MINUTES OF THE
ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
2401 WESTBEND PARKWAY
NEW ORLEANS, LA 70114
May 16, 2023
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 President Olin G. Parker. The following board members were present: Olin G. Parker, Carlos Luis Zervigon, Dr. Donaldo Batiste, Katherine Baudouin and Nolan Marshall, Jr. Leila Jacobs Eames and Ethan Ashley were absent. Board Counsel Ashley Heilprin was also present; Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams was absent. Ms. Eames and Dr. Williams joined the meeting at 1:06pm; Mr. Ashley arrived at 1:10pm. Mr. Marshall departed the meeting at 2:38pm.
1.2 Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by President Parker.
1.3 Rules for Public Comment
Board Counsel provided a high-level overview of the OPSB guidelines for public comment/participation at OPSB meetings.
1.4 Adoption of the Agenda
Motion to adopt the board meeting agenda as presented by Ms. Baudouin, second by Mr. Zervigon
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Eames, Ms. Baudouin, Mr. Marshall
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Ashley
· Abstain: None
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 Adoption of the Minutes
Motion by President Parker, second by Mr. Marshall to adopt the minutes of the April 18, 2023 Committee of the Whole Meeting. (waiving the reading)
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Marshall
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Ashley
· Abstain: Dr. Batiste
ACCOUNTABILITY AND CHARTERS
3.1 Schools Update
NOLA-PS staff provided its monthly Schools Update which included school highlights for May, featuring graduations, Grow Your Own teacher pipeline participants, and Teacher Fest.
Ms. Eames welcomed Marcus Hodges, assistant principal of operations at Alice Harte for the Schools at Work Presentation.
Board Comment:
· Board members commended the leadership at Alice Harte on the school’s literacy efforts, high school academic offerings, as well as its community presence.
3.2 Approval of Local Educational Agency (LEA) Agreement FY2023-2024
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the proposed LEA Agreement for charter schools remaining in the School Board's LEA and establishes a deadline of June 30, 2023, for charter operators to execute said agreement.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Marshall
· Abstain: None
3.3 Accountability Updates
NOLA-PS staff provided an update on the district's portfolio and authorizing practices, which included key updates on Notices of Non-Compliance, Policy Updates: Second Reading: Policy HA and Second Reading: Policy HB, and First Reading: Policy HH, pertaining to Student Safety and Well-being; School Quality Profiles; and Quality Schools Solution Circles.
Board Comment:
· A robust discussion ensued regarding clarity for metrics within the school quality profiles; implications for acknowledging the work of schools; accountability for learning and teaching; and necessity for resources.
3.4 Enrollment at Schools with Eligibility Requirements Presentation
Dr. Avis Williams provided an update on the district's enrollment at schools with eligibility requirements.
Board Comment:
· Clarity was provided on the data comparisons across the schools presented and request for disaggregated data across a range of metrics.
· A discussion proceeded regarding the implications for equity and access for educational opportunities, resources to support failing schools, student preparedness, as well as interface between school leadership and NOLA-PS administrative staff, including accountability, enrollment, and equity teams.
· Ms. Eames referenced OPSB policy relative to the superintendent’s intervention authority in support of failing schools.
· Dr. Batiste highlighted the necessity for a review of OPSB policy and policy implications to ensure the superintendent’s authority.
INNOVATION & STABILITY
4.1 Portrait of a Graduate Update
NOLA-PS staff provided an update on the Portrait of a Graduate, including
the seven attributes and corresponding power skills for post-secondary readiness that will form the NOLA-PS Portrait of a Graduate and provided next steps in the development and launch of the Portrait of a Graduate.
Board Comment:
· President Parker commended Dr. Fulmore for her endeavors to operationalize the Portrait of a Graduate and the engagement process.
· Ms. Baudouin acknowledged Dr. Fulmore’s efforts in this regard.
- Ms. Eames exercised a point of personal privilege to acknowledge the passing of Ms. Tara Johnson’s husband; Ms. Johnson is the chief executive officer of Einstein Charter Schools.
policy
5.1 Second Reading: Amendment to Policy HA, School Board Chartering Authority
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the proposed amendment to Policy HA, School Board Chartering Authority.
Chairwoman Baudouin deferred to Mr. Zervigon. Vice President Zervigon acknowledged cooperation among board members and school leader collaboration in the final development of the policy.
Motion by Vice President Zervigon, second by Mr. Parker
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Marshall
· Abstain: None
Public comment:
· Sarah Vandergriff Kelley, with Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools, spoke in support of both Policy HA and Policy HB.
Board Comment:
· Mr. Ashley commended the efforts Vice President Zervigon for his leadership with regard to development of Policy HA.
· Ms. Baudouin also acknowledged Vice Present Zervigon along with other education stakeholders.
5.2 Second Reading: Amendment to Policy HB, Oversight and Evaluation of Charter Schools
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the proposed amendment to Policy HB, Oversight and Evaluation of Charter Schools.
Motion by Vice President Zervigon, second by President Parker
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
Public comment:
· Lisa DeJean, Association for Gifted and Talented Students of Louisiana, was acknowledged to speak on this item but was no longer present.
BOARD COMMENT:
· A discussion ensued regarding the superintendent’s written notice requirement and clarity provided in this regard, including possible update to the contract template and reflection in the CSAF, and acknowledgement for review of the logistical implementation of the notice provision.
5.3 First Reading: New Policy HH, Student Safety and Well-Being
First Reading: New Policy HH, Student Safety and Well-Being
Ms. Baudouin deferred to President Parker to offer context for offering the proposed policy.
President Parker noted the loss of life due to gun violence within and beyond the district, as well as the trauma experienced by students. He acknowledged that schools are currently engaged in efforts supportive of school safety and commended student efforts in this regard. He offered context for the provision related to the RAVE Panic Button App, as well as provided a cursory review of the provisions with Policy HH and welcomed continued engagement in development of the policy.
Public comment:
· Sarah Vandergriff Kelley, with Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools, acknowledged the significance of school safety and student well-being and advised for thoughtful reflection in creation of this policy.
· Meghan Mekita, with the local chapter of Moms Demand Action, spoke in support of Policy HH and commended the efforts of the board in addressing issues of gun violence and encouraged the inclusion of parental involvement regarding gun safety.
BOARD COMMENT:
· Ms. Eames acknowledged efforts of board members and noted the urgency of attending to social, emotional needs of students.
· Mr. Ashley recognized the significance of this issue, especially from a parental perspective, offering a contrast in the response to COVID and the ongoing iteration of policy development. He further the commended President Parker’s leadership.
· Mr. Zervigon advised prudence and expressed concern for youth who might become involved in the criminal justice system resulting from the policy.
BUDGET AND FINANCE
6.1 Finance Update
NOLA-PS staff presented its monthly Finance Update providing updates on Financial Statements, Budget Timeline, 2024 Millage Levy, School Facility Preservation Program (SFPP), Sales Tax Rolling Analysis, and Departmental Updates.
Board Comment:
· Clarity provided with regard to the requirement for public hearing that will be held on the capital projects budget similar to the forthcoming consolidated budget hearing.
· Mr. Parker referenced there was no increase by the legislature in the MFP and commented on the choice between providing pay increases for educators versus paying off pension debt.
· Clarification offered regarding implications of the fiscal cliff in response to an inquiry by Mr. Ashley.
6.2 Request to Renew Contract with The Learning Collective for Type 1 and 3 Charter Application Review Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves renewal of the contract with The Learning Collective for Type 1 and 3 charter Application Review services for a one (1) year period from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, in the amount not to exceed $103,841.00 and authorizes General Counsel to prepare the contract amendment for signature by the Board President and contractor.
Motion by President Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· President Parker referenced the inclusion of DBE notation by the finance department and commended finance staff efforts in this regard.
6.3 Request to Renew Contract with BreakFree Education for Education and Wrap Around Services at Travis Hill Schools (2022-23)
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the second renewal of the contract with BreakFree Education for education and select wrap-around services to juvenile students housed at Travis Hill Schools for the one (1)-year period of July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, in an amount of $1,000,000.00 and authorizes General Counsel to prepare the contract amendment for signature by the Board President and contractor.
Motion by Vice President Zervigon, second by Ms. Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.4 First Amendment to Contract with Cox Communications for E-Rate Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the First Amendment to the contract with Cox Communications for E-RATE services in an amount not to exceed $51,600.00 and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare contracts for signatures of the Board President and the service provider.
· Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Marshall
· Abstain: None
6.5 Request to Approve Louisiana State Contract Purchase for Enrollment Systems Enhancements
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the purchase of Enrollment Systems Enhancements from the Louisiana state-approved vendor, Carahsoft, in the amount of $451,988.17.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Mr. Zervigon
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.6 Request to Approve Contract with Empower Schools to Implement Phase II of Reimagine School Systems Grant
Recommended Action: It is recommended the Orleans Parish School Board approves the contract with Empower Schools to performed Phase II of the Reimagine School Systems grant in the amount of $80,000.00 and authorizes General Counsel to prepare the contract for signature of the Board President and contractor.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.7 Request to Renew Contract with Blackmon Mooring for Disaster Recovery Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the first one-year renewal of the contract with Blackmon Mooring for Disaster Recovery Services for the period of August 9, 2023 through August 8, 2024 at an amount not to exceed $500,000.00 and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare a contract renewal for signature of the Board President and contractor.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Marshall
· Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· Mr. Ashley acknowledged the availability of resources to respond in the aftermath of a natural disaster.
6.8 Request to Renew Contract with PFM Financial Advisors, LLC for Financial (Municipal) Advisory Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the first one-year renewal of the contract with PFM Financial Advisors, LLC for Financial (Municipal) Advisory Services for the period of June 10, 2023 through June 9, 2024 at an amount of $150,000.00 and authorizes General Counsel to prepare a contract renewal for signature of the Board President and contractor.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Mr. Zervigon
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.9 Request to Renew Contract with CSRS for COVID-19 Program and Grants Management Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the first one-year renewal of the contract with CSRS, Inc. for COVID-19 and Grants Management Services for the period of August 1, 2023 through July 31, 2024 at $0.00 and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare the contract renewal for signatures of the Board President and the contractor.
Motion by Mr. Zervigon, second by Mr. Parker
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.10 Request to Approve Purchase of Computer Technology, Hardware, Software, and Licenses from Louisiana State Vendors
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the purchase of computer technology, software, hardware, and licenses for district employees from the Louisiana State approved vendors listed below in an amount not to exceed $1,060,307.00.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.11 Request to Renew Contract with Educators for Quality Alternatives for Restorative Practices Program for Middle School Students
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the first one-year renewal of the contract with Educators for Quality Alternatives for a restorative practices program for middle school students for the period of July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, in an amount not to exceed $950,000.00 and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare the contract renewal for signatures of the Board President and contractor.
Motion by Mr. Zervigon, second by Mr. Parker
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· Clarity offered regarding the funding amount and contract requirements.
· Clarification provided regarding the bridge program offered by Educators for Quality Alternatives for restorative practices at the Oscar Dunn campus for eight grade students.
6.12 Request to Award ITB 23-FAC-0039 for Temporary Modular Classrooms at Elijah Brimmer Jr. School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accepts the bid from Davie Shoring, Inc. in the amount of $740,000.00 for the temporary modular classrooms at the Elijah Brimmer, Jr. campus and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare a contract for signatures of the Board President and the contractor.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Marshall
· Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· Vice President Zervigon acknowledged the need for repairs at Elijah Brimmer Jr. School.
6.13 Request to Renew Contract with PFM Asset Management, LLC for Financial (Municipal) Treasury Management Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that Orleans Parish School Board approves the first one-year renewal of the contract with PFM Asset Management, LLC for Financial Treasury Management Services for the period of June 10, 2023 through June 9, 2024 in an amount not to exceed $43,000.00 and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare the contract renewal for signatures of the Board President and contractor.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Mr. Zervigon
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.14 Request to Award ITB 22-FAC-0052 for Hurricane Ida Repairs at Vorice Jackson Waters Elementary School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accepts the bid from Rycars Construction, LLC in the amount of $848,820.00 for the building repairs required due to damages sustained as a result of Hurricane Ida; and authorizes General Counsel to prepare a contract for signatures of the Board President and the contractor.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.15 Revolving Loan Fund for Lake Forest Elementary School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the School Facilities Preservation Revolving Loan Fund Agreement between OPSB and Lake Forest Elementary Charter School for Hurricane Ida repairs in the amount of $497,682.00.
Motion by Ms. Baudouin, second by Mr. Parker
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
· Nays: None
· Absent: Mr. Marshall
· Abstain: None
6.16 Request to Award ITB 22-FAC-0013 for Water Intrusion Repairs at Homer Plessy Elementary School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accepts the bid in the amount of $4,030,000.00 from CDW Services, LLC, for Building Repairs from Water Intrusion @ Homer Plessy Elementary School and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare a contract for signatures of the Board President and contractor.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Mr. Zervigon
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· The administration will provide follow-up regarding inquires raised by President Parker and noted by Dr. Batiste with regard to discrepancies reflected in bids on the agenda.
6.17 Revolving Loan Fund for Elijah Brimmer School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the School Facilities Preservation Revolving Loan Fund Agreement between OPSB and Advocates for Arts-Based Education (Elijah Brimmer School) in the amount of $13,639,967.00.
Motion by Mr. Zervigon, second by Ms. Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.18 Request to Award Invitation to Bid No. 24-CN-0001 - Milk Products for The Child Nutrition Program Fiscal Year 2024
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accepts the bid for Milk Products from Prairie Farms, d/b/a: Eastside Jersey Dairy, in the amount of: $269,433.85.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Mr. Zervigon
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
· Abstain: None
6.19 Request to Award Invitation to Bid NO. 24-CN-0002 - Paper Products for The Child Nutrition Program Fiscal Year 2024
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approves the bid meeting the lowest apparent bidder, for Paper Products, for the Child Nutrition Program for Fiscal Year 2024, from Economical Janitorial and Paper Supplies, LLC. The total amount of this award is: $231,369.80.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Dr. Batiste
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.20 Request to Award Invitation to Bid No. 24-CN-0003 for Fresh, Processed and Pre-Cut Produce
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accepts the FY 2024, First Quarter bid(s) for: Fresh, Processed and Pre-Cut Produce, from Capital City Produce, LLC, in the initial amount of $63,119.00, and not to exceed a total of $250,000.00, for all four (4) quarters.
Motion by Mr. Parker, second by Ms. Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
6.21 Resolution 10-23 Calling a Special Election re: Millage Renewal
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopts Resolution 10-23 ordering and calling a special election to be held in the Parish of Orleans, State of Louisiana, to authorize the levy of a special tax therein; making application to the State Bond Commission in connection therewith; and providing for other matters in connection therewith.
Motion by Ms. Baudouin, second by Vice President Zervigon
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
PUBLIC Comment:
· Dr. Ken Ducote, with the Greater New Orleans Collaborative of Charter Schools, offered support for this item, providing historical context for previous inadequacies in local school facilities.
BOARD COMMENT:
· President Parker underscored the importance of facility maintenance highlighting the recent celebration for completion of the School Facilities Master Plan and further noted that the millage renewal maintains the current tax rate.
6.22 Resolution 11-23 Levying Constitutional and other Dedicated Millages 2024
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopts Resolution 11-23 setting forth and designating Constitutional Mills and Other Dedicated Mills on all property subject to taxation in the Parish of Orleans, State of Louisiana for the year 2024.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Ms. Baudouin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
PUBLIC Comment:
· Dr. Ken Ducote, with the Greater New Orleans Collaborative of Charter Schools, spoke in support of this item.
PROPERTY
7.1 Capital and Facilities Update Presentation
NOLA-PS staff presented its monthly Capital Projects and Facility Updates which included key updates on Capital Projects Updates: Planned, Unplanned, and Emergency; Historic Preservation Award; 9th Ward Stadium Project Update; Community Power Accelerator Prize; and Millage Renewal Update.
Board Comment:
· Ms. Baudouin acknowledged facilities staff for their efforts preparing for the future while honoring the past.
· President Parker recognized Ms. Decuers’ leadership as she assumes the role of interim chief operations officer.
7.2 Adoption of Property Disposition Strategy
Recommended Action: The Property Committee recommends that the OPSB adopt the NOLA Public Schools Surplus Property Strategy as a blueprint to provide decision-making for vacant properties and land not needed for educational use.
Motion by Ms. Eames, second by Mr. Ashley
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
Board Comment:
· Clarification offered regarding when the strategy will be implemented; indication that not all surplus property listed will be disposed of; Ms. Baudouin, as well as current and former facilities staff, were recognized for their efforts and leadership in development of the surplus property strategy.
· Ms. Baudouin noted that community input will still be solicited as the surplus strategy is implemented.
· Vice President Zervigon acknowledged State Rep. Jason Hughes for his legislation allowing facilities revenue to be used for diverse public benefits.
· Ms. Eames complimented Ms. Baudouin for her representation of OPSB before the media on this issue.
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
8.1 Personnel Committee Report
NOLA-PS staff provided an overview of the NOLA Public Schools' separations, employment transitions, and new hires for the 2022-2023 school year.
Board Comment:
· Clarity offered regarding the availability of staff directory and number of central office staff.
· Clarification provided on the purpose and charge of the personnel committee.
· Mr. Parker commended Dr. Batiste for his leadership in bringing this issue to the board and further acknowledged NOLA-PS staff and their efforts.
LEGAL/LEGISLATIVE
9.1 Request for Conflict Waiver: Phelps Dunbar, LLP
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board waives any potential conflict of interest arising from Phelps Dunbar, LLP's representation of the School Board in a matter in which the University of New Orleans Research and Technology Foundation, Inc. is a plaintiff, while also representing that Foundation in unrelated matters, and authorizes the General Counsel to execute the necessary documents to effectuate such a waiver.
Motion by Ms. Eames, second by Dr. Batiste
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
- Motion to amend the agenda to add Action Item 4.2 Adoption of the Portrait of the Graduate
- Board Counsel Ashley Heilprin provided context for amending the agenda.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Ms. Baudouin
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
4.2 Adoption of the Portrait of a Graduate
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the OPSB adopt the Portrait of the Graduate as presented today.
- President Parker noted there will be an opportunity for public comment during Thursday’s Board Business Meeting.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Ms. Eames
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
- Ms. Eames recognized Lake Forest Charter School for having the greatest number of former K-8 students attending Ben Franklin High School.
- Mr. Parker noted the achievements of NOLA-PS students, highlighting the academic achievement of twin sisters graduating from Ben Franklin High School.
ADJOURNMENT
10.1 Adjourn Meeting
Motion by Mr. Ashley, second by Ms. Baudouin to adjourn the meeting.
· Final resolution: Motion passes
· Yeas: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
Meeting Adjourned at 4:56pm.