Rapide Parish School Board public meetings in 2024
59 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board approved several financial and operational items, including renewal of excess workers compensation insurance for 2025 at the current $94,831 premium, acceptance of a $33,000 donation from Mac's Fresh Market for teacher gifts, and change orders for renovations at Bolton High School and Horseshoe Elementary School. The board also acted on a consent agenda item involving a student discipline recommendation.
- Approved renewal of excess workers compensation insurance for 2025 at $94,831 premium with $750,000 SIR
- Accepted $33,000 donation from Mac's Fresh Market for Teacher Appreciation gifts
- Approved Change Order #1 for Bolton High renovations decreasing contract to $4,178,231.83
- Approved Change Order #1 for Horseshoe Elementary adjusting construction and completion dates
- Upheld a Discipline Review Committee recommendation (pulled from consent agenda)
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met in regular session and approved a consent agenda that included several financial actions. Among them was a $2.5 million inter-fund loan from the General Fund to Special Programs, due for repayment by December 1, 2024. The board also authorized bids for a restroom project at Tioga Jr High ($30,000) and the construction of a bus storage building at Tioga Jr High ($228,000), and ratified the annual purchase of band instruments and equipment.
- Approved $2,500,000 inter-fund loan from General Fund to Special Programs through December 1, 2024
- Authorized solicitation of quotes for Tioga Jr High restroom project (RFQ No. 25-23, $30,000 from District 11 School Maintenance Funds)
- Ratified bids and awarded contract for Tioga Jr High Bus Storage Building (Bid #11-24-11, $228,000 from District 11 Bond Funds)
- Approved $20,400 yearbook publishing agreement with Taylor Publishing Company dba Balfour for Pineville High School
- Ratified bids for Annual Purchase of Band Instruments and Equipment (Bid #25-04)
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board met in special session on October 15, 2024, and approved multiple change orders for school construction projects, including a $2.6 million IAQ enhancement at Peabody Montessori School. They also approved a $21,800 increase for synthetic turf fields at Alexandria Senior High, a $18,895 increase for Rosenthal Montessori IAQ work, a time extension for Pineville High IAQ enhancements, and agreements for storm shelter peer reviews at Cherokee and Huddle Elementary. All motions passed with varying vote tallies.
- Approved Change Order #1 for synthetic turf fields at Alexandria Senior High, raising contract to $780,300 from $758,500
- Approved Change Order #1 for IAQ enhancements at Peabody Montessori, raising contract to $2,609,449.60 from $2,587,000
- Approved Change Order #2 for IAQ enhancements at Rosenthal Montessori, raising contract to $2,527,569 from $2,508,674
- Approved Change Order #2 for IAQ enhancements at Pineville High, extending substantial completion to September 30, 2024
- Approved agreements with Farnsworth Group for third-party peer review of storm shelters at Cherokee Elementary and Huddle Elementary
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee will meet to receive reports on personnel actions including new hires, promotions, resignations, and performance contract renewals. It will also vote on leave requests and discuss personnel complaints. The agenda is procedural, with no specific names or dollar amounts listed.
- Motion to receive reports on new hires, promotions, resignations, performance contract renewals, rescissions, and waivers
- Motion to approve leave requests
- Motion to discuss any personnel complaints for potential full board action
- Items 1-3 were sent to consent via motion by Willard McCall, second by Stephen Chapman
Education Committee
The Education Committee is reviewing reports on student discipline and suspensions across Rapides Parish. The committee is also discussing a potential Innovative Behavior Pilot.
- Report on student progress in the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS)
- Report on in-school and out-of-school suspensions for all Rapides Parish schools
- Discussion and possible action on an Innovative Behavior Pilot
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee received updates on bond progress and capital outlay budgets, and discussed increased project costs due to new storm shelter requirements. The committee approved a substitute motion to allocate bond premium and interest to schools impacted by storm shelters, and voted to send a $2.4 million premium allocation from the latest bond sale to the full board for final action.
- Update on District 62 Bond progress (item 1)
- Report on District 62 Bond Capital Outlay Budgets (item 2)
- Substitute motion approved to allocate bond premium and interest to schools for storm shelter cost increases (item 3)
- Motion to discuss and take action on allocating $2.4 million bond premium sent to full board (item 4)
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee met to approve various contracts, budget amendments, and facility projects. The committee decided on several high-value financial transfers and employee payments.
- Payment of 2024-2025 One Time Salary Supplements totaling $6,500,000
- Inter-fund loan of $2,500,000 from General Fund to Special Programs
- Tioga Jr High Bus Storage Building bid for $228,000
- Rapides High soccer fieldhouse locker installation for $48,000
- Pineville Elementary School security vestibule project for $45,000
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board approved a consent agenda that included minutes, reports, policy revisions, and several contracts. Among the items was a $722,020 amendment for Jobs for America's Graduates programs, a $9,600 contract with Dr. Kelvin Spears for EMS medical oversight, and a decision to reject a single $130,000 bid for Alexandria Senior High Air Handler Replacement as over budget, re-authorizing the bidding process.
- Rejected single bid for Alexandria Senior High Air Handler Replacement (Bid #25-08) at $130,000, re-authorizing re-bid (Bid #25-08A)
- Approved $722,020 amendment to Louisiana Workforce Commission agreement for Jobs for America's Graduates programs
- Approved $9,600 professional services contract with Dr. Kelvin Spears for EMS student instruction oversight
- Approved revisions to policies JGCCB (Immunizations), JGC (Student Health Services), JGCD (Administration of Medication), and JDA (Corporal Punishment)
- Approved donations, budget changes, grant updates, and routine reports and minutes
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee approved motions to send several routine personnel reports (new hires, leave requests, complaints) to the consent agenda. The Committee also voted to recommend revisions to policies on board member qualifications, continuing education, meeting notification, sick leave, and contracts, as well as a proposed 3-minute speaking limit for board members at meetings. All recommendations will go before the full School Board for final action.
- Motion to send policy revisions on board member qualifications (ABCB), continuing education (BBBC), and meeting notification (BCBB) to full board
- Motion to recommend revisions to sick leave policy (GBRIB) and contracts/compensation policy (GBA), pending legal review
- Substitute motion for a 3-minute speaking limit per board member at meetings, with an additional 3 minutes after all members have spoken
- Routine approval of new hires, promotions, resignations, and leave requests sent to consent agenda
- All committee votes were unanimous (Barrios, McCall, Chapman)
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee is deciding on multiple facility improvement bids and service contracts. The body is also reviewing budget updates for the General Fund and Food and Nutrition Fund.
- Tioga Jr High School bus storage building bid for $228,000.00
- Waste disposal services proposal solicitation for $500,000.00
- HVAC air filter maintenance proposal solicitation for $270,000.00
- Campus improvements at Mary Goff Elementary bid advertisement for $210,900.00
- Cafeteria fresh produce bid for $200,000.00
Education Committee
The Education Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will consider seven action items, including a $722,020 amendment to an agreement for Jobs for America's Graduates programs in middle and high schools and a $9,600 professional services contract for medical oversight of EMS programs. Members will also vote on proposed policy revisions regarding immunizations, student health services, medication administration, and corporal punishment. Additionally, the committee will receive reports on alternative program progress, school enrollment and staffing, and the Critical Goals Task Force.
- Approval of $722,020 amendment to Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG-LA) agreement, revising scope and payment terms for participating schools
- Approval of $9,600 contract with Dr. Kelvin Spears for medical content oversight in high school EMS programs
- Revision of policies JGCCB (Immunizations), JGC (Student Health Services), JGCD (Administration of Medication), and JDA (Corporal Punishment) as recommended by Forethought
- Report on student progress at the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS) and district-wide discipline data
- Request for reports on Peabody Magnet High School enrollment, capacity, and staffing, and Bolton Academy enrollment, faculty, special education, sports, and performing arts
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to discuss two items: receiving an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond and a motion to name the Alexandria Senior High School JROTC building after Colonel Joseph Martin. The naming motion includes a recommended action and a recorded vote result.
- Update on District 62 Bond progress
- Motion to name Alexandria Senior High School's JROTC building after Colonel Joseph Martin
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board met in a special session to approve an architectural contract and several construction change orders. The board decided on funding for pre-election services and adjusted timelines and costs for various school facility projects.
- Contract with Yeager, Watson & Associates, LLC for District 52 Bond Project pre-election services not to exceed $60,000
- Change Order #1 for Carter C. Raymond Junior High School renovations increasing contract sum by $28,648.00 to $573,848.00
- Change Order #1 for Tioga High School greenhouse replacement increasing contract sum by $3,100.00 to $346,935.00
- Change Order #3 for Tioga Elementary School interior renovations increasing contract sum by $3,000.00 to $200,085.00
- Change Order #1 for Tioga Elementary School pavilion structure increasing contract time by 66 days at no cost
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met in regular session and approved a consent agenda that included a $65,300 Memorandum of Understanding with Career Compass Education Solutions for college/career coaching, revisions to policy JGCFA on behavioral health services, and directives for reports on Peabody Magnet High School and Bolton Academy. The meeting also covered routine approvals of minutes, contracts, budget amendments, donations, and grants.
- Approved $65,300 MOU with Career Compass Education Solutions for college/career coaching to middle/high school students
- Approved revisions to policy JGCFA: Behavioral Health Services For Students, pending legal review
- Directed administration to report on Peabody Magnet High School enrollment, building capacity, and faculty/staff comparison
- Directed administration to report on Bolton Academy enrollment, faculty, special education, and performing arts details
- Consent agenda included approval of minutes, personal services contracts, budget changes, donations, and grant updates
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee will meet to vote on routine personnel actions including new hires, promotions, resignations, and leave requests. The committee will also discuss an update on employee attendance policies and consider a motion to allow former employees who took a buy-out in 2011 to reapply for certified positions.
- Motion to allow former employees who took the 2011 buy-out to apply for positions they are certified/qualified for
- Update on policies and procedures for employee attendance and time accounting
- New hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements pending drug screening and background checks
- Approval of leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints for full board action
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee will consider approving multiple construction bids, software renewals, and professional service contracts. Items include a $8.3 million renovation at Caroline Dormon Jr. High, safety upgrades at Peabody Magnet and Pineville Elementary, HVAC replacements, and renewals for JAMF MDM ($14,900) and iBoss content filtering ($89,870). The committee will also discuss a possible pay increase for school secretaries and receive updates on ESSER funding and tutoring programs.
- Award $8,300,000 bid for renovations and additions to Caroline Dormon Jr. High School (Bid #57-24-01) from District 57 Bonds
- Award $108,071 bid for security vestibule/mantrap at Peabody Magnet High School (Bid #25-02)
- Renew JAMF Mobile Device Management license for $14,900.40 and iBoss content filtering for $89,869.74
- Discuss potential pay increase or stipend for school secretaries and approve $86,054 for truancy caseworker contracts
- Engage TBA Studios for Pineville Elementary safety vestibule design and project management, budget $45,000–$51,000
Education Committee
The Education Committee reviewed student progress reports and updated behavioral health policies. The body approved several agreements for student services and requested detailed enrollment and staffing reports for Peabody Magnet High School and Bolton Academy.
- Approved $80,000 MOU with Louisiana Special School District for students at Renaissance Home for Youth
- Approved $65,300 MOU with Career Compass Education Solutions for college and career coaching
- Approved revisions to policy JGCFA: Behavioral Health Services For Students
- Approved the 2024-2025 Pupil Progression Plan
- Approved application for the Head Start grant
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee will meet to discuss the progress of the District 62 Bond. Mr. Jeff Powell is scheduled to provide the update.
- Progress update on the District 62 Bond
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board held a special meeting to consider several construction-related actions for Peabody Magnet High School funded by District 62 bonds. Items included a change order extending the general construction timeline without cost increase, ratification of a roof replacement bid up to $1,300,000, a change order increasing the synthetic track & field contract to $581,035, and a motion to enter executive session for legal discussions concerning the program management agreement.
- Approved Change Order #2 for Peabody Magnet High School general construction (contract with Tudor, Inc.) – no change to $2,689,702 contract sum but 70-day extension.
- Ratified and awarded roof replacement bid for Peabody Magnet High School (Bid #62-25-00) – budgeted at $1,300,000 from District 62 bond funds.
- Approved Change Order #1 for synthetic track & field improvements at Peabody Magnet High School – contract sum increased from $567,000 to $581,035, with 15-day extension.
- Moved to go into executive session to discuss strategy and legal matters related to the District 62 Program Management Agreement with CSRS, LLC.
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met in regular session on August 6, 2024, and acted on a consent agenda that included approving two Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) applications from Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company. The board also approved a $25,759.25 contract for Vector Pathways career and technical education software, revised Head Start quality improvement plans, and adopted numerous budget amendments across multiple funds.
- Approved ITEP application from Procter & Gamble (LA Economic Development Application #20210324-ITE)
- Approved ITEP application from Procter & Gamble (LA Economic Development Application #20190515-ITE)
- Approved $25,759.25 contract with Vector Solutions for CTE programs in middle and high schools for 2024-2025
- Approved revised Head Start Quality Improvement and Corrective Action Plans and new policies
- Adopted budget changes/amendments for over 80 funds
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee will consider routine personnel actions including new hires, leave requests, and complaints, consolidated under a consent agenda. New business includes approving a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) job description and converting up to six paraprofessional positions to CNA positions from the current allotment, with no fiscal impact noted.
- Motion to receive reports on new hires, promotions, resignations, and performance contract renewals (consent agenda)
- Motion to approve leave requests (consent agenda)
- Motion to discuss personnel complaints (consent agenda)
- Motion to approve a new job description for Certified Nursing Assistant
- Motion to convert up to six paraprofessional positions to Certified Nursing Assistant positions from current allotment
Education Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Education Committee will meet on July 16, 2024, to address four new business items. They will consider a motion to study the gifted and talented program, vote on a $25,759.25 contract for Vector Pathways career readiness programs, approve revised Head Start quality improvement and corrective action plans with new policies, and receive a report on summer programs.
- Motion to study the future of the gifted and talented program
- Motion to approve $25,759.25 for Vector Pathways career and technical education programs for school year 2024-2025
- Motion to approve revised Head Start Quality Improvement and Corrective Action Plans and new policies
- Motion to receive a report on summer programs
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee approved numerous financial items, including personal services contracts, budget changes, donations, and budget updates. The committee also voted on two Industrial Tax Exemption Program applications from Procter & Gamble and authorized advertising for bids on several school construction and renovation projects totaling over $28 million. Additionally, the committee ratified bids for multiple projects and approved short-term inter-fund loans from the General Fund totaling $1.74 million. A public hearing for the 2024 tax levy was announced.
- Authorized advertising for bids on Alexandria Middle Magnet School Construction and Renovations Phase I ($13,162,500 from District 62 Bond Funds)
- Ratified and awarded bid for Alexandria Sr High School Additions and Renovations ($13,000,000 from District 62 Bond Funds)
- Ratified bid for Peabody Magnet High School Roof Replacement ($1,300,000 from District 62 Bond Funds)
- Approved inter-fund loans from General Fund: $250,000 to 1967 Sales Tax Fund, $490,000 to 1987 Sales Tax Fund, and $1,000,000 to Special Programs Funds
- Discussed and took action on two Industrial Tax Exemption Program applications from Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company (no fiscal impact)
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee will meet to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond. Mr. Jeff Powell will present the update. No other business is listed.
- Update on District 62 Bond progress by Mr. Jeff Powell
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met to approve several educational and financial items. Actions included approving dual enrollment agreements for the 2024-2025 school year and updating student behavioral health policies. The board also reviewed construction reports and budget amendments.
- $250,000 for turnkey purchase and installation of LED scoreboard at Pineville High School
- Approval of 2024-2025 dual enrollment agreements with CLTCC, Sowela, NSU, SU, and LSUE
- Revision of student policies regarding behavioral health services and support
- Memorandum of Agreement with Rapides Parish Police Jury for out-of-school youth coordination
- Approval of various personal services contracts, leases, and budget amendments
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board voted to accept a contract for construction and renovations at Arthur F Smith Middle Magnet School. The board approved a substitute motion awarding the project to Pat Williams Construction for $11,205,000. This work is funded by District 62 Bond Funds.
- Awarded $11,205,000 contract to Pat Williams Construction for Arthur F Smith Middle Magnet School construction and renovations
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee reviewed reports regarding new hires, promotions, and retirements. The committee also approved a new job description for the Head Start Administrator.
- Approval of Head Start Administrator job description
- Reports on new hires, promotions, and retirements
- Review of leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints for full board action
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee reviewed several large-scale construction bids and contract amendments for school facilities. Members approved a $13 million renovation bid for Alexandria Senior High and a $250,000 scoreboard project for Pineville High School. The committee also moved to take action on the sale of property located at 1225 Windsor Place.
- $13,000,000 bid for Alexandria Sr High Additions and Renovations
- $250,000 LED Scoreboard installation at Pineville High School
- $45,000 construction of secure entry at Cherokee Elementary
- $100,000 contract for professional drug testing services
- Motion to take action on selling property at 1225 Windsor Place
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board met to consider construction bids for Arthur F Smith Middle Magnet School and 2024-2025 salary schedules. Action on the $14,040,000.00 renovation bid was deferred until June 25, 2024, to allow for clarification on student placement phasing.
- Deferred action on Arthur F Smith Middle Magnet School construction and renovations ($14,040,000.00)
- Motion to approve 2024-2025 salary schedules
Education Committee
The Education Committee approved several dual enrollment agreements for the 2024-2025 school year involving multiple institutions. The committee also voted to revise policies regarding student behavioral health services and reviewed handbook revisions. Additionally, members discussed under enrollment options for Head Start programs.
- Approval of 2024-2025 dual enrollment agreements with CLTCC, Sowela, NSU, SU, and LSUE
- Revision of policies JGCFA and JGCF regarding student behavioral health services
- Approval of a non-financial agreement with Rapides Parish Police Jury to support out-of-school youth
- Review of Section XVI Miscellaneous in the Student Handbook
- Discussion on under enrollment options for Head Start and Early Head Start programs
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee will meet to receive a report regarding the progress of the District 62 Bond. Mr. Jeff Powell is scheduled to provide this update.
- Progress update on the District 62 Bond
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The board reviewed reports on school construction projects and approved meeting minutes. Members also voted to approve various budget amendments and service contracts for the 2024-2025 school year.
- Approved $6,481,710.74 for Curriculum and Instruction purchases and professional services contracts
- Authorized bids for Carter C Raymond Jr High Gym HVAC replacement ($180,000)
- Ratified bids for Tioga Jr High locker room renovations ($586,245)
- Approved various budget amendments across multiple funds
- Revised policy IHAD regarding Parent Conferences
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet on May 21, 2024, to consider several personnel actions. Items include a motion to approve a resident teacher stipend increase proposal with LSUA to address recruitment and retention, and a motion to begin the annual evaluation process for the Superintendent for the 2023-2024 school year. Routine items such as new hires, leave requests, and personnel complaints are also on the agenda.
- Motion to approve resident teacher stipend increase proposal with RPSB and LSUA (no dollar amount specified in agenda)
- Motion to begin annual evaluation process for the Superintendent for 2023-2024 school year
- Reports on new hires (pending drug screening and background check), promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Motion to approve leave requests
- Motion to discuss personnel complaints that may go before the full board
Education Committee
The Education Committee met to receive a progress update on students in the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS). The committee also moved to revise policy IHAD regarding Parent Conferences based on recommendations from Forethought, pending legal review.
- Progress update on RAPPS students
- Revision of policy IHAD: Parent Conferences
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will discuss and vote on three items: an update on the District 62 Bond, a motion to allocate $2.4 million to Peabody Magnet High School from bond proceeds, and a motion to direct administration to revise criteria for allocating District 62 Maintenance Funds. The last motion was amended to also include bond funds and to establish a two-person committee to work with administration on a plan.
- Motion to allocate $2.4 million to Peabody Magnet High School from bond sale
- Motion to direct administration to review/revise criteria for allocation of District 62 Maintenance Funds
- Amended motion to also review District 62 Bond fund criteria and establish a two-person committee to develop a plan
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board held a special session to consider a motion regarding equipment for Pineville High School. The board voted to authorize the process for purchasing and installing a new scoreboard.
- Authorization to advertise for bids for 'Turnkey Purchase and Installation of LED Scoreboard at Pineville High School' (RFP 24-36) for $250,000.00
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee will consider 26 items, including a $334,702 change order for Peabody Magnet High School bond projects, budget revisions for multiple funds, and approval of curriculum purchases and professional services contracts totaling $6.48 million. The committee will also vote on bids for construction projects at several schools, including a $14.04 million new construction and renovation at Arthur F Smith Middle Magnet School, and various food service and maintenance contracts.
- Change Order #1 for Peabody Magnet High School bond projects increasing contract sum by $334,702 to $2,689,702
- Approval of Curriculum and Instruction purchases and Professional Services Contracts for 2024-2025 totaling $6,481,710.74
- Bid award for Arthur F Smith Middle Magnet School New Construction and Renovations at $14,040,000
- Bid award for Synthetic Track and Field Improvements at Alexandria Sr High School at $235,000
- Renewal of PowerSchool SIS license, hosting, and maintenance for $233,515.69
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board will meet in regular session on May 7, 2024, to discuss and take action on a consent agenda that includes approving contracts, budget changes, and bids for school construction projects. The most significant item is authorizing the advertisement of bids for a $13 million addition and renovation project at Alexandria Senior High School.
- Authorize advertising bids for $13M Alexandria Senior High School Additions and Renovations (Bid No. 62-24-19)
- Award $877,500 bid for synthetic track and field improvements at Peabody Magnet High School
- Award $520,000 bid for Phase 1 renovations at Carter C. Raymond Jr. High School
- Approve a 3-year, $121,000 contract with FinalSite for digital communication and website services
- Authorize advertising bids for $550,000 in fresh produce purchases for school meals
Personnel Committee
The committee met to review standing personnel items including reports and leave requests. The agenda also included a discussion regarding potential personnel complaints for the full board.
- Review of new hires pending drug screening and background checks
- Review of promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Review of performance contract renewals and disclosures
- Approval of leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints for full board action
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee is reviewing several high-value construction bids and food service contracts. The body is also discussing potential salary increases for school secretaries and renewing student accident insurance.
- Authorization to advertise bids for Alexandria Senior High School Additions and Renovations for $13,000,000
- Proposed 3-year contract with FinalSite for digital communication at $121,000
- Change Order #1 for Peabody Magnet High School Renovations increasing total contract to $3,659,634
- Bids for food purchases including meat, frozen, and processed foods totaling $4,200,000
- Bids for Peabody Magnet High School synthetic track and field improvements for $877,500
Education Committee
The Education Committee met to discuss re-aligning the Curriculum and Instruction Department to support student learning. The committee also reviewed corrective action plans for Head Start and discussed the future of the Head Start program.
- Discussion on re-aligning the Curriculum and Instruction Department
- Report on corrective action plans for Head Start
- Discussion regarding the continuation of Head Start
- Recognition of 'Love the Boot' poster challenge winners
- Progress update on the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS)
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will receive an update on the District 62 Bond and discuss possible action on distributing the bond sell premium. A substitute motion passed directing the superintendent to provide specific options for spending the projected $2.3 million from bond sales, and the matter will be sent to the full board.
- Update on progress of District 62 Bond
- Discussion and possible action on distribution of bond sell premium
- Substitute motion passed for superintendent to give options on spending projected $2.3 million from bond sales
- Motion carried with votes: Linda Burgess, Stephen Chapman, Willard McCall, Wally Fall; Sandra Franklin opposed
- Item to be sent to full board
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board is meeting to approve various school construction bids, policy revisions, and financial agreements. The board is also reviewing budget updates and accepting donations for district schools.
- Renovations to Bolton High School: $4,928,000.00
- Synthetic Turf Baseball and Softball Fields at Alexandria Sr High School: $750,000.00
- Agreement with EMS Linq, Inc for financial and payroll services: $176,330.52
- Donation from Macs Fresh Market for employee appreciation gifts: $23,991.00
- Digital Sign at Acadian Elementary: $39,000.00
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet on March 19, 2024, at 5:15 p.m. in the School Board meeting room. The only agenda item is a motion to receive an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond, presented by Mr. Jeff Powell. This is a discussion/report item, not a final decision.
- Motion to receive update on District 62 Bond progress (presented by Mr. Jeff Powell)
Finance Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Finance Committee will consider approving a $4.928 million bid for renovations to Bolton High School, along with several other construction contracts and change orders. The committee also will vote on inter-fund loans totaling $120,000, a $176,330 software services agreement, and a $475,000 waste disposal contract renewal. All items were recommended for approval by the committee.
- Award $4,928,000 bid for Bolton High School renovations (District 62 Bonds)
- Approve $4,551,000 change order for IAQ enhancements at Bolton High (decrease from original)
- Award $750,000 bid for synthetic turf baseball/softball fields at Alexandria Sr High
- Approve $176,330 agreement with EMS Linq for financial accounting and cloud hosting
- Approve $475,000 renewal of waste disposal services with Waste Connection Bayou
Education Committee
The Education Committee is meeting to receive reports on summer programming and student progress in the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS). The body is also considering revisions to several school policies based on recommendations from Forethought.
- Update on student progress in the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS)
- Proposed revisions to policies JGCE (Child Abuse), JGCD (Administration of Medication), DFG (Donations and Gifts), EBBH (Use of Automated External Defibrillator), JGB (School Wellness), and JGC (Student Health Services)
- Removal of policies IHAD (Parent Conferences) and GBG (Probation) for legal review
- Report on summer programming
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee will meet to receive reports on new hires, promotions, resignations, and leave requests, and to discuss personnel complaints. The committee will also take action on school staffing recommendations for the 2024-2025 school year. Items 1-3 are to be sent to the consent agenda.
- New hires pending drug screening and background checks
- New hires in lieu of substitute
- Promotions, rescissions, and resignations
- Leave requests approval
- Staffing recommendations for 2024-2025 school year
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board met in regular session on March 5, 2024, and approved a consent agenda covering reports, minutes, personnel actions, and an interagency agreement. The board also voted on several regular agenda items, including rejecting a single over-budget bid for synthetic track improvements at Alexandria Senior High and re-authorizing the bid process. Other actions included approving contracts, budget amendments, donations, and multiple facility projects at Tioga schools.
- Rejected single bid for Synthetic Track & Field Event Improvements at Alexandria Sr. High (Bid #62-24-12) because it exceeded the $235,000 budget; re-advertised as Bid #62-24-12A
- Approved $40,000 for Tioga High Parking Lot Lighting (RFQ No. 11-24-03A)
- Approved $85,000 for Tioga Jr High Parking Lot Lighting (RFQ No. 11-24-04A)
- Approved $228,000 for Tioga High School Greenhouse Replacement (Bid #11-24-06)
- Approved $285,000 for Tioga Elementary Interior Renovations (Bid #11-24-07)
Education Committee
The committee voted to recommend continuing the Head Start program and to approve an interagency agreement with Louisiana Rehabilitation Services for transition students with disabilities. Members also received reports on the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS), mental health counseling services, and Bolton applications.
- Motion to discuss and take possible action regarding continuation of Head Start (passed, sent to full board)
- Motion to approve Interagency Agreement with Louisiana Rehabilitation Services for transition students with disabilities (passed, sent to consent)
- Motion to receive update on progress of students in Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS)
- Motion to receive report on how students are chosen for mental health counseling services
- Motion to receive report on status of Bolton applications
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee will meet to consider three items: receiving reports on new hires, resignations, promotions, and other personnel actions; approving leave requests; and discussing personnel complaints. All items are recommended to be sent to the full board as consent items.
- Motion to receive reports on new hires, resignations, promotions, rescissions, and performance contract renewals
- Motion to approve leave requests
- Motion to discuss personnel complaints for potential board action
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is reviewing several bids and quotes for school facility improvements, including roofing, lighting, and renovations. The meeting also includes discussions on budget amendments, grant updates, and contract approvals.
- $704,520 for Paradise Elementary Roofing Project
- $285,000 for Tioga Elementary Interior Renovations
- $235,000 for Alexandria Sr High synthetic track & field improvements
- $228,000 for Tioga High School greenhouse replacement
- $40,000 and $85,000 for parking lot lighting at Tioga High and Jr High
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to discuss a progress update regarding the District 62 Bond. The meeting is scheduled for February 20, 2024.
- Update on the progress of the District 62 Bond by Mr. Jeff Powell
Special Board
The Rapides Parish School Board is meeting to award bids for indoor air quality (IAQ) enhancements at three schools. The board is also considering a contract for a new Student Information Management System.
- Alexandria Sr High IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-07): $3,000,000.00
- Oak Hill High School IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-14): $2,000,000.00
- Alma Redwine Elementary School IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-16): $1,250,000.00
- Student Information Management System (RFP # 24-27) contract with OnCourse: $400,000.00
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board will consider a consent agenda that includes awarding contracts for indoor air quality (IAQ) enhancements at five schools and a roof replacement at Oak Hill High School, totaling over $5.2 million. The board will also receive reports on construction projects, approve budget changes, and accept donations. A student information management system contract worth $400,000 and a fresh fruit and vegetable program bid of $84,500 are also up for ratification.
- Award $2,000,000 for Pineville Jr High School IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-09) using ESSER funds
- Award $1,500,000 for Cherokee Elementary School IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-21) using ESSER funds
- Award $1,200,000 for Arthur F Smith Middle Magnet School IAQ Enhancements (Bid #100-42) using ESSER funds
- Award $170,000 for Oak Hill High School Auditorium Roof Replacement (Bid #24-24A) using District 51 Maintenance Funds
- Ratify $400,000 contract for Student Information Management System (RFP #24-27) from General Fund
Personnel Committee
The Rapides Parish School Board Personnel Committee is meeting to review staffing reports and leave requests. The committee is also considering an Inter-Institutional Agreement with LCU and other accredited universities to support the recruitment of certified school social workers.
- Inter-Institutional Agreement between LCU and other accredited University/Colleges for school social worker recruitment
- Reports on new hires, promotions, resignations, and retirements
- Leave requests
- Discussion of personnel complaints for potential full board action
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee met to review several high-value bids for indoor air quality enhancements across various schools. The committee also addressed administrative items including contract approvals, budget updates, and grant reports.
- $3,000,000 bid for Alexandria Senior High School IAQ Enhancements
- $2,000,000 bid for Pineville Jr High School IAQ Enhancements
- $2,000,000 bid for Oak Hill High School IAQ Enhancements
- $1,500,000 bid for Cherokee Elementary School IAQ Enhancements
- $400,000 proposal for Student Information Management System
Education Committee
The Education Committee met to review progress for the RAPPS student program and discuss two calendar options for the 2024-25 school year. The committee also addressed reporting on the new Bolton Academy.
- Presentation of two calendar options for the 2024-25 school year for public vote
- Progress update on students in the Rapides Alternative Positive Program for Students (RAPPS)
- Motion to receive an updated report on the New Bolton Academy at the February 6, 2024 meeting
District 62 Committee
The District 62 Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet to discuss a single item: an update on the progress of the District 62 Bond, presented by Mr. Jeff Powell.
- Update on the progress of the District 62 Bond
Regular Board Meeting Agenda
The Rapides Parish School Board is electing its 2024 leadership and committees. The board is also reviewing budget amendments, grant reports, and awarding several facility and procurement contracts.
- Award of $850,000 for synthetic turf replacement at Tioga High School
- Award of $200,000 for purchase of fresh produce
- Award of $195,000 for a covered pavilion at Tioga Elementary School
- Award of $70,000 for fencing at Buckeye High School
- Rejection of bids for Oak Hill High School auditorium roof replacement due to administrative error