MINUTES OF THE
ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
2401 WESTBEND PARKWAY
NEW ORLEANS, LA 70114
JUNE 9, 2020
Meeting Norms
Board Counsel provided virtual meeting norms in response to the CDC and the Governor's guidelines for gatherings, given the public health emergency. This including public participation and general format of the meeting under the circumstances.
1.1 Call to Order – Roll Call
The Orleans Parish School Board Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 1:04pm by Board President Ethan Ashley. The following board members were present: Ethan Ashley, John A. Brown, Sr., Leslie Ellison, Ben Kleban, Woody Koppel, Nolan Marshall, Jr., and Sarah Newell Usdin. Superintendent Dr. Henderson Lewis, Jr. and Board Counsel Sharonda Williams were also present.
-Interpretation services were acknowledged.
Mr. Ashley called for a moment of silence in solidarity with the family of George Floyd.
1.2 Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Ashley.
1.3 Adoption of the Agenda
Motion to adopt the board meeting agenda as amended. Board Counsel read revisions to Resolution 13-20 under Action 5.7 including:
- NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVEDthat the Orleans Parish School Board:
Requires NOLA-PS to provide all schools with the option to delay collections of the full amount of any “negative” deferred revenues from 2019-2020 until a future year when deferred revenues are “positive,” according to the plan developed by NOLA-PS in consultation with the School Finance Working Group;
Requires that any school opting to delay such collections shall do so pursuant to a written agreement with NOLA-PS approved by the school’s charter board of directors or governing authority, as applicable; and
Requires NOLA-PS to provide regular updates to the Orleans Parish School Board and schools on updated financial projections and related actions, engagement, support, and solutions.
Motion by Mr. Koppel second by Ms. Newell Usdin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 Adoption of the Minutes
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Mr. Ashley to adopt the minutes of the May 12th Committee of the Whole as printed (waiving the reading).
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
PRESENTATIONS
Dr. Lewis acknowledged Mr. Ashley for the moment of silence and provided an overview of the presentations.
3.1 Schools Update
NOLA-PS staff provided a Schools and COVID-19 Update. This included key updates on school facility closure status; providing essential aspects of the various phases of the approach to COVID-19 including rapid response, assessment re-entry planning, and implementation. Coordination is occurring across essential partners, stakeholders, and working groups including school leadership, advisory councils, topic specific working groups, etc. NOLA-PS and partner schools will continue the feeding program throughout the summer. Information on the NOLA-PS Support Priority on Mental and Behavioral Health was provided and is to include expanded access to telehealth services for psychiatry, convening mental health leaders, and providing resources for social emotional learning. Additionally, an update regarding the direct operations of Mary D. Coghill was provided.
BOARD COMMENTS
· Mr. Brown asked about the core challenges as the staff is working on planning for re-entry.
· Ms. Hasiotis indicated that the main challenges included CDC classroom capacity requirements, meeting all of the needs of the family/parents, and ensuring plan implantation is conducted in a safe and ethical manner.
· Ms. Newell Usdin inquired about other groups the district is engaging with regarding re-entry planning.
· Ms. Hasiotis indicated that NOLA-PS is engaging with various group and that a list of groups and individuals would be provided.
· Ms. Newell Usdin requested clarification with regard to loss of learning and rigor that has occurred during the pandemic.
· Ms. Hasiotis indicated some State guidelines have been provided. This includes state provided resources and tools to conduct assessments and provide supports once assessed. NOLA-PS is also working to provide resources toolkits and free access to leading non-profits to assist in planning distance learning programs.
· Mr. Koppel inquired on how questions for the survey were developed and how the public could give feedback on the re-entry plan.
· Ms. Hasiotis indicated that the survey questions were developed from reviewing best practice sets from different non-profits and prioritized reflections from staff, student, and parent experiences from last spring. Additionally, the plan is to share the plan publicly in the next two weeks and accept comments.
· Mr. Brown inquired about any indication with regard to teacher retention this year.
· Ms. Hasiotis indicated that this issue is being discussed by school leaders, but do not have different data to indicate a different trend at this time.
· Dr. Lewis acknowledged the additional questions in the chat function and informed the public that a member of the administration would provide a response to those questions.
· Ms. Newell Usdin inquired about enrollment numbers at Coghill.
· Ms. Hasiotis indicated that Round 2 results are not available yet, however, after Round 1 approximately 400 students were assigned to the school.
· Mr. Ashley inquired regarding student attrition.
· Ms. Hasiotis indicated that information will be provided at a later date due ongoing enrollment changes during Late Enrollment.
· Board counsel provided a reminder that there were some comment cards submitted for item 3.1 however comments cannot be made on presentations.
3.2 Accountability Update
NOLA-PS staff provided an Accountability Update regarding current Notices of Noncompliance, including no new issuances of notices; Charter Board Governance updates; High School Credit Accumulation Audits; Financial Compliance; 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 review Charter School Renewals.
BOARD COMMENTS
· Ms. Newell Usdin requested clarification regarding the processes for a school under notice that is directly run by the district.
· Dr. Peterson we will ensure the school closes with the corrective action plan completed.
· Ms. Newell Usdin inquired about renewal proceedings give the alteration of the work around the Charter School Accountability Framework (CSAF) since COVID-19.
· Dr. Peterson clarified that the district has been in communication with Charter CEOs and Board Chairs to discuss options for how to move forward given impact to school performance scores.
3.3 Presentation of April 2020 Financial Reports
NOLA-PS staff presented its Finance Report, including: General Fund Revenues and Expenditures for the period of April 1 – 30, 2020; General Fund Balance Sheet at April 30, 2020 and Distributions to Charter Schools Through May 2020; and COVID-19 Fiscal Impact Update.
Comments
· Robust discussion around the fund balance, the surplus, and variances mentioned during the presentation was held.
· Administration indicated additional work on financials would be provided to board members ahead of Thursday’s meeting.
3.4 Presentation 2020-2021 Proposed General Fund Budget
NOLA-PS staff presented its Proposal of the 2020-201 General Fund Budget, including: Highlights, Next Steps, and information regarding the upcoming Public Hearing.
Comments
· Robust discussion regarding variances, operations of Mary D. Coghill, CARES Act allocations, Harrah’s Fund allocations and alternative plans mentioned during the presentation was held.
3.5 Capital and Facilities June Update
NOLA-PS staff presented its June Capital Projects and Facility Updates which included Ongoing NOLA-PS Capital Projects, On-Going RSD Capital Projects, DBE Participation, and Operations Team Accomplishments Update.
SECOND READINGS
4.1 Second Reading: New Policy HE, Enrollment
It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopt Policy HE.
Motion by Mr. Kleban, second by Mr. Koppel.
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
PUBLIC COMMENT
· Patrick Dobard, New Schools for New Orleans representative, expressed support of the policy and acknowledged the administration’s leadership on this issue.
· Angele DeLarge, Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools representative, expressed support of the policy.
4.2 Second Reading: Second Reading: Amendment to Policy CBF, Evaluation of the Superintendent
It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopt amendment to Policy CBF.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Mr. Kleban
· Final resolution: Motion passes to full board
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Marshall
· Absent: None
PUBLIC COMMENT
· Patrick Dobard, New Schools for New Orleans representative, expressed support of the policy and acknowledged the administration’s leadership on this issue.
· Angele DeLarge, Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools representative, expressed support of the revision to the policy amendment specifically the inclusion of the perspectives of advisory councils.
BOARD COMMENT
· Mr. Marshall stated that he doesn’t agree with the chronology of certain items requested of the superintendent. As of right now there are some items that he doesn’t believe are logical.
· Mr. Kleban would like to clarify that this vote is to provide the item to the board and welcome any comments from board members on how to improve the policy.
· Mr. Brown would prefer to wait until after the board is elected to adopt this policy.
ACTION ITEMS
5.1 Extension of KIPP New Orleans Schools deadline to open its three previously approved charters
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board grants KIPP New Orleans Schools an extension to opening its K-8 and 9-12 charters initially approved by Orleans Parish School Board on November 15, 2018, and a K-8 on June 6, 2018. Such extension shall extend to July 1, 2021. The opening of such site shall be conditioned upon a review of the overall academic, financial, and organizational performance of the organization, district review of the operator’s pre-opening plan, including any material changes in the applicant team and approval of the NOLA-PS Superintendent.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Ms. Newell Usdin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.2 Extension of IDEA Public Schools NOLA deadline to open its second approved charter
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board grants IDEA Public Schools NOLA an extension to opening its charter initially approved by Orleans Parish School Board on May 18, 2017. Such extension shall extend to July 1, 2021. The opening of such site shall be conditioned upon a review of the overall academic, financial, and organizational performance of the organization, district review of the operator’s pre-opening plan, including any material changes in the applicant team and approval of the NOLA-PS Superintendent.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Ms. Newell Usdin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.3 Extension of FirstLine Schools deadline to open its approved charter
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board grants FirstLine Schools an extension to opening its charters initially approved by Orleans Parish School Board on December 17, 2017. Such extension shall extend to July 1, 2021. The opening of such site shall be conditioned upon a review of the overall academic, financial, and organizational performance of the organization, district review of the operator’s pre-opening plan, including any material changes in the applicant team and approval of the NOLA-PS Superintendent.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Ms. Newell Usdin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.4 Extension of Young Audiences Charter Association deadline to open its approved charter
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board grants Young Audiences Charter Association an extension to opening its charters initially approved by Orleans Parish School Board on June 7, 2018. Such extension shall extend to July 1, 2021. The opening of such site shall be conditioned upon a review of the overall academic, financial, and organizational performance of the organization, district review of the operator’s pre-opening plan, including any material changes in the applicant team and approval of the NOLA-PS Superintendent.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Ms. Ellison
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.5 Request to Award Proposal Number 20-0066 for Professional Auditing Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the proposal meeting specifications, terms, and conditions for Request For Proposal 20-0066, Professional Auditing Services, from Postlethwaite and Netterville, APAC in the amount of $370,900 for three years, including two options to renew for one-year and authorizes the Board President to sign an Engagement Letter.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Newell Usdin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.6 Request to Adopt Budget Resolution 12-20 Authorizing the Third Amendment to the Capital Fund Budget of Revenues and Expenditures, Specifically the School Facilities Preservation Program Fund, for the Fiscal Year Beginning on July 1, 2019 and Ending on June 30, 2020.
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopts Budget Resolution 12-20 authorizing the third amendment to the Capital Fund Budget of Revenues and Expenditures, specifically the School Facilities Preservation Program fund, for the fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2019 and ending on June 30, 2020.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Mr. Brown
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.7 Request to Adopt Resolution 13-20 Providing All Schools With the Option to Delay Collections of the Full Amount of Any "Negative" Deferred Revenues From the 2019-2020 Fiscal Year Until a Future Year When Deferred Revenues are "Positive".
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopts Resolution 13-20 providing all schools with the option to delay collections of the full amount of any "negative" deferred revenues until a future year when deferred revenues are "positive" due to the importance and urgency to support schools with the financial resources they need to provide a safe, healthy environment for educators, students, support staff, and families that is conducive to learning and academic achievement.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Mr. Kleban with addition of paragraph read by Board Counsel
- NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVEDthat the Orleans Parish School Board:
Requires NOLA-PS to provide all schools with the option to delay collections of the full amount of any “negative” deferred revenues from 2019-2020 until a future year when deferred revenues are “positive,” according to the plan developed by NOLA-PS in consultation with the School Finance Working Group;
Requires that any school opting to delay such collections shall do so pursuant to a written agreement with NOLA-PS approved by the school’s charter board of directors or governing authority, as applicable; and
Requires NOLA-PS to provide regular updates to the Orleans Parish School Board and schools on updated financial projections and related actions, engagement, support, and solutions.
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
BOARD COMMENT
· Mr. Kleban stated that this resolution assists with protecting resources for students in schools and is a step in the right direction.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
· Ken Ducote, Greater New Orleans Collaborative representative, expressed support of the resolution.
· Patrick Dobard, New Schools for New Orleans representative, expressed support of the resolution. The process for developing this resolution was strong to work through the funding issues with charter finance leaders. Expressed appreciation to the district leadership and all of the partners for the collaboration in this effort.
· Angele DeLarge, Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools representative, expressed support of the resolution, specifically to the inclusivity of the process in developing this resolution.
· Collette Tippy, Teachers of New Orleans representative, there needs to be the expertise of those directly on the ground to assist with these solutions including teachers, coaches, social workers, etc. Support school level committees that have a wide variety of stakeholders at the table.
· Lauren Jewett, community member, expressed concerns regarding diverse stakeholder representation on the Re-Opening Task Force.
· Jessica Wheeler, community member, expressed concerns regarding diverse stakeholder representation on the Re-Opening Task Force.
5.8 Request to Renew Property, Casualty and Flood Insurance Premiums Expiring in 2020-2021
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the renewal of property, equipment breakdown (boiler and machinery), terrorism (both property and liability), general liability (casualty package), worker’s compensation, excess liability, pollution liability, violent malicious acts, disaster management, and flood insurance policy renewals and authorizes the Board President to sign forms binding coverage effective July 1, 2020 through July 1, 2021.
Motion by Mr. Brown second by Mr. Marshall
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
Board Comment
· Ms. Newell Usdin requested clarification prior to the Board meeting on the significant change in risk.
· Mr. Kleban requested clarification on the historical data as he is aware of previous work being done to minimize the changes in policy and would like the information to compare.
· Dr. Lewis indicated the staff will provide that information.
5.9 Request to Approve Sixth Amendment to Third-Party Contracts to Provide Title I Supplemental Educational Services for Eligible Students in Non-Public Schools
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the sixth (6) amendment to the contract for Title I Educational Services for eligible students in non-public schools for the 2019-2020 fiscal year from Catapult Learning, LLC ($1,247,635.95), and Sylvan Learning ($275,069.33) and authorizes General Counsel to prepare the contract amendments for signature of the Consultants, and the Board President. The total amount of these services are $1,522,705.08 which will be funded by the federal Title I grant.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Mr. Kleban
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· Ms. Newell Usdin requested clarification regarding what is driving an increase and why is it more expensive.
· Ms. Allison clarified the item is a contract renewal but would confirm and report back.
· Dr. Lewis clarified that this is a predetermined amount by the federal government, but welcomed Ms. Garton to join in and clarify.
· Ms. Garton clarified that the final amount is predetermined by the federal government and that NOLA-PS is the pass through for the funding. Additionally, confirmed that it has zero impact on the financial efforts of the district and that NOLA-PS does get indirect costs to manage the contract adjustments.
· Mr. Marshall inquired about services being provided during the pandemic period and implications around honoring their contract.
· Dr. Lewis clarified that all contracts are affected by COVID-19 and would need to be adjusted on a case by case basis.
5.10 Request to Approve Louisiana State Contract Purchase for Telecom Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the purchase of mobility services for talk, text, data, and internet access from AT&T Mobility, who holds a Louisiana state-approved contract for a total amount of $120,000.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Ms. Ellison
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.11 Request to Approve Eighth Amendment with N-Y Associates, Inc. to Provide Design Services for Phase II of the Benjamin Franklin Elementary School Renovation Project
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the eighth amendment in the amount of $86,636.68 with N-Y Associates, Inc., for design services For Phase II of the Benjamin Franklin Elementary School Renovation Project and authorizes General Counsel to prepare the contract amendment for signatures of the Board President and Contractor.
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Ms. Ellison
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
5.12 Direct Diversion of USDA Commodities for Fiscal Year 2020-2021
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board authorizes the acceptance of the low bids meeting the specifications for a Direct Diversion of USDA Donated Products as listed in the rationale for the Child Nutrition Program for the 2020-2021 school year.
Motion by Ms. Ellison second by Mr. Koppel
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· Ms. Newell Usdin requested clarification on how food would be distributed
· Ms. Delcour clarified that it would continue to be distributed in the same manner it is currently being provided.
5.13 Request to Award Invitation to Bid Number 20-FAC-0065 for the Americans with Disabilities Act Walkways Handicap Playground and Installation of Perimeter Fencing Project located at Thurgood Marshall
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accepts the bid for Americans with Disabilities Act Walkways Handicap Playground and Installation of Perimeter Fencing Project from LLJ Environmental Construction, LLC in the amount of $184,900 to include option Alternate 1, Fence Material Upgrade in the amount of $62,400 and authorizes General Counsel to prepare a contract for signatures of the Board President and Contractor.
Substitute motion by Mr. Koppel to pass to the board with no recommendation but with the ask to review the alternate to figure out a way to get a less expensive alternate as he believes that the cost should be significantly less than the alternate. Second by Ms. Ellison.
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
BOARD COMMENT
· Mr. Marshall requested clarification regarding the need to change the fencing.
· Ms. Delcour clarified that the school faced security and access issues with existing fence.
PUBLIC COMMENT
· Adam Meinig, Executive Director of Success at Thurgood Marshall, expressed appreciation of the efforts on behalf of NOLA-PS to address the security and safety concerns at Thurgood Marshall. Additionally, expressed support for the potential of any supports in helping reduce the financial cost to the school.
5.14 Edna Karr High School Athletic Field Facility Alteration
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the requested Facility Alteration submitted by Inspire NOLA Charter Schools for Edna Karr High School as required by Policy HD.
Motion by Ms. Ellison, second by Mr. Koppel
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· Mr. Brown requested clarification regarding an athletic field being included in the original plans
· Ms. Delcour clarified that it was not included as FEMA funds do not allow for the inclusion of athletic fields in plans.
ADJOURNMENT
6.1 Adjourn Meeting
Motion by Mr. Koppel, second by Ms. Ellison to adjourn the meeting.
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Brown, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Kleban, Mr. Koppel, Mr. Marshall, Ms. Newell Usdin
· Nays: None
· Absent: None
· Abstain: None
Meeting Adjourned at 3:47PM.