Little Rock School District, school board meeting minutes and correspondence

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LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT RECEIVED JAN 1 3 2003 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING January 10, 2003 Ann Marshali, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring One Union National Plaza 124 West Capitol, Suite 1895 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting held on November 21, 2002. 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 St ree t Li_t tle Roe k, = - kans a s 72201 (501) 447-1002 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 23, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL RECEIVED MAR 2 4 2003 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING Board President Judy Magness called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. Six members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5:40 p.m. Tamika Wordlow, student from J. A. Fair High School, served as the ex officio representative for the month of January
the teacher representative, Krystie Bailey, M. L. King Elementary School, was absent. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 2003 Page2 II. PROCEDURAL MATTERS /WELCOMING COMMENTS Immediately following roll call, Ms. Magness asked the Board to consider a motion for an executive session. Mr. Berkley made a motion to move into executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters. Mr. Rose seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 5:35 p.m. and reported that no action was taken. Ms. Magness introduced the Mabelvale Magnet School choir, directed by Mr. Dewayne Banks. The choir performed two selections: All Night I All Day, and It's Up to You to Be the Best You Can Be. Ill. REPORTS/RECOGNITIONS/PUBLIC COMMENTS A. Superintendent's Citations Dr. James announced that Hall High School and Henderson Middle School had been selected to receive 21 st Century Community Learning Center grants to establish after-school and summer enrichment programs. These grants will provide funding for five years, and will total up to $1 million. The superintendent announced that a tenth grade Central High School student, Yang Dai, scored a perfect 36 on the ACT exam. Yang was one of three students in Arkansas who achieved a perfect score, and was one of 58 students nationally to be recognized for this honor. Yang and her family will be invited to attend the February Board meeting to acknowledge and celebrate her achievement. The January ex-officio representative to the Board was recognized with a certificate of appreciation, Tamika Wordlow, student at Fair High School. B. Partners in Education - New Partnerships Debbie Milam presented certificates in recognition of one new business / school partnership. Mr. Rose made a motion to accept the new partnership, Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The new partnership was: Rockefeller Elementary and Early Childhood Magnet School, represented by Ann Mangan, in partnership with Little Rock Job Corp, represented by Willie Jones and Tim Foley REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 2003 Page3 C. Remarks from Citizens No remarks. D. Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association Clementine Kelley was present, but did not make a presentation. E. Joshua lntervenors No report. F. PTA Council Ginny Kurrus, president of the Little Rock PTA Council, addressed the Board regarding PTA plans and activities for the up-coming legislative session. She announced that February 4, 2003 was Public Schools Day, and that a rally would be held on the steps of the state capitol beginning at 11 :30 a.m. In addition, Senator Jim Argue will address PTA representatives from across the state at 9:00 a.m. that day at the Arkansas Poultry Federation building. Ms. Kurrus announced that the PTA had adopted a resolution asking the Arkansas Department of Education to provide clarification of requirements of No Child Left Behind and plans for the implementation of these requirements. A copy of that resolution had been provided to Ms. Magness for the Board's review. The annual Founders Day luncheon will be held on February 11, at noon at Fellowship Church on Napa Valley & Henson Roads. IV. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Remarks from Board Members None. B. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs reviewed activities from the Student Assignment office, including a summary of transfers related to NCLB legislation. Open enrollment dates were announced: January 27 - February 7, 2003. Open houses, or "Check Us Out" activities are January 22 - 24. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 2003 Page4 C. Budget Update Dr. Stewart reported that the final tax settlement funds had been received late in December and that the amount of revenue received from these taxes had been less than expected and projected in our original budget reports. He noted, however, that Pulaski County Collectors are doing a good job with delinquent tax collections, so we can expect additional funds to be received as the taxes are paid. He noted that we are still cautious about the state revenue expectations. D. Construction Report: Proposed Bond Projects Mr. Goodman's report was printed in the agenda, but he was not present. Dr. Stewart offered to respond to questions from the Board, and reported that interior renovations at Central were in progress. Bids on this project came in lower than expected so it is hoped that they will be completed under-budget. Architect's drawings for the Dunbar project are being reviewed
bidding will begin in a few weeks. The Technology Center will also be bid within a few weeks. Construction on Wakefield is in the design phase
the architect is revising preliminary plans for review by Wakefield staff. It is hoped the building will be complete by June 2004. E. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker's report was provided as an addendum to the agenda. He was present, but provided no additional information. F. Technology Update Ms. Neal provided a brief summary in addition to the report printed in the Board's agenda. She noted that we had been notified that e-rate funds had been mailed, but they had not been received as of the date of this meeting. It is expected that we will receive $1.6 million. V. APPROVAL OF ROUTINE MATTERS A. Minutes Minutes from the regular meeting of the Board of Directors held on December 19, 2002, were presented for review and approval. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the minutes as presented
Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 2003 Page5 VI. B. Personnel Changes Routine personnel items were printed in the agenda and were submitted for the Board's review and approval. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the personnel items as presented
Mr. Rose seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. C. Student Calendar, 2003-04 The proposed student calendar for the 2003-2004 school year was presented for review and approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the calendar as submitted. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. D. Superintendent's Evaluation and Contract Extension The Board met in executive session earlier in this meeting. Ms. Magness reported that Dr. James had received an exceptional evaluation and that the Board officially recognized his excellent leadership abilities. Mr. Rose made a motion to extend the superintendent's contract by one year
Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES DIVISION No items for review I approval. VII. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION No items for review I approval. VIII. BUSINESS SERVICES DIVISION A. First Reading: Policy DGD - - Visa Purchasing Card (Pro-Card) The administration presented Policy DGD - - Visa Pro-Card guidelines for implementation for first reading approval. The activation of a charge card for purchases which total less than $1,000 will be piloted with a select number of schools and departments, with full implementation phased in over the next school year. This program will reduce the costs associated with the requisition and purchase order process for small-dollar purchases. Mr. Paradis responded to questions from the Board regarding training and accountability procedures. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the policy on first reading. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 2003 Page6 B. Agreement Between the City of Little Rock and the LRSD -- Use of Facilities The District has worked with the City of Little Rock Department of Parks and Recreation to formulate a five-year commitment to promote joint use of District and city properties. No additional funding is required for implementation of the agreement. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the agreement
Mr. Rose seconded the motion. It carried unanimously. C. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Tamika Wordlow, student ex-officio representative, read the listed donations. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donations as listed
Mr. Rose seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Donations are listed in the following chart: DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Jefferson Elementary School Pizza, valued at approximately Harold Beckwith $100.00 for the faculty and staff McClellan Community High School $150.00 cash for the boy's baseball Alvin Smith / State Fann Insurance program $50.00 cash for the boy's baseball Dr. Lee Hinson, DDS program $250.00 cash for the boy's baseball Tom Dillon/ Dillon Enterprises, Inc. program $100.00 cash for the boy's baseball Everett Martindale, Attorney program $100.cash for the boy's baseball Staley, Inc. oroaram Metropolitan Career & Technical Center 2003 Dodge Durange, valued at Daimler-Chrysler Corp. through $27,329.00 for the automotive partnership with A YES technoloav orooram LRSD 24 office cubicle workstations valued U of A Cooperative Extension at approximately $400.00 per unit. Service Total value aooroximatelv $9,600.00 LRSD Child Welfare Fund $110.00 cash to be used to purchase Bale Elementary school Peer school clothing for students Heloer Service Project REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 2003 Page 7 IX. D. Financial Report Mr. Milhollen reviewed the budget summary and noted that the December report was on target with the original projections for expenditures. In addition, he briefly highlighted the investment summary reports, and responded to questions from the Board. Mr. Kurrus moved to approve the financial reports as submitted. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. SCHOOL SERVICES DIVISION No items for review/ approval. X. DISTRICT OPERATIONS XI. No items for review / approval. CLOSING REMARKS A. Superintendent's Report Dr. James reminded the Board that their conflict of interest statements are due to the Pulaski County Clerk by January 31, 2003. In addition, he reviewed recent SREB training sessions with staff and reported that he had participated in a conference call to plan and review up-coming (in March) sessions. School teams are working hard on their individual school plans and have provided very positive feedback on the training. A luncheon is planned in February for the Public Education Foundation and guest speakers will include Claiborne Demming and Walter Hussman. Board members will receive invitations. XII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Berkley moved to adjourn at 6:40 p.m. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: d -~ 1-0 "3 Larry Perkley, Se/etary AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK AND THE LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into this 9Jlld day of ~2002, by and between the CITY OF LITTLE ROCK, a municipal corporation, hereinafter called "City", and the LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT, hereinafter called "District". WI TN E S S E TH: WHEREAS, the governing bodies of the City and the District are mutually interested in an adequate program of community education and recreation which can best serve the citizenry most economically
and WHEREAS, full cooperation between the City and the District is necessary to achieve the best service and creation of a "City in a Park" with the least possible expenditure of public funds
and WHEREAS, the govermng bodies of the City and the District desire to appoint representatives to examine possibilities for cooperation between the City and the District in recreation programming and leisure opportunities and services
and WHEREAS, the City of Little Rock will appoint representatives of the City to serve on a recreation steering committee to examine possibilities for cooperation between the City and the District in recreation programming and leisure opportunities and services
and WHEREAS, the Little Rock School District will appoint representatives of the District to serve on a recreation steering committee to examine possibilities for cooperation between the City and the District in recreation programming and leisure opportunities and services. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises, said City and said District do now agree to cooperate with each other in carrying out the above purposes, and to that end do agree as follows: 1. The District will make available to the City for community recreational activities certain school playground areas to help the City accomplish its "City in a Park" vision, subject to the approval of the Superintendent of Schools of the District, or his delegate. 2. The City will make available to the District certain City parks and recreational facilities for school events, activities and programs, subject to the approval of the Director of Little Rock Parks and Recreation, or his delegate. 3. The District agrees to allow the City to use other selected school facilities which are suitable for community recreation, including, but not limited to, computer class rooms, cafeterias, auditoriums, tennis courts, football fields, track fields, gymnasiums, classrooms, subject to the approval of the Superintendent of Schools, or his delegate. 4. A schedule of dates for the use of the District school facilities will be arranged by the parties as to avoid conflict between school and recreation use
that in the scheduling of said facilities, school events and programs shall have first priority and recreation programs, established by little Rock Parks and Recreation, shall have second priority, and any other events by other groups or agencies shall have third priority. Whenever possible, the scheduled dates shall be provided to the District prior to December l" of the preceding calendar year. 5. A schedule of dates for the use of the City facilities will be worked out in advance by the parties, and that this schedule will be arranged as to avoid conflict between recreation and school use
that in the scheduling of said facilities, Little Rock Parks and Recreation activities shall have first priority, and school events and programs shall have second priority, and any other events by other groups or agencies shall have third priority. Whenever possible, the scheduled dates shall be provided to the City prior to December 1st of the preceding calendar year. 6. The City and District shall cooperate to make information about their respective individual and joint programs available to the public. 7. The City's Board of Directors and the Board of Directors of the District have appointed a recreation steering committee to continue searching for new areas of cooperation, and to that end shall meet at least quarterly along with interested community groups, and appropriate City and District administrative officials, using the procedures developed for the group known as the Recreation Steering Committee. Minutes of the meetings shall be provided to the superintendent of schools of the District and Director of Little Rock Parks and Recreation. The committee will make an annual report to the City Board of Directors and little Rock School District Board. The Recreation Steering Committee will: 1.) Research and implement, where possible, best practice models from around the country. - 2 - 2.) Develop and implement, where possible, fitness and wellness programs that include regular health screens, health promotion classes and fitness classes. 3.) Expand educational activities and programs, where possible, to include computer, arts, crafts, and humanities classes. 8. The City and the District mutually agree that the sponsor of recreation activities will provide funds to pay for the necessary building, security and custodial services for their respective facilities, and that these services shall, in general be performed by the City personnel when City facilities are used and by District personnel when District facilities are used. 9. The City and the District agree that individual agreements will be prepared between the parties for the use of each facility to clarify responsibilities of both parties. 10. The parties shall jointly conduct a review of the terms of this agreement annually. 11. The terms of this agreement may be altered upon mutual consent of the Boards of the City and the District. Any such modifications to this agreement shall be in writing, signed by the parties hereto. 12. The term of this agreement shall be five (5) years. The parties shall have an option to renew the agreement annually
provided, however, that either party shall have the right to terminate this agreement for any reason whatsoever, without penalty, upon giving thirty (30) calendar days written notice to the other party. 13. The District and the City agree to comply with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination, including non-discrimination in employment, and specifically agrees not to unlawfully discriminate against any participant because of race, creed, religion, disability, sex or national origin. 14. 15. 16. 17. Independent Contractor. It is expressly agreed that the District and the City are acting as an independent contractors in performing the duties specified herein. Immunity. The City and the District shall rely on tort immunity to the extent it is available to them. This Agreement is governed by the laws of the state of Arkansas. The District and the City agree to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances and to require such compliance in - 3 - 18. 19. 20. 21. contractual agreements with subcontractors. The District and the City further agree to comply with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, and regulations promulgated thereunder, and to require such compliance in contractual agreements with subcontractors. The officials who executed this Agreement hereby represent and warrant that they have full and complete authority to act on behalf of the City and the District, and that by their signatures below, the terms and provisions hereof, constitute valid and enforceable obligations of each. This Agreement shall be executed in the original, and any number of executed copies. Any copy of this Agreement so executed shall be deemed an original and shall be deemed authentic for any other use. The terms of this Agreement shall be binding upon the parties hereto, their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assignees. This Agreement and the documents referenced or incorporated herein contain the complete and entire agreement of the parties respecting the transactions contemplated herein, and supersede all prior negotiations, agreements, representations, and understandings, if any, among the parties regarding such matters. IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed in their behalf. [Signatures on Next Page] - 4 - CITY OF LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS Bruce Moore City Manager Date: 2-fkcJ-3 ATTEST: Na~( cZlc/ City Clerk Date: 2:-/ /,,-oJ APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM: Thomas M. Carpenter, City Attorney - By:~~ II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II Beth Blevins Carpenter Deputy City Attorney - 5 - LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT ~ T. Kenneth James, Ed.D. Superintendent Date:
}._ /13 la 3 I I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT January 29, 2003 Ann Marshall, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring One Union National Plaza 124 West Capitol, Suite 1895 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: RECEIVED JAN 31 2003 OFFICEOF DESEGREGATION !,ONITORING I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting held on December 19, 2002. 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) 447-1002 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 13, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, February 13, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: RECEIVED MAR 2 4 2003 OFACEOF DESEGREGATION MONITORING T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. She stipulated a quorum without roll call. Mr. Rose arrived at 6:10 p.m. and Ms. Strickland was absent. In addition, the ex officio teacher representative was present: Kathleen Cargill, from Mabelvale Elementary School. The student representative did not attend. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of approving several program evaluations. Employee hearings, which had been scheduled and listed on the agenda, were cancelled. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 13, 2003 Page2 Information on Completion of Eight Program Evaluations for Submission to Federal Court Dr. Lesley presented a summary and background information on the requirement to submit program evaluations to the federal court, stipulated in the September 2002 ruling. These reports are due to the federal court no later than March 15, 2003. A total of fourteen program evaluations were to be completed. Six of these were completed and were approved by the Board in November and December 2002: o ESL, 1999-2000, 2000-01, and 2001-02 o CPMSA/NSF Grant, 1998-99, 1999-00, 2000-01, 2001-02 o Collaborative Action T earn o Southwest Middle School Partnership with SEDL o Charter School, 2000-01 o Pre-K-2 Literacy Program, Year 2 Evaluation, 1999-00, 2000-01, 2001-02. Eight additional program evaluations have been completed, and four of those were presented for action at this meeting: o Vital Link o Onward to Excellence o Campus Leadership Teams o HIPPY The final four evaluations will be presented for the Board's approval at the February 27 regular Board meeting: o Middle School Transition o Lyceum Scholars o Elementary Summer School o Extended Year Dr. Steve Ross, from the University of Memphis, served as a consultant for the District during the process of completing these evaluations. He was present at this meeting to review the guidelines for completing the evaluations. In addition, he provided brief summary reports on each of the evaluations presented for action. Dr. Larry McNeal, President of Quality Education and Management Associates also attended the meeting but was not called to make a presentation. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 13, 2003 Page3 Ill. ACTION A. Vital Link Dr. Ross completed the review of the Vital Link program in collaboration with Debbie Milam, Director of VIPS, and Dr. Ed Williams from Planning, Research and Evaluation. The Vital Link program was discontinued by the District during 2000-01, and no real evaluative criteria was established prior to the program's inception. Students completed a survey upon completion of their participation, and the evaluation was based on the results of this survey. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the third party review for submission to the court as required by the court's order. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. B. Onward to Excellence Onward to Excellence was a grant-funded two-year school improvement initiative at Watson Elementary School. It was discontinued at the end of the grant period in 2001. In addition to Dr. Ross, Mike Oliver, Principal at Watson Elementary School, Ed Williams, from the Planning, Research and Evaluation Department, and Dr. Charles Watson from the Arkansas Department of Education, participated in the completion of the evaluation. Data was insufficient to determine if the program impacted student achievement. The Board was asked to approve the program review for submission to the federal court. Mr. Berkley made the motion, Dr. Mitchell seconded, and it carried unanimously. C. Campus Leadership Teams Campus Leadership Team participants completed surveys that measured their personal experiences with the CL T process. The surveys were not intended to serve as an evaluation of the initiative, but provided basic data for review by the evaluators. In addition to CL T members, principals and Central Office administrators also provided survey response data. The administration requested the Board's approval for submission to the Court. Dr. Daugherty made the motion for approval, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried 5-0. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 13, 2003 Page4 D. HIPPY Unlike the other program evaluations presented at this meeting, the HIPPY program had been evaluated previously and a preliminary study was conducted in July 1999. The program was re-evaluated in 2002 and copies were provided for the Board's review. In addition to Dr. Steve Ross, District personnel also assisted in the evaluation
Ed Williams, Planning, Research and Evaluation, Ken Savage, Computer Information Systems, and Marian Shead-Jackson, HIPPY Program Coordinator. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the evaluation report for submission to the federal court. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Magness requested a motion to convene an executive session for the purpose of discussing a personnel issue. Dr. Mitchell made the motion, Mr. Berkley seconded and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 6:53 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Rose, seconded by Mr. Berkley. APPROVED: J._.,1.1'/-0J LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: RECEIVED MAR 2 4 2003 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL Board President Judy Magness called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. and stipulated the presence of a quorum. Six members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5:05 p.m. Lauren Easter, student from Hall High School, served as the ex officio representative for the month of February
the teacher representative, Kathleen Cargill, Mabelvale Elementary School, was absent. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page2 II. PROCEDURAL MATTERS / WELCOMING COMMENTS Ms. Magness announced that the meeting was convened hour early due to the inclement weather. She thanked staff members who were present and noted that school had been closed due to the snow and ice since Tuesday. It was expected that students would be able to return to school on Friday. Ill. REPORTS/RECOGNITIONS/PUBLIC COMMENTS A. Superintendent's Citations None. Citations, special announcements, and other recognitions were held for distribution at the March Board meeting. B. Partners in Education - New Partnerships Partnerships that were to be formalized at this meeting will be announced at the March Board meeting. C. Remarks from Citizens Dr. Chima Uko Igwe addressed the Board regarding school bus stop safety issues. He reported that although he had followed the recommended chain of command, he was only successful in getting a bus stop change when he notified the Superintendent's staff that he was planning to address the Board. He asked for a stop to be created in the Wedgewood subdivision so that students are not required to wait for the bus on heavily trafficked streets. He reported problems in getting phone calls to Laidlaw returned and dissatisfaction with the city's efforts to enforce laws regulating traffic when a bus has the stop sign and side arm extended. D. Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association Clementine Kelley was present, but did not make a presentation. E. Joshua lntervenors No report. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page3 IV. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Remarks from Board Members None. B. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs reported that enrollment notification letters for the 2003-04 school year were being prepared and would be ready for mailing the first week in March. He responded to questions from the Board regarding enrollment in the Head Start Centers that are located within LRSD schools. C. Budget Update No report. D. Construction Report: Proposed Bond Projects Mr. Goodman's report was printed in the Board's agenda. He was present and briefly responded to questions. He noted that the inclement weather would have an effect on the completion of ongoing outdoor projects, such as Mann Magnet School. E. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker was present and his report was printed in the agenda. There were no additional questions or requests for information. F. Technology Update Ms. Neal provided a brief review of activities relating to revision of the District's Technology Plan. The plan will be completed prior to the Board's March meeting and will be submitted for approval at that time. G. Fine Arts Update Mr. Fletcher reported briefly on efforts to improve and enhance the District's band program. Extensive and costly repairs have been made to equipment and instruments, and plans are underway to begin replacing band uniforms. The VH1 - Save the Music Grant has provided partial funding for programs at Romine, King, Mitchell and Forest Park. A music education handbook is being developed and should be ready for distribution at the beginning of the 2003-04 school year. Mr. Fletcher noted that the piano lab at Romine will be named in honor of Dana Duncan, long-time music specialist at Romine, who recently passed away. A ceremony will be held in her honor to celebrate the opening of the piano lab. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page4 V. APPROVAL OF ROUTINE MATTERS VI. A. Minutes Minutes from the regular meeting of the Board of Directors held on January 23, 2003 and from a special meeting held on February 13, 2003, were presented for review and approval. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the minutes as presented
Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Personnel Changes Routine personnel items were printed in the agenda and were submitted for the Board's review and approval. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the personnel items as presented
Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Ms. Magness called attention to the retirement of Gary Smith, and expressed appreciation for his years of service to LRSD students and families. Dr. Mitchell noted the retirement of Mazie Phillips, counselor at Fair High School, who has been ill. INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES DIVISION A. Program Evaluation: Elementary Summer School Dr. Lesley was present to review the evaluation documents and respond to questions. Each of the evaluations presented for approval was discussed previously at the Board's February agenda meeting. The Board was asked to approve the Elementary Summer School evaluation for submission to federal court. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the evaluation report for submission. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Program Evaluation: Extended Year Evaluation The Extended Year Evaluation was submitted for review and approval prior to submission to the federal court. The District's extended year program initially included Stephens, Mabelvale and Woodruff Elementary Schools. Two additional schools were added in the fall of 2002, Cloverdale and Mitchell Elementary Schools. Ms. Strickland moved to approve submission of the report
Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page5 C. Program Evaluation: Middle School Transition The program evaluation for the Middle School Transition was presented for the Board's review and approval. The transition from elementary - junior high schools to elementary - middle schools occurred in the fall of 1999. Dr. Lesley reviewed the implementation of middle school curriculum and instructional strategies and responded to questions. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the evaluation report for submission to the courts. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. D. Program Evaluation: Lyceum Scholars The Lyceum Scholars program was discontinued at the end of the 2000-01 school year and students who would have been assigned to the program were reassigned to their attendance zone schools, or to an alternative learning environment. The decision to discontinue the program was based on budgetary restrictions. Ms. Strickland made a motion to approve the report for submission to the federal court. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. E. Grant ProposaJ: Arkansas Reading First Grant Program The Arkansas Department of Education receives funds from the federal Reading First initiative to improve the reading skills of students from lower socio-economic subgroups in Arkansas schools, grades K - 3, and in special education for students in K - 12. Twelve schools in the LRSD met the eligibility criteria: Bale, Baseline, Chicot, Dodd, Fair Park, Mabe/vale, Mitchell, Rightse/1, Romine, Stephens, Wakefield and Wilson. If received, these funds would provide assistance in meeting goals in reading achievement by providing staff development, instructional materials, and to assist local school districts in administering reading assessments. The grant application in the amount of $4,284,158 was submitted prior to the February 7, 2003 deadline. The Board was asked to maintain the submission. Ms. Strickland moved to approve the grant application. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it passed 6-0-1, with Mr. Kurrus abstaining. F. Grant Proposal: Laura Bush Foundation The Laura Bush Foundation provides grants for the purchase of library books for schools with a high percentage of students who are eligible for free or reduced price lunch. Eleven LRSD schools met the criteria and intend to apply for the grant, which would provide up to $5,000 per school. Those schools are Baseline, Brady, Cloverdale, Fair Park, Franklin, Geyer Springs, Mabe/vale Elementary, Mabe/vale Middle School, Mitchell, Watson, and Woodruff. The Board was asked to approve the submission of these individual school grants. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the applications for submission, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page6 G. Revised Regulations: EDCA-R Lucy Neal presented a recommendation from the Technology Planning Committee for a revision to the District's regulations governing policy EDCA, authorized use of computer networks. This review and revision was in compliance with federal Children's Internet Protection laws. The Board was asked to approve the revised regulations as recommended by the Technology Planning Committee. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the regulations as submitted. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. VII. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION No items presented for review. VIII. BUSINESS SERVICES DIVISION A. Second Reading: Policy DGD - - Visa Purchasing Card (Pro-Card} The administration presented Policy DGD - - Visa Pro-Card guidelines for implementation for second reading and final approval. The activation of a charge card for purchases which total less than $1,000 will be piloted with a select number of schools and departments, with full implementation phased in over the next school year. Mr. Paradis was present to review the policy and reported that staff training was underway, and that the program would begin upon Board approval. This program is intended to reduce the costs associated with the requisition and purchase order process for small-dollar purchases. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the policy on second reading. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Laidlaw Contract 2003-2008 A five year extension to the contract with Laidlaw Education Services was negotiated by LRSD administration and was presented for the Board's review and approval. The agreement provides for the addition of 70 new buses, and an increase of 2.2% per year in the daily route rate. The Board was asked to approve the contract as submitted. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the Laidlaw contract, Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Ed Streeter, Laidlaw representative, was present and thanked the Board for their support and confidence. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page 7 C. Barrow Road Quitclaim Deed The City of Little Rock requested a deed of property in front of Henderson Middle School on Barrow Road for the purpose of widening that intersection and providing a traffic signal at the entrance to the school. The Board had previously adopted a resolution in support of this traffic control and spoke in favor of the quitclaim deed. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the deed of property. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. D. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Lauren Easter, student ex-officio representative, read the listed donations. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donations as listed
Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Donations are listed in the following chart: DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Brady Elementary School Rainbow assortment of paper, valued Mr. Charles Babo at approximately $150.00 Table and sandbox for use in pre-K Barbara Gilkey, State HIPPY classroom, 75 stuff animals, 30 Board program director games, estimated value $850.00 Forest Par1< Elementary School Precast concrete caps, valued at Mr. & Mrs. Mark Ramm $22,000 to cover the rock wall surrounding the olavgrounds Forest Heights Middle School Gingerbread houses, valued at $1 ,000 Treatment Homes, Inc., and to be used for student incentives Loretta Garland Eight hours of pressure washing the West Little Rock Pressure Washing sidewalks, valued at $600 Seasonal decorations for the main Carolyn Blome office Jefferson Elementary School $100 cash to be applied toward Jim Ginger purchase of new stage curtains Awning, valued at $150.00 to cover Maple Leaf Canvas, Mr. & Mrs. Jim pre-K playground equipment Wilson Mabelvale Magnet Middle School Two computers valued at $1,050 to Daniel Pyne CBI classroom McClellan Community High School $1 00 cash to the baseball program Ray Stalnaker $1,000 cash to the football program Wal-Mart Foundation REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page8 DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR McClellan Community High School Sony Mavica MVC- FD83 digital RCA Corporation camera, valued at $400 for the Business Ed Department Mitchell Academy $500 cash to be used to purchase gifts Sidney and Debra Moncrief for students School uniforms, valued at $220. for Valerie Wyatt and family (3"' grade uniform doset teacher at Mitchell) Pulaski Heights Elementary 18 TVNCR mounts valued at Pulaski Heights Elementary PTA $1,353.00 Stephens Elementary School Ellison letter machine starter set Stephens Elementary PT A valued at $2,275 LRCPMSA $2,500 cash for the SMART orooram Lisenne Rockefeller LRSD Social Studies Department 15,000 copies of "Guide to the Middle KA TV Channel 7 Easr valued at $775.00 for distribution to students in history dasses E. Financial Report Mr. Milhollen reviewed the financial reports provided in the Board's printed agenda and responded to questions regarding receipt of notification on any possible reductions in state funds. Since no exact projections have been made, it is difficult to anticipate how much will be cut, but the Board will be notified as soon that amount is known. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the reports as submitted. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. SCHOOL SERVICES DIVISION No items for review / approval. X. CLOSING REMARKS A. Superintendent's Report Dr. James provided brief comments on the success of the LR Public Education Foundation luncheon meeting that was held the previous week. He credited the members of the Foundation staff and Board for moving quickly to plan and implement the foundation process. Dr. Mitchell commended Dr. James and the Foundation staff for the luncheon, and reported that it was very well attended. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 2003 Page 9 School had been closed for 3 days, but the Superintendent announced that school would be in session tomorrow (Friday), unless there was additional freezing precipitation during the night. It will be decided within a few days when the three school days will be made up, most likely added to the end of the year. Dr. James also announced that the Board had decided by consensus to move the March Board meeting to the 201\ so that no meeting would be held during spring break. Dr. Mitchell and Dr. Daugherty expressed appreciation to Dr. Bonnie Lesley for her hard work on behalf of the District, and wished her well in her new position. This was to be Dr. Lesley's last LRSD Board meeting. XI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Kurrus moved to adjourn at 5:55 p.m. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: j
)0 0 3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session immediately preceding the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, March 13, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus RECEIVED MAR 2 4 2003 MEMBERS ABSENT: DES OFFICE OF EGREGATION MDNITORJNG Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call. Dr. Mitchell and Ms. Strickland were absent. In addition, the ex officio teacher representative was present: Mary Ann Washington, from McDermott Elementary School. The student representative did not attend. 11. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of reviewing a tax increment financing (TIF) proposal for southwest Little Rock. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 2003 Page2 Ill. ACTION Southwest Little Rock TIF Proposal Dr. James provided a brief written summary of the Southwest Little Rock TIF proposal and recommended that the Board give conditional and tentative approval to the project as presented. As specified in the Superintendent's summary, the scope of any TIF should be: project specific, short term, limited to an area in need of redevelopment, ensure that the project is narrow in scope, guarantee a financial impact analysis and that all parties are at the discussion table, and guarantee an immediate and positive financial impact on the Little Rock School District. The area under consideration is approximately 176 acres in southwest Little Rock. 20+ acres will be developed into "Outdoor World," and a hotel is to be built during year 2. Under the terms of the proposal, the property is to be fully developed in eight years, and taxes will increase by an amount equal to inflation. Dr. James noted that the proposal meets the District's conditional requirements, and that the LRSD would begin sharing in the revenue after the first three years. Mr. Tommy Hodges, with Otter Creek Land Company, was present at the meeting and offered to respond to any questions from the Board. Mr. Kurrus made a motion in favor of conditional and tentative approval of the proposed TIF district in southwest Little Rock as submitted. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Dr. James noted that the City of Little Rock Board has scheduled additional discussion on this issue at their April 1 meeting. A final review of all details and documents will be provided to our Board once they become available. Board members stressed the importance of taking each TIF project or proposal and reviewing them on their own merits. It is not to be perceived that we would set a precedent by giving unconditional or blanket approval of tax increment financing. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 5:31 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Mr. Kurrus. APPROVED: 3 :JO 03 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland RECEIVED MA't' 1 3 2003 OFFICE Of DESEGREGAllOM MOMllORlKG MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL II. Ms. Magness called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. All members of the Board were present at roll call. Mary Ann Washington, teacher ex officio representative from McDermott Elementary School was also present. The student representative from McClellan High School did not attend. PROCEDURAL MATTERS/ WELCOMING COMMENTS Ms. Magness greeted the audience and introduced the Hall High School madrigals, directed by Kelly Rush. The choir performed two selections, Blow, Blow the Winter Wind, and a patriotic medley. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 Page 2 Ill. REPORTS/RECOGNITIONS/PUBLIC COMMENTS A. Superintendent's Citations Dr. James introduced Anne Ye, a seventh grade student from Dunbar Magnet Middle School. Anne won the Arkansas spelling bee at a competition last weekend at UALR. Anne will represent Arkansas at the National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C. in May. The J. A. Fair High School basketball team and Coach Charlie Johnson were recognized for winning the state 4-A men's basketball tournament last weekend in Pine Bluff. Several team members were present and certificates were presented in recognition of their achievement. The senior team members were: Melvin Fisher, Vincent Hunter, Earnest Maxwell, and Quen Spencer
juniors on the team included: Lonnie Henry, Shaun Reynolds, Larry Porter, and Dwight Watkins
sophomore team members were: Quincy Googe, Charles Hayes and Parris Pattillo. In addition to Coach Johnson, assistant coaches Tom Poole and Erik Jackson were in attendance. Five Central High School students were selected as semi-finalists in the Siemens Westinghouse competition for Math, Science & Technology. The students were Daniel Liu, Satish Mahalingam, Mark Mazumder, Ananth Ranganathan, and Xiazhog Wang. In addition, Mark Mazumder was a regional finalist in the Siemens competition and went to the southwest regionals at the University of Texas at Austin. In addition, Mark was named a national semifinalist in the Intel Science Talent Search, one of only three from the state of Arkansas this year. The Board and Superintendent offered congratulations to all of these students for their scientific achievements. Ann Blaylock was congratulated and presented with a citation in recognition of her election to the Southern Region National Middle School Association Board of Trustees. She will serve until November 2005. MetLife and the National Association of Secondary School Principals recently named Linda Brown, principal of Parkview Magnet High School, as their 2003 Principal of the Year. This is the first time a principal from the LRSD has received this prestigious award, and the Board and Superintendent offered their congratulations. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 Page3 Principal John Bacon and representatives from the Dunbar Magnet School PTA were present. The Dunbar PTA was recognized for receiving the National PTA Certificate of Excellence Award and the Arkansas PTA Outstanding Local Unit. They will receive awards at the state PTA convention in Fort Smith in April and will represent the state of Arkansas at the National convention in Charlotte, North Caroline in June. Retiring LRSD employees were recognized for their years of service. Those who were recognized, but not present included: Eva Alexander, Sheila Armstrong, Gwyn Fortson, Dorothy Underwood, and Dr. Gary Smith. Dr. Bonnie Lesley was present to receive a plaque in recognition of her service to the District. She briefly addressed the Board and expressed appreciation of their support and hard work on behalf of the students in the LRSD. The final citation was presented to the ex-officio Board representative for the month of March, Mary Ann Washington, teacher at McDermott Elementary School. B. Remarks from Citizens None. C. Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association Frank Martin reported that negotiations were scheduled to begin on March 31 st for the 2003-04 school year. He stated that he is optimistic that an agreement can be reached before teachers leave for summer break, and he is hopeful that negotiations can be "creative" even in light of the bleak financial outlook. D. Joshua lntervenors No report. F. Update on Implementation of Teacher Advancement Program Dr. James provided a brief written summary on the implementation of year-one of the Teacher Advancement Program at Stephens and Rockefeller Elementary Schools. This initiative, funded by the Milken Family Foundation and the Walton Foundation, provides professional development opportunities and additional opportunities for career growth and salary increases for teachers. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 Page4 Anne Mangan and Sharon Brooks, principals of Rockefeller and Stephens, provided an overview of the first year of implementation at their schools and gave specific instances of student-based achievement based on the goals of TAP. In addition, several teachers provided personal comments on their experiences with TAP, and stressed the importance of improving teacher performance in order to achieve improved student performance. Dr. Mitchell left the meeting at approximately 6:20 p.m. IV. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Remarks from Board Members Mr. Rose thanked Dr. Lesley for her service to the District, and expressed great admiration for her skills and abilities to follow through with the difficult tasks assigned to her. He then read a statement of personal beliefs regarding the war in Iraq. Mr. Kurrus noted that he is closely monitoring the proposed TIF district in Southwest Little Rock and the Midtown Redevelopment project to make sure that the best interests of the LRSD are maintained as these developments occur. He also thanked the staff and parents of Fulbright Elementary and the Fulbright PTA for the recent "Swamp Stomp" Cajun festival. The funds raised will be used to provide software for the computer laboratory. In addition, Mr. Kurrus recognized the LRSD student athletes for their remarkable year. The J. A. Fair basketball team was the No. 1 team in the state, the Parkview Magnet school team was the runner-up, and Central made the play-offs. Individually, Mr. Berkley, Ms. Strickland, Dr. Daugherty and Ms. Magness thanked Bonnie Lesley for her contributions to the recent successes of the LRSD. She was applauded for putting others at ease with the breadth of her knowledge, for her patience and honesty in dealing with the Board and with patrons, for her hard work and diligence, and for her sincere concern for the children in our District. Ms. Magness read excerpts of Dr. Lesley's letter of resignation where she gave credit to the employees of the Division of Instruction, to the District's principals, and to the parents and volunteers. The Board took a brief break at 7:15 p.m. and reconvened at 7:30 p.m. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 Page 5 B. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs reported that the registration and assignment process for the 2003-04 school year was progressing as usual. Letters had been mailed and requests for student transfers were being processed. School assignment letters for the four-year-old seats are due to be mailed on April 11 . C. Budget Update Dr. Stewart reported that he had been concentrating on preliminary figures from revenue sources indicating that we will not be able to do business as usual next school year. It is fairly certain that deep cuts will have to be made and the Board will be asked to approve and establish priorities for funding. Staff is working through the list of things that can be removed from the budget and the proposals will be based on recommended items that can be eliminated without affecting student instruction. D. Construction Report: Proposed Bond Projects Mr. Goodman's report was printed in the Board's agenda. Mr. Eaton was present to review the summary information and to respond to questions. E. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker was not present at the meeting, but his report was printed in the Board's agenda. F. Technology Update Ms. Neal was present and reviewed the summary report printed in the Board's agenda. V. APPROVAL OF ROUTINE MATTERS A. Minutes Minutes from the regular meeting of the Board of Directors held on February 27, and from a special meeting held on March 13, 2003 , were presented for review and approval. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the minutes as presented
Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 Page 6 B. Personnel Changes Personnel changes were printed in the agenda. One correction was made to the report: the resignation date was changed to June 30, 2003 for Central High School business teacher Eleanor Holeman. Ms. Strickland moved to approve the personnel changes as presented, with the noted correction. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. C. Adoption of Arkansas School Boards Standards The Arkansas School Boards Association developed recommended standards for operation of local school boards. Those standards were presented for the Board's review and discussion at a recent retreat and were presented for adoption by the LRSD Board. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the standards for adoption. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. A copy is attached to these minutes. VI. INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES DIVISION A. Overview of State Test Items Dennis Glasgow, Vanessa Cleaver and Marcelline Carr presented a brief overview of sample test items from the Arkansas Benchmark exams. Students in grades 4, 6, and 8 will take these exams the second week of April. Stanford 9 achievement testing in grades 5, 7 and 10 will take place the following week, beginning April 14. The PowerPoint presentation of test items was multiple choice and remote devices were used by audience members to test their knowledge on several sample test questions. B. Revised LRSD Technology Plan The revised LRSD technology plan was developed by the District's technology committee and presented for review and approval by Lucy Neal. Ms. Neal provided a brief review of the changes and indicated the report was ready for submission to the Arkansas Department of Education by April 15. Mr. Berkley, who served as the Board's representative on the Technology Committee, made a motion to approve the plan for submission to the ADE. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. VII. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION No items for action or review. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 Page 7 VIII. BUSINESS SERVICES DIVISION A. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Berkley read the listed donations, and made a motion to accept the donated items
Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The donations are listed in the following chart: DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Brady Elementary School $800.00 cash to be used to defray the Bank of the Ozarks cost of art teacher Central High School Golf cart, valued at approximately David & Dawn Terry $1,000 to be used by security personnel to assist in the surveillance of the campus Refrigerator, valued at approximately Mr. & Mrs. Mark Ramm and $400 for the teacher's lounoe Dr. & Mrs. Randall Hundley McClellan Magnet High School $250.00 cash to be used in the Ms. Melissa Kumpe McClellan baseball proaram B. Financial Report Mr. Milhollen reviewed the financial reports printed in the Board's agenda. He responded to questions regarding possible state funding shortages, and promised that the Board would be made aware as soon as we were notified. Ms. Strickland made a motion to approve the reports as presented. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. IX. SCHOOL SERVICES DIVISION No items for action or review. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 20, 2003 Page 8 X. CLOSING REMARKS A. Superintendent's Report Dr. James thanked the Little Rock Public Education Foundation for their generous awarding of $100,000 in grants to LRSD teachers. The grant committee made their selection of winners, and on April 2 the "Prize Patrol" will go to the schools to distribute the awards. Board members were invited to meet at the administration building at 8:45 a.m. and ride along with the members of the foundation committee to distribute the awards. Dr. James also announced that the SREB had concluded a workshop on datadriven decision making for LRSD employees who are involved in this 3-year initiative. These workshops are critical to the development of building action plans and developing operational standards of quality leadership. He announced that all twelve LRSD schools received Arkansas Reading First grant awards. He noted that Linda Austin is scheduled to meet with ADE staff to work through implementation of these grants. He announced that he and several board members would be attending the National School Boards Association meeting in San Francisco the first week of April. XI. EMPLOYEE HEARINGS None. XII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Strickland moved to adjourn at 8:25 p.m. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 4-
2 4-0 3 Standards for Arkansas School Boards I. Vision/Philosophy A. The School Board creates a clear vision for the district that focuses on students, excellence in education, and academic achievement. B. The School Board adopts this vision that is created through collaborative processes that involve the staff, parents, community, and students. C. The School Board effectively communicates this vision to the staff, parents, community, and students. D. The School Board adopts long- and short-term goals to accomplish the vision of the district. E. The School Board believes that accountability for achieving the goals of the district rests with the School Board, the superintendent, the staff, the parents, the community, the students, and the state. n. Organization A. The School Board adopts and follows a "Code of Ethics." B. The School Board adopts policies that clearly define the roles and duties of its members. C. The School Board adopts policies delineating the procedures for electing its officers and defining their roles and duties. Ill. Board Operations A. The School Board governs through approved policies and maintains a current policy manual which is reviewed regularly. B. The School Board conducts professional meetings in accordance with the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act by establishing and publishing the agenda prior to the meeting and by following the agenda during the meeting. C. The School Board conducts public forums periodically to receive input from citizens. D. The School Board acts with fiscal responsibility. IV. Board Development A. The School Board receives annual training as recommended and/or conducted by the Arkansas School Boards Association and is familiar with A Handbook for Arkansas School Board Memhru_. B. New School Board members receive additional timely training regarding School Board member responsibilities. C. The School Board conducts annual self-assessments and avails itself of professional develop-ment opportunities based on the needs of its members. D. The School Board keeps abreast of state and federal laws that impact education. E. The School Board stays informed about current education issues. F. The School Board attends regional and state Arkansas School Boards Association meetings and remains informed of National School Boards Association meetings and issues. G. The School Board, at least annually, convenes for an extended work session to review goals, evaluate the progress of the district, and develop long-range plans. H. The School Board is familiar with Key Work of School Boards and implements those concepts. V. Personnel Operations A. The School Board maintains a high standard of ethics in all personnel matters. B. The School Board remains neutral in all personnel matters until the superintendent brings a recommendation to them. C. The School Board adopts personnel policies with input from district personnel. D. The School Board empowers the administration to recruit and recommend highly qualified applicants to the Board. E. The School Board expects the administration to maintain a highly qualified staff by offering timely and adequate opportunities for professional development. F. The School Board hires the superintendent and is responsible fo~ conducting a search to replace an exiting superintendent. G. The School Board evaluates the superintendent annually and determines the continued em-ployment of the superintendent. VI. Board/Staff/Comm.unity Relations A. The School Board maintains a positive, supportive, and professional attitude toward all staff. B. The School Board and the superintendent work together as a leadership team. C. The School Board recognizes, protects, and encourages the chain of command at all times. D. The School Board and superintendent recognize that communication is a two-way process. E. The School Board and the superintendent work together to provide and follow a process that encourages and seeks input from the staff and community when appropriate on significant issues by: l. providing leadership in the establishment of open dialogue through community discussion groups, school councils, and other means
2. collaborating with local, state, and national agencies
3 . .working with the media to provide information
4. visiting schools
and 5. including informative presentations from staff and students at school board meetings. F. The School Board models respect for the superintendent, staff, parents, community, and stu-dents. G. The School Board supports and adopts the use of Study Circles, or a similar process, as a method of communicating with the staff, the parents, the community, and the students. LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFlCEOFTHESUPE~NTENDENT March 21, 2003 Ann Marshall, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring One Union National Plaza 124 West Capitol, Suite 1895 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: RECEIVED MAR 2 4 2003 OFACEOF DESEGREGATION MONITORING I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meetings held on January 23, February 13, February 27, and March 13, 2003. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if I can provide additional information. Sincerely, ~ Beverly J. Griffin Executive Assistant to the Superintendent Enclosures 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 447-1002 ,. , LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 10, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, April 10, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Katherine Mitchell ALSO PRESENT: RECEIVED MAY 1 3 2003 OFACEOF DESEGREGATION MONITORING T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 5:45 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call. Dr. Mitchell was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of conducting an employee hearing. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 10, 2003 Page 2 Ill. ACTION: Beverly Williams, Director of Human Resources, provided a brief review of the circumstances surrounding a recommended five-day suspension of Larry Shorter, custodian at Henderson Middle School. Mr. Shorter requested a hearing before the Board, but did not appear at the appointed time. Frank Martin, Executive Director of the Classroom Teachers' Association was present to represent Mr. Shorter. He stated his only concern with the incident surrounded the manner in which the steps of progressive discipline had been followed, and that since Mr. Shorter did not show up for the hearing, he would present no further arguments. Dr. James recommended that the Board vote to uphold the administration's recommendation for a five-day suspension without pay. Mrs. Strickland made a motion to uphold the Superintendent's recommendation , Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Mr. Rose. APPROVED: '--j-J Y -0 3 ~W.& V/tl:--artf!IXII{ Judy Magess, President LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 17, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session immediately following a scheduled budget worksession on Thursday, April 17, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order and stipulated a quorum without roll call. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of conducting an executive session for the review and discussion of a personnel issue. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to go into executive session, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 17, 2003 Page 2 Ill. ACTION: The Board returned from executive session at 7:53 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. Mr. Kurrus then offered a motion to adjust the Superintendent's annual salary to $165,000 effective July 1, 2003. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Mr. Rose. APPROVED: J ~~1,
f'.e lce-rle.i,imtf Judy Magess, President LanyB~~~ LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Vice President Tony Rose presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Tony Rose Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Judy Magness ALSO PRESENT: T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL Mr. Rose called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Six members of the Board were present at roll call
Ms. Magness was absent. Michelle Hayden, teacher ex officio representative from Meadowcliff Elementary School, and Jason Casey, student representative from Parkview Magnet High School, were also present. II. PROCEDURAL MATTERS /WELCOMING COMMENTS Mr. Rose welcomed the audience and introduced the Rockefeller Show Choir, directed by Sandra Young. Ms. Mangan, principal of Rockefeller Elementary School was also present. The students performed several songs, including choreographed hand movements and sign language. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page2 Ill. REPORTS/RECOGNITIONS/PUBLIC COMMENTS A. Superintendent's Citations Dr. James introduced the LRSD students who were named either National Merit Finalists or National Achievement Finalists for 2003. Not all of the students were present due to senior class activities at the various high schools, but their certificates of recognition will be sent to them. National Merit Finalists from Central High School were: Kyla Achard, Adva Biton, Fredrick Brantley, Kevin Burns, David Gutierrez, Catherine Keisler, Daniel Liu, Mark Mazumder, Joseph McDonnell, Stephanie Nielson, Nadia Patel, Rachel Rouby, Brennan Taylor, and Benjamin Wells. From Parkview Magnet High School, students were Alison Boland, Jessica LovelaceChandler, and Lorinda Peoples. National Achievement Finalists were Lorinda Peoples from Parkview Magnet High School, and Everette Callaway from J. A. Fair Magnet High School. The Superintendent announced the students from Metropolitan Career and Technical Center who competed and received Medals at the Skills USA/ VICA statewide competition in Hot Springs on April 15 - 16. The students were called to the front and displayed the medals they were awarded. Metro students won 37 medals, ten of them gold. GOLD MEDALISTS Melissa Cox, Commercial Baking Andrea Sanders, Commercial Baking Katrina Brown, Cosmetology/Hair Care Cynthia Brown, Cosmetology/Hair Care Rolanda Foreman, Cosmetology/Nail Care Chelsa McClendon, Cosmetology/Nail Care Jeff Merkt, Technical Drafting Terrance Davis, Truck Diesel Technology Brandy Howard, Farm Diesel Technology SILVER MEDALISTS BRONZE MEDALISTS Anna Bell, Culinary Arts Takenua Williams, Cosmetology/Hair Care Vatrice Manning, Cosmetology Viola Harris, Cosmetology/Hair Care LaToya Jacko, Cosmetology/Hair Brittney Thomas, Cosmetology/Nail ~re ~re Nathan Roberts, Technical Drafting Tania Kelley, Cosmetology/Nail Care Jessie Ivey, Truck Diesel Tucker Swearingen, Truck Diesel Technology Technology Justen Wilson, Farm Diesel Jeremy Baker, Truck Diesel Technology Technnology Joshua Oldham, Nathan Roberts, Mitchell Alexander, Farm Diesel Tony Bales, Brad Grundy and Technology Ephraim McNair, Quiz Bowl Kristen Speer, Victoria Holland and Josh Denius. TV News Anchor Team Vanessa Black, Cole Cawthron, Kasey Corbin, Savannah Ebbs, Victoria Holland and Kristen Speer, Opening & Closing Ceremonies REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page 3 Superintendent's Citations (continued) In addition, Cole Cawthron won a gold medal for extemporaneous speaking, and Jordan Brown received special recognition from Arkansas and National Courtesy CORPS. Katrina Brown will represent Arkansas at the National Skills Competition. Dr. James introduced Mike Peterson and thanked him for continuing to do an exceptional job in preparing our students for state and national vocational and technical training competitions. Dr. James introduced Dave Elswick from KARN Radio, who presented each of the LRSD high school principals with a framed portrait of George Washington. Mr. Elswick raised the money through on-air donations and sponsorships and he promised to return to the Board when he had raised enough to provide a portrait for every LRSD school building. The superintendent congratulated the Pulaski Heights Middle School MathCounts team. Students Sho Maymia, Miles McCullough, Albert Speed, and Corina Oprescu were joined by their coach Trela Cook. The PHMS team took the state championship title and each team member placed in the top ten competitors. The Central High School chess team recently earned the title of State Champions for the 3A - 5A Chess Association of Arkansas. Dr. James congratulated the team for their achievement and introduced members of the team: Victor Harris, Joe Liu, Shep Russell and Johnson Wong. Other team members were David Gutierrez, Daniel Krupitsky, Elizabeth Richardson and Shannon Rodgers. The team is coached by Joe Gray and Chuck West. Dr. James recognized Rene Carson, Lead Teacher for middle level science. Ms. Carson was elected to a three-year term as Middle Level Director of the National Science Teachers Association. The final citations were presented to the ex-officio Board representatives for the month of April, Michelle Hayden, teacher at Meadowcliff Elementary School, and Jason Casey, senior student at Parkview Magnet High School. B. Partners in Education Debbie Milam reminded the Board and the audience that this year's Evening for the Stars was scheduled for April 29th at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds. In addition, she expressed appreciation to the Chamber of Commerce and members of the Little Rock business community for supporting the Arkansas Scholars program. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page4 Certificates in recognition of new business / school partnerships were presented to schools and businesses listed below. Mr. Berkley made a motion to accept the new partnerships, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The new partnerships were: Accelerated Learning Center - represented by Carol Green, in partnership with the Baseline & 1-30 branch of Twin City Bank - represented by Bob Burch, Tom Steves and Marilyn Harrington Fulbright Elementary School - represented by Diane Smith, in partnership with the Highway 10 Branch of Twin City Bank - represented by Bob Burch, Laurice Taylor and Arnicee Stigars Henderson Middle School - represented by Marvin Burton, in partnership with the Chenal & Bowman Road Branch of Twin City Bank - represented by Bob Burch, and Beth Lindsey Mabelvale Elementary School - represented by Tab Phillips & Janice Moore, in partnership with the Baseline & 1-30 Branch of Twin City Bank - represented by Bob Burch, Beth Lindsey and Elizabeth Holderfield McDermott Elementary School - represented by Virginia Ashley & Melanie Greenwald, in partnership with the Rodney Parham Branch of Twin City Bank - represented by Bob Burch and Marsha Davis Woodruff Elementary School - represented by Janice Wilson, Shirley Davis & Jovita Lacy, in partnership with the Riverdale Branch of Twin City Bank - represented by Bob Burch and Julie Wagner Watson Elementary School - represented by Javanna Woo, in partnership with Waste Management of Arkansas - represented by Wayne Rathbun *The Board agreed by consensus to reorder the agenda to allow the student representative from Parkview, Jason Casey, to read the list of donations to the District. The Board approved the donations at this point in the agenda. The list of donated items and the motion to approve will appear in these minutes at their normal agenda sequence. The student left the meeting immediately following the reading of the donations to attend a senior function at Central. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page 5 C. Remarks from Citizens Ellen Peterson and her son, Chris Peterson each addressed the Board regarding complaints against the administration at Otter Creek Elementary School. Ms. Peterson read a prepared statement, copies of which were provided for the Board. An investigation into an incident involving Mr. Peterson's stepdaughter is underway by the District's safety & security office. The Little Rock Police Department has also investigated. Bill Torrey addressed the board regarding a transportation issue for his student who attends Mabelvale Middle School. This student is assigned to J.A. Fair High School next year
Mr. Torrey stated that he has requested a reassignment to Central High School. He is concerned with the District's policy of not providing transportation for transfer students. He stated that other students in his neighborhood attend Central, and that there is sufficient room for his child to ride an existing bus. D. Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association Frank Martin thanked the Board members for their gracious acceptance of his decision to retire as the CT A's Executive Director. He also congratulated Dr. James and wished him well on his selection as the next Superintendent of Schools in Lexington, Kentucky. He commended Dr. James for making his decision in light of a perception of "animosity" that would have arisen as a result of his receiving a large pay increase in a year when teachers and other workers were going to be given little or no raise. He stated that it was "unbecoming of the Board to make such an offer," and he reminded the Board that Superintendents come and go, but the stabilizing factor in this District is the teacher and support staff - - the work force who stay on through the adversities. E. Joshua lntervenors No report. IV. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Remarks from Board Members Ms. Strickland reported that she had been volunteering to read to students in the four-year-old program at Otter Creek Elementary School, and that she was having a great time doing it. She stated that the students are fun and energetic. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page6 Mr. Kurrus thanked Frank Martin for his years of services to the LRSD and for always having the best interest of the students at heart. He announced that Dunbar Middle School PTA had won recognition as the outstanding unit at the statewide PTA convention, and the Little Rock PTA Council had won honors as the best council in the state. Mr. Kurrus continued by commenting on the difficulty of the position of Superintendent of Schools. He stated that a candidate for the position must be committed to work hard and must express a desire for longevity. He recognized teachers and support staff as the key to a stable organization, but stated that the Board is committed to finding a leader who will stay here for a period of years. Dr. Mitchell also thanked Mr. Martin for his years of dedicated service, and wished him well in his retirement. She thanked Dr. James for his service and for placing us on the path to continued success. In addition, Dr. Mitchell announced that two of our elementary schools are tied for championships in the Boys & Girls Club basketball league: Mitchell and Rightsell Elementary Schools. Dr. Daugherty thanked Mr. Martin for ''tolerating" our Board over the years. He also spoke to the issue of losing Dr. James as our Superintendent. He noted that it has been good to have the two years of stability that Dr. James provided, and that we must focus on the good experiences instead of dwelling on the bad. He thanked Dr. James for his foresight and for his willingness to make hard choices, and he wished him well in his efforts to better his professional career. Mr. Rose commented that he wished to assure the CTA, the public and the business community that the Superintendent of Schools would continue to answer to the LRSD Board and not be beholden to the business community. B. Report: L. R. Public Education Foundation / Initial Distribution of Grants John Riggs, President of the Foundation Board, wished a fond farewell to Frank Martin and thanked him for his help when Mr. Riggs served on the LRSD Board. He then introduced Lisa Black who serves as the Director of Programs and Development for the Foundation. He thanked the Board and Dr. James for their support, for the initial vision to form the foundation, and for their faith in the volunteers who are serving on the Board. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page 7 Mr. Riggs explained that the intent of the PEF grants is to enrich and improve the educational experience of all children in the LRSD. He presented a brief report on the first round of grants to Little Rock classroom teachers and announced that almost $100,000 had been granted to teachers for various special projects and classroom improvements. A "prize patrol" traveling on three school buses, arrived at the various schools and made their entrance with balloons and large mock checks. The teachers were surprised and the students were excited about the presentations. C. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs was present but did not make a report. D. Budget Update Dr. Stewart was present but did not make a report. Dr. James announced that a special legislative session was proposed to begin on May 5, and that no additional budget projections would be made until additional financial information is provided by the State. E. Construction Report: Proposed Bond Projects Mr. Eaton reviewed the written report provided by Mr. Goodman and printed in the Board's agenda. He called special attention to the timelines and the projects listed to begin during the summer months. The Wakefield rebuilding project is in the planning and bidding stage now, and it is hoped the school will open for the 2004-05 school year. Dr. Mitchell requested information on the process used to identify and complete on-going maintenance projects. Specifically, she would like to know when work will begin on severe problems with roofs and bathrooms at Mitchell and Rightsell Elementary Schools. She is concerned with health and safety issues at those 2 schools. F. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker's report was printed in the Board's agenda. He was present and offered additional detail on anything in the report at the Board's convenience. G. Technology Update Ms. Neal was present and reviewed the summary printed in the Board's agenda. In addition, she reported that the District's copiers would be equipped with network cards, so that they can be used as printers, which will allow cheaper copying than using laser printers for large documents. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page8 H. Report on Little Rock Youth Dr. James provided a brief statistical summary report prepared by New Futures for Little Rock Youth. The report compared the city's youth populations from the 1990 census to the year 2000 census. Reports were broken out by age, socioeconomic status, residential factors, household makeup, and other factors. The report was printed in the Board's agenda. The Board took a brief recess, and reconvened at 7:35 p.m. V. APPROVAL OF ROUTINE MATTERS A. Minutes Minutes from the regular meeting of the Board of Directors held on March 20, and from special meetings held on April 10 and April 17, 2003, were presented for review and approval. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the minutes as presented
Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Personnel Changes Routine personnel changes were printed in the agenda. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the changes as presented
Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VI. INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES DIVISION A. Arkansas History Textbook Adoption Marie McNeal presented the Arkansas History textbook adoption recommendations for the Board's review and approval. The selection committee agreed that An Arkansas History for Young People correlated well to Arkansas History Guidelines and the District's Social Studies curriculum. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the textbook as submitted by Ms. McNeal. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. B. Career & Technical Education Textbook Adoption Carol Green presented the recommendations from the Career and Technical Education Textbook Committee. The list of 2003-2009 cycle textbooks was provided for the Board's review and approval. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the recommendations, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page 9 VII. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION A. Charter School Program Evaluation, 2001-02 Linda Watson and Dr. Larry McNeal presented the final evaluation on the Charter School Program. Dr. McNeal was the evaluating consultant and Dr. Watson assisted in the completion of the report. The Board was provided copies of the evaluation, and was asked to approve the report for submission to federal court. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the report as submitted. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. VIII. BUSINESS SERVICES DIVISION A. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Jason Casey, student representative from Parkview Magnet High School, read the listed donations. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donated items
Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The donations are listed in the following chart: DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Geyer Springs Elementary School $500.00 literacy grant to be used for Wal-Mart I Baseline Store student incentives to continue promotion of the Accelerated Reader Program M. L. King, Jr. Magnet Elementary $1,000.00 cash to Julia Lloyd's pre-K Genevieve Y. Jackson dass to be used to purchase educational materials and dassroom supplies Mabelvale Magnet Middle School $1,500.00 grant to the Accelerated Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Reader Program to be used to Outreach Committee purchase books for students and to fund the AR incentive parties held each 9-week period. McClellan Magnet High School $1,000.00 cash for the baseball team Sharon Prested $250.00 cash to send a student to Cloverdale-Mabelvale American Arkansas Boys State Legion Little Rock School District A pallet of library books valued at Cynthia Brown, Sales Consultant for approximately $1,000.00 Scholastic Five portraits of George Washington to Dave Elswick, Radio Station KARN be hung in the high schools, framed in cherry mahogany, valued at $250.00 each, for a total value of $1 ,250.00 REGULAR BOARD MEETING April24,2003 Page 10 B. Financial Report Mr. Milhollen reviewed the financial reports printed in the Board's agenda. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the reports as presented. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. B. Request for Easement - Wilson Elementary School The City of Little Rock requested a five foot right-of-way easement north of Wilson Elementary School to allow for eventual street improvements and construction of sidewalks. The Board was asked to grant approval of this agreement. Mr. Kurrus moved to approve the easement and Mr. Berkley seconded the motion. It carried unanimously. C. Request for Easement - John Barrow Road and Henderson Middle School The District was asked to grant a 15 foot-right-of-way easement along the east side of John Barrow Road adjacent to Henderson Middle School. Entergy requested the easement to allow relocation of electrical lines in order to accommodate the City of Little Rock's widening of Barrow Road. The administration recommended the granting of the easement, assessing no negative impact on the operation of the school. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the request for easement. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. SCHOOL SERVICES DIVISION A. Varsity/ Junior Varsity Athletic Program Coach Johnny Johnson presented a recommendation to move to a varsity/ junior varsity athletic program in the LRSD. The change is supported by the varsity coaches and secondary principals, and would increase the student participation in athletic activities. The AAA has approved of the change if approved by the LRSD Board. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the proposed change to varsity/ junior varsity programming. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page 11 X. CLOSING REMARKS A. Superintendent's Report Dr. James thanked Debbie Milam and Marian Lacey for coordinating the recent Arkansas Scholars luncheon. He announced that the Governor and representatives from business and education would be on the Dunbar Middle School campus to publicly announce the kick-off of the Arkansas Scholars program. Dr. James congratulated the students and staff from Dunbar for having a great year. He announced that the Dunbar Odyssey of the Mind team would advance to the world finalists' competition in Iowa this summer. He commended John Bacon and the administrators at Dunbar for a job well done. XI. EMPLOYEE HEARINGS Mr. Berkley moved to convene an executive session for the purpose of conducting an employee hearing. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The hearing convened at 8:00 p.m. Beverly Williams presented evidence on behalf of the District for the recommended termination of Darlene Kelley. Ann Mangan, principal of Rockefeller Elementary School was also present. Ms. Williams briefly explained the differences between a recommendation for termination, and the alternative "non-renewal." Non-renewal would allow the teacher to remain in the classroom for the remainder of the school year, and termination would allow immediate removal from the classroom, and replacement with a qualified teacher. Darlene Kelley was in her first year as a teacher at Rockefeller Elementary School. She previously taught at the Charter School at Badgett and in the North Little Rock School District. The administration's recommendation for termination was based on unsatisfactory performance in the areas of planning and preparation, classroom environment, and instruction. Ms. Mangan presented all due process documentation and copies of evaluation instruments dated from September 2002 through April 2003. In addition, Ms. Mangan testified that she had offered the assistance of Judy Meier and Kris Huffman, mentor teachers and curriculum specialists for Ms. Kelley to allow her to utilize their expertise to improve in her classroom instructional performance. Ms. Meier and Ms. Huffman were available to testify, but were not called to do so due to the limited time set aside for the hearing. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page 12 Ms. Williams reviewed the numerous documents provided for the Board's review and highlighted those that substantiated the administration's reasons for recommending termination. It was noted that Ms. Mangan had never before recommended a teacher for termination in her 16 years as principal of Rockefeller. The areas of greatest concern were noted as: Ms. Kelley's failure to avail herself of instructional assistance
failure to keep proper and accurate student records
and inaccuracies from interim report to report cards. Ms. Kelley began her testimony by reading a prepared statement. She stated that she had been in education for twenty-six years, and that it was her belief that her civil and professional rights were violated by this action. She provided a copy of a notebook containing copies of student work and grading documents for the Board's review. Ms. Kelley further testified that her students were reading at the appropriate grade level and that they had read "over 800 books" during one nine-week period. Ms. Kelley enumerated several medical problems that led to excessive absenteeism, and stated that she had been under a lot of stress due to the recent illness of her daughter. She told the Board that her husband was present as a witness to her health problems. Mr. Rose stated, and the Board agreed by consensus, that they accepted her word and did not require testimony to the fact that she had suffered medical problems. In addition, Ms. Kelley stated that problems with her computer at school were the reason that she was unable to keep accurate grade reports. She felt that she had been reprimanded unfairly, and that the PN agreement had been violated. In closing remarks, Ms. Williams noted the number of documents provided for the Board's review, and stated that due process had been followed. The Superintendent asked the Board to uphold the recommendation for termination. The Board adjourned for deliberations at 9:40 p.m. They returned at 9:50 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken in closed session. Mr. Berkley made a motion to uphold the Superintendent's recommendation for termination. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 5-0-1, with Dr. Mitchell abstaining from the vote. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 2003 Page 13 XII. ADJOURNMENT There was to be an executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel issues, but due to the late hour, there was no longer a quorum present. Mr. Kurrus moved to adjourn at 9:55 p.m. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: ~
) d- -0.3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 28, 2003 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 28, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call. All members of the Board were present. 11. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of conducting an executive session to discuss personnel matters. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 28, 2003 Page 2 Ill. ACTION: Mr. Berkley made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel matters. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 6:10 p.m. and reported that no action was taken in closed session. Mr. Rose proposed that the Board conduct a search for the next superintendent without contracting with a search firm. They briefly reviewed the timeline for publicizing the superintendent's position and agreed by consensus to review options for advertising in local newspapers and national publications. Ms. Griffin agreed to follow-up on resources available through the National and Arkansas School Board's Associations. Mr. Rose agreed to head up the Board's search team, and he was asked to provide a quick, but realistic timeline for the process. Tentatively, the Board agreed to be prepared to conduct interviews by the end of May and name a Superintendent by the first part of June. It was agreed that there was no reason to appoint an interim superintendent. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Rose, seconded by Mr. Berkley. APPROVED: S'- ~ .
J. - 0 3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT May 9, 2003 Ann Marshall, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring One Union National Plaza 124 West Capitol, Suite 1895 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: RECEIVED MAY 1 3 2003 OFACEOF DESEGREGATION MONITORING I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting held on March 20, April 10, and April 17, 2003. 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) 447-1002 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 21, 2003 RECEIVED JUL 11 2003 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21 , 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call. All members of the Board were present. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of conducting an executive session to review applications for the position of Superintendent of Schools. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 21, 2003 Page2 Ill. ACTION: Mr. Berkley made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel matters. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 8:30 p.m. and reported that no action was taken in closed session. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Kurrus, seconded by Dr. Mitchell. APPROVED: (o l 7 -0 3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 RECEIVED JUL 11 2003 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: T. Kenneth James, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL II. Ms. Magness called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Six members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5:40 p.m. Margaret Regnier, teacher ex officio representative from Mitchell Elementary School, and Kristian Henderson, student representative from Central High School, were also present. PROCEDURAL MATTERS/ WELCOMING COMMENTS Ms. Magness welcomed the audience and asked Dr. Mitchell to assist with the citations and presentations. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22,2003 Page2 Kathy Farley, the EAST lab instructor at Mabelvale Middle School and several students from MMS presented to the Superintendent and Board members framed photographs taken from the international space station as part of the EAST lab instruction. 111. REPORTS/RECOGNITIONS/PUBLIC COMMENTS A. Superintendent's Citations Dr. James named the five student artists who were selected as winners of the annual District art competition: Latarsha Burns from McClellan High School
Jeff Fuell, Parkview Magnet High School
Cynthia Garcia from J. A Fair High School
Layet Johnson from Central High School
and Adriana Manzanalez from Hall High School. Each of these students received a check in the amount of $200.00, and their artwork will hang in the administration building for public viewing. The Duke University Talent Program identified thirty-eight seventh grade students from the Little Rock School District who achieved top scores on the ACT or SAT test. These students will be recognized at the state ceremony and three will be recognized at the national ceremony for scoring among the top two percent in the nation. These students are Stacy Coonce, Peter Liu and Anne Ye. Dr. James asked these students to step forward and receive a certificate in recognition of their achievement: Melody Chang, Dylan Frost, Megan Jackson, Scotty Lankford, Peter Liu, Linsey Miller, Cameron Murray, Melissa Nichols, Hanna Roher, Hannah Smith, Russel Viegas, Sam Whitehorn, Anne Ye, and Elaine Zhou from Dunbar Magnet Middle School
Jamie Coonce, Stacy Coonce and Sasha Ray from Forest Heights Middle School. Geoffrey Jackson and Sarita Robinson from Henderson Magnet Middle School. Kelicia Hollis and Victoria Kreie from Mabelvale Magnet Middle School. Cyrus Bahrassa, Jillian Carroll, Samuel Clark, Maura Conder, Elizabeth Cox, Abigail Dobson, Patricia Graves, Dillion Hupp, Grace Nam and Jillian Peterson from Mann Magnet Middle School. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page 3 Sarah Ball, Ellen Barber, Colton Koehler, Miles McCullough, Colin Rockefeller, David Steward and Kathryn Tull from Pulaski Heights Middle School. The Dunbar Magnet Middle School Odyssey of the Mind team will represent Arkansas at the OM World Finals at Iowa State University next week. The team members were presented with citations in recognition of their achievement. The students are: Lindsey Aloway, Amanda Cazort, Ike Ferrell, Douglas Forrester, Carrie Hunt, Rebecca Rahn, and Tyler Ray. Their coaches are Susan Cazort and Donna Hunt. Dr. James introduced the members of the Central High School Fed Challenge team. This team recently won the state championship, beating the two-time defending champions. The Fed Challenge competition researches the status of the national economy and makes recommendations for action as if they were the actual Board of Governors for the Federal Reserve System. Team members were presented citations in recognition of their achievement: Kevin Luneau, David Mitchell, Jessica Marshall, Chris Burks, Shep Russell, and Daniel Liu. Their sponsor is Sam Stueart. The Gibbs Magnet Elementary School Voyager After School Program was recognized for volunteering over 50 hours of reading and learning at Catherine's House. The students selected books and read them to the children who are served at Catherine House, a local outreach program for young and single mothers. The students are Tej Anand, Dylan Arnall, Cody Baggett, Tristan Bethea, Catherine Grant, Brendan Oman, Nia Robinson, Malika Toney, Aya Williams, and Trevor Wine. Their sponsor is Sara Case. Dr. James called the members of the Central High School Lady Tigers varsity women's soccer team to the front. These students won the women's 5-A state soccer championship last weekend, playing their final game against Rogers High School. The team members are: Anne Claire Allen, Caroline Allen, Jamie Bandy, Lindsey Barron, Kate Burnett, Lauren Cloud, Camille Cook, Allison Corbin, Sally Cunningham, Riley Duke, Sheffield Duke, Stephanie England, Lizzy Gray, Elizabeth Harrell, Marissa Hayes, Cara Janton, Elizabeth Jones, Jessica Jones, Whitney Maloney, Kendall Polansky, Stephanie Rogers, Megan Russell, Lindsey Short, Rosalind Smith, Becca Vehik, Robin West, and Claire Wetzel. Their coach is Keith McPherson, and David Duke is the assistant coach and manager. The team's physical therapist is Bill Bandy. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page4 The Central High School men's and women's tennis teams also won this year's state 5-A championships. The women's team members are: Ashley Batchelor, Dovie Dockery, Ashley Driver, Barrett Jones, Lauren Karney, Jessica Marshall, Holly McGetrick, Nancy Mitchell, Collins Speed, and Presley Thomas. The men's team members are: Matthew Anglo, Scott Bacon, Nick Clifford, Andrew Crone, Alex DePriest, Brock Dial, Andrew Humphrey, Daniel Krupitsky, Kevin Luneau, Sam Mcspadden, David Mitchell, Jay Murphy, Blake Ross, John Shults, and Peter Thomas. The team coach is Joy Thompson, and the team manager is Megan Heard. The final superintendent's citations were presented to the ex-officio representatives for the month of May
Margaret Regnier, teacher at Mitchell Elementary School, and Kristian Henderson, student at Central High School. Ms. Magness presented Dr. James with a plaque in recognition of his accomplishments and in appreciation for his service as superintendent for the past two years. It was announced that this would be Dr. James' final LRSD board meeting. He was applauded for overseeing the District during the achievement of unitary status in all but one area, for engaging the community as active partners by the establishment of the Public Education Foundation of Little Rock, for leading with consistency to improve student achievement, for taking bold and innovative steps in the areas of curriculum and instructional reform, and for implementing the SREB initiative in all five high schools and four middle schools. B. Remarks from Citizens Claudius Johnson stated concerns with schools in Southwest Little Rock. He described instances where students in elementary school are not learning to read, and expressed his belief that there is a wide variation in the quality of education in the elementary schools in Little Rock. He noted that the enrollment at Cloverdale Middle School and McClellan High School is nearing 90% Black and he is concerned that the attendance zones are drawn to disadvantage students who live in that part of Little Rock. Henri Jean Carey, Vice President of the National Dunbar Alumni Association, asked for additional space at Dunbar Magnet Middle School for display of a traveling exhibit and the permanent collection of Dunbar memorabilia. She stated concerns about the construction and renovation projects at Dunbar and wanted the Board to be aware that they didn't want to get "lost." REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22,2003 Page 5 Anita Boone, parent of students at J. A. Fair and Mabelvale Magnet Middle School, stated concerns about services available to students whose parents are terminally ill. She has been ill, and has had a difficult year trying to obtain educational services for her 504 and special education students. She asked the Board to make provisions to help students whose parents are ill. Alma Viscarra works for a bicultural newspaper. She stated that Hispanic students have been prevented from enrolling at Rockefeller Elementary School in the 3- and 4-year-old programs. She asked for consideration to allow 3 and 4 year olds to attend schools with their older siblings and to provide more classes for 3 and 4 year old children. C. Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association No report. D. Joshua lntervenors No report. IV. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Remarks from Board Members Dr. Mitchell reported that she had attended the Adult Education graduation ceremony on Saturday. She commended Paulette Martin and the Adult Education staff for the hard work they do and congratulated the adult graduates for their perseverance in completing the GED program. Dr. Mitchell had also attended the kindergarten graduation at Rightsell Academy. She expressed sadness that Dr. James is leaving and stated that we will miss him, but encouraged him to continue to do good work for children. Mr. Kurrus thanked the parents who volunteer in our schools and expressed appreciation for our patrons - - the families who entrust us with their children. He remarked on personal, positive experiences with Fulbright Elementary School, Forest Heights Middle School and Central High School. He noted that even though the District has had several superintendents over the past few years, the stability at the school level in building administration and teaching staff is remarkable. Dr. Daugherty stated that we are fortunate to have quality teachers in our District, noting that the current ex-officio Board member, Ms. Regnier, had taught his son in elementary school. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page 6 B. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs was present, but did not have a report or comments. C. Budget Update Dr. Stewart reviewed the current financial status of the District, noting that we remain fairly close to the predicted ending balance for this school year. He noted the recent announcement of additional state budget cuts in excess of $800,000, which will affect our overall bottom line and operations for next year. We have received figures from the assessor's office, which will allow us to more accurately predict revenue. As has been noted previously, Dr. Stewart stated that we expect to experience "zero growth" as a result of fewer property assessments and other factors which will result in a negative impact to our budget. D. Construction Report: Proposed Bond Projects Mr. Goodman presented his report and thanked Dr. James for the opportunity to work with him. In addition to the monthly summary, Mr. Goodman turned to Doug Eaton for a status report on individual construction and renovations projects. Mr. Eaton provided a summary report on the Wakefield School reconstruction project, and briefly brought the Board up to date on other ongoing projects. It was noted that several major projects will be undertaken over the summer months and it is hopeful that the community will take note of the status of current projects. E. Internal Auditors Report Mr. Becker was present, and his report was part of the Board's agenda. V. APPROVAL OF ROUTINE MATTERS A. Minutes Minutes from the regular meeting of the Board of Directors held on April 24, and from a special meeting held on April 28, 2003, were presented for review and approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the minutes as presented
Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page 7 B. Personnel Changes Routine personnel changes were printed in the Board's agenda. In addition, a slip-sheet requesting approval of an employee resignation was included for consideration and approval. Mr. Rose moved to approve the changes as presented
Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VI. INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES DIVISION A. Extension of EDS Contract Lucy Neal and John Ruffins presented their request for approval to extend the contract with the District's technology consulting firm, EDS. EDS has assisted the LRSD staff in developing the technology plan and implementing a wide range of services including installation and operation of the wide area network, the telephone system, cabling, media retrieval systems, and assistance with the e-rate applications. The current contract expires on June 30, 2003, and a one-year extension was requested for the purpose of maintaining and supporting the current levels of service. During the final year under the contract, District personnel will receive training to gradually take over the duties that have been performed by EDS staff. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the one-year extension of the EDS contract. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Update on Progress to Complete Remaining Program Evaluations Dr. James provided a written status report on plans for completion of required program evaluations. Dr. Steve Ross will continue to work with Dr. Ed Williams and PRE staff to evaluate the District's literacy programs to satisfy requirements of the federal courts. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available. C. Grant Proposal - Enhancing Education Through Technology Linda Austin and Lucy Neal presented a request to submit a Technology Grant application through the Arkansas Department of Education. The Enhancing Education Through Technology Grants are made available through the U.S. Department of Education No Child Left Behind legislation. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page 8 The one-year grant would provide up to $506,552.00 to provide tri-district professional development activities, purchased professional development and technical services, UALR tuition and laptop computers for 23 Cyber teachers and a computer lab for Woodruff and Dodd Elementary schools. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the submission of the grant application. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Art, Music and Drama Textbook Adoption, Grades 6 -12 The Art, Music and Drama Textbook Committee submitted their recommendations for the 2003-2006 textbook adoption cycle. Mr. Fletcher was present to review the selections, and requested the board's approval. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to approve the selected textbooks. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VII. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION A. Student Handbook Revisions Linda Watson presented the recommended revisions to the 2003-2004 student handbooks, which were submitted by the District-wide Handbook Committee. The Handbooks will be printed and provided to each student when they return to school in August. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the recommended revisions, Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VIII. BUSINESS SERVICES DIVISION A. Annual Audit Report and Extension of Audit Services Contract Mr. Milhollen provided a brief summary of the District's Annual Financial Audit for the 2001-02 fiscal year. The audit, prepared by Thomas & Thomas, Certified Public Accountants, was presented for the Board's review at the May 8 agenda meeting. At that time, Mr. Don Smith, managing partner at Thomas & Thomas, reviewed the full report and responded to questions from the Board. Mr. Berkley made a motion to accept the annual report as presented. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Resolution: Sale of Fulbright Elementary School Property St. James United Methodist Church made an offer to purchase a portion of the property near Fulbright Elementary School. The Board was asked to approve a resolution authorizing the administration to sell the property as excess and once that was approved, approve the sale. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page 9 Mr. Berkley moved to approve the resolution declaring surplus property on the site of Fulbright Elementary School. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A copy of the resolution is attached to these minutes. An offer and acceptance for the Fulbright Elementary School surplus property was presented for the Board's review and approval. St. James United Methodist Church offered to pay $250,000 for the property, which will be placed in the building fund of the District. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the offer and acceptance. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. C. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Kristian Henderson, student representative from Central High School, read the listed donations. Mr. Rose made a motion to accept the donated items
Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The donations are listed in the following chart: DONATIONS SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Cloverdale Magnet Middle School $2,000.00 cash to be used for Baseline Wal-Mart Store achievement awards and a school marouee Jefferson Elementary School Various food items, for use in pancake Finkbeiner Food Service ($75.00) breakfast fundraiser for playground improvements Kroger, 1900 N. Polk ($60.00) Kroger, 14000 Hwy 10 ($25.00) Harvest Foods ($50.00) McClellan Magnet High School $1 ,000 cash for boys baseball Wal-Mart Foundation program
$250.00 cash for football program
$1 ,000 bonus grant to be used to benefit the student body Williams Magnet Elementary School $15,484.00 cash to be used for Williams Magnet School PTA various projects and events REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page 10 B. Financial Report Dr. Stewart reviewed the financial reports printed in the Board's agenda. In addition, he briefly discussed the projected additional expense for teacher retirement benefits in excess of $1.2 million and the possibility that the state will announce additional revenue reductions in the near future. Although the final figures are still unknown, it is expected that we will have less revenue for operations in the 2003-04 school year. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the reports as presented. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. IX. SCHOOL SERVICES DIVISION A. PT AS Evaluation The agenda was reordered to allow the Professional Teacher Appraisal System presentation to be conducted earlier in this agenda. Sadie Mitchell, Lloyd Sain, and members of the PT AS committee were present and reviewed the evaluation system and documentation. The Board previously approved the Track I system in April 2002, and probationary teachers have been evaluated using this instrument and process during the 2002-03 school year. Training sessions have been conducted during this school year, and principals and assistant principals have all had an opportunity to receive sufficient instruction on the use of the new system. Ms. Mitchell, Dr. Sain and the committee recommended the Board's approval for implementation of the new appraisal system. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the implementation of the PTAS. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Evaluation of Athletic Coaches Beverly Williams and Johnny Johnson presented an evaluation document for the District's athletic coaches, and asked for the Board's review and approval. A committee of coaches and other District administrators developed the document as required by Article 21 , Section Hof the PN agreement. Mr. Rose moved to approve the document as presented. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 2003 Page 11 X. CLOSING REMARKS A. Superintendent's Report Dr. James reminded the Board that high school graduations were scheduled for next week, Tuesday through Thursday. He commented briefly on the ACC graduation program which had been held earlier this week, and commended the graduates for their hard work in completion of their high school course requirements. XI. EMPLOYEE HEARINGS Employee hearings had been scheduled but were cancelled prior to the meeting. XII. EXECUTIVE SESSION On a motion by Mr. Rose, seconded by Dr. Daugherty, the Board convened an executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel issues. They were to continue the review of applications for the position of Superintendent of Schools. The Board returned from executive session at 8:50 p.m. and reporting no action had been taken. XIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business. Dr. Mitchell moved to adjourn at 8:50 p.m. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: (
-'J.?.03 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 30, 2003 RECEIVED JUL 11 2003 OFACEOF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 5: 10 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call
six members of the Board were present. Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5:25 p.m. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of conducting an executive session to continue the review of applications for the position of Superintendent of Schools. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 30, 2003 Page 2 Ill. ACTION: Mr. Berkley made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel matters. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. The Board returned from executive session at 6:35 p.m. and reported that no action was taken in closed session. The Board discussed possible dates to reconvene for further discussion of the Superintendency, and for the purpose of conducting several employee hearings. No final decision was made, but tentative dates considered were June 9, June 17th , and June 19th . IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 6:40 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Rose, seconded by Mr. Kurrus. APPROVED: b . ~ 7. 0 ' etary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 9, 2003 RECEIVED JUL 11 2003 OFFICEOF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, June 9, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Mike Daugherty ALSO PRESENT: Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call. Six members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of convening an executive session to continue discussing candidates for the position of Superintendent of Schools. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 9, 2003 Page2 Ill. ACTION: Ms. Strickland made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel matters. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. The Board returned from executive session at 5:50 p.m. and reported that no action was taken in closed session. Ms. Magness announced that the Board had considered appointing an interim or acting superintendent to serve until a permanent selection can be made. No votes were taken, and no final decision was made pending a discussion with the individual the Board would like to appoint to serve as interim. Mr. Rose announced that the selection process is continuing and the Board had decided to slow the process to await the results of background research on the candidates named previously as finalists. Volunteers from the business community have committed to assist in finding the best possible candidate for our Superintendency. The Board discussed meeting again on Tuesday, June 17, 2003 for the purpose of conducting employee hearings. That meeting will begin at 5:00 p.m. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Rose, seconded by Mr. Berkley. APPROVED: ~ J '>-0 3 etary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 12, 2003 RECEIVED JUL 11 2003 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special session at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 12, 2003, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Judy Magness presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Tony Rose Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Judy Magness called the special meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call. All members of the Board were present. In addition, ex-officio representatives to the Board for the month of June were also present
Sandra Courtois, teacher at Otter Creek Elementary School, and Kaylon Bradford, student council president from J. A. Fair Magnet High School. 11. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting included the following: A. Appointment of Acting Superintendent 8 . First Reading: Policy on Anti-Bullying C. Personnel Recommendation D. Employee Hearings SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 12, 2003 Page 2 Ill. ACTION: A. Appointment of Acting Superintendent Ms. Magness announced that the Board had asked Dr. Don Stewart, Chief Financial Officer of the District, to serve as the Interim Superintendent until completion of the sea
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<dcterms_creator>Little Rock School District</dcterms_creator>