Ascension Parish School Board public meetings in 2023

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Dutchtown High School Gymnasium 6:30P.M.

The board approved two Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) resolutions for CF Industries Nitrogen LLC. It also considered calling a special election for general obligation bonds, declared surplus technology for online auction, and adopted a consent agenda including an Entergy right-of-way agreement and an out-of-state field trip for Galvez Middle School cheerleaders.

• Approved ITEP exemption for CF Industries Nitrogen LLC (Blue 20230310-ITE)
• Approved ITEP exemption for CF Industries Nitrogen LLC (Mack 20230392-ITE)
• Declared property surplus (technology) and approved online auction for sale
• Considered calling a special election to authorize general obligation bonds
• Adopted consent agenda including Entergy right-of-way servitude for Dutchtown schools and UCA Magnolia Regionals field trip

The board approved two Industrial Tax Exemption Program resolutions for CF Industries Nitrogen LLC. Other actions included authorizing an online auction for surplus technology and electing board officers.

• Approved ITEP participation and exemption for CF Industries Nitrogen LLC (Blue 20230310-ITE) (8-0)
• Approved ITEP participation and exemption for CF Industries Nitrogen LLC (Mack 20230392 - ITE) (8-0)
• Approved resolution to declare technology property surplus and authorize online auction (8-0)
• Authorized Superintendent to solicit bids for financing rates and terms on 2023 proposed contract (8-0)
• Approved Entergy Right of Way Servitude agreement for Dutchtown Primary and Middle Schools (8-0)
• Approved Galvez Middle School Cheerleaders field trip to Jackson, Mississippi (8-0)
• Appointed Taft Kleinpeter as School Board President (8-0)
• Appointed Jared Bercegeay as School Board Vice-President (8-0)

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER WORKSHOP - Organizational Vision - Planning and Goals: Instructional Services Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:00P.M. - 6:30P.M

The Ascension Parish School Board holds a workshop to discuss organizational vision, planning, and goals for instructional services, with presentations from level directors and supervisors. No formal decisions are made; the session is informational. Attendees include the superintendent and board members from all districts.

• Overview of EC-12 Instructional Services by Mrs. Carli Francois
• Discussion of goals and priorities for primary schools by Mrs. Elizabeth Stafford
• Discussion of goals and priorities for middle schools by Mrs. Dina Davis
• Discussion of goals and priorities for high schools by Mrs. Beth Templet
• Presentation on Diverse Learner Services by Ms. Lynn Hathaway

The board conducted a workshop focused on organizational vision, planning, and goals for instructional services. The session included an overview of EC-12 Instructional Services and information regarding Child Welfare and Attendance. No formal decisions were recorded.

Maintenance Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 4:00P.M.

The Maintenance Committee will review a proposed Entergy servitude for Dutchtown Primary/Middle School and discuss the status of a 2010 energy performance contract. The committee will also consider a 2023 energy performance contract audit and options. These items involve both information and action items.

• Review of Dutchtown Primary School/Dutchtown Middle School Entergy servitude
• Review of 2010 Energy Performance Contract status
• Review and Consider 2023 Energy Performance Contract Audit and Options

The committee approved a new Entergy Utility Servitude for Dutchtown Primary and Middle Schools to move overhead power lines underground. It also recommended that the full board authorize the solicitation of bids for financing rates and terms for a 2023 Energy-Based Performance Contract.

• Approved Entergy Utility Servitude at Dutchtown Primary and Middle Schools (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved recommendation to move 2023 Energy Performance Contract bid authorization to full board (4-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The board met to discuss industrial tax exemption presentations for CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC and several administrative approvals. Key actions included approving a bid to retrofit buses with air conditioning and appointing Hughes Insurance Services as an exclusive agent.

• Approval of sealed bid SB-10938 to retrofit buses with air conditioning
• Appointment of Hughes Insurance Services as exclusive Agent of Record for property and boiler & machinery coverage
• Presentation regarding CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC industrial tax exemption project in Donaldsonville
• Approval of December 2023 flood insurance renewals
• Approval of October 2023 Head Start Services and Personnel reports

The board approved a sealed bid to retrofit buses for air conditioning and add AC to 62 lease buses. Hughes Insurance Services was appointed as the exclusive Agent of Record for property and boiler & machinery coverage. Several consent items, including flood insurance renewals and student trips, were also approved.

• Approved Sealed Bid SB-10938 for bus AC retrofits and AC for 62 lease buses (10-1)
• Appointed Hughes Insurance Services as exclusive Agent of Record for property and boiler & machinery coverage (8-1-2)
• Approved December 2023 flood insurance renewals (10-0-1)
• Approved October 2023 Monthly Head Start Services Report (10-0-1)
• Approved October 2023 Monthly Personnel Report (10-0-1)
• Approved Dutchtown High Boys JV Soccer trip to Gulfport, MS (10-0-1)
• Approved Dutchtown High Varsity and JV Cheer trip to Orlando, FL (10-0-1)
• Approved RPCC ECO 12th Grade trip to Washington, D.C. (10-0-1)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Central Middle School - ITTC 4:00P.M.

The Insurance Committee met to consider appointing a new insurance agent. The committee voted to appoint Hughes Insurance Services for property and boiler & machinery coverage.

• Appointment of Hughes Insurance Services as exclusive Agent of Record for property coverage
• Appointment of Hughes Insurance Services as exclusive Agent of Record for boiler & machinery coverage

The Insurance Committee reviewed the appointment of Hughes Insurance Services as the exclusive Agent of Record for property and boiler & machinery coverage. The committee voted to move this appointment to the full board agenda for further consideration.

• Moved appointment of Hughes Insurance Agency as exclusive Agent of Record to full board agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville -6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board approved the student attendance zone for the new Prairieville High School and a one-time pay for all employees for the fall semester of 2023-24. It also approved the Ready Start Network Advisory Council and Bylaws for early childhood education, and several consent agenda items including contracts for band instruments and custodial services.

• Approved student attendance zone for Prairieville High School
• Approved one-time fall semester pay for all Ascension Public Schools employees
• Approved Ready Start Network Advisory Council and Bylaws
• Approved sealed bid SB-10937 for band instruments & equipment
• Approved RFP-5159 for qualified custodial service providers

The board approved a tiered one-time payment for full-time and part-time employees for the first semester of the 2023-2024 school year. Other actions included approving the student attendance zone for Prairieville High School and the Ready Start Network Advisory Council bylaws.

• Approved one-time pay for employees: $1,500 for full-time and $750 for part-time hired on or before Oct 2, 2023
• Approved one-time pay for employees: $750 for full-time and $375 for part-time hired between Oct 2 and Nov 1, 2023
• Approved SP 1 (Revised) student attendance zone map for Prairieville High School
• Approved Ready Start Network Advisory Council Bylaws
• Approved new IT Support Analyst job description
• Approved Sealed Bid SB-10937 for band instruments and equipment
• Approved RFP-5159 for qualified custodial service providers
• Approved East Ascension High School Wrestling Team field trip to Tennessee

Transportation Committee Meeting - Donaldsonville - 5:30P.M.

The Transportation Committee discussed and approved a motion to add consideration of air conditioning on school buses to a future board agenda. The action followed a presentation by Mr. Aubrey Yates. The committee voted in favor with one abstention.

• Discussion and motion to approve adding air conditioning on buses to an upcoming board agenda

The committee approved staff recommendations to retrofit 114 buses with air conditioning using ESSER funding and to have leasing companies add A/C to 62 leased buses. The proposal will be added to the next full board agenda for further action.

• Approved staff recommendations to retrofit 114 buses with A/C and add A/C to 62 leased buses (5-0-1)
• Approved adding the A/C proposal to the next full board agenda (5-0-1)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Donaldsonville - 6:00P.M.

The Insurance Committee voted to approve the renewal of flood policies for December 2023 and moved the item to the consent agenda. The committee also discussed general insurance policies and coverage, and considered appointing Hughes Insurance Services as the exclusive Agent of Record and US Risk, Inc. as the exclusive Broker of Record for property and boiler/machinery coverage.

• Renewal of flood policies for December 2023 approved and moved to consent agenda
• Discussion of insurance policies and coverage
• Consideration of appointing Hughes Insurance Services as exclusive Agent of Record and US Risk, Inc. as exclusive Broker of Record for property and boiler/machinery coverage
• Motion to approve flood renewal carried with three yeas and one abstention

The committee approved the December 2023 flood insurance policy renewal with a proposed premium of $265,417.00. Two other agenda items regarding insurance policies and the appointment of an exclusive agent and broker were pulled from the meeting.

• Approved December 2023 flood insurance renewal premium of $265,417.00 (3-0-1)
• Pulled agenda item 2 regarding insurance policies and coverage
• Pulled agenda item 3 regarding appointment of Hughes Insurance Services and US Risk, Inc

Strategic Planning Committee - Central Middle School - Cafetorium - 5:00P.M.

The Strategic Planning Committee discussed student enrollment boundary planning for Prairieville High School, including review of attached plans. A motion (Motion SP 1 Updated) was approved by a vote of 5-0 with one abstention. The meeting also included additional board comments and adjournment.

• Discussion and vote on student enrollment boundary planning for Prairieville High School
• Motion SP 1 Updated approved 5-0 (Murphy, Duplechein, Bourgeois, DeFrances, Lambert in favor; Kleinpeter abstained)
• Attached plans: HS Plan 1, MS Plan 1, PS Plan 1, HS Plan 3, MS Plan 3, PS Plan 3
• Additional board comments and adjournment

The Strategic Planning Committee discussed two potential student enrollment boundary plans for Prairieville High School. The committee dismissed plan SP3 (Revised) and voted to move plan SP1 (Revised) to the full board for approval on November 7, 2023.

• Approved moving SP1 (Revised) enrollment boundary map to full board for approval (5-0, 1 abstain)

Strategic Planning Committee - Central Middle School - Instructional Technology Training Center (ITTC) - 5:00P.M.

The Strategic Planning Committee will discuss student enrollment boundary planning for Prairieville High School and consider future construction projects. Both items are listed for action, meaning the committee may vote on recommendations.

• Discussion of student enrollment boundary planning for Prairieville High School (Action item)
• Discussion and consideration of future construction projects (Action item)

The committee reviewed student enrollment boundary plans for Prairieville High School and discussed a potential $110 million bond extension for April 2024. No final boundary plans were approved, and the committee requested further construction estimates for potential projects.

• Removed SP2 boundary plan from future consideration
• Directed Mr. Parent to obtain construction estimates for $130 million in projects for a potential $110 million bond extension
• Scheduled follow-up meeting for November 1, 2023

Personnel Committee Meeting - Central Middle School - 5:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Personnel Committee met at Central Middle School in Gonzales. The committee voted to approve a new job description for an IT Support Analyst position, with all members voting in favor except one abstention. The committee also received an informational presentation on stay interview results. The meeting adjourned after board comments.

• Approved new job description for IT Support Analyst (action item, motion carried 3-0-1)
• Presented stay interview results by staff (information item, no action taken)
• Committee members present: Robyn Penn Delaney (Chair), Louis Lambert, Jared Bercegeay, Karen Braud; Taft Kleinpeter abstained on the first item

The Personnel Committee approved a new job description for an IT Support Analyst position. This role will lead IT support technicians and is already included in the annual budget.

• Approved new IT Support Analyst job description (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The board met to discuss the Ready Start Network and recognize grant recipients. The meeting included several consent agenda items regarding personnel reports, head start services, and various policy updates.

• Ready Start Network presentation
• Recognition of Ascension Retired Teachers Association grant recipients
• Sealed Bid SB-10935 for parish-wide Chromebook/laptop charging and storage carts
• Sealed Bid SB-10932 for I.T. Department renovations
• Approval of September 2023 monthly personnel and Head Start services reports

The Ascension Parish School Board approved multiple policy updates regarding personnel, health emergencies, and school property monitoring. The board also authorized a bid for Chromebook charging carts and IT department renovations. Additionally, a field trip for Dutchtown High School Bands to Atlanta was approved.

• Approved Sealed Bid SB-10935 for Chromebook/Laptop Charging & Storage Carts (10-0)
• Approved SB-10932 for I.T. Department Renovations (10-0)
• Approved September 2023 Monthly Personnel and Head Start Services reports (10-0)
• Approved policies for Executive Sessions, Annual Operating Budget, and Emergency/Crisis Management (10-0)
• Approved new Video/Audio Monitoring of School Board Property Policy (10-0)
• Approved Student Transportation Management Policy (10-0)
• Approved Sick Leave, Maternity and Adoptive Leave, and Staff Insurance policies (10-0)
• Approved Dutchtown High School Bands field trip to Atlanta, GA, April 3-6, 2024 (10-0)

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER WORKSHOP -Organizational Vision - Planning and Goals: Operational Services - Central Middle School 5:30P.M. - 6:30P.M

The Ascension Parish School Board is holding a workshop to discuss long-term goals for operational services, including planning and construction, maintenance, transportation, supply chain, and child nutrition. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the session is for discussion and information gathering.

• Overview of Operational Services and introduction of staff by Mr. Chad Lynch
• Long-term goals for procurement and supply chain discussed by Ms. Amber Miller
• Long-term goals for transportation discussed by Mr. Aubrey Yates
• Long-term goals for child nutrition services discussed by Dr. Leuna Johnson
• Long-term goals for maintenance discussed by Mr. Tim Amedee and for planning and construction by Mr. Jeff Parent

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER WORKSHOP -Organizational Vision - Planning and Goals: Administrative Services - School Board Office 5:00P.M. - 6:00P.M

This is a workshop for the Ascension Parish School Board to discuss long-term goals for administrative services. The meeting covers overviews and departmental goals for Business Services, Human Resources, Public Information, and Technology. No votes or decisions are scheduled; it is a discussion and information session only.

• Overview of Administrative Services and staff introduction by Ms. A. Denise Graves
• Discussion of Business Services long-term goals led by Ms. Kimneye Cox
• Discussion of Human Resources long-term goals led by Dr. Jeremy Muse
• Discussion of Public Information Department long-term goals led by Mrs. Jackie Tisdell
• Discussion of Technology Department long-term goals led by Mr. Darby Lambert

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board held a regular meeting on October 3, 2023, in Donaldsonville. The board approved a consent agenda that included a cooperative endeavor agreement with the Ascension Parish Sheriff Department, bids for cafeteria equipment and rejection of an electrical service replacement bid, out-of-state field trips for students, and changes to the meeting schedule. Financial reports for August 2023 were presented as information.

• Approval of Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Ascension Parish Sheriff Department
• Approval of sealed bid SB-10936 for cafeteria equipment
• Approval of Bid Review Committee's recommendation to reject SB-10933 for main electrical service equipment replacement (over budget)
• Approval of out-of-state field trip for St. Amant High School students to Civil Rights sites in Alabama (January 11-14, 2024)
• Approval of out-of-state field trip for Dutchtown High School students to Civil Rights sites in Alabama (January 11-14, 2024)

The board approved a series of consent agenda items, including out-of-state field trips for St. Amant and Dutchtown High Schools. Members also voted to reschedule and cancel several upcoming board meetings due to holidays.

• Approved Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Ascension Parish Sheriff Department
• Approved Sealed Bid SB-10936-Cafeteria Equipment
• Approved recommendation to reject SB-10933-Main Electrical Serviced Equipment Replacement
• Approved St. Amant High School field trips to Alabama (January 2024 and October 2023)
• Approved Dutchtown High School field trip to Alabama (January 2024)
• Approved moving December 5, 2023 meeting to Dutchtown High School
• Approved cancellation of seven board meetings between November 2023 and April 2024
• Approved scheduling of six board meetings between November 2023 and April 2024

Policy Committee Meeting - School Board Office - 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM

The policy committee reviewed and voted unanimously to place 10 policy updates on the consent agenda for the next Ascension Parish School Board meeting. All items were approved as routine, without debate, and will be reconsidered by the full board as a group.

• Executive Sessions Policy (FILE BCBK) updated
• Annual Operating Budget Policy (FILE DC) updated
• Emergency/Crisis Management Policy (FILE EBBC) updated
• New Video/Audio Monitoring of School Board Property Policy (FILE EBCB)
• Sick Leave Policy (FILE GBRIB) updated

The Policy Committee reviewed and approved 10 separate policy updates for placement on the next board meeting's consent agenda. These updates cover areas including budget transparency, student transportation, and employee leave.

• Approved placing Executive Sessions Policy (FILE BCBK) on consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved placing Annual Operating Budget Policy (FILE DC) on consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved placing deletion of American Recovery and Reinvestment ACT Reporting Requirements Policy (FILE DIBA) on consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved placing Emergency/Crisis Management Policy (FILE EBBC) on consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved placing Public Health Emergency Policy (FILE EBBI) on consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved placing Video/Audio Monitoring of School Board Property Policy (FILE EBCB) on consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved placing Student Transportation Management Policy (FILE ED) on consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved placing Sick Leave Policy (FILE GBRIB) on consent agenda (4-0)

Students and Safety First - Central Middle School Cafetorium- September 26, 2023 - 5:30P.M.

The Students and Safety First committee of the Ascension Parish School Board met to review and approve a cooperative endeavor agreement with the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Department, which was moved to the consent agenda. The committee also discussed high school graduation venues, security requirements for facility use rentals, and community use procedures for high school tracks.

• Review and action on cooperative endeavor agreement with Ascension Parish Sheriff Department
• Discussion of high school graduation venues
• Discussion of security requirements for Facility Use Agreement Rentals
• Review of high school track community use procedures

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium- 6:30P.M.

The board adopted a resolution for Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) participation and exemption for Element 25 (Louisiana) LLC. It also approved consent agenda items including a regular meetings policy, a utility servitude at Prairieville High School, a 2016 flood disaster recovery contract amendment, and multiple out-of-state field trips for cheerleaders and a history tour.

• Adoption of ITEP resolution for Element 25 (Louisiana) LLC
• Approval of NWI Right of Way Agreement for utility servitude at Prairieville High School
• Approval of 2016 Flood Disaster Recovery Contract Amendment
• Approval of out-of-state field trips: Lake Elementary cheerleaders to UCA Magnolia Regional, St. Amant High cheerleaders to two events, and St. Amant AP U.S. GOPO & Rho Kappa to Boston/New York
• Approval of Regular Meetings Policy (FILE: BCAB)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The board approved a one-time pay disbursement from the Louisiana Department of Education for the 2023-2024 school year, and received an informational presentation from AEDC on Element 25 (Louisiana) LLC, a manufacturer considering a project in Burnside with a proposed tax exemption. The consent agenda was approved, including policy updates, the Pupil Progression Plan, an Entergy right of way agreement for Prairieville High School, and renewal of casualty/liability coverage with LARMA.

• Approval of 2023-2024 LDOE one-time pay disbursement
• Informational presentation on Element 25 (Louisiana) LLC considering Burnside project and Industrial Tax Exemption Program
• Approval of consent agenda: School Board Meetings, Teleconference, and Public Participation policies, and 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan
• Approval of Entergy Right of Way agreement for Prairieville High School
• Approval of renewal of Casualty and Liability Coverage with LARMA effective 10/1/2023

The board approved one-time pay disbursements for certified, professional, and support staff for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Multiple insurance renewals and school board meeting policies were approved via the consent agenda. The board also authorized several out-of-state field trips for high school students.

• Approved 2023-2024 LDOE one-time stipends ($1,000 for certified/professional staff, $500 for support staff) (11-0)
• Approved School Board Meetings Policy (10-0)
• Approved 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan (10-0)
• Approved Teleconference/Remote Participation and Public Participation policies (10-0)
• Approved Entergy Right of Way agreement for Prairieville High School (10-0)
• Approved insurance renewals for Casualty and Liability, Cyber, and Drone coverage (10-0)
• Approved health plan and Medicare Advantage renewals with Blue Cross Blue Shield and United HealthCare (10-0)
• Approved out-of-state field trips for St. Amant High School and Dutchtown High School (10-0)

Transportation Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Transportation Committee discussed adding air conditioning to its school buses. Members voted on a motion to get a request for proposals (RFP) for the equipment, and the motion carried with four yeas, one nay, and one abstention. The meeting then included additional board comments and a motion to adjourn, which also carried.

• Discussion of air‑conditioning on school buses
• Motion to obtain an RFP for bus air‑conditioning (passed)
• Vote tally: yeas – Marty Bourgeois, John DeFrances, Scott Duplechein, Jake Lambert; nay – Julie Blouin; abstain – Taft Kleinpeter
• Additional board comments (discussion)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (passed)

The committee discussed a plan to transition the bus fleet to air conditioning, including retrofitting 114 district-owned buses and updating 62 leased buses. Rather than approving the full plan immediately, the committee voted to require staff to obtain formal pricing and a detailed cost plan for implementation and maintenance.

• Authorized staff to request formal pricing and a detailed cost plan for bus AC implementation and maintenance (4-1)

Facilities Management Committee - Central Middle School Cafetorium 5:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Facilities Management Committee reviewed and approved three action items at its September 19, 2023 meeting. The committee approved an Entergy Right of Way agreement for Prairieville High School, an NWI utility servitude agreement for the same school, and a amendment to the 2016 Flood Disaster Recovery Contract. All three motions carried, with Taft Kleinpeter abstaining on each.

• Approved Entergy Right of Way agreement for Prairieville High School
• Approved NWI Right of Way Agreement (utility servitude) at Prairieville High School
• Approved 2016 Flood Disaster Recovery Contract Amendment
• Committee member Taft Kleinpeter abstained on all three votes

The Facilities Management Committee reviewed and approved moving three items to future consent agendas for final board action. These items include two right-of-way agreements for Prairieville High School and a contract amendment for 2016 flood recovery.

• Moved Entergy Right of Way agreement for Prairieville High School to September 19, 2023 consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Moved NWI Right of Way Agreement/Utility Servitude at Prairieville High School to next board meeting consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Moved 2016 Flood Disaster Recovery Contract Amendment to next board meeting consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Central Middle School - ITTC -2:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Insurance Committee met and voted on five insurance renewals: casualty/liability coverage with LARMA, cyber insurance, drone insurance, group health plan fix cost, and group retiree Medicare advantage. All motions carried, with committee members Murphy, Blouin, and Lambert voting yea and Kleinpeter abstaining.

• Renewal of casualty and liability coverage with LARMA effective 10/1/2023
• Renewal of cyber insurance quote effective 10/1/2023
• Renewal of drone insurance quote effective 10/7/2023
• Group health plan fix cost renewal effective 11/1/2023
• Group retiree Medicare advantage renewal effective 1/1/2023

The committee approved renewals for casualty, liability, cyber, drone, and health insurance. They also approved a resolution for the Superintendent to reject Louisiana Uninsured/Underinsured coverage. All approved items will be placed on a future board meeting consent agenda.

• Approved $17,641,737 Casualty and Liability coverage renewal with LARMA (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved resolution to reject Louisiana Uninsured/Underinsured coverage (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Cyber Insurance renewal with Travelers Insurance (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved $11,386 Drone Insurance renewal (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Group Health Plan Fixed Cost Renewal with 2.1% monthly increase (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Group Retiree Medicare Advantage Renewal with premium decreases (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville -6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board held a public hearing and then adopted the 2022-2023 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds Amended Budgets and the 2023-2024 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds Budgets. The board also approved a consent agenda that included renewal of flood policies, a re-bid for frozen chicken tenders, monthly personnel and Head Start reports, cancellation of the September 5, 2023 meeting, and out-of-state field trips for Dutchtown and St. Amant dance teams and the Dutchtown High School Close Up group.

• Adopted 2022-2023 amended and 2023-2024 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds budgets
• Approved renewal of flood policies for September 2023
• Approved SB-10930 re-bid for frozen chicken tenders
• Approved out-of-state field trips for Dutchtown and St. Amant dance teams to Orlando and Dutchtown Close Up to Washington, DC
• Cancelled the September 5, 2023 school board meeting

The board approved the 2023-2024 general fund budget with total revenues of $303.9 million and expenditures of $292.8 million. It also adopted amended budgets for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. The new budget includes funding for new positions at Prairieville High School and additional teachers for student growth.

• Approved 2022-2023 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds Amended Budgets and 2023-2024 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds Budgets (11-0)
• Adopted Budget Resolution (11-0)
• Approved renewal of flood policies for September 2023 (9-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved SB-10930-Frozen Food-Chicken Tenders Re-Bid (9-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved July 2023 Monthly Personnel Report (9-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved minutes of August 15, 2023 (11-0)

Policy Committee Meeting - School Board Office - 5:30P.M. to 6:30P.M.

The Policy Committee reviewed and voted to recommend five items for approval by the full Ascension Parish School Board. These include the 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan, and policies on regular meetings, school board meetings, teleconference participation, and public participation. All motions carried with one abstention (Taft Kleinpeter).

• 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan (draft) recommended for consent agenda
• Regular Meetings Policy (BCAB) recommended for consent agenda
• School Board Meetings Policy (BC) recommended for consent agenda
• Teleconference/Remote Participation Policy (BCAD) recommended for consent agenda
• Public Participation Policy (BCBI) recommended for consent agenda

The Policy Committee reviewed and approved the 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan and four policies regarding school board meetings. All five items were approved to be placed on the consent agenda for the next board meeting.

• Approved 2023-2024 Pupil Progression Plan (Draft) for consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Regular Meetings Policy (FILE: BCAB) for consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved School Board Meetings Policy (FILE: BC) for consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Teleconference/Remote Participation in School Board Meetings Policy (FILE: BCAD) for consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Public Participation in School Board Meetings Policy (FILE: BCBI) for consent agenda (5-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The board adopted the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for FY 2022-2023 and approved a consent agenda that includes meal price increases for non-reimbursable meals, out-of-state FFA field trips to Indianapolis, and contracts for emergency remediation and sign language interpreting services. The meal price increases set new rates for student second meals, employee meals, and visitor meals.

• Approval of meal price increases: student second meal breakfast $3.00, lunch $4.50; employee breakfast $3.00, lunch $4.50; visitor breakfast $3.50, lunch $5.00, holiday lunch $6.00
• Adoption of the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for July 1, 2022–June 30, 2023
• Approval of out-of-state field trips for Dutchtown High School FFA and East Ascension High School FFA to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN, Oct 30–Nov 4, 2023
• Approval of RFP-5157 Pre-Positioned Emergency Remediation Services
• Approval of RFP-5158 Sign Language Interpreting Services for Deaf Students, As Needed

The board approved price increases for non-reimbursable meals and adopted the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for July 2022-June 2023. Several RFPs for emergency remediation and sign language services were approved, along with out-of-state field trips for FFA students.

• Approved meal price increases for non-reimbursable meals (unanimous)
• Adopted Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023 (10-0)
• Approved RFP-5157-Pre-Positioned Emergency Remediation Services (unanimous)
• Approved RFP-5158-Sign Language Interpreting Services for Deaf Students (unanimous)
• Approved out-of-state field trip for Dutchtown High School FFA to Indianapolis (unanimous)
• Approved out-of-state field trip for East Ascension High School FFA to Indianapolis (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting Constitution Day and Constitution Week (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 1, 2023 (unanimous)

Budget Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:30P.M.

The Budget Committee met to review the proposed 2023-2024 budgets presented by Ms. Kimneye Cox. The committee also considered and carried a motion to transfer 3.3 to fund 82. The meeting adjourned following the actions.

• Review of proposed 2023-2024 budgets
• Motion carried to transfer 3.3 to fund 82
• Meeting held at Central Middle School Cafetorium, Gonzales

The Budget Committee reviewed the proposed 2023-2024 budgets. The committee approved transferring $3.3 million from the Maintenance Capital Projects Funds in the General Fund Annual Operating Budget to the Maintenance Improvements General Fund 82.

• Approved transfer of $3.3 million to Maintenance Improvements General Fund 82 (5-0-1)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:00P.M.

The committee voted to renew flood insurance policies through Hughes Insurance for September 2023. Members also reviewed a physical damage insurance proposal for leased vehicles presented by Mr. Chad Lynch and Ms. Latrisa Bennett, but took no action on that item. The meeting concluded with board comments and adjournment.

• Renewal of flood policies for September 2023 with Hughes Insurance (motion carried 3-0, one abstention)
• Review of commercial auto physical damage insurance proposal for leased vehicles (information item only)

The committee reviewed flood insurance premiums for the September 2023 renewal. Members voted to place these policies on the consent agenda for the next board meeting.

• Approved placing September 2023 Flood Insurance Policies on the next board meeting consent agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board met on August 1, 2023, in Donaldsonville and approved consent agenda items including the 2023-2024 salary schedule, a small cafeteria equipment purchase, and new policies on medication administration, carpool/bus line safety, school/student safety, and student absences. The board also received financial reports for June 2023 and heard administrative introductions.

• Approval of 2023-2024 salary schedule
• Approval of Administration of Medication Policy (FILE: JGCD)
• Approval of Carpool and Bus Line Safety Policy (NEW) (FILE: EDCC)
• Approval of School and Student Safety Policy (FILE: EBBB)
• Approval of SB-10929 for small cafeteria equipment

The board approved the 2023-2024 salary schedule and several student safety and attendance policies. Members also approved the purchase of small cafeteria equipment and the minutes from the July 25 meeting.

• Approved 2023-2024 Salary Schedule (9-0)
• Approved School and Student Safety Policy EBBB (9-0)
• Approved Carpool and Bus Line Safety Policy EDCC (9-0)
• Approved Student Absences and Excuses Policy JBD (9-0)
• Approved Administration of Medication Policy JGCD (9-0)
• Approved SB-10929-Small Cafeteria Equipment (9-0)
• Approved July 25, 2023 minutes (9-0)

Committee of the Whole Board - Donaldsonville - 6:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board's Committee of the Whole will receive a presentation of a communication audit conducted by the National School Public Relations Association. This is an informational item only; no action is scheduled.

• Presentation of the 2023 Communication Audit Report by Naomi Hunter, APR, of the National School Public Relations Association

The Committee of the Whole Board met to review a communication audit conducted by the National School Public Relations Association. Auditor Naomi Hunter presented findings and six recommendations to improve district communications. No formal policy decisions or budget approvals were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting (9-0)

Child Nutrition Committee - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 5:30P.M.

The committee voted to accept recommendations for a proposed meal price increase for non-reimbursable meals, which include additional student meals, employee (non-CNP) meals, and visitor meals. The motion carried 3-0 with one abstention.

• Approved price increase for non-reimbursable meals (additional student meals, employee meals, visitor meals)
• Motion carried with 3 yeas (DeFrances, Delaney, Braud) and 1 abstention (Kleinpeter)

The committee accepted proposed price increases for non-reimbursable meals, including student second meals, employee meals, and visitor meals. These prices will be placed on the consent agenda for the next school board meeting.

• Accepted proposed non-reimbursable meal price increases (3-0, 1 abstention)

Regular Meeting -Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium- 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board will review the 2022-2023 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds amended budgets and the proposed 2023-2024 budgets. The board will also consider a consent agenda including approval of a sealed bid for large kitchen equipment, new job descriptions for Public Information Coordinator and Coordinator of School Support, and an out-of-state field trip for Dutchtown High School. Committee meetings are scheduled before and after the regular meeting.

• Review 2022-2023 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds amended budgets
• Review proposed 2023-2024 budgets
• Approval of sealed bid SB-10928 for large kitchen equipment
• Review and consider new job descriptions for Public Information Coordinator and Coordinator of School Support
• Approval of out-of-state field trip for Dutchtown High School Talented Theatre, Theatre, and Choir to Disney's Imagination Campus in Orlando, Florida

The board approved a sealed bid for large kitchen equipment and established job descriptions for two new coordinator roles. Additionally, an out-of-state field trip for Dutchtown High School performing arts groups was approved.

• Approved Sealed Bid SB-10928-Large Kitchen Equipment (11-0)
• Approved new job description for Public Information Coordinator (11-0)
• Approved new job description for Coordinator of School Support (11-0)
• Approved Dutchtown High School performing arts trip to Orlando, Florida (11-0)
• Approved minutes of July 18, 2023 (11-0)

Policy Committee Meeting - Central Middle - Cafetorium 5:00P.M. - 5:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Policy Committee reviewed and voted to place four policy items on the consent agenda for the next full board meeting: Administration of Medication, Carpool and Bus Line Safety, School and Student Safety, and Student Absences and Excuses. They also discussed an update on retiree return-to-work pay practices. All recommended motions carried, with member Taft Kleinpeter abstaining on each vote.

• School and Student Safety Policy (FILE: EBBB) forwarded to full board
• Carpool and Bus Line Safety Policy (FILE: EDCC) forwarded to full board
• Administration of Medication Policy (FILE: JGCD) forwarded to full board
• Student Absences and Excuses Policy (FILE: JBD) forwarded to full board
• Discussion of Retiree Return to Work pay practices

The committee reviewed and approved moving four policies regarding medication, safety, and student absences to the next board meeting's consent agenda. Dr. Jeremy Muse also provided an update on retiree return to work pay practices.

• Approved placing Administration of Medication Policy (JGCD) on consent agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved placing Carpool and Bus Line Safety Policy (EDCC) on consent agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved placing School and Student Safety Policy (EBBB) on consent agenda (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved placing Student Absences and Excuses Policy (JBD) on consent agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)

Budget Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Budget Committee approved the updated 2023-2024 salary schedule. Members also reviewed the 2022-2023 amended budgets and the proposed 2023-2024 budgets as information items. The meeting was held at Central Middle School.

• Approved the 2023-2024 Salary Schedule (motion by Julie Blouin, second by John DeFrances; carried 5-0-1)
• Reviewed the 2022-2023 General Fund and Special Revenue Funds Amended Budgets
• Reviewed the Proposed 2023-2024 Budgets (final draft attached)

The Budget Committee approved the updated 2023-2024 Salary Schedule and moved it to a future board meeting consent agenda. The committee also reviewed the 2022-2023 amended budgets and the proposed 2023-2024 budgets.

• Approved updated 2023-2024 Salary Schedule (5-0, 1 abstain)

Personnel Committee Meeting - Central Middle School - ITTC 6:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Personnel Committee approved job descriptions for a Public Information Coordinator and a Coordinator of School Support. The committee also reviewed onboarding procedures for district employees and newly elected board members.

• Approved job description for Public Information Coordinator (new position)
• Approved job description for Coordinator of School Support (new position)
• Reviewed onboarding procedures for district employees
• Reviewed onboarding procedures for newly elected board members

The committee approved job descriptions for the Public Information Coordinator and Coordinator of School Support. Both items will be placed on the consent agenda for the upcoming board meeting. The committee also reviewed onboarding procedures for district employees and newly elected Board members.

• Approved Public Information Coordinator job description (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Coordinator of School Support job description (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School - ITTC 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board approved minutes, received financial reports, and passed a consent agenda that included the monthly personnel report, rejection of a bid for IT department renovations, approval of a milk and milk products contract, and an out-of-state field trip for the East Ascension High School volleyball team. The board then entered executive session to discuss the appeal of expulsion of a student at East Ascension High School, reconvened, and voted on the matter.

• Approval of monthly personnel report for June 2023
• Rejection of bid SB-10926 for IT Department Renovations
• Approval of SB-10919 for milk and milk products parish-wide
• Approval of out-of-state field trip for East Ascension High School volleyball team to University of Texas camp in Austin, Texas
• Executive session and decision on expulsion appeal of student J.L. at East Ascension High School

The board upheld the expulsion of a student from East Ascension High School following an executive session. Other actions included approving the June 2023 personnel report and a milk products contract for the Child Nutrition Department.

• Upheld expulsion of student J.L. at East Ascension High School (7-0)
• Approved June 2023 Monthly Personnel Report (7-0)
• Approved rejection of bid SB-10926 for I.T. Department Renovations (7-0)
• Approved SB-10919 for milk and milk products parish wide (7-0)
• Approved out of state field trip for East Ascension High School volleyball team (7-0)
• Approved minutes of June 27, 2023 (7-0)

Students and Safety First - Ascension Parish School Board - 6:00P.M.

The committee met to review a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between Ascension Public Schools and the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office. The board moved to include this item on the consent agenda.

• Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office

The committee reviewed a draft cooperative endeavor agreement with the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office regarding the School Safety Officer (SSO) program. The committee voted to move the agreement to the next consent agenda for full board approval.

• Moved Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office to consent agenda (3-0)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board approved a consent agenda including the proposed 2023-2024 salary schedule, multiple service contracts, insurance renewals, and policy updates. The meeting also included procedural items such as roll call, invocation, approval of minutes, and the mission statement.

• Approval of proposed 2023-2024 salary schedule
• Approval of RFP-5155 for ink cartridge purchase with free printers service
• Approval of RFP-5154 for district-wide chiller maintenance
• Approval of RFP-5156 for district-wide grounds maintenance services
• Renewal of student accident insurance and workers' compensation insurance

The board approved the 2023-2024 salary schedule and several operational contracts for ink cartridges, chiller maintenance, and grounds maintenance. It also renewed student accident and workers' compensation insurance and approved three new administrative contracts. Additionally, the board passed a resolution recognizing David Alexander's contributions to the schools.

• Approved 2023-2024 Salary Schedule (9-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved RFP-5155 Ink Cartridge Purchase (9-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved RFP-5154 District Wide Chiller Maintenance (9-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved RFP-5156 District Wide Grounds Maintenance Services (9-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved renewal of Student Accident and Workers' Compensation Insurance (9-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Continuous Learning, Attendance, and Staff Insurance policies (9-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved administrative contracts for Christina Carter, Courtney Mancuso, and Barry Whittington (9-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved resolution recognizing David Alexander's contributions (10-0)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 4:30P.M. - 5:00P.M.

The Insurance Committee voted to approve both the worker's compensation insurance overview and the renewal of student accident insurance, recommending them to be placed on the full board's consent agenda. The votes passed 3-0 with one abstention.

• Approval of worker's compensation insurance overview and recommendation to place on consent agenda
• Approval of student accident insurance renewal for 2023-2024 and recommendation to place on consent agenda
• Motion carried with yeas from Murphy, Blouin, Lambert; Kleinpeter abstained on both items

The committee reviewed and approved placing two insurance renewals on the next board meeting's consent agenda. These include worker's compensation and student accident insurance.

• Approved placing Worker's Compensation Insurance with projected premium of $919,525.17 on consent agenda (3-0)
• Approved placing Student Accident Insurance with projected premium of $219,929.26 on consent agenda (3-0)

Policy Committee Meeting - Central Middle - Cafetorium 5:00P.M. - 5:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Policy Committee reviewed and voted to place three new policies on the consent agenda for the next full board meeting: a Continuous Learning Policy, an Attendance Policy, and a Staff Insurance Coverages Policy. All motions carried with three in favor and one abstention.

• Approval to place Continuous Learning Policy (FILE IDCJ) on consent agenda
• Approval to place Attendance Policy (FILE JB) on consent agenda
• Approval to place Staff Insurance Coverages Policy (FILE EGA) on consent agenda
• All votes were 3-0-1 (Yea: Delaney, Murphy, Bercegeay; Abstain: Kleinpeter)

The committee reviewed and approved placing three policy updates on the consent agenda for the next board meeting. These updates concern continuous learning, student attendance for remote instruction, and staff insurance coverage language.

• Approved placing Continuous Learning Policy (IDCJ) on consent agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved placing Attendance Policy (JB) update for remote/hybrid instruction on consent agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved placing Staff Insurance Coverages Policy (EGA) language deletions on consent agenda (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The Board adopted a resolution approving Honeywell International LLC's participation in the Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP), and approved a consent agenda that included renewal of health insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield Louisiana, appointment of Companion Life for life insurance and Reliance Standard for disability insurance, monthly reports, and out-of-state field trips for Dutchtown High School teams.

• Adopted resolution for Honeywell International LLC ITEP participation
• Approved renewal of health insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield Louisiana
• Approved Companion Life as carrier for basic and supplemental life insurance
• Approved Reliance Standard as carrier for disability insurance
• Approved out-of-state field trips for Dutchtown High School volleyball (Gainesville, FL) and colorguard (Hattiesburg, MS)

The board approved an Industrial Tax Exemption Program resolution for Honeywell International, LLC. Several consent items were passed, including insurance renewals and student field trips. The board also received notice that the district will receive $518,355 for school perimeter hardening.

• Approved Industrial Tax Exemption Program resolution for Honeywell International, LLC (9-0)
• Approved May 2023 Head Start Services Report (9-0)
• Approved May 2023 Personnel Report (9-0)
• Renewed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with LSU Agriculture Center 2023-2024 (9-0)
• Approved health insurance renewal with Blue Cross Blue Shield Louisiana (9-0)
• Approved Companion Life for Basic & Supplement Life Insurance (9-0)
• Approved Reliance Standard for Disability Insurance (9-0)
• Approved two out-of-state field trips for Dutchtown High School (9-0)

Budget Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:30P.M. - 6:30P.M.

The Budget Committee received the final 2021‑2022 school audit report. It voted to adopt the proposed 2023‑2024 salary schedule, with the motion carrying. The committee also reviewed the proposed 2023‑2024 budgets and held additional board comments before adjourning.

• Received final report of 2021‑2022 school audits (Ms. Kimneye Cox)
• Approved the proposed 2023‑2024 salary schedule (motion by Julie Blouin, seconded by Scott Duplechein; carried)
• Reviewed the proposed 2023‑2024 budgets (Ms. Kimneye Cox)
• Additional board comments (discussion)
• Motion to adjourn (motion by Scott Duplechein, seconded by Julie Blouin; carried)

The committee approved placing the proposed 2023-2024 salary schedule on the consent agenda for the next board meeting. The proposed 2023-2024 budgets were not presented due to legislative session uncertainties.

• Approved placing Proposed 2023-2024 Salary Schedule on next board meeting consent agenda (4-0, 1 abstain)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Donaldsonville 5:45P.M.

The Insurance Committee reviewed overviews of health, basic and supplemental life, and disability insurance renewals. The committee voted unanimously to place each renewal on the consent agenda for the next Ascension Parish School Board meeting. No dollar amounts or specific policy changes were discussed in the agenda.

• Health insurance overview and renewal – recommended for consent agenda
• Basic and supplemental life insurance overview and renewal – recommended for consent agenda
• Disability insurance overview and renewal – recommended for consent agenda
• All motions carried with yea votes from Julie Blouin and Taft Kleinpeter
• Meeting location: Ascension Parish School Board, 1100 Webster Street, Donaldsonville

The committee selected a health insurance budget option that maintains current benefits and premiums via a $1.5 million transfer. It also recommended new providers for life and disability insurance. All three items were approved to be placed on the next board meeting's consent agenda.

• Approved health insurance option 1 with no benefit or premium increases (2-0)
• Approved recommendation of Companion Life for basic and supplemental life insurance (2-0)
• Approved recommendation of Reliance Standard for disability insurance (2-0)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:30P.M.

The board reviewed a presentation regarding Honeywell International, LLC's expansion project in Geismar. The meeting also included the approval of various consent agenda items including high school grade options, several sealed bids, and out-of-state field trips.

• Presentation on Honeywell International, LLC expansion project in Geismar
• Approval of high school grade options for new attendance zone assignments
• Approval of SB-10924 office supplies for Special Education
• Approval of SB-10925 bread products for Child Nutrition Program
• Approval of SB-10927 Lakeshore, Special Education

The board approved high school grade options for new attendance zone assignments and several procurement bids. It also authorized three out-of-state student field trips and new administrative contracts.

• Approved high school grade options for new attendance zone assignments
• Approved RFQ-9866-Official Journal
• Approved SB-10924-Office Supplies, Special Education
• Approved SB-10925-Bread Products Parish Wide- Child Nutrition Program
• Approved SB-10927-Lakeshore, Special Education
• Approved out-of-state field trips for East Ascension High (Bowling and FBLA) and Dutchtown High (MuAlpha Theta)
• Approved administrative contracts for Carli Francois, Randall Loving, and Beth Templet
• Approved minutes of May 16, 2023

Strategic Planning Committee - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Strategic Planning Committee met to discuss the redistricting classification of grade levels presented by Mr. Chad Lynch. The committee voted on a motion to approve the discussion, which carried with three yeas and one abstention. The meeting concluded with additional board comments and an adjournment motion, which also carried.

• Discussion of redistricting classification of grade levels – motion carried
• Additional board comments – discussion
• Adjournment – motion carried

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The board approved a consent agenda that included a servitude agreement with the City of Donaldsonville for a generator at Donaldsonville Primary School, cancellation of the July 4 meeting, monthly personnel and Head Start reports, and multiple bids for child nutrition program supplies. A bid for Donaldsonville High School commons area expansion was also approved. The board also recognized the state champion softball team and several individuals.

• Approval of servitude agreement with City of Donaldsonville for a generator at Donaldsonville Primary School
• Approval of SB-10921 for Donaldsonville High School Commons Area Expansion
• Approval of monthly personnel report for April 2023
• Approval of bids for dry goods, frozen food, and processing supplies for Child Nutrition Program (SB-10917, SB-10918, SB-10920)
• Cancellation of the July 4, 2023 school board meeting

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board voted to adopt the 2023 millage rates and approved the consent agenda, which included the 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook. Financial reports for March 2023 were presented for information. The board also approved minutes from the April 25, 2023 meeting.

• Adopted 2023 millage rates (resolution attached)
• Approved consent agenda including 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook
• Approved minutes of April 25, 2023 regular meeting
• Financial reports for March 2023 presented (balance sheet, income statement, investment report)
• Scheduled future committee meetings: Insurance Committee May 23 and June 6, 2023

The board approved the 2023 millage rates and the 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook. Financial reports were presented showing actual revenues of $20.6 million and expenditures of $24.0 million.

• Adopted 2023 Millage Rate(s) (9-0)
• Approved 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook (9-0)
• Approved minutes of April 25, 2023 (8-0)

Strategic Planning Committee - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 5:45P.M.

The Strategic Planning Committee approved a servitude agreement with the City of Donaldsonville for a generator at Donaldsonville Primary School. The committee also approved providing Redistricting Maps 1b, 2, and 3b to the public for feedback. Additional discussion covered the classification of grade levels in the redistricting process, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Servitude agreement with the City of Donaldsonville for a generator at Donaldsonville Primary School – motion carried
• Discussion of redistricting classification of grade levels – informational discussion
• Discussion of redistricting mapping options; motion to provide Maps 1b, 2, and 3b to the public – motion carried
• Adjournment – motion carried

The Strategic Planning Committee approved a servitude agreement for a city generator at Donaldsonville Primary School. The committee also selected three specific redistricting map scenarios to present at public forums in June. Discussions regarding grade-level choices for redistricted students were tabled until May 16, 2023.

• Approved servitude agreement with City of Donaldsonville for generator at Donaldsonville Primary School (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved bringing Maps 1B, 2, and 3B to public forum meetings on June 12, 13, and 14, 2023 (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Tabled discussion on redistricting grade level classifications until May 16, 2023

Policy Committee Meeting - Bluff Middle School Gym- 4:00 pm

The Ascension Parish School Board Policy Committee reviewed and voted to approve the 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook. The motion carried with three votes in favor and one abstention. The meeting also included board comments and adjournment.

• Approval of 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook (motion carried 3-0-1)
• Vote: Yea – Robyn Penn Delaney, John DeFrances, Louis Lambert; Abstain – Taft Kleinpeter

The committee decided to retain original language regarding students who refuse searches. It also approved revised hoodie policy language and moved that item to the full board for final approval.

• Approved keeping original language for students who refuse to be searched (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved revised hoodie policy banning hoodies in high schools and allowing principal discretion for PreK-8 (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Moved hoodie policy item to the full board for approval (3-0, 1 abstain)

Maintenance Committee Meeting - Bluff Middle School Gym - 4:30P.M. - 5:15P.M.

The Maintenance Committee reviewed the 2022-2023 maintenance budget vs projected actuals and then considered the proposed 2023-2024 Maintenance Budget. The committee voted 3-0 (with one abstention) to approve the new maintenance budget. The meeting was primarily procedural, focusing on budget review and approval.

• Review of 2022-2023 Maintenance Budget vs. Projected Actuals
• Review and approval of 2023-2024 Proposed Maintenance Budget
• Motion to approve the Maintenance Budget carried with 3 yeas and 1 abstention
• Meeting held at Bluff Middle School Gym, 15464 Bluff Road, Prairieville

The committee reviewed the 2022-2023 maintenance expenses against a budget of $35,221,145. Members approved a proposed 2023-2024 maintenance budget of $41,213,978 for submission to the total district budget.

• Approved proposed 2023-2024 maintenance budget of $41,213,978 (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Bluff Middle School Gym - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board approved several consent agenda items, including a partnership with Louisiana Community and Technical College System and River Parish Community College, a right-of-way for Entergy at East Ascension High School, and new assistant principal hires. The board also recognized Dutchtown High School's band and gymnastics team for state and national honors.

• Approved agreement with LCTCS and River Parish Community College for student pathways
• Approved right-of-way for Entergy at East Ascension High School
• Approved new administrative contracts: Melissa Zeller (Assistant Principal, Early College Options) and Kristin Hollins (Assistant Principal, Apple Digital Academy)
• Approved monthly Head Start Services Report and Personnel Report for March 2023
• Approved SB-10916 bread products bid for Child Nutrition Program parish-wide

The Ascension Parish School Board approved several consent agenda items, including personnel reports and a right-of-way agreement for Entergy. The board also approved an agreement with the Louisiana Community and Technical College System and River Parish Community College.

• Approved minutes of April 18, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved March 2023 Monthly Head Start Services Report (7-0)
• Approved March 2023 Monthly Personnel Report (7-0)
• Approved SB-10916-Bread Products Parish Wide, Child Nutrition Program (7-0)
• Approved agreement with Louisiana Community and Technical College System and River Parish Community College (7-0)
• Approved Right of Way for Entergy at East Ascension High School (7-0)
• Approved administrative contracts for Melissa Zeller and Kristin Hollins (7-0)

Transportation Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium 4:00P.M.

The committee received an overview of the transportation department and reviewed the 2022-2023 budget versus actuals. They then voted to approve the proposed 2023-2024 transportation budget, which will be incorporated into the full district budget for later board approval.

• Transportation Department overview presented by Mr. Aubrey Yates
• Review of 2022-2023 transportation budget vs. projected actuals
• Review and approval of proposed 2023-2024 transportation budget
• Motion to approve budget carried 4-0-1 (4 yea, 1 abstain)

The committee approved the proposed 2023-2024 Transportation Budget to be included in the full district budget. Mr. Aubrey Yates provided an overview of department staffing, equipment, and salaries, and reported that the 2022-2023 budget is projected to remain within its limits.

• Approved 2023-2024 Proposed Transportation Budget for inclusion in the full district budget (4-0, 1 abstain)

Strategic Planning Committee - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:15P.M. - 6:15P.M.

The Strategic Planning Committee voted to approve an agreement with the Louisiana Community and Technical College System and River Parish Community College, and also approved a right of way for Entergy at East Ascension High School. The committee discussed redistricting classification of grade levels and reviewed redistricting mapping options.

• Approved agreement with LCTCS/RPCC (motion carried, 5-0-1)
• Approved right of way for Entergy at East Ascension High School (motion carried, 5-0-1)
• Discussed redistricting classification of grade levels
• Discussed redistricting mapping options

The Strategic Planning Committee approved an agreement to use Donaldsonville High as an adult education facility and a servitude agreement for Entergy at East Ascension High School. Both items were moved to the next full board agenda. The committee also reviewed five redistricting mapping options for the new Prairieville High School.

• Approved agreement with LCTCS and RPCC to use Donaldsonville High for industrial arts adult education (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Entergy servitude agreement for underground utilities at East Ascension High School (5-0, 1 abstain)

Policy Committee Meeting - Central Middle - Cafetorium 4:45P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Policy Committee reviewed the proposed 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook. No final vote was taken; the committee voted to reconvene next week to continue discussion. The meeting also included additional board comments and adjournment.

• Review of 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook (including discipline policy changes)
• Motion to reconvene next week (passed unanimously)

The committee discussed changes to the 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, specifically regarding dress code hoodies and evidence gathering language. A motion to bring the handbook to the full board was withdrawn. The committee decided to reconvene for further review on April 25, 2023.

• Approved motion to reconvene in Policy Committee on April 25, 2023 to review 2023-2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board voted to canvass the March 25 special election results and levy three renewed property taxes totaling 33 mills for 10 years: 21 mills for personnel salaries/benefits, 8 mills for technology (minimum 3 mills), and 4 mills for building/facility construction. The board also approved a contract for Dr. Edith Walker as superintendent and accepted consent agenda items including bids for computer device cases and AED equipment, and a utility easement for Galvez Primary School. The meeting included an executive session to discuss expulsion appeals of three Donaldsonville High School students.

• Resolution canvassing March 25 special election results and renewing 21-mill, 8-mill, 4-mill property taxes
• Approval of superintendent contract for Dr. Edith Walker
• Sealed bid SB-10914 awarded for parish-wide computer device cases
• Approval of DEMCO utility servitude agreement for Galvez Primary School site
• Executive session for expulsion appeals of three students from Donaldsonville High School

The board approved a contract for Superintendent Dr. Edith Walker and certified the results of a March 25 special election to renew three ad valorem tax levies. The board also upheld the expulsions of three students from Donaldsonville High School. Several sealed bids for equipment and a utility agreement were approved via the consent agenda.

• Approved contract for Superintendent Dr. Edith Walker (11-0)
• Approved resolution canvassing results of March 25 special election for three tax levies (11-0)
• Approved resolution directing renewal of 21 mills, 8 mills, and 4 mills ad valorem taxes (11-0)
• Approved sealed bid SB-10914 for computer device cases (11-0)
• Approved DEMCO Utility Servitude Agreement for Galvez Primary School site (11-0)
• Approved sealed bid SB-10923 for AED equipment (11-0)
• Upheld expulsion of student A.C. at Donaldsonville High School (9-2)
• Upheld expulsion of student Ay.C. at Donaldsonville High School (9-2)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 4:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board interviewed two superintendent finalists and voted to extend an offer to Dr. Edith Walker. The board also approved a consent agenda including a $0.15 breakfast and $0.25 lunch price increase (excluding free/reduced students), a sealed bid for Content Keeper License, and an out-of-state field trip for Dutchtown High JROTC.

• Offer of employment to Dr. Edith Walker as superintendent
• Sealed bid SB-10915 for Content Keeper License approved
• Breakfast meal price increased by $0.15, lunch by $0.25 (free/reduced students exempt)
• Out-of-state field trip for Dutchtown High JROTC to Infinity Space and Science Center in Pearlington, Mississippi on April 22, 2023
• Scheduled committee meetings for Transportation, Policy, and Insurance

The board voted unanimously to extend an employment invitation to Dr. Edith Walker for the position of Superintendent of Schools. Other actions included approving school meal price increases and a software license. The board also approved a field trip for Dutchtown High School JROTC.

• Extended invitation of employment to Dr. Edith Walker for Superintendent (Unanimous)
• Approved $0.15 increase for breakfast and $0.25 increase for lunch meals (10-0)
• Approved sealed bid SB-10915-Content Keeper License (10-0)
• Approved Dutchtown High School JROTC field trip to Mississippi (10-0)
• Approved March 28, 2023 meeting minutes (10-0)

Discipline Policy Review Committee

The Discipline Policy Review Committee will discuss and consider adopting the APSB Student Handbook Rights & Responsibilities & Discipline Policy. This is the main substantive item on the agenda, along with procedural roll call and adjournment.

• Review and adoption of APSB Student Handbook Rights & Responsibilities & Discipline Policy

The Discipline Policy Review Committee discussed updates to the APSB Student Handbook, including dress code revisions, search standards, and tardy policies. These suggested changes are intended for future Board approval.

• Proposed striking 'extreme hair styles' from elementary dress code
• Proposed requiring high school skirts and shorts to be no more than 3 inches above the knee
• Proposed adding 'Refusal of Search' to the list of offenses
• Proposed increasing high school tardy limit to 20 before suspension
• Discussed mandatory drug screening for students caught with vapes
• Proposed banning cell phone use on buses without permission

Child Nutrition Committee - Central Middle School Cafetorium- 5:30P.M.

The committee reviewed the proposed 2023-2024 Child Nutrition Program budget and voted to approve a student meal price increase for the upcoming school year. The motion carried unanimously. The meeting also included board comments and adjournment.

• Review of proposed 2023-2024 Child Nutrition Program budget
• Approved student meal price increase for 2023-2024 school year
• Motion by Robyn Penn Delaney, seconded by Taft Kleinpeter, carried 3-0

The committee reviewed a proposed 2023-2024 Child Nutrition Program budget featuring a $2 million shortfall. Members approved a price increase for paid student meals to be added to the consent agenda.

• Approved $0.15 increase on breakfast meals and $0.25 increase on lunch meals for students without free and reduced benefits (3-0)

Technology Committee - Central Middle School Cafetorium 6:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Technology Committee met to review the proposed 2023-2024 IT budget. The committee discussed and voted to approve the budget overview. Additional board comments and adjournment followed.

• 2023-2024 IT Budget Overview presented, discussed, and approved by committee via motion (carried).

The committee approved the preliminary 2023-2024 IT budget, which summarizes revenues and expenditures for the technology department. The budget now moves to the full board for final approval as part of the overall district budget.

• Approved 2023-2024 preliminary Technology Budget (3-0)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:00P.M.

The Insurance Committee of the Ascension Parish School Board is meeting to receive an informational update on health insurance from Dr. Jeremy Muse. No votes or decisions are on the agenda beyond adjournment.

• Health insurance update presentation by Dr. Jeremy Muse

The committee received a health insurance update from HUB International comparing plan data from 2021-2022 to 2022-2023. A proposed Patient Assistance Prescription Drug Program was presented with projected savings of $1,144,526. No formal votes were taken on the insurance data or the proposed program.

• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board voted to adopt and approve resolutions for Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) participation and exemptions for Mauser USA, LLC, Talon Industrial LLC, Clean Hydrogen Works, and Freepoint Eco-Systems. The board also entered executive session to discuss opioid litigation, nominated two candidates for superintendent interviews, and approved boiler and property insurance policy renewals.

• Approved ITEP resolution for Mauser USA, LLC and Talon Industrial LLC
• Approved ITEP resolution for Clean Hydrogen Works, LA-1, L.L.C. dba Ascension Clean Energy
• Approved ITEP resolution for Freepoint Eco-Systems Baton Rouge Recycling, LLC
• Entered executive session to receive legal update on opioid litigation; adopted resolution to join Louisiana State-Local Government Opioid litigation MOU
• Nominated two candidates for superintendent search; scheduled interviews for April 4

The Board approved Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) resolutions for three companies and joined a state-local government opioid litigation memorandum. Members also scheduled interviews for superintendent candidates and approved several insurance renewals and sealed bids.

• Approved ITEP resolutions for Mauser USA, LLC, Talon Industrial LLC, Clean Hydrogen Works, LA-1, L.L.C., and Freepoint Eco-Systems Baton Rouge Recycling, LLC
• Approved boiler and machinery policy with XL America and rejected terrorism coverage
• Adopted resolution to join Louisiana State-Local Government Opioid litigation Memorandum of Understanding
• Approved interviewing two candidates for Superintendent on April 4, 2023
• Approved existing coverage for students in career programs
• Approved East Ascension High Boys Track team field trip to Texas Relays
• Approved Property Insurance Policy Renewal and rejected terrorism coverage
• Approved sealed bids for Microsoft Licensing (SB-10913) and Large Kitchen Equipment (SB-10922)

Insurance Committee Meeting - Dutchtown High School Gym - 4:30P.M. - 5:15P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Insurance Committee met and approved existing health coverage for students in career programs. They also voted to renew property insurance policies and boiler and machinery policies, including terrorism coverage options, for April 2023. All motions passed unanimously with one abstention.

• Approved existing health coverage for students in career programs for consent agenda
• Approved property insurance policy renewals and terrorism coverage options for April 2023
• Approved boiler and machinery policy renewals and terrorism coverage options for April 2023

The committee approved a $2,320,184 property insurance renewal with a $500,000 deductible and rejected terrorism coverage. It also approved a $2,002 insurance quote for students in career programs. A request for lower coverage options for the Boiler and Machinery policy was tabled for the March 28 meeting.

• Approved $2,002 insurance coverage for students in career programs (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved 2023-2024 property insurance renewal with $500k deductible at $2,320,184 premium (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Rejected terrorism coverage on the property policy (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Tabled Boiler and Machinery policy renewal pending additional pricing options for March 28 meeting (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Dutchtown High School Gym 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board reviewed several industrial development projects and Head Start program applications. The meeting included informative presentations regarding potential manufacturing projects in Darrow and Donaldsonville.

• Presentation on Freepoint Eco-Systems Baton Rouge Recycling, LLC project in Darrow
• Presentation on Ascension Clean Energy project in Donaldsonville
• Information regarding ITEP contract for Mauser USA, LLC and Talon Industrial LLC
• Review of Head Start COLA/Quality Improvement Application
• Approval of 2023 Head Start Continuation Grant Application

The board approved one-year supplemental pay for designated staff at several Donaldsonville schools and approved the Head Start COLA/Quality Improvement Application. Other actions included approving a government servitude agreement and two out-of-state field trips.

• Approved one-year supplemental pay for staff at Donaldsonville Ascension Head Start Pre-k 3, Donaldsonville Primary, Lowery Elementary, Lowery Middle, and Donaldsonville High School (10-0)
• Approved Head Start COLA/Quality Improvement Application (10-0)
• Approved Ascension Parish Government Servitude Agreement for School Board Operations Site (10-0)
• Approved Head Start 2023 Continuation Grant Application (10-0)
• Approved February 2023 Monthly Head Start Services Report (10-0)
• Approved February 2023 Monthly Personnel Report (10-0)
• Approved St. Amant High School volleyball trip to Georgia (10-0)
• Approved East Ascension High School band trip to Mississippi (10-0)

Strategic Planning Committee - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 4:45P.M.

The Strategic Planning Committee voted unanimously to approve a servitude agreement with Ascension Parish Government for the APSB Operations Site. The committee also reviewed a property search and received an update on the 2020 Bond Project. The meeting was held at Central Middle School Cafetorium in Gonzales.

• Approval of servitude agreement with Ascension Parish Government for APSB Operations Site
• Review of property search for potential new sites
• Update on the 2020 Bond Project

The Strategic Planning Committee approved placing a servitude agreement for the 9690 Airline Hwy property on the next board meeting's consent agenda. The committee also directed staff to pursue a non-binding letter of intent for an 11.1 acre property on Hwy 73. Staff provided updates on the 2020 Donaldsonville High Bond Project bids.

• Approved placing Ascension Parish Government Servitude Agreement for 9690 Airline Hwy on next board consent agenda (6-0)
• Directed Mr. Parent to enter a non-binding letter of intent for 11.1 acre property on Hwy 73
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Budget Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium -5:30P.M.

The Budget Committee received reports on the 2021-2022 district audit and school activity funds audits. The committee also voted to extend west-side supplemental pay for the 2023-2024 school year. The motion carried with one abstention.

• Receive 2021-2022 audit report from Tiffani Dorsa, CPA Postlethwaite and Netterville
• Receive 2021-2022 school activity funds audit report from Kimneye Cox
• Extend west-side supplemental pay for the 2023-2024 school year (motion carried, abstention: Taft Kleinpeter)

The committee voted to include one-year west-side supplemental pay in the 2023-2024 salary schedule and budget. This item will be placed on the consent agenda for the next meeting. The committee also received reports on the 2021-2022 financial and school audits.

• Approved including west-side supplemental pay in 2023-2024 salary schedule and budget (5-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board is deciding on a resolution regarding the Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) contract for CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC, presented by the Ascension Economic Development Corporation. They will also hear presentations on the 2021-2022 annual comprehensive financial report, Head Start continuation grant, and superintendent search survey results, plus approve a consent agenda including personnel and financial reports, an agricultural lease, kitchen equipment, and construction management for school renovations.

• Resolution on ITEP contract for CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC
• Presentation of 2021-2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Review of Head Start 2023 Continuation Grant Application
• Approval of Agricultural Lease for Lowery Middle School Property
• Approval of Construction Management at Risk Services for St. Amant Primary and Middle School Renovations

The Ascension Parish School Board approved an Industrial Tax Exemption Program contract for CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC. The board also certified member training hours for 2022 and approved several facility renovation and repair contracts.

• Approved Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) participation for CF Industries Nitrogen, LLC
• Approved resolution certifying school board member training and ethics hours for 2022
• Approved Construction Management at Risk Services for St. Amant Primary and Middle School renovations
• Approved East Ascension High School Hurricane Ida Repairs-Phase II
• Rejected Donaldsonville High School Commons Area Expansion and Parking Improvements
• Approved agricultural lease for Lowery Middle School property
• Approved purchase of large kitchen equipment
• Approved out-of-state field trips for St. Amant High School and East Ascension High School

Strategic Planning Committee - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:00P.M.

The Strategic Planning Committee approved a motion to expand a partnership with River Parishes Community College for workforce skill training programs, including signing a letter of intent to initiate a future cooperative endeavor agreement. Members also received an update on a capital improvement project at Galvez-Oakland Middle School. The committee discussed potential future concepts and projects for staff to consider. The meeting adjourned after board comments.

• Approved letter of intent with RPCC for before/after-school workforce skill training programs
• Received summary of capital improvement project at GOMS (Galvez-Oakland Middle School)
• Discussed existing SPC projects and potential future concepts for staff research
• Motion to approve partnership passed with one abstention (Taft Kleinpeter)

The Strategic Planning Committee approved initiating a cooperative endeavor agreement with RPCC for workforce skill training. The committee also approved proceeding with the original scope of the 2020 bond capital improvement project at Gonzales Middle School. Staff were requested to research grade configuration options for the Donaldsonville school community.

• Approved initiating a future cooperative endeavor agreement with RPCC for Workforce Skill Training Programs (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved original scope of work for capital improvement projects at Gonzales Middle School (3-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:30P.M.

The board approved the timeline, advertisement, and compensation for a new superintendent. They also declared surplus property for auction, recognized a donation from Rubicon, and received an ITEP presentation from AEDC. The consent agenda included approval of the 2023-2024 school calendar, computing devices RFP, and student expulsion appeals.

• Approved superintendent search timeline and advertisement
• Approved compensation for new superintendent
• Declared property surplus and approved public auction
• Recognized donation from Rubicon
• Approved RFP-5153 for student/staff computing devices

The board approved the selection process and a minimum compensation of $190,000 for a new superintendent. Other actions included approving the 2023-2024 school and employee calendars and authorizing the sale of surplus property via public auction.

• Set minimum compensation for new Superintendent at $190,000.00 (9-0)
• Approved process, timeline, and advertisement for Superintendent selection (9-0)
• Approved resolution to declare property surplus and authorize public auction (9-0)
• Approved 2023-2024 District School Calendar (9-0)
• Approved 2023-2024 12-Month Employee Holiday Calendar (9-0)
• Approved RFP-5153-Student/Staff Computing Devices (9-0)
• Approved three out-of-state field trips for Dutchtown High School (9-0)
• Approved expulsion length appeals for two students (9-0)

Executive Committee - Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School - ITTC 5:00P.M.

The Executive Committee is meeting to discuss several components of the search for a new Superintendent. Discussion topics include the search timeline, job advertisements, and a survey.

• Discussion of Timeline for Superintendent Search Process
• Discussion of Job Advertisement for Superintendent Search
• Discussion of Survey

The committee met for an informational session regarding the superintendent search process. No substantive actions were taken during the meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Strategic Planning Committee - Central Middle School - Cafetorium 5:45P.M. - 6:30P.M.

The Strategic Planning Committee will hear a 2020 Bond Project Update presented by Jeff Parent. The meeting will include a discussion of additional board comments before adjourning. A motion to adjourn was made by Marty Bourgeois, seconded by John DeFrances, and carried with four yeas.

• 2020 Bond Project Update presented by Jeff Parent (information)
• Additional Board Comments (discussion)
• Adjournment motion carried (action) – motion by Marty Bourgeois, seconded by John DeFrances, yeas: Murphy, Duplechein, DeFrances, Kleinpeter, Bourgeois

The committee received a project update regarding Gonzales Middle School and discussed funding options related to Hurricane Ida damage. Members directed staff to review the educational building program and potential costs for adjustments.

• Directed Mr. Parent to review educational building program and adjustment costs with administrators
• Scheduled follow-up meeting for February 28th to discuss findings
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Regular Meeting Ascension Parish School Board - Central Middle School - Cafetorium - 6:30P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board approved routine personnel and program reports, reviewed expulsion appeals, and finalized a court partnership for student support. The meeting was primarily procedural, focusing on consent agenda approvals, staff recognitions, and job description updates.

• Approval of November and December 2022 personnel and Head Start services reports
• Finalization of a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the 23rd Judicial District Court for the FINS Program
• Review of expulsion appeal lengths for two East Ascension High School students
• Updates to job descriptions for SBLC/Reading Facilitator (Job Code 290) and Bus Driver Aide (Job Code 810)
• Consideration of a new job description for a Part Time Middle School Career Coach (Job Code 916)

The board approved a Pupil Progression Update and several personnel and job description changes. It also authorized three cheerleading field trips to Orlando, Florida, and a cooperative agreement with the 23rd Judicial District Court.

• Approved Pupil Progression Update (9-0)
• Approved November and December 2022 Monthly Personnel Report (9-0)
• Approved November and December 2022 Monthly Head Start Services Report (9-0)
• Approved expulsion length appeals for two East Ascension High School students (9-0)
• Approved Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with 23rd Judicial District Court for FINS Program (9-0)
• Approved revised job descriptions for SBLC/Reading Facilitator, Bus Driver Aide, School Social Worker, and Part Time Middle School Career Coach (9-0)
• Approved Orlando, Florida field trips for East Ascension High, Central Middle, and Lake Elementary cheerleaders (9-0)
• Cancelled February 21 and March 7, 2023 meetings and relocated March 21 and April 25 meetings (9-0)

Policy Committee Meeting - Central Middle School Cafetorium - 5:15-5:45 pm

The Ascension Parish School Board's Policy Committee met on January 24, 2023, to review and recommend approval of the 2023-2024 district school calendar and 12-month employee holiday calendar. Both items were approved for placement on the consent agenda of the next full board meeting. The committee also discussed an update to the 2022-2023 pupil progression plan but took no action.

• Approved 2023-2024 District School Calendar for consent agenda (motion carried 4-0-1)
• Approved 2023-2024 12-Month Employee Holiday Calendar for consent agenda (motion carried 4-0-1)
• Discussed 2022-2023 Pupil Progression Update (no action taken)

The committee approved the 2023-2024 District School Calendar and the 2023-2024 12-Month Employee Holiday Calendar for placement on the next board meeting's consent agenda. A review of the 2022-2023 Pupil Progression update was also conducted.

• Approved 2023-2024 District School Calendar for consent agenda (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved 2023-2024 12-Month Employee Holiday Calendar for consent agenda (4-0, 1 abstain)

Personnel Committee Meeting- Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:00P.M.

The Ascension Parish School Board Personnel Committee approved changes to the SBLC/Reading Facilitator and Bus Driver Aide job descriptions, and created new job descriptions for a School Social Worker and a Part Time Middle School Career Coach. All four actions passed unanimously with one abstention.

• Approved changes to SBLC/Reading Facilitator job description (Job Code 290)
• Approved changes to Bus Driver Aide job description (Job Code 810)
• Approved new job description for School Social Worker (Job Code 253)
• Approved new job description for Part Time Middle School Career Coach (Job Code 916)

The committee approved changes to the SBLC/Reading Facilitator and Bus Driver Aide job descriptions. It also approved the creation of new job descriptions for a School Social Worker and a Part Time Middle School Career Coach. All four items were moved to the full board agenda.

• Approved changes to SBLC/Reading Facilitator job description (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved changes to Bus Driver Aide job description (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved new School Social Worker job description (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved new Part Time Middle School Career Coach job description (4-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Meeting - Ascension Parish School Board - Donaldsonville - 6:30PM

The Ascension Parish School Board approved a $130,000 contribution to the Assessor's Office CAMA System Project and adopted several consent agenda items, including a sewer agreement for Prairieville High and out-of-state field trips. The meeting also included election of officers, approval of minutes, and presentations on Head Start and financial reports.

• Approval of $130,000 funding toward the Assessor's Office CAMA System Project
• Approval of NWI Sewer Cooperative Endeavor Agreement at Prairieville High
• Approval of out-of-state field trips for Lake Elementary and Central Middle School cheerleaders to Orlando, Florida (Feb 9-13, 2023)
• Approval of sealed bid SB-10910 for large kitchen equipment
• Notification of new administrative contract for Lori VanMoer as Assistant Principal at Pecan Grove Primary School

The board elected its officers and approved a $130,000 contribution to the Assessor's Office CAMA System Project. Several consent items were approved, while two out-of-state cheerleading field trips were removed for further policy review.

• Appointed Taft Kleinpeter as School Board President (Unanimous)
• Appointed Jared Bercegeay as School Board Vice-President (Unanimous)
• Approved $130,000 funding for Assessor's Office CAMA System Project (Unanimous)
• Approved NWI Sewer CEA at Prairieville High (Unanimous)
• Approved Sealed Bid SB-10910-Large Kitchen Equipment (Unanimous)
• Approved administrative contract for Lori VanMoer, Assistant Principal (Unanimous)
• Removed Lake Elementary and Central Middle cheerleading trips from agenda for policy review (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 6, 2022 (Unanimous)