salary schedules for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The board also addressed a proposed janitorial services contract for Head Start sites.
- Approved Salary Schedules for the 2023-2024 fiscal year
- Authorized the Secretary to solicit formal proposals for janitorial services (RFQ No. 24-12) instead of the proposed $81,584.00 contract with Enmon Enterprises, LLC d/b/a Jani-King
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met to consider various educational agreements and financial contracts. The board approved several high-value facility projects and updated drug testing policies.
- Awarded $1,075,000 bid for Rapides High School Soccer Fieldhouse
- Approved $350,000 agreement for JAG-LA AIM High! programs
- Approved $195,000 bid for LED Scoreboard at Tioga High School
- Approved $150,000 dual enrollment agreement with Delgado Community College
- Approved $80,000 bid for track equipment at Northwood High School
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee will meet to discuss an update regarding the progress of the District 62 Bond. The meeting includes a report from Mr. Jeff Powell.
- Update on the progress of the District 62 Bond
Education Committee
The Education Committee voted unanimously on four action items: a new drug testing flow chart, a memorandum of understanding for stock epinephrine in schools, and two agreements to continue career and technical education programs. All items were approved and sent to the consent agenda for the full board.
- Approved a Reasonable Suspension, Devices, Smokable, and Edibles Flow Chart as part of the Drug Testing Policy
- Approved an MOU with Dr. Alice Hoyt to provide stock epinephrine (Epi-Pen) prescriptions to all schools
- Approved a $350,000 state agreement to continue JAG-LA AIM High! programs in middle and high schools
- Approved a $150,000 cooperative agreement with Delgado Community College for dual enrollment in the Jump Start 2.0 Hospitality and Tourism Pathway
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee will consider adopting the 2023 millage rates, approving a $1,000,000 inter-fund loan, and awarding multiple construction bids. The committee also plans to authorize advertising for bids on elementary school renovations and approve professional services contracts for student support. All items were recommended to be sent to the full board or consent agenda.
- Adopt 2023 millage rates for General Fund, Maintenance Funds, and Debt Retirement Funds
- Approve $1,000,000 inter-fund loan from General Fund to Special Programs (May 25–July 25, 2023)
- Authorize advertising for bids on L S Rugg Elementary Renovations ($3,400,000) and D F Huddle Elementary Renovations ($3,000,000)
- Ratify bids for Rapides High School Soccer Fieldhouse ($1,075,000) and Auditorium Stage Renovations at Alexandria Sr High ($750,000)
- Approve professional services contracts for school nurses ($259,225) and therapy/psychology services ($661,900)
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee met to review salary recommendations, new hires, and various personnel reports. The committee also considered a revised job description for the Pupil Appraisal Strategist position.
- Discussion of phase 2 salary recommendations and job descriptions with a $297,000 fiscal impact
- Approval of a revised job description for Pupil Appraisal Strategist with a $3,552 fiscal impact
- Review of reports regarding new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Review of leave requests
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board is meeting in special session to consider and act upon a motion to hear a report from its insurance consultant regarding renewal negotiations for property, equipment breakdown, and auto physical damage insurance for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The board will vote on a recommendation and authorize the administration and board president to sign related documents. The estimated total cost is $1,350,000, budgeted from the General Fund.
- Motion to hear report on insurance renewal negotiations for property, equipment breakdown, and auto physical damage coverage
- Action on recommendation and award for 2023-2024 insurance (estimated $1,350,000)
- Authorization for administration and board president to sign related documentation
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met in regular session on June 6, 2023, and approved a consent agenda containing multiple financial and operational items. The most significant action was approving $7,841,080.61 in curriculum and instruction purchases and professional services contracts for the upcoming school year, funded by various federal, state, and general funds.
- $7,841,080.61 approved for curriculum and instruction purchases and professional services contracts for 2023-2024
- $750,000 bid awarded for auditorium stage renovations at Alexandria Senior High (Bid #62-23-06)
- $100,742 bid awarded for Ruby-Wise Elementary School IAQ enhancements (Bid #100-39)
- $18,545.50 agreement with Kagan for professional development at Peabody Magnet High School
- Bids rejected for Tioga High School maintenance and bus storage building (Bid #23-36) as all bids were over budget
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board met on May 16, 2023. They received an update on the District 62 Bond progress and considered a motion to approve a $150,000 budget increase for gym floor replacement at Phoenix Magnet Elementary, raising the total from $100,000 to $250,000. The committee voted to delay action on the budget increase until the September committee meeting.
- Update on District 62 Bond progress (report by Jeff Powell)
- Proposed $150,000 budget increase for gym floor replacement at Phoenix Magnet Elementary (WOID #180565)
- Motion to delay the budget increase item until the September 2023 District 62 Committee meeting (carried)
Education Committee
The Education Committee is reviewing school attendance zones and professional development contracts. Members decided to move a proposal regarding attendance zone adjustments for several schools to the full board.
- Agreement with Kagan for professional services at Peabody Magnet High School for $18,545.50
- Review of attendance zones for Tioga Jr. High, Tioga High School, Alexandria Middle Magnet, and Bolton High School
- Proposal to adjust Tioga and Bolton attendance zone lines at the Red River
- Report on 2023 RPSB summer programming
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee reviewed various budget amendments, donations, and grant updates. The committee also moved to approve several large-scale bids for food supplies, facility maintenance, and instructional materials for the upcoming school year.
- Approved $7,841,080.61 for Curriculum and Instruction purchases and professional services contracts
- Approved $750,000 bid for auditorium stage renovations at Alexandria Sr High
- Approved $1,185,000 bid for the purchase of milk, milk products, juices, and ice cream
- Approved $4,159,485 in bids for meat, frozen foods, and processed foods
- Approved $70,000 payment for NIET EEPass subscription
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee will meet to discuss and vote on routine personnel matters, including new hires, promotions, resignations, and leave requests. These items are recommendations for the full board. No specific names or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.
- Motion to receive reports on new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Motion to approve leave requests
- Motion to discuss personnel complaints for full board action
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Board is deciding on various facility improvement bids and financial reports. Key actions include awarding contracts for indoor air quality enhancements at several elementary schools and approving budget amendments.
- Awarded $180,833 for Mary Goff Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- Awarded $116,987 for Paradise Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- Awarded $103,261 for Pineville Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- Awarded $115,000 for Pineville Jr High South Building Renovations
- Rejected bids for Tioga High School LED Scoreboard due to non-responsiveness
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee met to receive an update on the District 62 Bond progress and discuss a room divider project. The committee voted to authorize soliciting formal quotes for the Mabel Brasher Elementary Room Divider Project.
- Update on the progress of the District 62 Bond
- Authorization to solicit quotes for Mabel Brasher Elementary Room Divider Project (RFQ No. 23-64) with an $85,000.00 fiscal impact
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board will hold a special meeting to consider ratifying and awarding a bid for a synthetic turf football field at Alexandria Senior High (Bid #62-23-03). The board will vote to accept the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, contingent on compliance with Louisiana public bid law. The motion was made by Steve Berry and seconded by George Johnson.
- Motion to ratify and award bid for Synthetic Turf Football Field at Alexandria Sr High (Bid #62-23-03)
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee met to review reports on new hires, promotions, and resignations. The committee also moved to revise several employment-related policies based on recommendations from Forethought Consulting.
- Revision of policy GBN: Dismissal of Employees
- Revision of policy GAE: Non-Title IX Complaints and Grievances
- Revision of policy GBDA: Employment of Retired Personnel
- Review of personnel reports including new hires, promotions, and retirements
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and take action on several financial items, including employee pay raises for the 2023-2024 fiscal year and extracurricular/co-curricular supplements. The committee will also consider bids for school facility improvements, contract renewals, and insurance renewals. All items are being recommended for approval or further action by the full board.
- Discussion of employee pay raises for 2023-2024 fiscal year, estimated at $5.5 million from General Fund
- Discussion of extracurricular and co-curricular supplements for 2023-2024, estimated at $2.4 million from General Fund
- Award of bids for IAQ enhancements at Mary Goff Elementary ($180,833), Paradise Elementary ($116,987), H R Lawrence Upper Elementary ($83,515), and Pineville Elementary ($103,261) using ESSER funds
- Award of bid for Pineville Jr High South Building Renovations ($115,000) from District 52 Fund Balance
- Award of bid for LED scoreboard at Tioga High School ($195,000) from District 11 Bonds
Education Committee
The Education Committee will consider two new business items: recognizing school counselors of the year and approving recommended revisions to the Rapides Parish School Board Policies Handbook and Student Code of Conduct. The discipline policy changes cover mandatory suspensions, laser lights, discretionary suspensions, vaping, and dress code, pending legal counsel review. The committee will vote on whether to send the revisions to the full board for final approval.
- Presentation of plaques to Counselor of the Year winners: Robin Wood (Elementary), Toni Catalani (Middle/Jr. High), Ann Phillips (Secondary)
- Motion to approve revisions to discipline policy sections on mandatory suspensions/expulsions, laser lights, discretionary suspensions, and vaping matrices
- Motion to approve revisions to Section XII: Dress and Appearance for all Students (pages 97-99)
- No fiscal impact reported for the policy revisions
- Motion made by Sandra Franklin, seconded by Wally Fall, to send to full board
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Board met to review school construction reports, approve meeting minutes, and authorize various financial actions. Key discussions included a potential attendance zone review using the Red River as a boundary and several high-value contract awards.
- Review of attendance zones for Tioga Jr. High, Tioga High School, Alexandria Middle Magnet, and Bolton High School
- $150,000.00 for Girl's Locker Room Renovations at Northwood High School
- $155,000.00 for Turnkey Replacement of Bleachers at Northwood High School
- $105,000.00 for Purchase and Installation of Backflow Devices at District 11 Schools
- $600,000.00 for Purchase of Sanitary Maintenance Supplies
Personnel Committee
The committee voted to recommend revising sick leave and military leave policies to the full board. They also received reports on new hires, resignations, and retirements, and discussed personnel complaints.
- Motion to revise sick leave policy (GBRIB) and military leave policy (GBRID) based on Forethought recommendation
- Reports on new hires pending drug screening and background checks
- Reports on resignations, retirements, and performance contract renewals
- Discussion of personnel complaints for full board action
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee approved a series of routine financial items including personal services contracts, budget amendments, donations, and a budget update. The committee also authorized multiple construction and equipment bids, the largest being synthetic turf football fields for Peabody Magnet High School ($1,096,875) and Alexandria Sr High ($1,300,000). All motions carried unanimously.
- Synthetic Turf Football Field for Peabody Magnet High School – $1,096,875 (Bid #62-23-02)
- Synthetic Turf Football Field for Alexandria Sr High – $1,300,000 (Bid #62-23-03)
- Turnkey Replacement of Bleachers at Northwood High School – $155,000 (Bid #23-52)
- Girl's Locker Room Renovations at Northwood High School – $150,000 (Bid #23-37)
- District Wide Time Clock Management System – $250,000 (RFP #23-54)
Education Committee
The Education Committee considered establishing an advisory panel to study creating a PK-12 academic magnet school with Performing Arts on the Bolton Campus. The committee also reviewed a report on the RPSB uniform policy survey and directed the Superintendent to review specific attendance zones.
- Proposal for an advisory panel to study a PK-12 academic magnet school on the Bolton Campus
- Motion to delay action on District 62 facilities utilization until after bond construction is complete
- Report received regarding the RPSB uniform policy survey
- Direction for Superintendent to review attendance zones for Tioga Jr. High, Tioga High School, Alexandria Middle Magnet, and Bolton High School
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to receive an update on the District 62 Bond and to discuss and consider action on allocating premium from bond sales to district projects. A substitute motion proposes allocating $1 million each to Arthur Smith Middle Magnet, Alexandria Middle Magnet, and Cherokee Elementary.
- Update on progress of District 62 Bond
- Discussion and possible action on allocating bond premium to district projects
- Substitute motion: $1 million to Arthur Smith Middle Magnet, $1 million to Alexandria Middle Magnet, $1 million to Cherokee Elementary
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board will hold a special meeting to consider a single action item: ratifying and confirming proposals for Erate Category 2 Firewall Smart Net Services (RFP # 24-41) and awarding the contract to the highest-ranked vendor, contingent on meeting legal requirements.
- Ratification of proposals for Erate Category 2 Firewall Smart Net Services (RFP # 24-41)
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met in regular session on March 7, 2023, and approved a consent agenda containing multiple financial and operational items. Key actions included authorizing bids for a covered pavilion at Tioga Elementary ($195,000), sanitary maintenance supplies ($600,000), and a stage floor replacement at Alexandria Sr. High ($65,000). The board also directed a community survey on continuing the school uniform policy and approved legal action to pursue damages from e-cigarette litigation.
- Authorized bidding for a covered pavilion at Tioga Elementary ($195,000 from District 11 School Maintenance Funds)
- Authorized bidding for annual sanitary maintenance supplies ($600,000 from Various Maintenance Funds)
- Approved a community survey on whether to continue the school uniform policy next year
- Approved legal action to pursue damages from e-cigarette litigation, engaging Franz Law Group, APLC
- Approved a coliseum rental contract for graduation ($17,800 from ESSER funds, half paid by schools)
Personnel Committee
The committee met to receive reports regarding new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements. The session also included the approval of leave requests and a discussion on potential personnel complaints for the full board.
- Reports on new hires pending drug screening and background checks
- Reports on promotions and performance contract renewals
- Reports on resignations and retirements
- Approval of leave requests
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee reviewed budget updates, donations, and grant reports. The committee also authorized advertisements for new bids regarding school maintenance and infrastructure projects.
- Authorized bid for Tioga Elementary covered pavilion installation ($195,000.00)
- Authorized bid for annual purchase of sanitary maintenance supplies ($600,000.00)
- Authorized quotes for stage floor replacement at Alexandria Sr. High ($65,000.00)
- Ratified bid for Martin Park Elementary School IAQ Enhancements ($60,445.00)
- Ratified bid for Tioga High School band uniforms ($75,000.00)
Education Committee
The Education Committee voted to approve an Affordable Connectivity Program trough initiative with Public Wireless, authorizing the Board President to sign related documents. They also approved a $17,800 coliseum rental contract for graduation, with half the total $35,600 cost paid by schools.
- Approved Affordable Connectivity Program trough (Public Wireless) initiative
- Approved coliseum rental contract for graduation at $17,800
- Total graduation cost $35,600, half paid by schools
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to discuss a motion to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond. The motion was made by Willard McCall, seconded by Linda Burgess, and carried. Attachments include a bi-weekly update and bond program documents.
- Motion to receive update on District 62 Bond (carried)
- Attachments: RPSB District 62 Bond_Bi-Weekly Update.pdf (6,741 KB)
- Attachments: District 62 Bond Program.pdf (3,011 KB)
Regular Board Meeting
The Rapides Parish School Board met to approve several school facility bids and educational agreements. The board acted on a consent agenda covering finance, personnel, and discipline matters.
- Approved $1,252,354 for Buckeye Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- Approved $230,000 for flooring and seating replacement in Oak Hill High auditorium
- Approved $150,000 for AIM Institute Implementation Plan and Services Agreement for Summer 2023
- Approved $73,000 for Lessie Moore Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- Approved $50,371 for Mabel Brasher Montessori IAQ Enhancements
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee will consider several bid awards for school IAQ enhancements, including a $1,252,354 project at Buckeye Elementary. They will also vote on personal services contracts, budget changes, donations, and receive reports on grants, budget updates, and special revenue funds.
- $1,252,354 bid award for Buckeye Elementary School IAQ Enhancements (ESSER funds)
- $73,000 bid award for Lessie Moore Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- $50,371 bid award for Mabel Brasher Montessori IAQ Enhancements
- $230,000 bid award for turnkey replacement of flooring and seating at Oak Hill High auditorium
- Approval of personal services contracts, leases, and other agreements
Personnel Committee
The committee met to receive reports on various personnel matters and approve leave requests. The agenda included discussions regarding new hires, promotions, resignations, and potential personnel complaints.
- Reports on new hires pending drug screening and background checks
- Reports on promotions and performance contract renewals
- Reports on resignations and retirements
- Discussion of personnel complaints for full board action
- Approval of leave requests
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond. The meeting is scheduled for January 17, 2023, at 5:15 p.m. in the School Board meeting room.
- Motion to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond
Education Committee
The Education Committee discussed and voted on several items, including attendance zone options for Mable Brasher, Rugg, and Huddle Elementary schools to balance enrollment. The committee approved a substitute motion to adopt Mable Brasher Montessori as a neighborhood school with a Montessori program, sending it to the full board. It also approved a $150,000 AIM Institute contract for summer 2023, 28 NIET EE Pass site licenses for $70,000, and four calendar options for the 2023-24 school year for public vote. A presentation on e-cigarette health consequences was heard.
- Attendance zone options to balance enrollment at Mable Brasher, Rugg, and Huddle Elementary schools
- Substitute motion to adopt Mable Brasher Montessori as neighborhood school with Montessori program (sent to full board)
- Approval of AIM Institute Implementation Plan and Services Agreement for $150,000 (ESSER funded)
- Approval of 28 NIET EE Pass site licenses for $70,000 (ESSER II funded)
- Four calendar options for 2023-24 school year released for public vote
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board met to announce a future resolution regarding a special election. This election would be held in Lecompte-Lamourie-Woodworth School District No. 57 to authorize the issuance of general obligation bonds.
- Announcement of a planned resolution for a special election in Lecompte-Lamourie-Woodworth School District No. 57 regarding general obligation bonds
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Board met to elect new officers for 2023 and review various administrative reports. Key actions included ratifying bids for indoor air quality enhancements at three elementary schools and a gym floor replacement.
- $71,401.00 bid ratification for Forest Hill Jr High School IAQ Enhancements
- $108,928.00 bid ratification for J B Nachman Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- $287,116.00 bid ratification for J I Barron Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- $96,000.00 bid ratification for Northwood High School girls' gym floor replacement
- Resolution to call a special election in Rigolette School District Number 11