Little Rock School District, school board meeting minutes and correspondence

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LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 13, 2000 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Thursday, January 13, 2000, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Vice President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Judy Magness MEMBERS ABSENT: Mike Kumpuris Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Vice President Katherine Mitchell called the meeting to order at 6: 17 p.m. Four members of the Board were present at roll call
Mr. Kurrus arrived at 6:30 p.m.
Ms. Strickland and Mr. Kumpuris were absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting listed the following items: Presentation: Wings of Eagles Charter Proposal Action: Residential Alternative Charter School Executive Session for Personnel Items Discussion: Additional budgetary funding/campus level Appointment ofFundraising Board or District Foundation SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 13, 2000 Page2 ID. PRESENTATION Mr. & Mrs. Clarence Harville, Wade Poole, William Broadnax and James Lester attended the meeting on behalf of the Wings of Eagles Charter School. Mr. & Mrs. Harville currently own and operate five day care centers in the Little Rock/North Little Rock area. Mr. Poole made a brief presentation summarizing the intent and purpose of the application to the State of Arkansas for securing a charter for operation of a program for public school four and five year old students. William Broadnax, who serves as a consultant to the Harville's in this endeavor, also spoke to the Board at length regarding the goals and objectives which are detailed in the application. The Board agreed to review the application prior to the regular January Board meeting and to meet in a work session thirty minutes prior to the meeting on January 27th if there are any additional questions or concerns to be addressed to the Harvilles. IV. ACTION Residential Alternative Charter School Dr. Linda Watson presented a recommendation for authorizing implementation of the Elementary Residential Charter School for the 2000-2001 school year. The Board had, in previous action, approved the site and had authorized the process for selection of a Director. The Arkansas Department of Education had previously granted the District $10,000 for first-year planning, and a $47,000 continuation grant for second year planning initiatives. Dr. Carnine reported that the application was submitted to the Arkansas Department of Education in December 1999 and that the ADE had contacted him regarding a formal Board action authorizing a letter of intent. He indicated that the full application packet and additional details would be presented to the Board prior to the March meeting for final approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the recommendation to submit the application for a residential elementary alternative charter school with the understanding that the final determination would be made later based on further information. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. Personnel: Mr. Berkley made a motion for the Board to convene an executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel issues. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 13, 2000 Page3 The Board returned from executive session at 8: 12 p.m. and reported that no formal action had been taken. Dr. Carnine recommended to the Board that Dr. Gary Smith be hired as the Director of the Division of Exceptional Children. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to approve the recommendation, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The Superintendent also recommended that Dr. Don Stewart be employed as the District's Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the recommendation. Mr. Kunus seconded the motion and it carried 4-0-1, with Dr. Mitchell abstaining from the vote. Discussion: Budgetary Funding/Campus Level Dr. Carnine indicated that additional funding for the local schools should be available as a result of funds received from the State due to increases in enrollment across the District. He indicated that additional information would be made available for review at the worksession, which is scheduled later in January, and that he would be asking the Board to approve additional funding for the schools at that time. Discussion: Advisory Board for District Foundation Dr. Carnine suggested that a 14 or 15 member advisory board be named to oversee the District's formation of a Fundraising Committee or District Foundation. After a brief discussion, the Board members agreed to a seven-person advisory committee to determine whether such a board should exist. Each Board member is to submit the name of one person to serve on this committee. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the formation of an exploratory committee for a fundraising or foundation board. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Kurrus moved to adjourn at 8:35 p.m. The motion was seconded by Ms. Magness and carried unanimously. Baker Kurrus, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 RECEVED MAR 3 2000 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District rescheduled the regular January meeting due to inclement weather on January 27. The meeting convened at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 3, 2000, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Board President, Sue Strickland, presided. Prior to the meeting, the Board requested a brief session to discuss a proposal for a charter school by Mr. & Mrs. Clarence Harville. In addition to Mr. & Mrs. Harville, William Broadnax and Wade Poole responded to questions from the Board regarding the application to operate an early childhood charter, Wings of Eagle. The Harvill es indicated that they had received funding from the Arkansas Department of Education and from the Wal ton Family Foundation in the form of planning grants. They also indicated that they would be seeking additional grant funds if their application for a charter were approved by the state. MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Strickland Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty MEMBERS ABSENT: Mike Kumpuris Judy Magness ALSO PRESENT: I. Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes CALL TO ORDER Sue Strickland, President, called the meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Four members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 6:25 p.m. Ms. Magness and Mr. Kumpuris were absent. Ex-officio representative to the Board, Darrick Williams, teacher from Washington Elementary School was also present. - REGUIAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 Page2 II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of December 16, 1999, and from a special meeting on January 13, 2000 were presented for Board approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Dr. Mitchell, seconded by Mr. Berkley. ill. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT'S CITATIONS Ex-officio member of the Board, Darrick Williams, teacher from Washington Elementary School, was presented with a citation of appreciation for his service on the Board for the month of January. B. PARTNERSHIPS Due to the rescheduling of the January meeting, partnerships noted in the agenda will be recognized at the February 2000 meeting of the Board. C. BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Mitchell reported that she had visited alternative programs at the Metropolitan Accelerated Leaming Center. She noted that this was a wonderful opportunity for students to gain skills and become involved in career education programs that will encourage them to continue their education beyond high school. She noted that some of the students leaving Metropolitan go directly to work in their chosen field. She also thanked James Washington, the District's ombudsman, for doing a good job in a difficult position. Mr. Kurrus thanked Bill Spivey and David Duke who are parent volunteers in the girls soccer program. He stated that these men give a lot of time to these teams and are very talented and professional coaches. Mr. Kurrus also encouraged the community to attend District athletic events
he remarked on the good sportsmanship of the players and the good behavior of our student spectators. Ms. Strickland stated that she had dropped in for informal visits at several schools. She was pleased to see a number of learning activities and students who were actively involved in their work. She thanked Mike Peterson for his enthusiasm about the programs at Metropolitan. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 Page3 D. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Frank Martin addressed the Board on behalf of the Classroom Teachers Association. He asked that the Board allow the CTA to submit questions for consideration on the Charter School issue. He noted that this is the final year on the three-year contract with support personnel. He is hopeful that negotiations with these groups and with the teachers can be concluded before personnel head home for the summer break. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Clois Bell, teacher at Mabel vale Elementary School, spoke on behalf of the faculty and staff at Mabelvale. She noted that the campus leadership team, the faculty, staff and parents at Mabelvale voted to support the extended year proposal and she asked the Board to support the calendar, which is scheduled for a vote on this agenda. Sharon Faulkenberry, teacher at Rightsell Academy, will be assigned to the new Stephens School when it opens during the 2000-01 school term. She spoke in favor of the extended year program, and noted that this schedule will be of great benefit to student learning. She noted that shorter breaks throughout the year (intercessions) would be helpful in remediation efforts for those students who require extra tutoring. She asked the Board to support the extended year proposal that they will vote on in this agenda. V. ACTION AGENDA A. Board Policy Review - Section K Policies KDA, Public Information/School Communications Program, KDD, News Media Relations, and KDE, Crisis Management, were presented for second reading approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Board Policy Review - BEDB The Board requested a review and revision of Board Policy BEDB - Agenda. Since first reading, the Board agreed to modify the policy to include " Citizens Committees," which would allow presentations by groups or individuals at Board meetings. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the amended policy on second reading. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 Page4 C. K-5 Reading Textbook Adoption The Reading Textbook Committee provided a recommendation for adoption of Harcourt Brace Reading Series for grades Kindergarten through fifth grades for the duration of the new state reading adoption cycle. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the recommendation, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 4-0. Dr. Daugherty arrived at 6: 25 p.m. D. Extended Year Education Frances Cawthon-Jones, Assistant Superintendent, provided a recommendation to approve the acceptance of an extended year calendar for the 2000-200 I school year at Mabelvale, Woodruff and Stephens Elementary Schools. The committee met with a consultant on extended year education and will continue planning for the remainder of the current school year. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the recommendation at these three sites. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. E. Negotiations Team for Teacher Contract The administration asked for the Board to affirm their representatives in the teacher negotiation process. The proposed team is Brady Gadberry, Jimmy Mosby, Tyrone Harris, Gwen Ziegler, Mark Milhollen, Vic Anderson, and Dick Hurley. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to approve the listed administrators. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. F. Student Calendar, 2000-2001 Brady Gadberry provided the Board with a proposed calendar for the 2000-0 I school year. He worked with representatives of the three Pulaski County School Districts to align the calendars as much as possible. In addition, Dr. Carnine asked the Board to suspend the rules in order to consider the calendar proposed for the extended year schools, which were approved earlier in this agenda. Mr. Kurrus offered a motion to suspend the rules for this consideration. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Berkley then offered a motion to approve both of the proposed student calendars. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 Pages G. Southwestern Bell Easements The Board was asked to approve a request from Southwestern Bell for an easement at the Alternative Learning Center. Mr. Eaton reported that granting this easement would not affect the normal operations at the school. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the requests for easements. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. H. Allocation of Resources - Additional Funding for Schools The Board was provided with information on the provision of additional resources to the individual campuses. Dr. Carnine reviewed the proposal and responded to questions from the Board. The recommendation was made to provide additional funds to address some of the funding deficiencies in co-curricular activities, with the condition that the Campus Leadership Teams would be involved in deciding where the money would be spent. Funds would also be spent to implement requirements of the National Science Foundation grant, with the vast majority of that money being spent on graphing calculators and other math and science equipment. Dr. Mitchell spoke to the proposal, saying that she was supporting the expenditure of these funds, but that she still had concerns that the money should be spent in the schools where there was the greatest need. She noted that there are severe space and maintenance needs at some of our schools that should be addressed. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the allocation of additional resources. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. L Recommendation for Salary Schedule for Speech Pathologists The District's Speech Pathologists presented a proposal, through Dr. Richard Hurley, which would remove them from the L.R. Classroom Teachers Association bargaining unit and would establish a separate salary schedule for them. The proposal would result in a savings to the district which was estimated to be $210,000 annually. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the recommendation to place the Speech Pathologists on a separate salary schedule. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. J. Charter School Proposal: Wings of Eagles The Board heard a presentation by Clarence and Charlesetta Harville, William Broadnax and Wade Poole on January 13, 2000. At that time the Board requested additional information regarding the Wings of Eagles proposal and Mr. & Mrs. Harville were present prior to this meeting to respond to additional questions from the Board. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 Page6 At the conclusion of their presentation, Dr. Mitchell suggested that the Board delay action on this issue for one week to allow District staff and administrators to further review the materials submitted. Dr. Mitchell, therefore, offered a motion to table. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. K Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Mr. Berkley. The motion carried unanimously. Dr. Mitchell read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOIJDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Carver Magnet School $ I 0,000 cash to purchase computer lab Carver Magnet PTA software Chicot Elementary Schoo I $1,000 cash to purchase library books (in National Education Goals Panel honor of President Clinton for his (presented by Secretary of Education contributions to meeting the Panel's goals) Riley in Washington D.C.) Forest Heights Middle School Athletic Dept. $20.00 cash Robert and Marilyn Beach $540.00 cash Robert B. and Lisa Beach $40.00 cash Oscar E. and Sue S. Davis $100.00 cash James C. Clark, Jr. Forest Heights Middle School Drill Team $250.00 cash J 45ili Social Club $50.00 J. C. Penney Gift Certificate Margaret 1bomas Geyer Springs Elementary $500.00 cash . West L.R Kiwanis Club Otter Creek Elementary Hewlett Packard 812 C printer (valued at Tommy Hodges/Otter Creek Land $150.00) Company Pulaski Heights Elementary Lexmark 211 printer Anita Aebersold Services of an art teacher and art supplies, P.H. Elementary PTA valued at $9,023 Pulaski Heights Middle School Three wooden bookcases with glass doors U. S. Dept. of Transportation, Federal and three file cabinets Highway Administration Terry Elementary School 27 Hewlett-Packard 712 C printers. Total Terry Elementary PT A estin1ated value $3,000 Western Hills Elementary Computer table valued at $200.00 Jannette Prinlm LRSD Athletic Dept for Central Basketball 60 pairs of shoes and socks, 50 tee-shirts, Nike Team 6 coaches polo shirts, 20 travel bags, 24 hats, 15 warm-up suites and 6 pairs of coaches' shoes. Total value $8,790. Central High Schoo I Incentive Program $500cash Randy Williams/Josten's Graduation Shop REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 Page7 SCHOOIJDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Central High School $1,000 cash Robert East Company, Inc. $312.30 cash Target Take Charge of Education Central High School Band Dept Flute, valued at $200.00 Mary Janet Murray Piano, valued at $2,000 and $50,00 cash Dr. Gary Wheeler for equipment $100.00 cash for equipment Dr. Tommy McCall $500.00 cash for equipment St Mark Church Central High School Science Dept. $200.00 cash for equipment Mr. & Mrs. Jeffery Kirchner $5,000 cash for equipment Ms. Alice Faust $250.00 cash towanl purchase of a Regions Financial Corporation computer L. Personnel Personnel items were printed in the agenda. No additional information was requested or reported. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the recommendations for personnel. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. M. Financials The monthly financial reports were printed in the Board's agenda for review and approval. Dr. Carnine introduced Dr. Don Stewart, who was recently hired as the District's Chief Financial Officer. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to approve the reports as presented. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update Junious Babbs provided a brief review of current activities in the Student Registration Office and the Board was provided with the January 11, 2000 enrollment count. He reported that the open enrollment period for the 2000-01 school year had been extended an additional two days due to the inclement weather of last month. The compliance committee continues to meet monthly to prepare the report that is due March 15, 2000 to the U. S. District Court. In addition, Dr. Terrence Roberts, desegregation consultant, met with campus supervisors and school resource officers and he will continue to return periodically to provide inservice for District staff. REGULAR BOARD l\1EETING January 27, 2000 Page 8 B. Budget Update Dr. Carnine reported that the formal budgeting process will begin within the next few eeeks for the 2000-01 school year. Mark Milhollen and Don Stewart will meet with the Board as soon as they have prepared preliminary information for review. C. Stephens Construction Update Doug Eaton reported that materials had been received for the roof and that sixty percent of the flooring had been completed. By the end of the month he expects that the exterior walls will go up. He invited the public and Board members to visit the site and see the progress. He estimated that the project was three weeks off schedule due to the cold and wet weather, but that they expected this time to be made up by working 6 and 7 day shifts throughout the spring and summer months. It is expected the building will be complete in December 2000, with an anticipated occupation in January 2001. D. Auditors Report Sandy Becker, Internal Auditor, provided a written report for the Board's review. He responded to questions from the Board and indicated he was prepared to meet with Board members individually at their convenience to review specific information or provide additional details. E. Millage Campaign/Bond Issue Report Dr. Carnine reported that he had been speaking regularly with Senator Riggs, and that they had met with the Superintendent's Student Cabinet.and various other community groups. He asked the Board to set a date and time for a special session to hear the recommendations of the exploratory committee. Dr. Carnine suggested either the February agenda meeting, or a special meeting on February 17tli. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None IX. DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS None REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 27, 2000 Page9 IX. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Dr. Mitchell moved to adjourn at 7:30 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. Berkley and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: ~ J. 4 00 Baker Kurrus, Secretary , LITfLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 10, 2000 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Thursday, February 10, 2000, immediately following the regular agenda meeting, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Vice President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Mike Kumpuris Judy Magness MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Vice President Katherine Mitchell called the meeting to order at 5:56 p.m. Six members of the Board were present at roll call
Ms. Strickland was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting listed the following items: Action: Wings of Eagles Charter Proposal Discussion: Proposal to Rename the Instructional Resource Center IV , SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 10, 2000 Page2 III. ACTION Mr. & Mrs. Clarence Harville, Wade Poole, William Broadnax and James Lester attended the meeting on behalf of the Wings of Eagles Charter School. Board members expressed several concerns regarding support for this proposal and the Harvill es responded to questions and concerns. Some of the considerations and concerns expressed by the Board are noted below. That the school would not promote the county-wide school desegregation efforts. (Mr. Broadnax responded that the 100-student capacity would not significantly impact the LRSD student population.) Questions and concerns about plans to attract and recruit students. The area where the school is located would tend to promote a one-race student population. (Mr. Broadnax responded that they would "aggressively" recruit at-risk and economically disadvantaged students.) On the issue of funding and eligibility for state monies, it was noted that the application did not specifically address how monies for early childhood and kindergarten programs would be kept separate. The ADE requires that Charter schools be innovative and fiscally sound. The Board noted that the Wings of Eagle application does not provide evidence of either. Concerns were expressed regarding providing services to special education students. In addition
it was noted there is a significant Hispanic population in the area where the school is located and it was questioned whether ESL services would be included in the curriculum. (Mr. Broadnax noted that these services would be contracted out.) Mr. Kurrus made a motion that the Board disapprove the application for a charter as submitted by Wings of Eagle. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 5-0- 1, with Dr. Daugherty abstaining. Under the rules and guidelines for Charter School of the Arkansas Department of Education, the Board is required to submit a letter of objection. The Board asked the Superintendent to have the letter prepared and submitted. A copy of that letter is attached to these minutes. , SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 10, 2000 Page 3 DISCUSSION: Dr. Mildred McNair of Inglewood, California submitted a request for Board consideration to rename the Ish School/Instructional Resource Center after Attorney John W. Walker. Mr. Kurrus asked for a review of the District's policy for renaming facilities expressing some concern that Mr. Walker may not be aware of these efforts. Dr. Mitchell noted that the District had not ever renamed a facility that was previously named for an individual. Dr. Jefferson Ish, for whom the building is named, was a prominent African American physician in Little Rock who made many contributions to the community during the time he practiced medicine here. She feels that the current community still remembers Dr. Ish for these contributions and she would object to removing his name from this building. Mr. Kumpuris supported Dr. Mitchell's viewpoint and stated that although he has a high degree ofrespect for Mr. Walker and the work that he has done for desegregation in the three districts in Pulaski County, he noted that Mr. Walker's work is not complete. Mr. Walker still has a lawsuit pending against this school district and Mr. Kumpuris would ask the Board to consider this an inappropriate time to consider naming a building for Mr. Walker. Ms. Magness and Dr. Daugherty concurred with these statements. Dr. Daugherty further stated that, because we are still in litigation with Mr. Walker, naming of a facility for him could be construed as an attempt to influence Mr. Walker. He also suggested that the timing was inappropriate. The Board agreed by consensus to deny the request for naming the Ish facility for Mr. Walker. Mr. Kurrus invited further di~ogue for future consideration ofnarning a facility for Mr. Walker. It was agreed that a letter to Dr. McNair would be prepared noting the objections and reasons for denying the request at this time. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved to adjourn at 6:30 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Daugh,,e rty and carried unanimously. r ~Lfj?_c J[i_ Ll0u- JJ Sue Strickland, President APPROVED: J ,J.,4 ~oo & 1,t
/1.1,1,... _ _, Baker Kurrus, Secretary February 11, 2000 Mr. Ray Simon, Director Arkansas Department of Education #4 State Capitol Mall Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Mr. Simon: The Little Rock School District Board of Education cannot support the proposed Wings of Eagle Charter School Academy. The reasons fall into the following four categories which are described in more detail below: educational
financial
inclusion issues
and other legal issues. EDUCATION 1. One purpose of the Arkansas law allowing the creation of charter schools is to free the schools from the burdens of existing laws and regulations so that they can try new and innovative approaches to education. The educational programs described in the Wings of Eagle petition, however, are already in place in the Little Rock School District. 2. The exemptions from state law sought by the Wings of Eagle Charter School do not indicate intent to offer programs different from what can now be offered by public schools within the current restraints of state law. They seek only to use non-certified teachers and administrators, to contract out other staff positions, to employ a reduced salary scale, and to adopt a different school calendar. 3. The Wings of Eagle petition contains no plan for academic achievement. It states only that such a plan will be developed before the beginning of the school year in August, 2000. FINANCIAL IMPACT 1. No budget was included with the original Wings of Eagle petition. 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012 February 11, 2000 Page 2 2. A budget, which was later provided, seems to depend upon state financing of four-year-old students, something the state has been unwilling to do. 3. The Wings of Eagle representatives have indicated that they may seek daycare funding from the Department of Human Services and charter school funding from the Arkansas Department of Education for the same students. This may not be legally possible. 4. LRSD's regular state aid for the 2001-2002 school year would be reduced to the extent LRSD students choose to attend the Wings of Eagle Charter School. Additionally, the loss of LRSD students would jeopardize the District's growth funding which it has received from the Arkansas Department of Education for the last few years. INCLUSION ISSUES 1. There is a substantial likelihood that Wings of Eagle Charter School will be established as a racially identifiable school. LRSD cannot support the creation of a new racially identifiable school, which will have no significant plans or prospects for desegregation. 2. The neighborhood in which the Wings of Eagle Charter School would be established has a significant Hispanic population. The Wings of Eagle Charter School petition does not reflect adequate resources or an adequate plan for teaching ESL students. 3. The petition does not show that Wings of Eagle Charter School has the capability or the resources to include special education students in its program. OTHER LEGAL ISSUES 1. Private or parochial elementary schools that were in existence on July 30, 1999 are not eligible for open enrollment charter school status. The petitioners have been operating a four-year-old program with an educational component at the site designated for the charter school. There is an argument that the charter school petition would merely convert a privately funded four-year-old program into a publicly funded program and add a publicly funded kindergarten program. February 11, 2000 Page 3 2. Charter schools are not allowed to be religious in their operations or programmatic offerings. The petitioners presently operate a daycare program doing business as "In His Image" at the site designated for the charter school. It is not clear from the petition how any religious program offered at the site will be separated from the publicly funded charter school program. For these reasons, the Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District voted 5-0-1, to decline to support the petition for the Wings of Eagle Charter School. This motion will be found in the minutes of the meeting held on February 10, 2000. cc: Mr. & Mrs. Clarence Harville LRSD Board of Directors Respectfully submitted, tJ, n a/ ~u ~ " Lesli~ f. Carnin-e ~- - - Superintendent of Schools LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Mildred McNair 2918 W. 101 51 Street Inglewood, CA 90303 Dear Dr. McNair: February 25, 2000 I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for submitting the request to rename the lsh Instructional Resource Center for Mr. John W. Walker. Our Board of Directors placed this item for discussion on the agenda of a special meeting held on February 10, 2000. Each of the Board members expressed interest in the biographical information provided in your proposal. Mr. Walker has certainly established himself as a leader in the efforts to provide a better educational opportunity for all of the children in Little Rock, Pulaski County and the State of Arkansas. The Board declined by consensus to rename the lsh Instructional Resource Center. Some of the reasons for this included the fact that the Instructional Resource Center was originally constructed as an elementary school and was named for Jefferson G. lsh, who was a prominent African American physician in the Little Rock community. One Board member in particular recollected that Dr. lsh saved her life as an infant and she would certainly object to removing his name from this educational facility. She also noted that there have been no instances where a facility previously named for one individual was renamed for another. As you requested, I am enclosing a copy of the minutes from our February 10 meeting. You will note that several Board members agreed that further dialogue for future consideration of naming a facility for Mr. Walker was entirely possible, but that any consideration would be after the current litigation is no longer before the Courts. Thank you for your interest in the Little Rock School District and I look forward to a time in the future when your proposal may come back before our Board for review and consideration. Sincerely, 1 I', d .t/- 1 \,,/ I 1 "--- ~ at., e..-
!). {AJ..-<.J C4,/L /i/ Strickland, President Board of Directors 810 West Markham Street Little Rocle, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 MAR 3 1 20 3 OFFICE I OESEGISTION ITORl The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 24, 2000 in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Board President, Sue Strickland, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Strickland Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Mike Kumpuris Judy Magness MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes L CALL TO ORDER II. Sue Strickland, President, called the meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. All members of the Board were present at roll call. Ex-officio representatives to the Board, Margaret Leigh, teacher from Watson Elementary School and student representative, Langston Carr from Fair High School, were also present. READING OF MINlJTES: Minutes from the regular January 27 Board meeting, which was rescheduled due to inclement weather to February 3, and from a special meeting on February 10, 2000 were presented for Board approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Dr. Mitchell, seconded by Mr. Kurrus. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page2 ID. PRESENTATIONS: A. SPECIAL PERFORMANCE: ANIMATED LITERACY Pat Price, Director of Early Childhood Education, introduced students from Terry and Mabelvale Elementary Schools and their teachers, Nona Grubbs, Ann Filiatreau and Donna Hudgens. They demonstrated a student reading program called Animated Literacy, which focuses on phonemic awareness in early reading instruction. B. SUPERINTENDENT'S CITATIONS Ex-officio representatives to the Board for the month of February were presented citations of appreciation. The teacher representative was Dr. Margaret Leigh from Watson Elementary School and the student representative was Langston Carr from J. A Fair High School. C. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals who recently established working partnerships with District schools. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the new partnerships. Mr. Kumpuris seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Newly established partnerships include: M. L. King Elementary School - represented by Tyrone Harris, in partnership with Bank of the Ozarks - represented by Pamela Petty and Mark Ross Meadowcliff Elementary School - represented by Jerry Worm, in partnership with K-Mart Rightsell Academy - represented by Sharon Brooks & Ma,y Ann Hansen, in partnership with The Weekend Theatre - represented by Val Carr & Dr. Richard Jordan with the cast of the current show Terry Elementary School - represented by Nancy Acre, in partnership with Kidsports McClellan High School - represented by Wanda Baskins, in partnership with Club KLP. Communications, Inc. - represented by Pam Brown Courtney REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page3 Partnerships (continued) Metropolitan Career Center - represented by Mike Peterson & Terry Kirkpatrick, in partnership with: Buds Graphics - represented by Robert Kirkpatrick Tammy Taylor Nails - no representative Thelma's Beauty Academy- represented by Mattie Woods & Pauline Sanders Nashville Auto-Diesel College - represented by Dan King IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Frank Martin, Executive Director of the Classroom Teachers Association, asked the Board to support the administration's recommendation for a resolution in support of a millage election and bond issue. He stated that improvements to the District's infrastructure, necessary advancements in technology, and a need for more staff development were the issues that would compel the public to support a millage election at this time and he pledged the whole-hearted support of the CTA in the promotion of this effort. Vic Anderson introduced Rose Thompson, who represents the Pankey Community Improvement Association, Inc. Dr. Anderson provided brief background information on the District's deeding of property to the Pankey Community and Ms. Thompson reported on the progress of construction of the Josephine Pankey Education Center. She introduced the architect, Mr. Wali Caradine, and the builder, Mr. Moxie Hall of Sundial Management Construction. They estimate that the construction is 60% complete and they are asking the Board to consider granting additional time for the completion of the project. V. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Magness stated that she had visited Metropolitan Career and Technical Center on their Open House/Career Day. She thanked Mr. Peterson for his enthusiasm and remarked on his motivational remarks to a group of students who were visiting Metropolitan from the ALC. She thanked student Shemika Walker for giving her a manicure during the visit. In addition, Ms. Magness thanked Mr. Martin for his remarks and the CT A for their support in the effort to embark on a successful millage campaign. Mr. Kurrus also thanked Mr. Martin and the CTA for their support. He thanked Ms. Thompson for the report on the Pankey Community Center and offered to make a personal contribution to the construction fund. Dr. Mitchell reported that she had attended the Leaming to Cope with Differences workshop led by Dr. Terrence Roberts. She stated that the sessions teach about tolerance of others, and she encouraged the other Board members to take advantage of the training. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page4 VL REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Dana Berry, member of the Campus Leadership Team at Terry Elementary School, asked the Board to support the proposed millage election and bond issue. She stated that Terry Elementary, as well as other schools in the District, were in critical need of improvements to the buildings and grounds. Brooke Ivey, student at Hall High School, also spoke in support of the millage campaign. She stated that progress is expensive and that a successful millage election would show students that they have the support of the community. She noted that improvements to the facilities could also impact the overall financial condition of the District by drawing students away from private schools. Deon Bennett, teacher at Mann Magnet School, remarked that she could provide perspective as a teacher and as a former student in the District, where the schools were in dire need of repair. She noted that at Mann the roof leaks, the restrooms are in poor condition, the science department had to be evacuated due to structural problems in that wing of the building, and that the computer equipment needed to be upgraded and enhanced. Tony Woodell, parent at Pulaski Heights Elememtary and a member of the Campus Leadership Team, stated that at PHE the staff, the parents and the teachers work together to do the best they can with what they have available. He urged the Board to support a millage election as a way of showing appreciation and support for the District's teachers and staff members, as well as for the sake of the students. Lillie Carter, principal at Pulaski Heights Elementary spoke as the president of the Principals' Roundtable. In that role, she stated that she was speaking on behalf of every child in every school. She encouraged support for a millage campaign to provide revenue to repair leaky roofs, replace old plumbing, resurface parking lots, replace worn carpet, upgrade electrical wiring, and to provide technology for student instruction. Angela Woolery, teacher at Hall High School, also spoke in support of a millage campaign. She stated that at Hall they are facing critical space needs. They are currently using portable buildings and there is not enough space in the cafeteria for the 1400 students to sit down to eat lunch. She also noted they would like to provide new band uniforms, choir robes, gym and physical education equipment and facilities, as well as basic technology needs. She stated that well-maintained schools increase self-esteem in students and leads to greater academic achievement. Dr. George Blevins, representing the Mitchell PTA and president of the Wright Avenue neighborhood association, urged the Board to move forward with a millage campaign. He noted many concerns that must be addressed at Mitchell as well as the other older school buildings in the city. He asked that the Board and administration to work toward better communication of how the funds will be spent. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page 5 Henry Nesbitt, teacher at Williams Magnet School, asked the Board and the general public to support a millage campaign. He stated that the physical structures should be a high priority and that good teachers can do a better job of teaching students where they are in a safe and clean environment. Derrick Williams, student body president at Central High School, asked the Board to aim toward comfortability, accessibility and excellence in education. He noted how difficult these things are when the plumbing is old and ceilings cave in due to water damage and how hard it is for teachers to maintain a productive classroom environment when there are structural problems in the school. He asked the Board to ask the community for a millage. Nancy Rousseau noted that although the Pulaski Heights school facility is structurally sound, there are many basic improvements that need to be made. The Campus Leadership Team has identified a list of repairs and upgrades to technology that will provide for greater student achievement. She encouraged the Board to ask for the millage election as soon as possible. Ricky Jackson, Mitchell Elementary School PT A president, stated that the Mitchell PTA is 100% in favor of a millage election. He noted that Mitchell is one of the older buildings in the city and that they are in desperate need of repairs and improvements. He also stated that the Mitchell community was behind Darian Smith as the building principal and they were hopeful that he would be permanently assigned to that position. Leroy Ayers, parent of Mitchell School, also stated support for the millage election and support for Mr. Smith as principal. He noted that he currently has three children at Mitchell, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other family members. Barbara Jones, a parent of a Dunbar student, stated that her family had only moved here a few years ago. Moving into our community, she was surprised at the poor condition of some of the school facilities. She noted the historical significance of Dunbar, and urged the restoration and preservation of the building, as well as other improvements to the educational environment of that school. Jeannie Price, president of the PTA Council, stated that she was proud of the accomplishments the District has achieved over the past two years. She stated that the PTA would be behind a millage campaign 100% and they would work to see that the issue passed. The welfare of the children in our community is the main focus of PTA and technological improvements and the physical appearance of the schools should be the major focus in the campaign to gain community support in the election. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page6 SUSPENSION OF THE RULES Ms. Magness made a motion to suspend the rules and reorder the agenda to move the Millage Election/Bond Issue and the Capitol Projects/Sequence of Events for Second Lien Bond Issue (items B & Con the printed agenda) to the front of the agenda. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion to reorder the agenda and it carried unanimously. A. MILLAGE ELECTION/ BOND ISSUE Mark Milhollen, Vic Anderson and Don Stewart were present to respond to the Board's questions regarding the millage issue that is on the action agenda. Dr. Stewart addressed the Board and briefly discussed the resolution to call for the election, the need for approval by the Board of a request to the Federal Court asking their permission for an election, and authorization to send a request to the Arkansas Department of Education. Mr. Kurrus moved to suspend the rules in order to consider the Millage Election/Bond Issue as a part of this meeting agenda. Mr. Kumpuris seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Mr. Kumpuris moved to approve a Resolution calling for a millage election on May 9, 2000, to ask the Federal Court to allow this election and to authorize the District's administration to send a letter to the Arkansas Department of Education asking for their approval. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and, by a roll call vote, it carried unanimously. Mr. Kurrus and Mr. Berkley spoke in favor of the motion, noting that the efforts of a lot of people go into making good things happen in our District and that a millage campaign will be a huge task requiring a lot of hard work to make it successful. Mr. Kumpuris noted that the Board and the community have a great deal of confidence in the current financial management team of the District, and that confidence would be cause for support for this election issue. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the proposed budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2002. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. In addition, the Board named the chairpersons of the millage election committee on a motion by Mr. Kumpuris, seconded by Mr. Berkley and passed unanimously. Dr. Carnine recommended that Senator John Riggs and Bishop Steven Arnold be named cochairpersons of the millage committee. Mr. Kumpuris moved to approve the Superintendent's recommendation and Mr. Berkley seconded the motion. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page7 Ms. Magness offered an amendment to the motion to include Board President Sue Strickland as a co-chair of this committee. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion to amend, and it carried unanimously. On the amended motion, the vote was unanimous to name Senator John Riggs, Bishop Steven Arnold and Sue Strickland as co-chairpersons of the millage campaign committee. B. CAPITAL PROJECTS/ PROPOSED SEQUENCE OF EVENTS FOR SECOND LlEN BOND ISSUE Vic Anderson addressed the Board regarding the list of capital projects presented as a part of the printed agenda. Consideration for funding these projects will require Board approval of the second lien bond issue, as well as authorization by a resolution to borrow from the existing fund balance to begin these projects immediately. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the second lien bond issue. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A second motion to approve a resolution to borrow from the existing fund balance was offered by Mr. Kurrus. Ms. Magness seconded that motion and it carried unanimously. The Board took a brief recess and reconvened at 8:25 p.m. Vll. CONSENT ITEMS Items listed on the consent agenda were approved unanimously on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Ms. Magness. The items approved were: A. Revision of Administrative Regulation IKEC-R3 B. Arkansas Better Chance Grant Proposal C. MCI-Marco Polo Grant D. National Parks Service Central High School Grant E. Southwestern Bell Easement One item, Revision of Administrative Regulation IKF-R, was listed on the consent agenda but was pulled from consideration and will be resubmitted in March. VIII. ACTION AGENDA Items A & Bare reported earlier in these minutes due to a reordering of the agenda by Board motion. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page 8 C. Board Policy Review - Section D, Fiscal Management Fiscal Management policies were presented for review and approval on first reading. Mr. Kumpuris made a motion to approve this policy section as presented. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to graciously accept the donations, seconded by Mr. Kumpuris. The motion carried unanimously. Dr. Mitchell read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Badgett Elementary Five Compaq computers w/ monitors and St Paul Fire & Marine Insurance keyboards, valued at $350- $400 per unit Company Dunbar Magnet Middle School Sony rear projection TV, valued at $5,000 Ors. Joan and Morris Cranmer for use in lhe English Department Forest Heights Middle School $200 to FH drill team Henry Akins, 11 - Central Arlt. Hospital $100 to FH drill team Rickey Hicks $500 cash for School El,'Plorers' Team Martin & Melissa Thoma Two Soulhwest airline tickets, valued at Kalhy Easter $350.00 to FH drill team Jefferson Elementary School Microphones, stands, and cords valued at Jefferson PTA $372.00 Mabelvale Elementary School $300 for holiday decorations Target store #162 Mann Arts/Science Magnet School $20.00 cash for library books Mr. & Mrs. Harold Stanley $100.00 cash for library books Mr. & Mrs. Steven Kirkegy, Sr. $25.00 cash for library books Mr. & Mrs. Hargris $10.00 cash for library books Mr. & Mrs. Jay Shearer $5.00 cash for library books Mr. & Mrs. Paul Fleming McClellan Magnet School $2,000 cash for Teachers of Tomorrow Pam Brown Courtney, KIP, Inc. Grant activities $225.00 cash for Teachers of Tomorrow Mr. Hardy A. Thrower activities Romine Elementary Portable Sound System/ die Romine PTA casts/educational CD's/misc. office supplies and educational games (total value $2,211.71 HIPPY Program $200.00 cash HIPPY Advisory Committee REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page9 E. Personnel Personnel items were printed in the agenda. In addition, Dr. Carnine asked the Board to suspend its' rules to consider an item not previously listed in the agenda. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to suspend the rules. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. Dr. Carnine recommended hiring Krishna L. Young as the Director of the Residential Charter School. Ms. Magness moved to approve the superintendent's recommendation. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the recommendations for personnel as printed in the agenda. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. F. Financials The monthly financial reports were printed in the Board's agenda for review and approval. Mr. Milhollen responded to questions from the Board and noted that the annual audit would be presented as a part of the financial report at the March Board meeting. Mr. Kumpuris made a motion to approve the reports as presented. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT A. Desegregation Update/Census and Compliance Report Mr. Babbs reported that school assignment letters for the 2000-01 school year are scheduled to be mailed the week of March 1, 2000. The committee working on the compliance report continues to meet weekly and have set a targeted completion date of March 15. Terrence Roberts, desegregation consultant, was also present. He is currently working with groups of employees in "Leaming to Cope with Differences" workshops. He reported that the current plan is to keep the individuals in each of the workshop groups intact in order to train other groups of employees in the future. He thanked Linda Watson and Marion Woods for coordinating these sessions. B. Budget Update/Finance Report Dr. Carnine noted that the audit report would be presented to the Board prior to the March Board meeting. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 24, 2000 Page 10 C. Stephens Construction Update Vernon Smith, Construction Supervisor, reported that the roof is 80% complete and that the interior concrete block walls are 15% complete. All underground utilities are in place and it is expected that the previous delays due to weather should not have a significant impact on the original projected completion date. D. Internal Auditors Report Sandy Becker, Internal Auditor, provided a written report for the Board's review. He responded to questions from the Board and indicated he was prepared to meet with Board members individually at their convenience to review specific information or provide additional details. E. Proposed UALR Information Technology Minor Bonnie Lesley reviewed a proposal from UALR to provide professional development for twenty-five teachers to earn a post-baccalaureate certification in Information Technology. A summary of the proposal was printed in the Board's agenda. Dr. Lesley reported that it was possible that grant funds would be available to supplement the costs associated with the proposal. No formal Board action was required. X. ANNOUNCEMENTS None XI. HEARINGS None XIl. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved to adjourn at 9:23 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. Berkley and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 3 J. 3 -00 4L~ SuStrickland, President Baker Kurrus, Secret LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March9,2000 REC a 1 2000 u rlGE Ot REGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Thursday, March 9, 2000, immediately following the regularly scheduled agenda meeting, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Sue Strickland presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Strickland Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Mike Kumpuris Judy Magness MEMBERS ABSENT: None. ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Sue Strickland called the meeting to order at 7: 10 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without a roll call. All members of the Board were present. Il. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting listed the following items: I. Personnel Changes IL Approval of Make-Up Days III. Employee Hearing SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 9, 2000 Page2 III. ACTION AGENDA A. Personnel Changes The Board was asked to approve two promotions of current District employees. Suzanne Davis was recommended for the position of Director of English, Language Arts, and Foreign Languages. In addition, Barbara Brandon, a seventh grade teacher at Cloverdale Middle School, was recommended to assume duties previously performed by Ms. Davis as the Middle School Teacher Leader for the Reading I Writing Workshop. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the recommended promotions. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Approval of Make-Up Days The Superintendent presented a recommendation for make-up of two school days that were missed due to inclement weather in January. Brady Gadberry reported that in order to avoid extending the end of school dismissal for the year, District administrators and the Classroom Teachers Association coordinated a recommendation to make up the days on March 24 and April 21, 2000. These days were previously on the calendar as non-student teacher workdays. In addition, the Board was asked to approve June 5 as a staff development day for teachers, in order to make up the April 21 date previously reserved for inservice. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the recommendation for making up the student attendance days and the staff development day for teachers. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Ms. Magness left the meeting at 7:30 p.m. C. Employee Hearing Dick Hurley provided background information for a hearing requested by Anthony Bland, employee of the Division of Exceptional Children. The director of that department, Dr. Gary Smith, recommended Mr. Bland for termination and this hearing was held in response to Mr. Eland's appeal of that termination recommendation. The documents provided that Mr. Bland had been employed since August 19, 1999. Dr. Smith reported various problems with Mr. Eland's work performance, including complaints by supervisors and outside agencies that work was not being done in a timely manner. Mr. Bland was reported to be conducting personal business on SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 9, 2000 Page3 District phones, that he used District copiers and computers for personal reasons and that he continued to fail to perform the duties of his job by not following up on prior written reprimands. Mr. Bland denied these accusations, and stated that other employees were not reprimanded for similar infractions and that he felt an overload of duties that other employees were not expected to perform. Board members questioned Dr. Smith, Dr. Hurley, and Mr. Bland and requested an administrative recommendation from the Superintendent. Dr. Carnine stated that, due to the lack of response to specific warnings for improvement in performance of his job duties, Mr. Bland should be terminated. He also noted the importance of responding to requests for release of records in the Division of Exceptional Children in a timely manner. Mr. Kumpuris made a motion to uphold the recommendation for termination. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried 5-1 with Dr. Daugherty voting "present." V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Kurrus moved to adjourn at 8:30 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Daugherty and carried unanimously. APPROVED: 3 J.:> 00 4~e .,.,d/ &:Strickland, President /Jvl 1~ Baker Kurrus, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 23, 2000 in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Board President, Sue Strickland, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Strickland Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Mike Kumpuris Judy Magness MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes L CALL TO ORDER Sue Strickland, President, called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. All members of the Board were present at roll call. Ex-officio representatives to the Board, Cynthia Buehling, teacher from Western Hills Elementary School and student representative, Lauren Weintraub from Hall High School, were also present. II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular February 24, 2000 Board meeting and from a special meeting on March 9, 2000 were presented for Board approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Dr. Mitchell and seconded by Ms. Magness. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 Page2 ill PRESENTATIONS: A. SPECIAL PERFORMANCE: M. L. KING ELEMENTARY JAZZ PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE Mary Lou Kahler, assistant principal at M. L. King Elementary School, introduced the members of the Jazz Percussion Ensemble and their teacher, Sheldon Joshua. The students performed several instrumental songs using electric keyboards, the piano, drums, and several other percussion instruments. SUSPENSION OF THE RULES Mr. Kurrus made a motion to suspend the rules to reorder the agenda to consider the Bonds Project at this point in the agenda. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Dr. Carnine asked Dr. Anderson to make a brief presentation on the Bonds Project list, which was provided to the Board for review and consideration. A suspension of the rules to consider the item on tonight's agenda was required prior to action. Dr. Mitchell offered the motion, which was seconded by Mr. Kurrus and approved unanimously. The projected list would result in a total of $120,445,297 in improvements to school buildings and other District facilities. Mr. Kumpuris made a motion to move ahead with the proposed Bond projects as listed. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Board members thanked staff members and the Superintendent for the work that went into planning and implementation of the proposal. It was noted that local school leaders were integral in the decision making process for proposed improvements to the school campuses and that several months of meetings at the local schools went into determining the most necessary improvements to facilities and technology. B. SUPERINTENDENT'S CITATIONS Dr. Carnine introduced Ellis L. Flowers, head custodian at Mitchell Elementary School. Mr. Flowers was recently recognized by the teachers, counselors, students and parents at Mitchell for maintaining a clean and beautiful school and campus. The Superintendent's Citation was presented in appreciation for his dedication and hard work. Representatives from State Farm Insurance Company were present to recognize Rene' Carson, the LRSD Science Specialist as a State Farm Good Neighbor. State Farm representatives included Alicia Cunningham, Eddie Jo Williamson-Nesby, Dwight Brooks, Alvin Smith, Ed Hoyt, Andre' Pendleton, Marsha Patterson, Launey Jason, Mike Hart, Terry Ray and Morris Anderson. The Good Neighbor Award to Ms. Carson included a plaque and a check for $5,000 to be used in the LRSD Science program. A full-page advertisement in the March issue of several national magazines will feature Ms. Carson and her weather-related science instruction. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 Page3 Deepika Kunapuli, student at Henderson Magnet Middle School, received a Superintendent's Citation in recognition of recently winning the Pulaski County Spelling Bee, which is sponsored by the Pulaski County Board of Education. In addition, Joseph B. Marks, student at Dunbar Magnet Middle School, won third place in this same competition, and was also awarded a Superintendent's Citation. Dr. Carnine introduced Dan Parker, CEO of CNA Health Partners. CNA employees recently participated in the KaBoom Project at Wakefield Elementary School. KaBoom is a national nonprofit organization committed to building 1000 playgrounds across America. It was estimated that over 1,200 volunteer hours went into the recent playground construction at Wakefield. A certificate of appreciation was presented to Mr. Parker and his employees for all their hard work and the dedication of this group in completing the playground construction project. The LRSD Quiz Bowl coaches and winning team members were present and received Superintendent's citations in recognition of their achievement. 0 0 0 Fulbright Elementary School won first place in the elementary division one competition
Eileen Hammond was their coach and team members included Patrick Conley, David Chucoski, Isaac Hayes, Cyrus Bahrassa, Zack Mayo, Afshar Sanati, Cletis Jones, Hannah Ledbetter, and Devery Peoples. W estem Hills Elementary School won first place in elementary division two competitions. Their coach was Beth Collins and team members included Jennifer Crafton, Brad Cook, Christian Outlaw, LeTara Moor, and Amanda Nieto. Dunbar Magnet Middle School won the middle school division of the Quiz Bowl. Arthur Olds and Diana Priest were coaches and team members were: Sunny Patel, Tyler Carllee, Elizabeth Burnham, Ke Xu, Daniel Krupitsky, Eden Liu, Scott Beattie, and KathmDunn. Laura Beth Arnold was recognized for being selected to receive the Outstanding Educator's Award at the Arkansans for Gifted and Talented Education (AGATE) Conference. Debbie Berry, principal from Dunbar Magnet Middle School, accepted a citation on behalf of her faculty for being selected to receive the Challenger Award at the AGATE conference. The ex officio representatives to the Board were given certificates of appreciation for their service during the month of March
Cynthia Buehling, teacher at Western Hills Elementary School, and Lauren Weintraub, student at Hall High School. C. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the new partnerships. Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGUIAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 Page4 Newly established partnerships include: Woodruff Elementary School - represented by Janice Wilson, in partnership with State Farm Insurance - represented by Marsha Patterson, La.uney Jason & others Metropolitan Career Center - represented by Mike Peterson & J C. Skipper, in partnership with NAP A Genuine Auto Parts - represented by Phil Dowden & lvfike Wise In addition, Ms. Milam introduced Keisha Patterson of the LRSD VIPS office to announce the annual VIPS Recognition celebration "An Evening for the Stars." This year's program will be held on April 25 at Ricks Armory. All Board members and District employees were invited to attend. IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Eleanor Coleman greeted the Board on behalf of the Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association, but made no formal presentation. She had provided each Board member a copy of a written correspondence prior to the meeting, which she asked them to read and consider for further discussion at a later date. V. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Magness thanked all District patrons who had volunteered to make calls and contacts for the upcoming millage election. She and State Senator John Riggs had met with several student councils to discuss their participation in the campaign. Mr. Kurrus asked the audience to seriously consider the upcoming millage election and noted that Fulbright Elementary School was having their recruitment fair tonight. Ms. Strickland reported that she had attended a spring festival at Otter Creek Elementary School on last Friday night. She thanked District employees for their hard work and commitment to doing a good job. VI. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Madalyn Scallett, parent of a ninth grade student at Parkview, asked the Board to consider the recent policy change that allows students to be excused from taking final exams. The policy stipulates that students maintain good grades and regular attendance in class in order to be permitted to skip the final. Ms. Scallett is concerned that students need the experience of taking and passing finals as a part of preparation for college and she stated that she would require her daughter to take the test regardless of the policy. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 Page 5 Melissa Gulden addressed the Board regarding the uniform policy that is to be implemented next school term at Carver Magnet Elementary School. Her son has attended Carver since kindergarten and she stated that she would consider moving him to another school if there are no provisions made to "opt out" of wearing a uniform. She provided information for the Board to review and stated that there is no documented evidence that wearing uniforms will increase learning or improve the overall school environment. VIII. ACTION AGENDA A. Board Policy Review - Section D, Fiscal Management Fiscal Management policies were presented for review and approval on second reading. The Board unanimously approved these policies for first reading on February 24, 2000. Ms. Magness made the motion to approve this policy section as presented. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Pankey Property Deed The Pankey Community Improvement Association reported to the Board at the meeting in February. They reviewed the plans to complete a community center on property originally deeded to them by the District in 1992. This deed was revised in 1997, which extended the deadline for them to complete the community center or other facility for educational use. A new deed was provided for the Board's review and approval at this time. Board approve of this deed will convey title to the property to the Pankey Community Improvement Association. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the deed. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. C. Special Needs Transportation Fleet - Bus Purchase The administration requested Board approval for the lease purchase of six new buses for the special needs transportation fleet. Darral Paradis, Director of Procurement, reported that 65 buses currently serve 55 special needs routes. This purchase would allow the District to retire six older model buses and replace them with new and more cost efficient vehicles. The total estimated cost for the purchase is $342,000, which would be financed over seven years, for a yearly payment of $59,821 , which would be added to the Transportation Department budget for 2000-01 . Dr. Mitchell made a motion to apprqve the purchase of six new buses. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 Page6 D. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Berkley made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Mr. Kumpuris. The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Berkley read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR LRSD Assorted office furniture and equipment u. s. Bankruptcy Court valued at approximately $3,000 LRSD Desegregation Plan Scholmhip Fund $250.00 cash Anonymous District Employee Booker Arts Magnet $9,981.27 cash to purchase 27 televisions Booker Arts Magnet PTA and VCR's to be mounted in all K-5 classrooms Booker Arts Magnet 67 Monthly Pocket Planner/Calendars for Charlie Huie faculty members, total value $398.65 Central High School Incentive Program $1,500.00 cash Darren McDonald/Coca-Cola Bottling Company $100.00 cash Ken Coon/HRD Consultants Dodd Elementary Used HP Deskjet printer, valued at Dorothy Brown $250.00 Forest Heights Middle School Albletic Dept. $100.00 cash Pendleton Youth Athletics Garland Academy ELITE Teaching and $600.00 cash for RIF Program Kiwanis Club of Pulaski Heights Leaming Pulaski Heights Middle School $250.00 cash for technology program Arl<ansas Blue Cross/Blue Shield Wilson Elementary Window shades for the cafeteria, valued at Wilson Elementary PTA $2,000.00 $500.00 cash Clinton Sanders/Asher Avenue Kroger Store Metropolitan Career and Technical Center Materials and equipment for the auto paint NAPA Auto Parts and body program valued at $14,600.00 Newtek Video Toaster/software and Ari<ansas Game & Fish Commission manuals/Waveform Monitor for the TV production program, valued at $1,200.00 REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 Page7 E. Personnel Personnel items were printed in the agenda. In addition, Dr. Carnine asked the Board to suspend its' rules to consider action on hiring summer school principals. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. Mr. Berkley then moved to approve all personnel items presented. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. F. Financials The monthly financial reports were printed in the Board's agenda for review and approval. In addition, the annual audit report had been provided previously for the Board's review. Mr. Don Smith from Thomas & Thomas auditing firm was present to review the findings of the audit and respond to questions from the Board. The audit report was accepted by a unanimous vote
Mr. Kurrus made the motion to accept and Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the monthly financial reports as presented in the agenda. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT Mr. Kurrus moved to suspend the rules to reorder the report agenda to allow Senator Riggs the opportunity to present the millage campaign report. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A. Millage Campaign Report Senator John Riggs unveiled a campaign poster for the upcoming millage election indicating Yes for Kids as the campaign slogan. He noted that the campaign will emphasize the fact that a 5 mill increase in personal property taxes will cost the average family approximately $6.00 per month, or the equivalent of a burger and fry meal from a fast food restaurant. He thanked the people who are working on the campaign and noted that the strategy committee will continue to meet every Tuesday morning until the election. B. Desegregation Update/Census and Compliance Report Mr. Babbs presented a brief update of student registration activities and noted that Terrence Roberts has been providing training "Coping With Differences" for District employees. Dr. Roberts will be returning for several additional sessions and will continue to work on compliance requirements with the District's committee. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 23, 2000 Page8 C. Budget Update/Finance Report No report. Additional budget information will be developed for presentation to the Board after the millage/bond issue election. D. Stephens Construction Update Doug Eaton reported that 95% of the concrete floor work has been completed at the new Stephens School. 25% of the interior walls are complete and work is progressing 2 to 3 weeks behind the original schedule. The construction committee continues to meet once per week and they feel the work will progress much quicker once the weather improves. He invited the Board to contact him any time they wanted to go to the construction site for a visit and that he would be happy to provide a tour. E. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker's audit report was included in the printed agenda. There was no additional discussion. F. Stephens, Inc. Report A written report was provided for the Board's review. Dr. Don Stewart was present to respond to questions from the Board. X. ANNOUNCEMENTS None XI. HEARINGS None XII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved to adjourn at 8:40 p.m. The motion was seconded by , . Berkley and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: Y :J 7 lf) Baker Kurrus, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT March 29, 2000 Ann Brown, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Brown: RECEIVE MAR 31 200D 81:E~ ~lJJHftJNlmRlNQ I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meetings held on February 24 and March 9, 2000. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if I can provide additional information. Enclosures Sincerely, Beverly J. Griffin Executive Assistant to the Superintendent 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 JUN 12 200D Off/Cf Of DESEGREGATION r, 1 NITORI The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 27, 2000 in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Vice President, Katherine Mitchell, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Mike Kurnpuris Judy Magness MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes L CALL TO ORDER II. Katherine Mitchell, Vice President, called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Five members of the Board were present at roll call
Mr. Kumpuris arrived at 6:20 p.m. and Ms. Strickland was absent. Ex-officio representatives to the Board, Henry Nesby, teacher from Williams Magnet Elementary School, and student representative, Erica Griffin, from Hall High School, were also present. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular March 23, 2000 meeting of the Board were presented for approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Mr. Berkley and seconded by Mr. Kurrus. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page2 ill PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT'S CITATIONS Dr. Carnine introduced Cassandra Nonnan, principal of J. A. Fair High School, who in tum introduced members of the Fair basketball team. The team won the 5-A State basketball championship title this year. Their coach, Charles Johnson, was also recognized for being named the state of Arkansas' Coach of the Year. Each of the team members was presented with a certificate in recognition of their athletic, as well as academic, achievement. The superintendent presented a statistical report of positive trends as evidence of growth and achievement in our District. Third quarter student behavior and discipline reports indicate a 21 % decrease in suspensions from the same period last year
dropout statistics for the same period indicate a 67% reduction. A positive increase in volunteer hours was noted, up 8% over the previous year. In addition, 25% more students are enrolled in advanced placement courses over the 1997- 98 school year, with a 48% increase in African-American student participation. Dr. Carnine expressed appreciation to students, parents, teachers, administrators and other volunteers who have worked during the past year to achieve these successes. Mrs. Lenora Murray from Dunbar Magnet Middle School was recognized for her efforts in coaching the Math Counts Team. Students who placed in the competitions and who were present at the Board meeting include: Ke Xu, Joel Simon, Sunny Patel, and Lawrence Watts, all students at Dunbar, and Yang Dai, from Pulaski Heights Middle School. Also, Ms. Murray introduced Trela Cook, the assistant Math Counts coach, who teaches at Pulaski Heights. Certificates of appreciation were presented to the ex-officio representatives to the Board for the month of April, Henry Nesby, teacher at Williams Magnet Elementary School, and Erica Griffin, student at McClellan High School. B. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam introduced Brenda James, principal at Mann Magnet Middle School. Dr James announced the establishment of a partnership between Mann Magnet and Johnson Controls. The partnership will be officially presented for Board approval at the May Board meeting, but several students were present to express appreciation to Johnson Controls for the assistance of their employees in Earth Day activities. Johnson representative, Melanie Cranford, accepted tokens of appreciation from the students and noted that they were very happy to become a part of the Mann Magnet School family. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page3 IV. Debbie Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the new partnerships. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Newly established partnerships include: M. L. King Elementary School - represented by Debbie Lawson, in partnership with Kidsports Fun & Fitness - represented by Denver Walker & Lou Ann Hawks Wilson Elementary- represented by Beverly Jones & Marjorie Plant, in partnership with UALR Share America- represented by Amy Burnett, Heather Gage, Shara Stewart & Cheryl Chapman CITIZENS COMMITTEES Clementine Kelley, representing the Classroom Teachers Association, reported that their members had been working the phone bank at the millage campaign office. She noted that the CTA' s proposal for the negotiations would be completed soon and that they were looking forward to a productive contract and salary agreement process. V. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Magness thanked all the folks who have gone "above and beyond" to encourage voters for the millage election, especially the PT A groups who organized to make telephone calls. She announced that additional telephone callers are needed on Saturdays and Sundays between now and the election on May 9. Mr. Berkley and Mr. Kurrus also thanked the many campaign volunteers and asked people to get out and vote. Mr. Kurrus noted that Frank Lambright, a former member of the Board, had made a financial contribution to the campaign and had been talking to people and encouraging voters to show up at the polls to support the District. Mr. Kumpuris noted that other former Board members had also been working to get voters to the polls. He thanked the neighborhood association people who had been supportive of the campaign efforts. Dr. Mitchell thanked Judy Magness for coordinating the volunteer efforts for the election. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page4 VI. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Cedric Williams, president of Glen Eagle property owners association, questioned the Board about campaign financing and whether any District money was being used for the campaign. Normally, Board members do not respond during this portion of the agenda, but they stated for the record that no public funds were used and that all money spent on the millage campaign had been donated by individual citizens and local business supporters. Gay Wyatt, teacher from Fulbright Elementary School, Linda Smith, teacher from Jefferson Elementary School, Tony Woodell, a member of the Campus Leadership Team at Pulaski Heights Elementary School, and Erica O 'Neal, teacher from McDermott Elementary each asked for the Board to consider additional early childhood and four-year-old programs at their schools. It was noted that additional space was available in most elementary schools because of the move of sixth graders to the middle school campuses. They each noted the numerous benefits of early educational intervention and stated that the four-year-old programs would serve as a recruitment tool because most families had their children in private preschool programs by the age of four. Harold Ford, president of Little Rock Engineers Club, read a resolution in support of the millage proposal. VIII. ACTION AGENDA A. Board Policy Review: First Reading, Section D - Fiscal Policies Policies DKC, Travel Expense Authorization/Reimbursement, and DFD, Gate Receipts and Admissions policies were presented for review and approval on first reading. Accompanying regulations were provided for the Board's review and comment. Ms. Magness moved to approve these policies on first reading. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Board Policy Review: First Reading, Section D - Fiscal Policies Policy DCA, Management of Capital Projects Fund, was presented for first reading. Regulations for administering this policy were also provided for the Board's review and comment. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve DCA on first reading, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. C. Board Policy Review: First Reading, Section J - Students Policies for inclusion in Section J of the Board's policy manual were presented for review and approval on first reading. The policies included in.this reading include: JB - Equal Educational Opportunity
IBA - Nondiscrimination in Programs and Activities, with Regulations
JC - School Attendance Zones
JCA - Student Assignment
REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page5 JEC - Pupil Enrollment Requirements
n - Student Rights and Responsibilities~ JJIA - Intramural Games and Sports
and JRAA - Regulation Only. Ms. Magness moved to approve the policies as presented. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Board Policy Review: First Reading, Section F - Facilities Policies FBC, Closing of Schools, and FCC, Temporary School Facilities, were provided for the Board's review and first reading approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve on first reading. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. E. Safe & Drug Free Schools & Communities Application The Board was asked to approve the submission of an application to the Arkansas Department of Education for 1999-2000 Safe & Drug Free Schools and Communities funding. As a recipient offederal funds, the District is required to implement a comprehensive drug abuse prevention program in grades K - 12. Our allocation will total $126,822, and the application is due by April 28, 2000. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the submission of the application. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. F. Teachers of Tomorrow The Board was provided with curriculum modifications and graduation requirements for the Teachers of Tomorrow program. Fair High School will pilot the program in the LRSD in 2000-01 and additional schools will be added the following year. Wanda Baskins, teacher at McClellan Community School, was present to respond to questions from the Board. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the curriculum and credit requirements as presented. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. G. Bilingual Education: Training for AU Teachers Grant A grant proposal for Bilingual Education: Training for All Teachers, has been submitted to the U. S. Department of Education, requesting funds in the amount of $236,256 over a three-year period. The District has designed this proposal as an element of the Commitment to Resolve Agreement with the Office of Civil Rights of 1999. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the submission, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. H. Teacher Training - Informational Technology The administration presented a proposal for training a cadre of teachers to assist with utilization of technology in the classroom. The program would establish a relationship between the LRSD and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Initially, twenty-five REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page6 teachers would be identified to begin the three-year process. Each year an additional twenty-five teachers would be accepted to the program so that by the end of the third year approximately 75 teachers would be involved. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the proposal. Mr. Kumpuris seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. I. Foreign Language Textbook Adoption, Secondary 6-12 The Secondary Foreign Language Textbook Committee made their recommendations for the Board's adoption of selected series for foreign language instruction in grades six through twelve. Ms. Magness moved to approve the selected texts, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. J. Coordinated Career Education Textbook Adoption The Family and Consumer Science, Trade and Industrial Education and Coordinated Career Education Textbook committees voted unanimously to recommend appropriate textbooks for the new adoption cycle. Their recommendations were presented for the Board's review and approval. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the committee's recommendations. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. K. I Can Learn Algebra Program Dr. Carnine presented a proposal for implementation of the I Can Learn Algebra Program in the District's secondary schools. Marcelline Carr, mathematics specialist for the District, responded to questions from the Board. Representatives from I Can Learn visited the District for two days in order to provide an opportunity for teachers to view the program and demonstrate the benefits for students. Dr. Carnine asked for the Board to conditionally approve the proposal, contingent :upon approval of the bond issue that goes before the voters in a few weeks. It was specified that without the funds from a successful millage election, there would not be money available to fund the program and, therefore, the Board asked that approval be conditional upon available funds. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the proposal with stipulated conditions. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 5-1, with Mr. Kurrus casting the "no" vote. L. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Mr. Berkley. The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Kurrus read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Dodd Elementary Bumper stickers and window stickers Mr. & Mrs. A G. Krippendorf valued at approximately $350.00 Fulbright Elementary Clothes racks, plastic book racks, metal K-Mart Store, Rodney Pamam Road shelving, wooden magazine racks, and REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page7 SCHOOLJDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR book shelf
valued at approx. $750.00 Geyer Springs Elementary $350.00 for purchase Caldecott & West L. R. Kiwanis Club Newberry nominee books Romine Elementary $100.00 cash for purchase of crupet for Mr. James Pfeifer main office $100.00 cash for purchase of crupet for Romine PTA main office Williams Magnet Elementary $11,000 cash to purchase instructional Williams Magnet PT A materials and behavioral incentives Woodruff Elementary Five new computers and five Canon color Woodruff Commwiity Center ( directed printers valued at approximately $3,660.51 by Mr. Hayse Miller, Family Services Agency) Dunbar Magnet Middle School 24reams of colored paper and 90 Rabbi & Mrs. Eugene Levy computer disks valued at $200. 00 Mabelvale Middle School Master Flame barbecue grill, valued at Wal-Mart Store #124 $129.99 E. Personnel Personnel changes were printed in the agenda. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the items as presented. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. F. Financials The monthly financial reports were printed in the Board's agenda for review and approval. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve reports as presented, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT A. Desegregation Update/Census and Compliance Report Mr. Babbs presented a brief oral report noting on-going planning for day-to-day compliance requirements. He reported that he and Senator John Riggs had met with the Neighborhood Connection to discuss the upcoming millage election and ask for their support. Ms. Magness asked about any changes that might occur with the current attendance zones for the next school year and Mr. Babbs responded that no changes are expected at this time. He noted that any changes that might be necessary would be discussed with the Board in advance. B. Budget Update/Finance Report No report. Additional budget information will be developed for presentation to the Board after the millage/bond issue election. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page8 C. Stephens Construction Update Doug Eaton reported that progress on the new Stephens School was moving along as scheduled. The next phase will join the school building with the community center that is being built at the site. The ramps between the upper and lower areas of the building are complete and it is estimated the building will be finished in approximately eight months. Mr. Eaton also noted that Valentine Street between 17th & 18th would be closed to through traffic during the school day to allow for student safety. The gates will be opened after hours for neighborhood access to those streets. D. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker's audit report was included in the printed agenda. There was no additional discussion. E. Charter School Update Dr. Watson provided a printed report for the Board's agenda. She was present to respond to questions and she introduced Krishna Young, the new Charter School Director for the District. X. ANNOUNCEMENTS None XI. BEARINGS The Board called for a briefrecess at 8:40 p.m., and reconvened at 8:55 p.m. for a closed employee hearing. Mr. Cedric Blue was appealing the administration's decision to terminate his employment. Dr. Hurley presented background information and documentation provided by Doug Eaton, Director of Facilities Services. Mr. Blue had been employed as a security officer at McClellan High School. On January 18, 2000, Mr. Blue was asked to submit for a drug screening because of suspicion of drug abuse. Mr. Blue signed the waiver for the drug/alcohol screening and tested positive for THC. Mr. Blue represented himself in the hearing and stated that he was concerned that he was not provided an opportunity to confront the students who had accused him of using drugs. He also stated that there was no evidence to show cause for the "reasonable suspicion" that led to the drug screening. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 27, 2000 Page9 Ms. Magness made a motion to uphold the Superintendent's recommendation for . termination. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. EXECUTIVE SESSION: The Board convened an executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel issues at 9:12 p.m. They returned at 10:00 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. XII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Kurrus moved to adjourn at 10:00 p.m. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED SJ.5-oo ~~~j) Sue Strickland, President Baker Kurrus, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 11,2000 RECEIVED JUN 12 2000 DESEG OFFICE OF REGATION MONffORJNQ The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Thursday, May 11, 2000, immediately preceding the regularly scheduled agenda meeting in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Sue Strickland presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Strickland Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Mike Kumpuris MEMBERS ABSENT: Judy Magness ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Sue Strickland called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m. Five members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5:25 and Ms. Magness was absent. Ex-officio representatives to the Board were also present
Shirley Krannichfeld, teacher at Wilson Elementary and Derrick Mitchell, student at Parkview Magnet High School. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting listed the following items: I. Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of Second Lien Bonds II. Approval of Expenditure from Bond Account ill. Personnel Changes , SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 11, 2000 Page2 ID. ACTION AGENDA A. Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of Second Lien Bonds Mark McBride, representative of Stephens, Inc., was present to review the resolution authorizing the issuance and delivery of $6.2 million in bonds. This agreement names Morgan Keegan & Company as the management firm, and Stephens, Inc. as the District's fiscal agent. Mr. McBride and Mark Milhollen responded to questions from the Board. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the resolution. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Approval of Expenditure from Bond Account Vic Anderson asked for the Board to approve expenditure from the bond account in the amount of $11,000. This will allow completion of the projects begun at Quigley stadium and Parkview practice field, which the Board previously approved in the amount of $110,000. The Quigley stadium seating is almost complete at a total expense of $80,000. The Parkview practice field project came in over the budgeted amount and will total $40,950. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the expenditure of funds. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. C. Personnel Changes The Superintendent recommended placement of Darien Smith as principal at Mitchell Academy for the 2000-01 school year. Mr. Smith has been acting principal at Mitchell for the current school year. In addition, he recommended Mary Smith for the position of principal at Rightsell Academy. Ms. Smith is currently the curriculum specialist at Carver Magnet School. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve these two assignments, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Dr. Mitchell moved to adjourn. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board took a brief recess before convening the regular agenda sessi~2 .O:1 ~~_, ~ 1,/7, "- {) qe Strickland, President APPROVED '.5.J5 OD ~ ~ akerKumis, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 RECEIVED JUN 2 6 2000 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 25, 2000 in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Sue Strickland presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Sue Strickland Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Mike Kumpuris Judy Magness MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. Board President Sue Strickland called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. Four members of the Board were present at roll call
Mr. Kumpuris arrived at 5 :22 p.m., Mr. Kurrus arrived at 5:30 p.m., and Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5:45 p.m. Ex-officio representatives to the Board, Shirley Krannichfeld, teacher from Wilson Magnet Elementary School, and student representative, Derrick Mitchell, from Parkview Magnet High School, were also present. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular April 27, 2000 meeting and from a special meeting held on May 11, 2000 were presented for approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Mr. Berkley and seconded by Dr. Mitchell. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page2 fil PRESENTATIONS: A. STUDENT PERFORMANCE Students from Otter Creek Elementary School were introduced by their principal, Janice Tucker. The students performed mini-skits that they learned through the character education program at Otter Creek. B. SUPERINTENDENT'S CITATIONS Dr. Carnine recognized several individuals who were instrumental in the recent successful millage election. It was noted that thousands of volunteer hours went into the campaign
volunteers included parents, students, teachers, administrators, business volunteers, and many others. Students from M. L. King Elementary School, 6 year old Jaelyn Epps and 4 year old William Palmer, assisted in presenting gifts and citations to several of the key volunteers. Bishop Steven Arnold, Senator John A. Riggs, W, and Board President Sue Strickland served as campaign co-chairmen. They received framed original works of art by District students as a token of appreciation for their dedicated efforts. Members of the media were also recognized for their efforts to keep the campaign positive and for using their media outlets to provide factual information to the public, as well as to provide strong endorsement of the millage increase. Dale Nicholson, John Brummett, and Max Brantley were also presented with student artwork as a gift of appreciation for their hard work. In addition, Dr. Carnine thanked Cynthia Howell for her reporting of factual and pertinent information on the millage campaign in the daily news. Stacy Pittman was recognized for leading the steering committee of the Yes for Kids campaign and was also presented with a framed work of student art. She took the opportunity to thank the Board, the Superintendent, and the community for their hard work in getting the public to vote their support of our school district. PT A Council President Jeannie Price was asked to make a presentation on behalf of the PTA. She announced that Superintendent Carnine had received the Statewide Administrator of the Year Award and that several of our schools received membership awards at the recent Statewide PT A Council meeting. She displayed several plaques and trophies that were awarded to our schools. One student from each of the District's high schools was selected to receive a $200.00 award for their artwork. The works will be framed and hung in the Administration Building Lobby. The winning students were: Deon Robinson from J A. Fair High School
Soroush Morshedi from Hall High School
Joshua Harrell from McClellan High School
Lauren Sudduth from Parkview Magnet High School
and Antijuan Jackson from Central High School. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 25,2000 Page3 Board member Baker Kurrus was presented with a certificate from the Arkansas School Boards Association for completing six hours of required Board member training. A copy of that certificate will be made a part of these minutes. Mike Peterson, Principal of Metropolitan Career Technical Center, was introduced and asked to make special presentations to the Metropolitan Vocational Industrial Club of America (VICA) team members. These students competed in the statewide competition, and several of them will be competing in nationals during the summer months. Student Ashley Anglin will represent Arkansas at the National Skills USA Championships as a voting delegate. Tina Boykins, Amy Morgan, Tonya Burns, and Desire Willis were winners of the Arkansas Statesman Award. Desire Willis also took the 2nd place award for keeping of the chapter scrapbook. Magan Bradley won 2nd place in the Occupational Health and Safety Manual competition. Shamika Walker, Chermica Moore, Ashley Anglin, and Erica Miller won awards in the cosmetology/nail care categories. In addition, several other students who could not attend the Board meeting were noted as winners in the auto paint and body category, and the diesel technology field. Justin Mercer was presented a citation in recognition of his selection to attend the 2000 Telluride Association Sophomore Seminar in Bloomington, Indiana this summer. Annette Jones and Leathel Sanders, custodians at Pulaski Heights Elementary School, were recognized for their superior service to the students and staff at Pulaski Heights Elementary School. The staff at PRE nominated these individuals for going above and beyond in their efforts to keep the school and grounds clean and well-maintained. The National Faculty's Delta Teachers Academy Media & Technology Team has worked together for three years to learn new and creative ways to teach technology in our schools. Olivia Gad.by, Sherolyn Jones, Stella Cameron, Judy Meyer, Phyllis Johnson and Sharon Faulkenberry were present to present an award of appreciation to Mary Beth Ross from the National Faculty for her dedication and service to the teachers in our District. The Central High School Mock Trial Team was recognized for winning, for the second year in a row, the Arkansas Bar Association High School Mock Trial Competition. This team scored the highest point total in the finals that had ever been recorded in the 14-year history of the event. They went to the National Competition in Columbia, South Carolina and placed fifth nationally. Sarah Luppen and Jordan Tinsley received National Outstanding Lawyer Awards, and John Baber and Justin Rapp received National Outstanding Witness Awards. In addition, the team's coaches, Sam Stueart, Melissa Colburn, Jack Lasiter, and Patty Luppen, were presented with certificates of appreciation. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page4 The Pulaski Heights Lions Club recently honored three teachers in our District with their Award of Excellence. The teachers were Marjorie Plant from Wilson Elementary School
Pam Wallace from Mabelvale Middle School
and Sam Stueart from Central High School. Certificates of appreciation were presented to the ex officio representatives to the Board for the month of May, Shirley Krannichfeld from Wilson Elementary School, and Derrick lvfitchell from Parkview Magnet High School. C. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam reported that her office is working to assign students in this summer's Vital Link Program. A total of372 students have enrolled and VIPS staff is still recruiting businesses to place them for the program. Ms. Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the new partnerships, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Newly established partnerships include: Mann Magnet Middle School - represented by Karla Hand/,ey, in partnership with Johnson Controls, Inc. - represented by Melanie Cranford Mitchell Academy - represented by Veta Flanagan, in partnership with the Young Lawyers Association of the Arkansas Bar Association - represented by MarkHodge IV. OTIZENS COMMITTEES Clementine Kelly, representing the Classroom Teachers Association, noted that the 1999- 2000 school year was ending on a positive note and that she was looking forward to a successful 2000-01. She stated that a lot of positive things were accomplished this year and that the CT A was looking forward to a speedy negotiation process. V. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Magness offered a thank you to all the people who worked on the millage campaign. She thanked the staff and volunteers and noted that the campaign could not have been successful without the combined efforts of all who were involved. Mr. Kurrus also expressed appreciation to the community for supporting the District in the millage campaign effort. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page5 Ms. Strickland thanked the voters for going to the polls to support the District. She also thanked the hundreds of volunteers who gave their time and energy to support "the kids" and she offered a special note of thanks to Judy Magness for coordinating the campaign volunteers. Dr. Mitchell announced that the Watershed had received a grant for a summer program for children ages 9 to 14. The all-day program will offer academic reinforcement and recreational activities. VI. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Angela McCoy, parent from Rockefeller Elementary School, stated that she was an active PT A member and spokesperson for a group of parents who were unhappy with a change of rules at Rockefeller. She noted that the Friday law firm sponsors a banquet for honor roll students, and that some students were disqualified from attending because of a change in the citizenship requirement. Vivian Mangan, PTA president, spoke on behalf of parents and staff at Rockefeller who were protesting the closing of one of the four-year-old classes at Rockefeller. They asked for the Board to direct the administration to reconsider this decision and reinstate the class. Karen Sanders, parent from Rockefeller noted changes in the desegregation plan regarding racial and socio-economic balance at Rockefeller. She stated that sibling preference in assignments to Rockefeller should be allowed and that students who live in the attendance zone should not be required to go on a waiting list while seats are held for the possible enrollment of white children. Judy Meier, a fifth grade teacher at Rockefeller, stated that the decision to allow only students with good citizenship and academic grades to attend the honors banquet was made by the teachers and the Campus Leadership Team at Rockefeller. The purpose was to teach the children that there are rewards for good behavior and sanctions for not being a good citizen. Students with N's and U' s (Needs Improvement and Unsatisfactory) on their report cards are no longer selected to attend the honors banquet. SUSPENSION OF THE RULES: Prior to the action portion of the meeting, Ms. Magness made a motion to suspend the rules to reorder the agenda in order to move the Safe Schools/Healthy Students Grant Report to the front of the agenda. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page6 Safe Schools / Healthy Students Grant Report: Linda Young and Bonnie Lesley briefed the Board on the Safe Schools/Healthy Students grant application. They noted that the application/grant writing process included a number of community stakeholders, including the City of Little Rock, the Little Rock Police Department, Centers for Youth and Families, Pulaski County Juvenile Court, New Futures for Youth, Pulaski County Enterprise Community, and a number of neighborhood associations. In addition, several of the District's departments were involved in the writing of the grant application, including Safety and Security, Pupil Services, the staff at the Alternative Learning Center, Early Childhood, Student Hearing, and others. The grant will provide additional school and transportation safety measures, alcohol and drug prevention strategies, peer mediation training, additional centers for short-term suspensions, mental health prevention, intervention and treatment, and parenting classes. Additional information is to be provided to the Board over the summer with periodic updates as information becomes available. VIII. CONSENT AGENDA There was a brief discussion regarding the items listed as "Consent." All of the items included for the Board's review were regulations for the administration of previously approved policies. After a brief recess, Ms. Magness made a motion to move the list of consent items to the report agenda so that additional discussion could take place. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. (Dr. Daugherty did not return immediately from the Board's recess.) IX. ACTION AGENDA A. Board Policy Review: Second Reading, Section D - Fiscal Policies Policies DKC, Travel Expense Authorization/Reimbursement, and DFD, Gate Receipts and Admissions, were presented for review and approval on second reading. Accompanying regulations were provided for the Board's review and comment. Mr. Kurrus moved to approve these policies on second reading. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. B. Board Policy Review: Second Reading, Section D - Fiscal Policies Policy DCA, Management of Capital Projects Fund, was presented for second reading. Regulations for administering this policy were also provided for the Board's review and comment. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve DCA on second reading, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page7 C. Board Policy Review: First Reading: Section D, Fiscal Management Several policies for Section D, Fiscal Management, were presented for review and first reading approval. This reading included: DFB - Revenues from School-Owned Real Estate
DFC - Leasing of District Facilities
DFE - Royalties
DFF - Income From School Sales and Services
DGE - Personal Debts of Employees
DID - Inventories (with Regulations)
DIE -Audits/Financial Monitoring
DID - Cooperative Purchasing and Resource Sharing
DJGA - Sales Calls and Demonstrations
DLA - Employee Benefits Administration
and DN - School Property Disposal (with Regulations). After a brief discussion, Dr. Anderson agreed to return policy DID, with regulations DID-R with a few modifications as requested by the Board. Ms. Magness offered a motion to approve these policies on first reading. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. D. Board Policy Review: Second Reading, Section J - Students Policies for inclusion in Section J of the Board's policy manual were presented for review and approval on first reading. The policies included in this reading include: JB - Equal Educational Opportunity
IBA - Nondiscrimination in Programs and Activities, with Regulations
JC - School Attendance Zones
JCA - Student Assignment
JEC - Pupil Enrollment Requirements
n - Student Rights and Responsibilities
JnA - Intramural Games and Sports
and JRAA-R (Regulation only). Ms. Magness moved to approve the policies as presented for second reading. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. E. Board Policy Review: Second Reading, Section F - Facilities Policies FBC, Closing of Schools, and FCC, Temporary School Facilities, were provided for the Board's review and second reading approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve on the policies on second reading. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. (Dr. Daugherty returned.) F. Plan to Restructure the Parent Program Ms. Magness made a motion to suspend the rules and reorder the agenda to move item M - Plan to Restructure the Parent Program to Item Fon the agenda. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 25,2000 Page8 A written report had been provided to the Board as a part of the printed agenda. In addition, several parents who participate in the District's Title One Parent Advisory Committee were present to review and present their recommendations. Parents who attended included: Barbara Osborne, Diane Vibhaker, and Thelma Jasper. In addition, Bob Trevino, representing the League of Latin American Citizens, made supporting statements and recommendations for the Board's consideration. Ms. Magness offered a motion to approve the plan as presented and Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion. There was a brief discussion in which Dr. Mitchell stated that she planned to ask the Board to table this item for further discussion. There was no formal motion to table and no second to a possible motion. Mr. Kurrus also stated objections. Dr. Lesley responded to several concerns noted by Dr. Mitchell and agreed to meet with individual Board members if there were additional questions or concerns. On the motion, the Board voted to approve 5-2, with Dr. Mitchell and Mr. Kurrus casting the "no" votes. G. School Uniforms The establishment of a districtwide dress code for students is required under Act 1301 of 1999, and by statute the Board is required to create an advisory committee for the purpose of considering whether the District should adopt a uniform dress code for students. Mr. Gadberry provided a report for the Board's review as a part of the printed agenda and responded to questions from the Board. Ms. Magness made a motion to establish a districtwide committee for the purpose of making a dress code or uniform policy recommendation. Each Board member is to nominate two parents and one student to serve on this committee. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. H. Revisions for the 2000-2001 Student Handbooks A summary of changes and additions to the 2000-01 student handbooks was presented for the Board's review and approval. Dr. Watson was present to respond to questions from the Board, and agreed to provide additional updates as they become available. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the changes and additional provided, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. I. 2000-01 Student Calendar Revision Mr. Gadberry provided a revised calendar of student attendance days for the 2000-01 school year. Due to the Arkansas Department of Education scheduling of SAT9 testing, it was necessary to reschedule staff development and parent conference days. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the revised student attendance calendar. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page9 J. Arkansas Mentoring Model Pilot Sites Grant A proposal was submitted to the Arkansas Department of Education for the Beginning Intern Teachers Grant. Dr. Lease responded to questions and reported that the grant will provide funds for stipends to be paid to experienced teachers who mentor new teachers. Ms. Magness moved to approve the submission, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. K. Resolution Approving the Use of Postdated Warrants to Finance Purchase of School Buses Dr. Anderson presented a resolution for the Board's review and approval that would authorize the purchase of six additional buses to provide transportation for the new charter school and for the special needs transportation fleet. Financing will be by postdated warrant, which requires approval of a resolution. Dr. Anderson reported that a second resolution would be provided at the June meeting of the Board. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the resolution and Mr. Berkley seconded the motion. It carried 7 -0. L. Bus Lease Purchase for LRSD Special Needs Transportation Fleet Dr. Anderson provided information on the lease/purchase of six additional school buses for the special needs transportation fleet and for the operation of the charter school and short-term suspension centers. The estimated cost is $350,717, financed over a sevenyear period, with an annual payment of approximately $50,102. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the administration's recommendation. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. M. Recognition and Rewards System Sadie Mitchell reported to the Board on the proposed Recognition and Reward System for Schools. Representatives of the Campus Leadership Teams met quarterly to aid in the development of the "collective responsibility" concept, which would provide a formalized reward system for schools that achieve goals related to student learning and achievement. The full proposal was printed as a part of the Board's agenda and the Board was provided an opportunity to review the document and ask questions of Ms. Mitchell and Dr. Carnine. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the recognition and rewards system. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion. There was a great deal of discussion among the Board members, and it was noted specifically that any vote taken at this time would be on the concept of setting up a rewards and recognition system and not on allocating a specific dollar amount for funding the rewards. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page 10 Mr. Kunus noted objections, specifically that he thinks the additional funding should be provided to the schools which are not operating successfully so that they may begin to achieve at the level of the more successful schools. Ms. Strickland remarked that she wanted to ensure that the Board and administration provided the necessary support for each school to be successful. Mr. Berkley noted concerns regarding perceptions of quality and customer service. Dr. Mitchell wanted assurances that the awards and rewards would not be based solely on test scores. It was proposed by the Cluster Coordinating Committee that the awards would be presented to the schools at the annual convocation ceremony. Achievement would be based on goals and indicators as reported on the State Report Card. It was emphasized that the plan would not encourage competition between the schools, but would be based on each individual school's growth and achievement of the established criteria. Mr. Kumpuris offered an amendment to the original motion: he asked that consideration be given to providing incentives other than cash awards, that the actual awards not be distributed until August of 2001
and that criteria measuring "customer satisfaction" be added to the guidelines and criteria. Mr. Kurrus seconded the amendment to the motion and it carried 4-3, with Dr. Mitchell, Mr. Berkley and Ms. Magness casting the "no" votes. Ms. Magness noted that she could not support the amendment to the motion because the proposal before the Board had been developed and approved by the Campus Leadership Teams and it should not be up to the Board to amend their proposal without their input. On the amended motion to approve the Recognition and Reward System, the Board voted unanimously to approve. N. New Course at Mabelvale Middle School The administration asked for the Board's approval to implement an Environmental Investigations Course at Mabel vale Middle School in the fall of 2000. The course will be an elective in addition to the required science courses already provided by the curriculum. Ms. Magness moved to approve the additional course offering, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. 0. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Berkley made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Ms. Magness. The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Kurrus read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page 11 DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Dodd Elementary School 12 yards of shredded mulch, valued at McKenzie Landscaping, Inc. $85.00 for landscaping on Earth Day 10 Azalea bushes and flats of mixed Goldmon Lawn Care annuals for Earth Day landscape project-total value $65.00 Forest Park Elementary School Seven window air-<:onditioners for use in Forest Park PTA classrooms - valued at $4,383.95 Mabelvale Middle School HP Deskjet 540 printer and a Microsoft Mr. Gilles Lecointe Encarta Encyclopedia CD Magnavox VCR Mr. & Mrs. W. H. Cameron Magnavox VCR Mr. & Mrs. Richard F.mmel $289.44 cash to purchase VCR's for El Chico Restaurant instructional use Williams Magnet Elementary School $9,077.18 cash to purchase six Dell Williams Magnet School PTA computers, expansion code for Accelerated Reader, and shirts for staff members in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week Pulaski Heights Elementary $5,000 cash to purchase three Dell PC's Pulaski Heights Elementary PT A and three HP Desk.jet 950 C printers E. Personnel Personnel changes were printed in the agenda. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the items as presented. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. F. Financials The monthly financial reports were printed in the Board's agenda for review and approval. Dr. Stewart was present to respond to questions from the Board. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve reports as presented, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT A. Discussion: Regulations listed as Consent Items A review of regulations listed in the consent agenda was moved to the report agenda for further discussion. Those regulations are: JJIB-R, Change of Residence/Interscholastic Competition
ID-R, Student Schedules
IKF A-R, Early Graduation
and IKC-R, Class Rankings/Grade Point Averages. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page 12 Dr. Mitchell had several questions regarding IKC-R and the implication for students who desire to retake classes in summer school to increase their skills or improve their grade point averages. She stated opposition to any policy, rule or regulation which would deny students an opportunity to attend summer school for reasons other than failure of a class. Dr. Lesley and Dr. Lacey responded to questions and Dr. Mitchell indicated that she would ask for additional information and for the policy and regulations to be brought back before the Board for additional review and discussion. B. Desegregation Update/Census and Compliance Report Mr. Babbs was present and introduced Dr. Terrence Roberts for a brief review of desegregation compliance issues. The "Learning to Cope With Differences" training is progressing as planned, with groups 7 and 8 finishing up this week and groups 9 and 10 scheduled for training the first part of June. C. Budget Update/Finance Report Don Stewart reported that District Budget Managers were actively working on the planning for 2000-01. Work in updating budget codes is taking longer than planned, but they expect that process to be completed in July. A tentative budget will be prepared and ready for review with the Board in July. A budget work session will be scheduled as soon as there are preliminary figures for review and discussion. D. Stephens Construction Update Doug Eaton reported on the progress of the new Stephens School. This is the ninth month of construction and in his estimation, all is moving along as planned. The interior walls and drywall work is taking place and Entergy has completed the interior electrical work. Installation of the heating and air conditioning systems is scheduled and they are over 60% complete on the roof and other exterior work The building should be ready for student occupancy in late December or early January. E. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker's report was printed as a part of the agenda. In addition, the Board was provided with a report on the Athletics expenditures. There were no additional questions or concerns. Board members will call Mr. Becker if they wish individual appointments or for further information. F. Middle School Research and Writing Curriculum Suzi Davis, Diane Rynders, Barbara Brandon, Cynthia Collins and Laura Beth Arnold provided a review of several curriculum-writing projects for Middle School instruction. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May25,2000 Page 13 X. ANNOUNCEMENTS None XI. HEARINGS Mr. Berkley made a motion to convene an executive session for the purpose of hearing a petition for expulsion of three students. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Dr. Watson provided a recommendation for the expulsion of three students who had been involved in an incident at Southwest Middle School on February 17 and 18, 2000. A weapon had been brought to the campus and had been hidden in an area behind the school. School administrators were not aware that the gun was on the campus until afte
This project was supported in part by a Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives project grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and Council on Library and Information Resources.

<dcterms_creator>Little Rock School District</dcterms_creator>