Lafayette Parish School Board - Regular Board Meeting - REVISED (Wednesday, November 9, 2022).
Meeting called to order at 5:30 PM.
Members present
Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Members absent
None
1. MEETING OPENINGS
Procedural: 1.1 Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and Presentation of Colors - Comeaux High School Navy JROTC Magnet Academy
Procedural: 1.2 Moment of Silence
Procedural: 1.3 Opening Comments – Superintendent
Superintendent Trosclair gave the Board information and updates on the following:
RAMAGEDDON ROBOTICS TEAM: Earlier this evening, we recognized the Ramageddon Robotics team for their championship wins in tournaments throughout Florida, Texas, and Louisiana. The team consists of Coach Philip Ryland and high school students from David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy, Acadiana, Comeaux, Lafayette, and Southside High Schools.
ATTENDANCE AWARENESS MONTH POSTER CONTEST: Prior to tonight’s meeting we also recognized the winners of the recent Attendance Awareness Month poster contest sponsored by Director Jerome Robinson and our truancy staff. The winning posters are displayed in front of you this evening.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SOUTHSIDE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM for becoming District 3-5A Champions! Southside High finished the season undefeated in district and 9-1 overall.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ACADIANA HIGH AND CARENCRO HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAMS for making it to the playoffs. Acadiana High School will compete this week against Riverdale. The winner of that game will face Carencro High next week in the regional finals. Good luck to all of our outstanding student athletes!
OFFICE DEPOT’S BACK TO SCHOOL DONATION DRIVE: On November 8, 2022, the faculty and staff of Baranco Elementary School participated in a shopping spree at the Office Depot Pinhook location to spend a portion of over $26,000 the school received in donations from Office Depot’s Back to School Donation Drive. Baranco Elementary School is one of three schools across the state to receive a donation this year. In addition to the shopping spree, the school plans to purchase items that will benefit the classroom, the school, and the students. Thank you to Office Depot and the community for this generous donation.
MILLAGE RENEWAL: The 16.7 mills property tax on the November 8, 2022 ballot was renewed by voters. The nearly $37 million provides additional instructional support, addresses essential staffing needs, and assists with safe day-to-day school operations. I would like to thank voters for their continued support of our school system.
ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT: I was notified this morning that our annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021 qualifies for the Government Finance Officer Association’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. Thank you to Mr. Matt Dugas, Mr. Anthony Mouton, and our business service department for the excellent work they do for our school system.
2. INFORMATION ITEMS
Information: 2.1 ACADEMICS: On TRACK by 5 School Readiness Tax Credits - S. Bernard/Luquette
Dr. Shannon Bernard, LPSS On TRACK by 5 Child Care Resource & Referral Supervisor and Michelle Luquette, LPSS On TRACK by 5 Marketing Specialist; along with Cheryl Bartley, CPA; and Chad Abell, longtime tax credit contributor; provided information to the Board and the public on how to invest in birth to five early learning centers through the dollar for dollar School Readiness Tax Credit program.
Information: 2.2 EMPLOYEE SERVICES: Introduction of New Administrative Employees -Mouton
John Mouton, Director of Employee Services, introduced the following new administrative employees: Ms. Kadra Ellis, Principal at Carencro High and Mr. James Rollins, Principal at LeRosen Preparatory.
Information: 2.3 INFORMATION: Annual LSU AgCenter Report – Trosclair/C. Hebert
Charles Hebert, County Agent-Parish Chair of LSU AgCenter in Lafayette, presented the Board with the LSU Ag Annual Report for 2021-2022. He stated that the mission is to deliver research-based educational programs to all the citizens in the parishes in the areas of agriculture: Agriculture Resources, Master Gardener, Family & Consumer Sciences, 4-H Youth Development, and School Garden Initiative.
Appearances: 2.4 SUPERINTENDENT: Recognition of Myrtle Place Principal, Catherine Bricelj, Recipient of the 2022 National Terrel H. Bell Award for Outstanding Leadership – Trosclair
Superintendent Trosclair recognized Myrtle Place Principal, Ms. Catherine Bricelj, as the recipient of the 2022 National Terrel H. Bell Award for Outstanding Leadership. She also recognized and congratulated the entire staff at Myrtle Place for receiving the National Blue Ribbon Award.
3. LITIGATION
Action: 3.1 BOARD: Discussion and/or action concerning pending litigation in the matter of David Travasos, et al vs. Lafayette Parish School Board, et al, Suit Number 2013-1995, Div F, 15th Judicial District Court, Parish of Lafayette, State of Louisiana - Early
That the Board enter into executive session to discuss strategy in the matter of David Travasos, et al vs. Lafayette Parish School Board, et al Suit Number 2013-1995, Div. F, 15th Judicial District Court, Parish of Lafayette, State of Louisiana.
Motion by Britt Latiolais, second by Mary Morrison.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
That the Board return to Regular Session
Motion by Britt Latiolais, second by Mary Morrison.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
That the Board accepts the advice of counsel in the matter of David Travasos, et al vs. Lafayette Parish School Board, et al Suit Number 2013-1995, Div. F, 15th Judicial District Court, Parish of Lafayette, State of Louisiana.
Motion by Britt Latiolais, second by Mary Morrison.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Action: 4.1 ADMINISTRATION: Discussion and/or action concerning an addition to 2022-2023 Student/Parent Handbook regarding the improper use of electronic telecommunication devices-Gardner/Robinson
That the board approves an addition to the level 3 Elementary and level 2 Middle/High School Consequences of Behavior Policy in the 2022-2023 Student/Parent Handbook, by adding code 52 - Improper Use of Electronic Telecommunication Devices, as attached.
Motion by Britt Latiolais, second by Mary Morrison.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Kate Labue
No: Elroy Broussard, Donald Aguillard
Action: 4.2 BOARD: Discussion and/or action concerning Resolution 11-022-2049 American Education Week - Aguillard
That the Board approves Resolution 11-022-2049 American Education Week.
RESOLUTION 11-022-2049
AMERICAN EDUCATION WEEK
WHEREAS, public schools are the backbone of our democracy, providing young people with the tools they need to maintain our nation's precious values of freedom, civility and equality; and
WHEREAS, by equipping young Americans with both practical skills and broader intellectual abilities, schools give them hope for, and access to, a productive future; and
WHEREAS, education employees--be they instructional, administrative, or education support professionals--work tirelessly to serve our children and communities with care and professionalism; and
WHEREAS, schools are community linchpins, bringing together adults and children, educators and volunteers, business leaders, and elected officials in a common enterprise;
Now, therefore, be it Resolved, that the Lafayette Parish School Board—(1) thanks the educators of the Lafayette Parish School System including support professionals and substitutes; and (2) promotes the profession of education and the contributions of educators by encouraging students, parents, school administrators, and public officials to recognize American Education Week - November 14, 2022 to November 18, 2022.
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Secretary-Treasurer of the Lafayette Parish School Board, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true copy of a resolution adopted at its Regular Board Meeting of November 9, 2022, at which time a quorum was present and that same is in full force and effect.
Dated at Lafayette, Louisiana
this 9th day of November 2022
/s/ Irma Trosclair
Irma D. Trosclair, Secretary/Treasurer
Lafayette Parish School Board
Motion by Donald Aguillard, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.3 EMPLOYEE SERVICES: Discussion and/or action concerning the Drill Instructor Job Description- Gardner/J. Mouton
Resolution: That the board approves the revised Drill Instructor Job Description.
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.4 EMPLOYEE SERVICES - Discussion and/or action concerning an adjustment to the Instructional Pay Scale and an associated Budget Revision to the General Fund – Gardner/Dugas/Mouton
Resolution: That the Board approve an increase of $500 to the Instructional Pay Scale with an effective date of December 1, 2022 and approve a budget revision to the General Fund increasing Sales Tax Revenue by $85,312 to fund the cost of this increase.
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.5 FACILITIES - Discussion and/or action concerning budget revision to Self-Funded Construction Fund - Bordelon/Dugas
Resolution: That the Board approves a budget revision to the Self-Funded Construction Fund (Fund 45) to transfer $295,000 from the Committed for Next School Years Projects into a new project Carencro High Drainage Improvements Phase 2.
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.6 FEDERAL PROGRAMS: Discussion and/or action concerning Resolution 11-022-2047 State Parent and Family Engagement Month - Magee
Resolution: That the Board approves Resolution 11-022-2047 State Parent and Family Engage-ment Month.
RESOLUTION 11-022-2047
PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT MONTH IN THE STATE OF LOUISIANA
WHEREAS, November 2022 is designated as Parent and Family Engagement Month in Louisiana; and,
WHEREAS, the State of Louisiana and Lafayette Parish School System and Board values education and the academic success of our youth; and,
WHEREAS, families are a child’s first, longest lasting and most important teachers, advocates and nurturers; and,
WHEREAS, positive parenting and strong family engagement can be central to promoting a child’s healthy development and wellness; and,
WHEREAS, a strong partnership between schools, families and communities can aid in developing a generation of successful, productive and conscientious citizens; and,
WHEREAS, it is important for schools, early learning settings, and the community to welcome families, plan for family engagement and to assist families in engaging their child’s learning in ways that are effective; and
WHEREAS, the State of Louisiana and the Lafayette Parish School Board supports organizations that are committed to assisting families with engaging their child’s education and devolving stronger connections with schools and their community; and
WHEREAS, the State of Louisiana and the Lafayette Parish School Board encourages citizens to foster a love of learning in youth and continue to advocate for effective family engagement as an integral part of the school community.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lafayette Parish School Board does hereby proclaim November 2022 as:
PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT MONTH
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Secretary-Treasurer of the Lafayette Parish School Board, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true copy of a resolution adopted at its Regular Board Meeting of November 9, 2022, at which time a quorum was present and that same is in full force and effect.
Dated at Lafayette, Louisiana
This 9th day of November, 2022
/s/ Irma Trosclair
Irma D. Trosclair, Secretary/Treasurer
Lafayette Parish School Board
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.7 FINANCE: Discussion and/or action concerning revisions to Policy DCF - Fund Balances - Dugas/A. Mouton
Resolution: That the Board approve the proposed revisions to School Board Policy DCF-Fund Balance as attached in the public content section of this agenda item.
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action: 4.8 FINANCE - Discussion and/or action concerning granting authority to the Board President and/or Superintendent to execute the act of sale for the purchase of a portion of the old Walmart at 1229 NW Evangeline Thwy and approves a budget revision transferring $295,000 from Committed for HVAC (Fund 80) to Warehouse Consolidation (Fund 45) to accommodate the consolidation of the General & Food Services Warehouses – Dugas
That the Board authorizes the Board President and/or Superintendent to negotiate and execute the act of sale and associated joint maintenance agreements for the purchase of a portion of the old Walmart at 1229 NW Evangeline Thwy and approves a budget revision transferring $295,000 from Committed for HVAC (Fund 80) to Warehouse Consolidation (Fund 45) to accommodate the consolidation of the General & Food Services Warehouses.
Motion by Britt Latiolais, second by Elroy Broussard.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
No: Justin Centanni
That the Board table this item until the next meeting.
Motion by Tehmi Chassion, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Fails
Yes: Tehmi Chassion
No: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.9 FINANCE: Discussion and/or action concerning the Budget-to-Actual for October 2022 - Dugas/Richard
Resolution: That the Board approves the Budget-to-Actual reports for October 2022 as attached in the public content section of this agenda item.
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.10 FINANCE: Discussion and/or action concerning Truman Pre-K Construction Fund (ESSER) Budget 2022-2023 - Dugas/Richard
Resolution: That the Board approves the Truman Pre-K Construction Fund (ESSER) budget as attached in the public content section of this agenda item.
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.11 SUPERINTENDENT: Discussion and/or action concerning the Minutes of July 26, October 12, 2022 - Trosclair
Resolution: That the Board approve the minutes of July 26, October 12, 2022 as attached to the public content section of this agenda item.
That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
Action (Consent): 4.12 Approval of All Action Consent Items
Resolution: That the Board approve all Action Consent Items with the exception of items pulled.
Motion by Kate Labue, second by Britt Latiolais.
Final Resolution: Motion Carries
Yes: Tommy Angelle, Elroy Broussard, Justin Centanni, Tehmi Chassion, Britt Latiolais, Mary Morrison, Hannah Mason, Donald Aguillard, Kate Labue
5. ADJOURN
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned.
SIGNED: SIGNED:
/s/Tommy Angelle /s/ Irma Trosclair
Tommy Angelle, President Irma Trosclair, Secretary-Treasurer
LAFAYETTE PARISH SCHOOL BOARD LAFAYETTE PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
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