MINUTES OF THE
ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
2401 WESTBEND PARKWAY
NEW ORLEANS, LA 70114
NOVEMBER 12, 2024
1.1 Call to Order – Roll Call
The Orleans Parish School Board Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Board President Katherine Baudouin at 1:02pm. The following board members were present: Katherine Baudouin, Leila Jacobs Eames, Ethan Ashley, Dr. Donaldo R. Batiste, Olin G. Parker, and Carlos Luis Zervigon. Nolan Marshall, Jr. was absent. Board Counsel Ashley Heilprin was also present; Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams was absent.
-Interpretation services were acknowledged.
1.2 Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by President Baudouin.
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 provided by Mr. Zervigon, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 Adoption of the Minutes
Motion to adopt the minutes of the October 22, 2024 Committee of the Whole Meeting as presented by Mr. Ashley, second by President Baudouin. (waiving the reading).
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Marshall
Abstain: None
ACCOUNTABILITY
3.1 Schools Update
Dr. Kelli Jordan, chief of school support and improvement, provided the following updates: ThriveKids Update, System Wide Needs Program Updates, and School Transitions.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided on school participation in ThriveKids Program, selection process for schools, and the availability of care coordination.
3.2 Portfolio and Accountability Updates
Rafael Simmons, chief portfolio innovation and accountability officer, provided the following updates: Notices of Noncompliance, Renewal Timeline, Charter Request for Applications, Data Integration, and Graduation Rate Data.
BOARD COMMENT:
An exchange ensued regarding The Rooted School relative to its inaccurate reporting of student count for three years, including resulting overpayment, and latest news coverage regarding staff layoffs at the school; comments provided by Vice President Eames, Mr. Zervigon, and Mr. Parker.
Clarification provided regarding costs associated with Data Integration in response to an inquiry from President Baudouin.
Discussion regarding graduation rates for English Learners; comments provided by President Baudouin, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon, and Vice President Eames.
Dr. Williams acknowledged district level efforts and supports for EL students across the district; Dr. Shayla Guidry noted convenings undertaken, as well as efforts ensuring schools are using best practices and are compliant with federal program guidelines.
Mr. Marshall noted the possibility of an academic program or charter school, within the portfolio of schools, where EL students receive academic content in their native language.
Mr. Parker highlighted the academic improvements across the district and acknowledged the efforts of the school community.
Mr. Ashley encouraged the district to explore the new ways in which EL students can be supported.
3.1 Portrait of a Graduate Update
Shelita M. Jones, chief academic officer, provided the November Portrait of a Graduate Highlight, featuring Samai Campbell, Delores T. Aaron Academy.
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
4.1 2025 Board Meeting Calendar
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopt the proposed board meeting calendar for the 2025 calendar year.
Motion by Vice President Eames, second by Mr. Ashley
BOARD COMMENT:
A discussion ensued regarding dates presented for January, July, and December in 2025.
Deputy Superintendent Fulmore provided an explanation for the dates presented in January, July, and December.
Clarification provided on the approval of the 2025 board meeting calendar.
Mr. Ashley mentioned the possibility of combining both the committee and board business meetings on a single day.
Motion to table and defer this agenda item to the Thursday board business meeting by Mr. Parker, second by Mr. Zervigon
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
POLICY
5.1 Policy Presentation
Deputy General Counsel Candice Forest provided a presentation of the policy agenda items: Updates Per Acts of the 2024 Louisiana Legislative Session and Additional Policy Updates.
Board comment:
A discussion ensued regarding 5.7 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy CBD, Employment of Superintendent (Amendment) and the application of Act 193 to NOLA-PS superintendent’s performance as relates to charter school performance, with a request from Mr. Marshall that legal inquire of the legislature its application to the district for clarity.
Dr. Batiste provided comment relative to the operation of The Leah Chase School and efforts that the school operate in the same manner as charter schools, as well as implications for the application of the amendment to the superintendent.
Vice President Eames provided comments on the amendment to policy CBD and its application to direct run schools.
Mr. Zervigon opined that the amendment applies only to direct run schools of the district and that the proposed policy amendment explicitly state its application to direct run schools for revisions by the administration.
First Reads were held for the following:
5.2 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy ABCB, Qualifications for School Board Members
5.3 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy BBBB, New Member Orientation
BOARD COMMENT:
A discussion ensued regarding the amendment to OPSB Policy BBBB and the information needed to onboard new board members. Comments were offered by Vice President Eames (committee reports); Dr. Batiste (legislative parameters, committee work plans); Mr. Marshall (administration of the policy and expertise, competency needed for public officers).
President Baudouin cautioned against the inclusion of requirements for certifications and performance evaluation of elected officials, as they are subject to vote of the electorate at periodic intervals.
Mr. Ashley indicated he is amendable to changes with the second read and noted the intent of the policy proposed.
Mr. Zervigon acknowledged the diversity of experience that citizens bring as elected school board members, as well as the need to ensure the onboarding process is user friendly.
5.4 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy BBBC, School Board Member Continuing Education
5.5 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy BCBB, Notification of School Board Meetings
5.6 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy BCBJ - Broadcasting and Taping of School Board Meetings
5.7 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy CBD, Employment of Superintendent (Amendment)
5.8 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy FEA, Architectural and Engineering Services
5.9 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy GAK, Personnel Records
5.10 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy GBA, Contracts and Compensation
5.11 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy GBRIB, Sick Leave
5.12 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy GBRIBB, Sick Leave Bank
5.13 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy IDDF, Education of Students with Exceptionalities
5.14 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy JGC, Student Health Services
5.15 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy JGCB, Immunizations
5.16 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy JGCD, Administration of Medicine
5.17 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy JGCFA, Behavioral Health Services for Students
5.18 Second Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy HH, Student Safety and Well-Being
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the proposed amendment to OPSB Policy HH, Student Safety and Well-Being.
Motion by President Baudouin, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker
Abstain: None
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Sarah V. Kelley offered public comment on this item, including legislative context.
Dave Cash offered public comment on this item.
BOARD COMMENT:
Mr. Zervigon thanked those offering public comments and encouraged feedback to the board when trainings become too burdensome for teachers.
5.19 Notice of Intent to Revise OPSB Policy DCBB, Systemwide Needs Program
BUDGET AND FINANCE
6.1 Monthly Finance Report
Nyesha Veal, interim chief financial officer, provided the following updates: September 2024 Financial Statements, FY2024 Audit Update, and Announcements.
BOARD COMMENT:
Mr. Parker requested that the board is informed of the vendor, timeline, and scope of work resulting for the selection of the financial consultant and acknowledged the efforts of Ms. Veal in addressing the financial dilemma.
Clarification provided regarding the two amounts reflected in the presentation pertaining to property value assessment estimates from the City of New Orleans for FY 2025.
Clarity regarding the reference to the fiscal year reflected in the presentation in response to an inquiry from Present Baudouin.
Clarification provided regarding the receipt of funds from property taxes by the district to date and outstanding amount in response to an inquiry from Ms. Eames.
Responding to an inquiry from Mr. Marshall, clarity provided for the inclusion of prior years tax collection in current year revenues.
Clarification provided regarding the city’s response to the district’s most recent request for additional information; communication exchanged on November 11th will be shared with the full board.
Indication that the financial advisory council will be included in forthcoming meetings and discussions regarding financial projections for next year.
Clarification provided for the fiscal years for both the city and school district and implications for tax collection on the budget and clarity regarding the true-ups and when they occur, as well as future reporting by the district regarding the current fiscal challenge and internal processes, responding to an exchange with Mr. Marshall.
Clarity provided regarding the reflection of the state stipends in the OPSB budget and supporting documents in response to an inquiry from Mr. Parker.
6.2 Request to Award Systemwide Needs Programs Therapeutic Programming Grants (CFR Transition Students)
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the awards for Therapeutic Programming Grants to ReNEW ($525,000), Crescent City Schools ($150,000), and Hynes ($75,000) in an amount not to exceed $75,000 per student.
Motion by President Baudouin, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided for the inclusion of Hynes as an awardee, responding to an inquiry from Ms. Baudouin.
6.3 Request to Award ITB 24-FAC-0018 Structural Repairs @ Warren Easton High School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the Base Bid from Colmex Construction, LLC for Structural Repairs at Warren Easton High School in the amount of $163,344.43 and Alternate 1 in the amount of $4,113.05 for a total not to exceed $167,457.48; and authorizes General Counsel to prepare a contract for the signatures of the Board President and the Contractor.
Motion by Mr. Zervigon, seconded by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
6.4 Request to Award ITB 24-FAC-0013 Window Replacement & Fire Alarm Replacement @ Frances Gaudet School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accepts the Base Bid from Tuna Construction, LLC for Window Replacement & Fire Alarm Replacement at Frances Gaudet School in the amount of $455,000.00 and Alternate 1 ($53000.00), Alternate 2 ($65,000.00), and Alternate 3 (70,000.00) for a total not to exceed $643,000.00; and authorizes General Counsel to prepare a contract for the signatures of the Board President and the Contractor.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, seconded by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
6.5 Request to Approve Amendment No. 2 to Contract with Lachin Architects, APC for Design Services for Metal Roof Replacement & Mechanical Improvements at Katherine Johnson School (ITB23-FAC-0015)
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve Amendment No. 2 to the contract with Lachin Architects, APC for Design Services for the Metal Roof Replacement & Mechanical Improvements at Katherine Johnson School, increasing the contract amount by a total of $116,607.60 from $308,121.00 to $424,728.60; and authorize General Counsel to prepare an Amendment for the signatures of the Board President and the Architect.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, seconded by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided that Ben Franklin High School is housed at the Katherine Johnson facility.
6.6 Request to Approve Textbooks Purchases via State of Louisiana Contract and Interlocal Purchasing Cooperative System (TIPS)
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the purchase of textbooks for the 2025–2026 school year for forty-eight (48) Orleans Parish non-public schools in the amount of $412,624.00 through Louisiana State approved contract vendors and The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) cooperative contract vendors.
Motion by Mr. Zervigon, second Dr. Batiste
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
6.7 Request to Award Request for Proposal No. 25-0011 Early Childhood Enrollment Information Campaign Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the proposal meeting the specifications, terms, and conditions for Early Childhood Enrollment Information Campaign Services from Pavy Studio LLC, in the amount of $300,000 for a period of one (1) year with an option to renew two (2) additional one (1) year periods and authorize General Counsel to prepare a contract for signatures of the Board President and the Contractor.
Motion by President Baudouin, seconded by Mr. Zervigon
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
6.8 Request to Approve Amendment No. 4 to Contract with Dove Group for HVAC Preventive Maintenance Service
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the Fourth Amendment to the contract with Dove Group for HVAC Preventive Maintenance Service , increasing the contract amount by the total of $196,035.15 reflecting the addition of corrective maintenance services for Mahalia Jackson School and Timbers Office Building in amount of $156,035.15 and a not to exceed amount of $40,000.00 for future corrective maintenance that exceeds the $5,000.00 deductible for which the contractor is responsible and authorize the General Counsel to prepare an Amendment for signatures of the Board President and Contractor.
Motion by Mr. Zervigon, seconded by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
6.9 District Level Funding Allocation Projections
Recommended Action: Direct the superintendent to create a plan that directs $5 million in surplus funds from Fiscal Year 2024 upon completion of the audit on June 30, 2024 to offset any gaps in school payments in the 2024-25 school year and further to develop the steps necessary to authorize the use of up to $15 million in funds from our fund balance for schools to use this school year subject to availability of funds.
Motion by Mr. Ashley to accept the proposed substitute motion as read by Mr. Parker, second by Mr. Zervigon
Direct the superintendent to: (1) create a plan that directs $5 million in anticipated surplus funds from Fiscal Year 2024, following completion of the FY2024 audit, to offset any gaps in school payments in the 2024-25 school year, for schools who have suffered a material financial impact as a result of the Spring 2024 financial forecasting, and that such material impact has negatively impacted the school's staffing and ability to maintain services for students; (2) further to develop the steps necessary to authorize the use of up to $15 million from the OPSB fund balance for schools to use this school year subject to availability of funds; and (3) investigate and pursue other sources of funds to help resolve the problem and further fill the potential shortfall.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following members of the public provided comments on this agenda item:
Dave Cash
Jerome Morgan
Colette Tippy (yielded time; no comment)
BOARD COMMENT:
A discussion ensued regarding the plan that would be provided from the administration, including efforts of the financial advisory council and other considerations, with clarification provided by Mr. Parker responding to inquiries from Mr. Marshall.
Dr. Batiste acknowledged the implications of the financial concerns for schools, noting that the impact will be different for schools across the district, and further expressed concern and caution for actions by the board and administration, referencing the precedent that may established.
Clarification provided whether the board’s action precludes future action in response to an inquiry from Ms. Baudouin and the implications for the use of certain funds reflected in the motion.
Mr. Zervigon acknowledged the need for communication to the school community, as well as parents and students, that the board is addressing this issue and that the motion provides direction to the superintendent.
Clarity provided regarding the financial consultant in response to Vice President Eames.
A substitute motion was offered by Mr. Marshall, second by Dr. Batiste
Direct the superintendent to work with the financial advisory group to come back to the December committee meeting and present options for how to work with schools to alleviate this problem.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided regarding the composition of the financial advisory council.
President Baudouin expressed concern regarding receipt of information from the city and implications for responding in a timely manner to schools that may be experiencing funding gaps.
Dr. Batiste noted the provision of repayment and/or reduction in future payments for schools experiencing need and receiving assistance.
Motion to table offered by President Baudouin, second by Mr. Zervigon to defer agenda item 6.9 to the Thursday board business meeting
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
PROPERTY
7.1 Capital and Facilities Update Presentation
Don LeDuff, chief operations officer, provided the following updates: November Capital Projects and Facility Updates, Fall Facility Siting Process, and Vacant Property Inspection Guidelines.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarity provided regarding the pause for the Gentilly Terrace project.
Clarification provided regarding stone replacement at J. Skelly Wright resulting from inspection.
Clarification regarding the addition of Mary Keller Zervigon to the school facilities renaming list; however, no estimate has been received.
Clarity provided regarding the Plessy School site in the context of the school siting process and engagement with Lycee Francais and how the school will house its students across campuses.
Claity provided that type 2 charters do qualify for School Facility Accounts (SFA), as well as improvements that would be assumed by Lycee Francais and school enrollment, responding to inquiries from President Baudouin.
Mr. Parker inquired about capacity of the Alferez facility and siting related to Charles Drew site; clarification provided that the superintendent determines facility sitings.
Clarification provided regarding Lycee’s desire to relocate to the Plessy facility, including current locations for the school and implications for siting based on the school’s total student enrollment, responding to Ms. Eames.
It was reiterated that the SFA would be the account from which improvements are funded and that the SFA follows students, responding to Mr. Marshall.
Clarification regarding NOLA-PS and city engagement regarding unhoused population.
Clarity provided regarding scheduling of inspectors in the field and schedule rotation.
Mr. Zervigon noted facilities within his district reflected on vacant facilities list and continued communication with neighbors and forthcoming property disposition.
7.2 Donation of facility additions from Firstline Schools
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the donation of the Langston Hughes Academy Elementary Addition Building. The addition includes a two classroom building with canopy and outdoor play surface. The building addition is valued at $1,400,000.00.
Motion by Mr. Zervigon, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker
Abstain: None
-Mr. LeDuff noted increased valuation of the donation to$1,500,000.00.
BOARD COMMENT:
Mr. Zervigon expressed gratitude to FirstLine Schools for the improvements.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion by Mr. Ashley, second by Mr. Zervigon to move to executive session at 4:09pm.
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker
Abstain: None
Reconvened from Executive Session at 5:02pm. The following board members were present: Katherine Baudouin, Leila Jacobs Eames, Ethan Ashley, Nolan Marshall, Jr., and Carlos Luis Zervigon. Dr. Donaldo R. Batiste and Olin G. Parker were absent. Board Counsel Ashley Heilprin was also present; Dr. Avis Williams was absent.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
8.1 Discussion of the character, the professional competence, physical or mental health of a person - School Board Personnel
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the course of action recommended by its legal counsel.
Motion by Ms. Eames, seconded by Ms. Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Dr. Batiste, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
ADJOURNMENT
9.1 Adjourn Meeting
Motion by Mr. Marshall, second by Mr. Ashley to adjourn the meeting.
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Dr. Batiste, Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
Meeting Adjourned at 5:04pm.