MINUTES OF THE
ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
2401 WESTBEND PARKWAY
NEW ORLEANS, LA 70114
october 22, 2024
1.1 Call to Order – Roll Call
The Orleans Parish School Board Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Board President Katherine Baudouin at 1:01pm. The following board members were present: Katherine Baudouin, Leila Jacobs Eames, Dr. Donaldo R. Batiste, Nolan Marshall, Jr. and Carlos Luis Zervigon. Ethan Ashley and Olin G. Parker were absent. Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams and Board Counsel Ashley Heilprin were also present.
-Interpretation services were acknowledged.
1.2 Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by President Baudouin.
1.3 Rules for Public Comment
Board Counsel provided a high-level overview of the OPSB guidelines for public comment/participation at OPSB Meetings.
1.4 Adoption of the Agenda
Motion to adopt the board meeting agenda as provided by Mr. Zervigon, second by Vice President Eames.
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Parker
Abstain: None
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 Adoption of the Minutes
Motion by President Baudouin, seconded by Mr. Zervigon to adopt the minutes of the September 17, 2024 Committee of the Whole as presented. (waiving the reading)
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Zervigon
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Ashley, Mr. Parker
Abstain: None
PROPERTY
3.1 9th Ward Stadium Feasibility Study
Wes Cosgriff, CEO of TAG Project Management, provided a presentation of the 9th Ward Stadium Project Feasibility Study.
BOARD COMMENT:
A discussion ensued regarding the project budget, as well as implications for the use of the stadium.
3.2 Capital Projects and Facilities Update Presentation
Don LeDuff, chief operations officer, provided an update of current NOLA-PS projects and Facility Updates.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided regarding the siting process and request for board updates regarding committee recommendations and all applicants in response to an inquiry from Dr. Batiste.
Request from Mr. Marshall for updated listing of school sites for the facility renaming initiative.
POLICY
4.1 First Reading: Amendment to OPSB Policy HH, Student Safety and Well-Being
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Fateama Fulmore provided a presentation relative to proposed changes to OPSB Policy HH, Student Safety and Well-Being.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided on the implications related to the proposed policy amendment and applicability, as well as further engagement with the school community, responding to Mr. Marshall’s inquiry and comment from Mr. Zervigon.
4.2 Notice of Intent to Amend OPSB Policy BBBB, New Member Orientation
BOARD COMMENT:
Mr. Ashley noted the proposed policy change in response to ensuring future board members are provided appropriate onboarding as OPSB members.
Vice President Eames and Mr. Zervigon offered comments on the proposed changes.
4.3 Notice of Intent re: New Policy Related to Oversight and Evaluation of Direct-Run Schools
ACCOUNTABILITY AND CHARTERS
5.1 Schools Update
Dr. Kelli Jordan, chief of school support and improvement, provided the following updates: ThriveKids Update, Student Support and Attendance: Basic Needs Closet, October 2024 System Wide Needs Program Update, and 2024-2025 Pupil Progression Plan.
BOARD COMMENT:
Request from Vice President Eames and Mr. Marshall for reporting on truancy in November.
5.2 Portfolio and Accountability Updates
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Fateama Fulmore provided the following updates: Notices of Noncompliance, Renewal Timeline, and Request for Applications. A presentation of the College and Career Success Hub was provided by Amelia Bell, director of College and Career Strategies.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarity provided regarding the initial grant funding for the College and Career Success Hub in response to an inquiry from Ms. Eames, including student participation in post-secondary programming.
Mr. Marshall inquired about continued funding for the College and Career Success Hub and inclusion of additional information and resources.
5.3 Academics and Leadership Support Update
Shelita M. Jones, chief academic officer, provided an overview of Beginning of the Year (BOY) reading and numeracy baseline data for kindergarten-fifth grade students at The Leah Chase School, as well as the Portrait of a Graduate Highlight for October 2024.
BOARD COMMENT:
A discussion ensued with clarification regarding assessment tools utilized for TLC data presented, responding to Dr. Batiste.
Clarification regarding class sizes and utilization of paraprofessionals, as well as support for student learning during school breaks and program offering for advanced level students in response to inquiries from Vice President Eames.
Responding to Mr. Marshall, clarification provided regarding parental engagement to support student learning, including resources and programming for students.
Mr. Zervigon noted reporting relative to English Learners and students with exceptionalities.
Responding to President Baudouin, clarity provided on the development of end of year goals and the tool used for the percentages reflected.
Dr. Williams acknowledged the accessibility of resources, specifically online, for students and families.
Vice President Eames and Mr. Marshall commented on the Portrait of a Graduate presentation, noting Jayven Marin’s attributes and highlighting his accomplishments within the school.
5.4 Student Enrollment Services Update
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Fatema Fulmore provided an annual millage update for NOLA-PS early childhood enrollment that was presented to City Council on October 8, 2024. Additionally, she shared information about the upcoming 2025-2026 NCAP Main Round Application Opening.
BOARD COMMENT:
President Baudouin acknowledged partners supporting early childhood education efforts and the district’s stewardship of public funds.
Mr. Marshall recognized the efforts of former OPSB member Ben Kleban for his role supporting early childhood education, including his advocacy with the city council.
Clarification provided regarding the NCAP application process and incentive and/or preference provided based on application submission date in response to an exchange with Dr. Batiste.
Clarity provided regarding the availability of school profiles responding to an inquiry from President Baudouin.
5.5 Direct Running Schools Presentation
Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams provided a presentation for direct run school planning.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided regarding the fit for a new school within the presentation outlined, financial implications, and plan for hiring of a demographer by next month in response to Ms. Baudouin.
Vice President Eames mentioned focus on varied academic models for exploration, referencing NOCCA.
Mr. Marshall noted need for assessment of what is currently offered within the portfolio and what should be offered.
Dr. Batiste acknowledged the efforts of the superintendent and plan presented, as well as role of the board.
Mr. Ashley noted the expansion of high quality schools, seats that are direct run and the direction needed to facilitate the collective will of the board.
Vice President Eames acknowledged the necessity for community and partner engagement relative to the plan for direct run schools, including public input.
-Dr. Williams acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Fulmore and other administrative staff in development of the various aspects of the plan presented.
5.6 OPSB 2024-2025 Pupil Progression Plan
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the OPSB 2024-2025 Pupil Progression Plan.
Motion by President Baudouin, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
BUDGET AND FINANCE
6.1 Monthly Finance Report
Nyesha Veal, interim chief financial officer, provided the following updates: August 2024 Financial Statements, District Level Funding Allocation (DLFA) Working Group, FY2024 Audit Update and Highlights, and
Announcements.
BOARD COMMENT:
Clarification provided regarding the budget for The Leah Chase School, responding to an inquiry from Dr. Batiste.
Clarity provided regarding the financial forecasting process and creation of a committee or panel to assist the district in response to inquiries from Mr. Marshall.
Clarity provided on the availability of funding streams, including the System Wide Needs Program, responding to an inquiry from Vice President Eames.
Responding to Ms. Baudouin, request for future presentation regarding the financial tool used by the district.
6.2 Resolution 13-24 re: 2023-2024 Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the OPSB approve Resolution 13-24 approving the FY 2023-2024 Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire as part of the State Legislative Auditor’s requirement for completion of audits, authorizing the Board President to execute any and all relevant documents, and authorizing the administration to submit the Questionnaire as required by the Legislative Auditor.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.3 Resolution 14-24 Sale of Revenue Anticipation Note Series 2024
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board adopt Resolution 14-24 authorizing the sale and delivery of a $50,000,000 Orleans Parish School Board Revenue Anticipation Note, Series 2024, to DNT Asset Trust, A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A.; and providing for other matters with respect to the foregoing.
Motion by Vice President Eames, second by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.4 Request to Approve Certificated and Support Stipends - 2024 Legislative Appropriation
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the Certificated and Support Stipends appropriated during the 2024 Regular Session of the Legislature.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Mr. Marshall
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.5 Request To Approve Differentiated Compensation Stipends
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the Differentiated Compensation Stipends appropriated during the 2024 Regular Session of the Legislature.
Motion by Vice President Eames, second by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.6 Book Donation to The Leah Chase School from St. Mary's Dominican High School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the donation of 720 books from St. Mary's Dominican High School Student Council to The Leah Chase School.
Motion by Vice President Eames, second by Dr. Batiste
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
BOARD COMMENT:
President Baudouin expressed gratitude to the St. Mary's Dominican High School Student Council for their donation.
6.7 Uniform Closet Donation by Alontae Taylor to The Leah Chase School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the donation of $5,000 from New Orleans Saints player, Alontae Taylor, to support the creation of a uniform closet at The Leah Chase School.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Vice President Eames
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
BOARD COMMENT:
Vice President Eames and President Baudouin expressed gratitude for this donation.
6.8 Donation to The Leah Chase School from The Ella Fitzgerald Foundation
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the donation of 110 children's literature and music books from The Ella Fitzgerald Foundation to The Leah Chase School.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Vice President Eames
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
BOARD COMMENT:
Expression of gratitude from the Vice President and President.
6.9 Request to Approve First Amendment to SOW 9 with Carahsoft Technology Corporation for Expert Services - NOLA Application Enhancements
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the amendment to the Carahsoft Technology Corporation contract, SOW 9, to extend termination date for NOLA Application Enhancements from November 15, 2024 to December 31, 2024, at no additional cost.
Motion by Vice President Eames, second by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.10 Request to Award ITB 24-FAC-0012: Boiler Replacement @ Ellis Marsalis Elementary School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the bid from Mechanical Resource Contractors, LLC in the amount of $199,800.00 for Boiler Replacement @ Ellis Marsalis Elementary School; and authorize General Counsel to prepare a contract for signatures of the Board President and the contractor.
Motion by Dr. Batiste, second by Vice President Eames
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.11 Request for Approval of Change Order to Project No. Q25-FAC-07, Emergency Chiller Rental @ Mahalia Jackson School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the Change Order from Trane Rental Services in the amount of $66,980.51 to extend the Emergency Rental Chiller at Mahalia Jackson School for an additional 4 billing cycles and authorize the General Counsel to approve the change order for signatures of the Board President and the contractor.
Motion by Vice President Eames, second by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.12 Request to Approve Change Order No. 1 for Project No. Q23-FAC-18, Emergency Chiller Rental @ Dorothy Mae Taylor School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept Change Order No. 1 from CMC Corporate Solutions in the amount of $63,460.00 to extend the Emergency Rental Chiller at Dorothy Mae Taylor School for an additional 4 months and 1 week; and authorizes General Counsel to approve the change order for signatures of the Board President and the Contractor.
Motion by Mr. Ashley, second by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.13 Request to Approve First Amendment to Contract with TNTP for Teacher Recruitment Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the First Amendment to the contract with TNTP in the amount of $50,000.00 to add The Leah Chase School for Teacher Recruitment and Training Services at an amount not to exceed $1,730,000.00 and authorizes the General Counsel to prepare the Amendment for signatures of the Board President and the contractor.
Motion by President Baudouin, second by Vice President Eames
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.14 Request to Approve Contract with Tyler Technologies, Inc. for ERP Services
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board approve the contract with Tyler Technologies, Inc. for ERP services for three (3) years at an annual rate of $187,252.80; and authorize the General Counsel to prepare a contract.
Motion by Mr. Marshall, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.15 Amendment to Action Previously Adopted re: Award of RFQ No. 24-0080 Jobs For America's Graduate (JAG) Program
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board amend its previous action of July 25, 2024, accepting "the qualification responses meeting the specifications, terms, and conditions for Jobs For America's Graduates (JAG) Program from Inspire NOLA (Eleanor Mc Main, Edna Karr, McDonogh #35) and Equus to Amend contracts to provide for contract effective dates of July 1, 2024.
Motion by Vice President Eames, second by Mr. Ashley
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
6.16 Request to Award ITB 25-FAC-0009 for Lease of Space at Mahalia Jackson Elementary School
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the Orleans Parish School Board accept the bid from Children's Bureau New Orleans for ITB 25-FAC-0009 for Lease of Space at Mahalia Jackson Elementary School for three (3) years with an option to renew two (2) additional one (1) year periods for a total of $54,723.00 annually; and authorize the General Counsel to prepare the lease for signature of the Board President and the lessee.
Motion by Mr. Ashley, second by President Baudouin
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
ADJOURNMENT
7.1 Adjourn Meeting
Motion by Mr. Marshall, second by Mr. Ashley to adjourn the meeting.
Final resolution: Motion passes
Yeas: Ms. Baudouin, Ms. Eames, Mr. Ashley, Dr. Batiste, Mr. Marshall
Nays: None
Absent: Mr. Parker, Mr. Zervigon
Abstain: None
Meeting Adjourned at 5:12pm.