Little Rock School District, school board meeting minutes

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LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 9, 1997 APR 1 4 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the regularly scheduled agenda meeting on Thursday, January 9, 1997, in the Media Center at Franklin Incentive Elementary School, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: I. Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call
all members of the Board were present. Thaddeus Leopoulos, student ex-officio member of the Board from Parkview Magnet School, was also present. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 9, 1997 Page 2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of conducting a student disciplinary hearing and to reinstate or confirm placement for students who were previously suspended or expelled. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Magness made a motion to move into executive session for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary actions. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Linda Watson provided documentation and reinstatement petitions for Antimoore Jackson and Errol Westbrook who had been expelled from Central High School. Both of these students had attended the Juvenile Justice Center during the first semester of 1996-97 and were eligible for reinstatement to the LRSD for the second semester. Reinstatement to Central High School was recommended by the administration for these two students. Dimitrios Stubblefield was expelled from Cloverdale Junior High School and had been placed in the District's ALC program. He was petitioning the Board for reinstatement to Cloverdale. The administration recommended continuing placement for Dimitrios at the ALC for the remainder of the 1996-97 school year due to the adverse effect his return to Cloverdale might have on the behavior of other students. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the administration's recommendations for placement of these three students. Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Kelcey Lowe had been recommended for expulsion from Hall High School for possession of a weapon and accepted the hearing officer's recommended placement at the Alternative High School without appeal. Ms. Magness moved to approve Kelcey's placement in the LR Job Corps Alternative High School Program. Ms. Gee seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Richard Collins petitioned the Board for reinstatement to Central High School. He was found to be in possession of a knife during an all school security scan. He had not used the knife in a dangerous or threatening manner and indicated that he had forgotten that the knife was in his pocket. The school administration had no objection to returning Richard to Central. Dr. Mitchell moved to allow Richard to return to Central under strict probation for the remainder of this school year. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 9, 1997 Page 3 ADJOURNMENT The Board returned from executive session at 6:53 p.m., and reported that they had unanimously accepted the administration's recommendations on all student disciplinary matters. Mr. Berkley made a motion to adjourn, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Riggs, IV, Presiden APPROVED: I -J3-1 ? ,~ s/" Michael Daugherty, S~relNy G LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 RECEIVED APR l 4 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on January 23, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, John Riggs, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of all Board members. The teacher ex-officio, Sharolyn Jones, from Forest Heights Jr. High School, and the student ex-officio, Thaddeus Leopoulos, from Parkview Magnet High School, were also present. II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of December 19, 1996, and from a special meeting conducted on January 9, 1997, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were approved 7-0, on a motion by Dr. Daugherty, seconded by Mr. Berkley. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENT A TIO NS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts presented citations to the ex-officio representatives to the Board for the month of January: Sharolyn Jones, teacher at Forest Heights Junior High School, and Thaddeaus Leopoulos, student at Parkview High School. B. PARTNERSHIPS Lee Ann Matson, representing the VIPS staff, presented certificates in recognition of a newly established partnership between El Chico Restaurant and Chicot Elementary School. Mr. Peter Green from El Chico accepted their partnership certificate
Jane Harkey and Marilyn Johnson represented the staff of Chicot Elementary School. Ms. Gee moved to accept the new partnerships, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES STAY (Support Truancy Alternatives for Youth) Committee members Rev. Ed Matthews and Nancy Rousseau, and the LRSD Dropout Prevention coordinator Valerie Hudson, provided current information and a progress report on the ST A Y Program. Board members received copies of the 1995-96 dropout report for review. Other committee members who were present included: Melvin Paxton, Connie Whitfield, Doris Williams, John Howlett, JoEvelyn Elston, and Bobby Jones. Judy Magness represents the Board on the STAY Committee. D. SPECIAL PRESENT A TIO NS 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden offered the assistance of the ODM staff during the moratorium on monitoring of the desegregation plan recently approved by Judge Wright. 2. Classroom Teachers Association Betty Mitchell made brief remarks regarding Born Free and the Charter School petition which was before the Board for consideration at this meeting. She stated the CT A's support for the concept of charter schools, but asked the Board to deny the current petitioner's request. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 Page 3 IV. 3. Joshua Intervenors Joy Springer acknowledged the Judge's order on the monitoring moratorium and said that the Intervenors were looking forward to meeting with District administrators for further discussion on the business of educating all our children. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council Doris Williams, president of the PT A Council , stated support for the concept of charter schools, but opposition to the current proposal to use public school funding for establishment of private schools. E. BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Mitchell recognized Mrs. Catherine Gill and the Parent Involvement office staff for coordinating the Saturday parenting workshop. She remarked that these workshops provide an excellent opportunity for parents to become involved in their students' education. Dr. Daugherty thanked the Board for holding the last agenda meeting at Franklin Incentive School. He stated that he was currently involved in the Little Rock Safety Commission's efforts to require bicycle helmets for children. Mr. Riggs reported that he had visited the PARK Center, which is a community supported youth center sponsored in part by Keith Jackson. He expressed appreciation to Mr. Jackson and the staff at PARK for the work they are doing with LR students. Judy Magness made brief remarks about the registration period and invited Ms. Kay Askew to read a poem she had written entitled A Place for Ann. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Henri Smothers had signed up to speak on the topic of Charter Schools, but yielded her time to Essie Middleton. Ms. Middleton asked the Board to deny the current petition for the establishment of a charter school as an inappropriate use of public funds for private education. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 Page4 Kim Wesley is a part-time Laidlaw employee and a substitute bus driver. She spoke in support of Laidlaw and commended their efforts to improve the District's transportation system. Juanita Smith is a bus driver and remarked that Laidlaw drivers are concerned about the welfare of the students they transport. She was refuting recent comments made to the Board about a lack of interest or concern on the part of Laidlaw employees. V. ACTION AGENDA A. Grant Submission: Division of Exceptional Children The Division of Exceptional Children has submitted a grant proposal to the Sturgis Charitable and Educational Trust Fund in the amount of $50,804 to purchase eight augmentative communication devices. These devices will be used to train teachers, parents and speech pathologists, and will allow the LRSD to provide assessments of disabled students who are in need of this type of communications technology. Ms. Gee moved to approve the grant submission, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. B. Grant Proposal: Fair Park Elementary School Fair Park Elementary School staff requested permission to submit a grant to the Arkansas Department of Education for a program to improve parent involvement in grades K-4. The grant would provide up to $10,000 for activities to foster parental involvement in the educational process. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the proposed submission, Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it carried 7-0. C. Adult Education Direct and Equitable Access to Federal Funds A funding request in the amount of $55,714.00 has been prepared for submission to the Arkansas Department of Education for funding Adult Education programs during the 1997- 98 school year. Ms. Gee moved to approve the submission. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Charter School Petition Grant Submissions Mr. Ed Sipes was present to respond to questions from the Board regarding the "Charter School Petition for Academy for Academic Achievement." Dr. Roberts read a letter from Attorney Clay Fendley of the Friday law firm that provided an opinion that the petition presented for action by Mr. Sipes did not meet the requirements of Act 1126 of 1995. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 Page 5 Ms. Magness moved to not approve the charter school petition for the reasons given by our legal counsel. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A roll call vote was recorded. E. Modifications to the ServiceMaster Contract Dr. Roberts recommended developing a partnership with ServiceMaster and provided information regarding a re-negotiated contract. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the proposal for a re-negotiated contract and Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion. Dr. Daugherty suggested an amended motion that would allow attorneys to amend or modify the current contract instead of terminating it. The motion for an amendment died for lack of second. On the original motion by Mr. Berkley, the Board voted unanimous approval. A copy of the proposal is attached to these minutes. F. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donated items, seconded by Ms. Magness, and it carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOLJDEP ARTMENT ITEM DONOR Fair Park Elementary Refrigerator Fair Park PTA Eight Computers/ Pulaski Heights Jr. High keyboards/ monitors Levi Strauss & Co. Computer/Monitor & Selma Chandler Keyboard Dodd Elementary Three Computers/Monitors AT&T Brady Elementary $1,000 Russell Johnson Fulbricl!t Elementary IBM 286 Computer Chervl Rin!rn:old Dunbar Magnet Jr. High Computer/Monitor/ Nell Weaver Lyford Keyboard/Mouse & Printer Vinyl "Dunbar Bobcat" Elizabeth Dowell Banner & 286 Computer REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 Page6 SCHOOUDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Dunbar Magnet Jr. High 386 computer/Monitor/ Mrs. Harlan Keyboard & Mouse 486 Computer/Monitor/ Acxiom Corp/ Keyboard/Mouse Cindy Childers Computer Software/2 CD Susan Smith ROM Packs/Whirlpool Microwave Oven Computer Monitor/Printer Larry Walton Six concrete benches Kuykendall Corp HIPPY Program Paper Ark. Regional Technical & Assistance Training Center G. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. In addition, a slip sheet addendum requesting approval for placing Ray Gillespie as a special assistant to the Superintendent was presented as a part of the personnel action items. Ms. Magness moved to accept the personnel items including the addendum, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried 7-0. H. Financial Reports Financial reports were unavailable at the time of the meeting. December reports will be included for approval at the next Board meeting. VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The Desegregation Update was printed in the agenda. There were no questions from the Board. B. Budget Update Mark Milhollen reported that department managers were working through the business case process in preparation of finalizing the budget. More information will be provided to the Board at the February 1 retreat or at the next Board meeting. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 Page7 C. Transportation Update Ed Streeter provided a report on Laidlaw operations including the current number of drivers and a safety report. He introduced Robert Donaldson who is the new operations manager
Mr. Streeter is being transferred to South Carolina. Brady Gadberry reported on the LRSD transportation department operations. The procurement department, under the direction of Charlie Neal, will monitor the administration of the Laidlaw contract to ensure that all parties are being held accountable in the safe and efficient transport of students. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. EXECUTIVE SESSION The Board recessed briefly at 9:00 p.m. and reconvened at 9: 10 p.m. in an executive session for the purpose of conducting student hearings on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Ms. Strickland. STUDENT DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS Linda Watson, student hearing officer, provided information for the Board's consideration regarding Jeff Taylor who had been recommended for expulsion from Dunbar Magnet Jr. High School. Jeff was found to be in possession of a knife during a routine scan on December 18, 1996. The Superintendent recommended assignment to the Alternative Learning Center for the remainder of the nine-week period. At the end of that time, Jeff would be allowed to return to Dunbar, on probation, if improvements were made in his behavior, grades, and attendance. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the recommendation. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Additionally, the students listed below had been recommended for expulsion. These students were being referred for placement in alternative educational settings, as indicated. The Board was asked to approve these alternative placements. Ms. Magness moved to accept the administration's recommended placement, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Student's Name School Recommended Placement Cornelius Spencer Central Alternative High School Kavin Bizzell Central Alternative High School Nathan Bogard Hall Juvenile Justice Center REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 23, 1997 Page 8 Two students who had been suspended or expelled from District schools were petitioning the Board for reinstatement. Dr. Watson recommended reinstatement for these students and placement in alternative settings. Dr. Roberts recommended approval. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the Superintendent's recommendation, Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. Student's Name School Recommended Placement Terrance Stigall Henderson Alternative Leaming Center Willis Bowie McClellan Alternative High School In addition, two students were petitioning the Board for reinstatement and Dr. Watson recommended denial of their petitions. Kevin Morrison and Carlos Robinson had been referred for placement at the Juvenile Justice Center. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the recommendation of the administration. Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. ADJOURNMENT The Board concluded the student disciplinary actions and returned from executive session at 9:45 p.m. to report that the Board unanimously upheld the Superintendent's recommendations. With no further business before the Board, Ms. Strickland moved for adjournment at 9:45 p.m. The motion was seconded by Ms. Magness, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: J_ .J.?-C/J LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 17, 1997 CEIVED APR 1 4 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the agenda meeting on Monday, February 17, 1997, in the Board Room of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. This meeting was rescheduled from Thursday, February 13, 1997, due to inclement weather. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 8:30 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call
all members of the Board were present. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 17, 1997 Page2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary hearings and to reinstate or confirm placement for students who were previously suspended or expelled. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Magness made a motion to move into executive session for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary actions. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Linda Watson provided documentation and reinstatement petitions for the students listed below who had been recommended for expulsion. These students accepted the hearing officer's recommendation for placement in alternative educational settings, as indicated, without appeal to the Board and the Board was asked to approve the alternative placements. Student's Name School Recommended Placement Latricia Logan McClellan Alternative Hiw School Shawnrita Sain Central Juvenile Justice Center Dwayne Tilmon Mabelvale JH Juvenile Justice Center . In addition, four students had been expelled but had not made any attempts to appeal their expulsions or any efforts to apply for reinstatement. The hearing officer requested the Board's approval to offer alternative placement to these students in an effort to ensure that they were aware of alternative school availability. Student's Name School Recommended Placement Andre Harris Central Alternative High School Antoine Harris McClellan Juvenile Justice Center Kerry LeBron Central Alternative High School Lamont Robinson HallHi!Zh Alternative High School Ms. Gee moved to accept the administration's recommendation for alternative placement of all of these students. Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Shankia Smith petitioned the Board for reinstatement to Mann Magnet Jr. High School. She was expelled in December 1995 for possession of a firearm on school campus. Shanika had been assigned to the Juvenile Justice Center in January of 1996, but was dismissed from the Step-One Program at the JJC on January 19, 1996, for violating school rules. Administration recommended placement at the Alternative Leaming Center. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the recommended placement, seconded by Ms. Magness and the motion carried unanimously. Dayna Brinkley, 12th grade student from Hall High School, appeared before the Board to appeal the administration's recommendation for expulsion. She was in possession of a MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 17, 1997 Page 3 knife that she was using to slice cheese during the lunch period. Although she had not used the knife in an unsafe or threatening manner, the principal followed the district's policy for possession of a weapon. The hearing officer recommended modifying the expulsion recommendation to a 10-day out of school suspension, which would allow Dayna to return to school on strict probation for the remainder of the school year. Ms. Magness moved to accept the recommended suspension. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-1 with Mr. Riggs casting the "no" vote. Courtney Gordon had been recommended for expulsion from Hall High School for using a weapon on January 7, 1997. Courtney had taken a metal rod from his science classroom to use to defend himself against an attack by other students. The hearing officer had recommended placement at the Juvenile Justice Center's Step One program. Courtney's parent requested an appeal to the Board for reinstatement to Hall High School. He was represented in this hearing by Joy Springer. The Board expressed concern about placing Courtney back at Hall High School
many other students had witnessed the incident, and Courtney had a history of other significant behavior incidents. Dr. Watson offered two recommendations for the Board to consider: 1) placement at the Alternative High School with provisions for a correspondence course to complete the history credit requirement
or 2) placement at a LRSD school other than Hall High School. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to authorize the administration to find a high school that would accept Courtney, or placement at the Alternative High School if no district school would accept him as a student. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. ADJOURNMENT The Board returned from executive session at 10:02 p.m., and reported that they had unanimously accepted the administration's recommendations on all student disciplinary matters. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Ms. Magness and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: ~-aJ 11 Michael Daugherty, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 RECEIVED APR 1 4 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on February 27, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The Vice President, Judy Magness, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland - MEMBERS ABSENT: John Riggs ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board Vice President, Judy Magness, called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of five Board members. Michael Daugherty arrived at 6: 10 p.m. The teacher ex-officio, Kim Dobbins-Owens, from Henderson Jr. High School, and the student ex-officio, Megan Kearney, from Central High School, were also present. II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of January 23, 1997, and from a special meeting conducted on February 17, 1997, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were approved 5-0, on a motion by Ms. Strickland, seconded by Mr. Berkley. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts presented citations to the ex-officio representatives to the Board for the month of February: Kim Dobbins-Owens, teacher at Henderson Junior High School, and Megan Kearney, student at Central High School. B. P ARTNERSIDPS Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator, presented certificates in recognition of two newly established partnerships: Upper Baseline Neighborhood Association, represented by Carroll and Beverly Strickland, in partnership with Baseline Elementary School, represented by Shara Akers Philander Smith College, represented by Dr. Thomas and Dr. Mao, in partnership with Gibbs Magnet School, represented by Betty Raper and Felecia Hobbs Mr. Berkley moved to accept the new partnerships, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES D. 1. None SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Office of Desegregation Monitoring Ann Brown stated her support for the District and for the work teams that would be announced later in the meeting. She also pledged the support of the ODM staff during the monitoring hiatus. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 Page 3 IV. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Strickland reported on her recent visit to Fair Park Elementary School and commended Ms. Whittaker for the work she is doing with GIT students. Ms. Magness had also visited Ms. Whittaker's class at Fair Park and congratulated Fair High School students who had recently received their senior class rings at a "ring ceremony." REMARKS FROM CITIZENS None. V. ACTION AGENDA A. Student Calendar The Student Calendar for the 1997-98 school year was presented to the Board for approval. It was recommended by administration with the understanding that it could be altered pending the outcome of teacher negotiations and the budgeting process. Mr. Gadberry was present to respond to questions. Dr. Mitchell moved to accept the proposed calendar, Ms. Gee seconded the motion at it carried 6-0. B. Arkansas Parental Assistance Program The Board was asked to approve the LRSD's participation in a state coalition which will submit a proposal to the U.S. Department of Education for the Arkansas Parental Assistance Program. Other participants include the Centers for Youth and Families and the Arkansas HIPPY Program. The District could receive up to $180,000 per year for four years if the program is approved. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the submission. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 Page4 C. Grant Submissions Marvin Schwartz, District grants writer, submitted information on three grant proposals for consideration during the month of February. Ms. Gee moved to approve the submissions, seconded by Ms. Strickland and carried unanimously. SCHOOL/DEPT. PROGRAM AMOUNT ORGANIZATION HIPPY PROGRAM Substance abuse prevention training $15,518 Ark. Dept. of Health/Bureau of for HIPPY program parents Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention Carver Magnet Artists in Residence $5,000 Arkansas Arts Council Forest Park Artists in Residence $3,600 Arkansas Arts Council D. Relocation of Kindergarten Classes The Board was asked to approve the relocation of kindergarten classes from McClellan and Parkview High Schools to Baseline and Romine Elementary Schools. The kindergarten classes at the high schools have become harder to maintain at sufficient enrollment levels. The faculty of these programs will also be relocated. Dr. Anderson responded to questions from the Board. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to approve the relocation plans. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. E. Hall High School Proposal for Flexible Scheduling and Additional Courses Dr. Anderson and Gayle Bradford, principal of Hall High School, provided information and responded to the Board's questions regarding adoption of a flexible or "block" schedule for Hall High School Students for the 1997-98 school year. Included as a part of this proposal, the Board was also asked to approve a list of additional elective courses for implementation during the next school year. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the proposed scheduling and curriculum changes at Hall High School as recommended by the administration. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. F. Approval of New Vocational Education Courses The vocational education division requested the Board's approval for implementation of a new course in diesel mechanics at Metropolitan Vo-Tech for the 1997-98 school year. The course will be a two-year program that allows students to become certified as diesel technicians and will offer summer employment and permanent employment opportunities after graduation. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 Page 5 A course in Banking and Finance was also proposed for piloting in three high schools during the next school year. Costs would be covered by a grant to the ADE Vocational Education Division. Administration also asked the Board to approve the elimination of courses within the Vocational Education Division where enrollment is not sufficient. Dr. Anderson responded to questions and provided additional information to the Board. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve these recommendations, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. The motion carried 6-0. G. Approval of a Community Service Course Act 468 of 1993 required the development of an elective community service program for students in grades 9 - 12. Administration asked for the Board to approve the formation of a committee to begin designing course requirements so that it can be implemented for the 1997-98 school year. Dr. Anderson responded to questions from the Board. Ms. Gee made a motion to approve the administration's request. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. H. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the donated items, seconded by Ms. Gee. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOLJDEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR J. A. Fair High Outdoor J. A. Fair Booster Club lighting,'dugouts/bleachers for the baseball field Two benches J. A. Fair PTSA McClellan High School/ $100.00 Moncrief Pontiac- Teachers of Tomorrow Buick-GMC $50.00 First Commercial Bank Central Hicll $100.00 Kay Joiner Terry Elementary IBMPS/2 Richard S. Meklman Computer/Monitor Williams Magnet $300.00 per teacher and/or Williams PT A school program REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 Page6 SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Metropolitan Vo-Tech Autron-A-Line II Electronic Crow-Burlingame Co. Wheel Aligner Cloverdale Jr. High AST Computer/Monitor/ Mitch Gaylor Keyboard for PTSA AR Data Co. Baseline Elementary Three A T & T Computers AT&T Washington Magnet $500.00 Henry L. Nichols $200.00 Raytheon Corp. $100.00 American Medical Rentals $100.00 Crow-Burlingame Co. $50.00 Ashley Realty Co. I. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. In addition, a slip sheet addendum reflecting the hiring of Mr. David Gunn at McClellan High School was presented for approval. The Board chose to vote on the slip sheet item separately from the printed items. On the printed items, Ms. Gee moved to approve the personnel recommendations. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. On the slip sheet, Mr. Berkley moved to approve the recommendation for hiring Mr. Gunn. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 5-1, with Ms. Gee casting the "no" vote. J. Financial Reports/Auditors Report Financial reports for December 1996 and January 1997 were provided for the Board's approval. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the reports and Dr. Daugherty seconded. The motion carried unanimously. The District's financial audit for 1995-96 was also provided for review and approval, and the Board was asked to approve the extension of the contract for auditing services with Thomas & Thomas. The Board voted separately on these two items. The audit was approved, 5-0 (Dr. Daugherty was out of the room) on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Ms. Gee. The vote to extend the contract with Thomas & Thomas was 6-0, moved by Dr. Mitchell and seconded by Ms. Strickland. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 Page 7 VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The Desegregation update was printed in the agenda. Nancy Acre responded to questions regarding the schools with four-year-old programs and Mr. Gadberry reported that after school CARE would be offered in every school where twelve or more students were enrolled in the program. B. Desegregation: Formation of Work Groups Dr. Roberts announced the formation of eight work teams to assist in developing a plan of action for school improvement during the Court approved moratorium on monitoring. A copy of the assigned committee members is attached to these minutes. Dr. Roberts also announced that an "Assembly for Success" would be held on Monday, March 10, at 4:30 p.m. at the Excelsior Hotel in the Clinton ballroom. The public is invited to attend. C. Budget Update There was no additional budget information available at this time. Dr. Roberts remarked that the Board would be advised if any information from the state legislature became available. D. Discussion: Board Policy Manual Review Mr. Riggs will be asked to coordinate a Board review of the current policy manual at a later time. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDMDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY None. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 27, 1997 Page 8 ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Ms. Gee moved for adjournment at 8:35 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. Berkley, and it carried unanimousl . LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 1997 RE APR 1 4 1997 Off/CE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the agenda meeting on Thursday, March 13, 1997, in the Board Room of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. Judy Magness, Vice President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: John Riggs, IV ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Ms. Magness called the meeting to order at 5:43 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call
six members of the Board were present, Mr. Riggs was absent. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary hearings and to reinstate or confirm placement for students who were previously suspended or expelled. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 1997 Page2 EXECUTIVE SESSION Dr. Daugherty made a motion to move into executive session for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary actions. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. Linda Watson provided information on the students listed below who had accepted recommendations for placement in alternative educational settings without appeal to the Board. The Board was asked to approve the alternative placements. Student's Name School Recommended Placement Tanya Brown Central Juvenile Justice Center Clorenthia Brown Central Juvenile Justice Center Justin Haley Dunbar Alternative Leaming Center Kaquendra Hollis Forest Heights Alternative Leaming Center Michael Jackson Cloverdale JH Juvenile Justice Center Seth Mitcham Pulaski Heights JH Juvenile Justice Center Dirnitrios Stubblefield Cloverdale JH Juvenile Justice Center Dr. Mitchell moved to accept the administration's recommendation for alternative placement of all of these students. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. In addition, Antwan Tucker petitioned the Board for reinstatement to the District. He had been charged with inciting to riot at McClellan in November 1995. He was enrolled at the Alexander Youth Training center for the first three quarters of this school year and was petitioning the Board to allow his return to the LRSD (not McClellan) for the remainder of this school year. The hearing officer recommended placement at the Juvenile Justice Center for the last nine-week period, with approval to return to a District high school next school term. The Superintendent recommended approval of that option or a second option, giving the student an opportunity to attend a District high school for half-days ( 4 credits) with summer school to complete course requirements. If the student performs successfully, he would be allowed to return to full-time status next school year. The Board gave authorization to Dr. Watson to provide the reinstatement options to Antwan on a motion from Dr. Daugherty, seconded by Ms. Strickland. The vote was 5-1 with Dr. Mitchell casting the "no" vote. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 1997 Page 3 ADJOURNMENT The Board returned from executive session at 6:07 p.m., and reported that they had accepted the administration's recommendations on all student disciplinary matters. Mr. Berkley made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Ms. Strickland and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 3-J.1-C/ t Michael Daughe! ~ LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 27, 1997 1JUL 1 5 1997 OFFICE OF DIEGREGATIONMONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on March 27, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, John Riggs, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of six Board members. Katherine Mitchell arrived at 6:08 p.m. The teacher ex-officio, Thomas Webb, from Mabelvale Jr. High School was also present. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of February 27, 1997, and from a special meeting conducted on March 13, 1997, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were approved 6-0, on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 27, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts presented a citation to Liz Lucker who works with the District's New Futures Program. She was recently selected as a finalist in the 1997 Coping magazine Hero Awards for the volunteer work she does, as a cancer survivor, to inspire others who are fighting that disease. The Pulaski Heights Lions Club annually recognizes educators from the three districts in Pulaski County for commitment to excellence in teaching. The superintendent awarded citations to five teachers from the LRSD who received the awards this year. They were Marcus Davis, Cloverdale Jr. High
Laura Beth Arnold, Pulaski Heights Elementary
Darian Smith, Rightsell Elementary
Annette Rodgers, Washington Elementary
and Fred Boosey, Parkview Magnet High School. Two retired teachers were also honored by the Lions for continuing to serve students, Odessa Talley and Sterling Rogers. The final citation was presented to Thomas Webb, the ex-officio teacher representative to the Board for the month of March, representing Mabelvale Jr. High School. B. P ARTNERSIDPS Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator, presented certificates in recognition of a newly established partnership: Senior Citizens Activities Today, Inc., represented by Sue Strickland, in partnership with Mabelvale Elementary School, represented by Tab Phillips and Donna Clark Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the new partnerships, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES None REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 27, 1997 Page 3 IV. D. 1. SPECIAL PRESENT A TIO NS Office of Desegregation Monitoring Skip Marshall, representative of ODM was present but did not have a report. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Berkley commented briefly about the technology work team and the work they plan to do. He also expressed appreciation to UALR for the work that went into preparation of the report on the LRSD that was recently released. Ms. Magness reported on a recent visit to Franklin Incentive School where she read to students. She had also visited the Hall High School Newcomers Center. On the day of her visit, students from Cloverdale and Mabelvale Jr. Highs were also visiting as a recruitment effort. Ms. Magness commented on the work of the Incentive School and School Revitalization work teams. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS A. D. Sumler stated that he was representing concerned black parents and students from Hall High School. He stated that they would be presenting a petition for a special board meeting to address perceived discipline problems at Hall. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 27, 1997 Page4 V. ACTION AGENDA A. Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) Grant Proposal The Arkansas Early Childhood Commission will be asked to continue to fund early childhood programs in the district which benefit children ages three to five years of age, as specified in the Arkansas Better Chance Program Act 212 of 1991. The grant request is in the amount of $233,992.00. Ms. Gee made a motion to approve the submission, Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it carried 7-0. B. Grant Submissions Marvin Schwartz, District grants writer, reported on three grant applications for financing student trips. Ms. Magness moved to approve the submissions, seconded by Mr. Berkley. The motion carried unanimously. SCHOOL/DEPT. PURPOSE AMOUNT ORGANIZATION Rockefeller Show Choir - Trip to New York $2,500 Little Rock Task Force for Incentive School City/Carnegie Hall Youth Dodd Elementary Sixth grade students - Trip to New $2,500 Orleans Zoo and Aquarium Franklin Incentive Sixth grade students - Trip to $2,500 School Washington, D.C. C. Adult Education Institutional/Correctional Proposal The Adult Education Department requested Board approval for submission of a proposal to the Arkansas Department of Education to continue funding Adult Education programs for institutionalized adults. The grant request is in the amount of $53,611.00. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the request. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the donated items, seconded by Ms. Magness. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 27, 1997 Page 5 DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Mann Arts & Science Magnet Misc. costume items Cast of Thousands School Costume Shop $500.00 Entergy Corp. Yamaha YTA-232 Mary K. Robinson Trumpet/Case & Mouthpiece Washington Math/Science $4,000.00 to purchase Washington PT A Magnet School computers Otter Creek Elementary Three IBM Hard Drives/ Alltel Corp Monitors/Keyboards Mabelvale Jr. High Magellan GPS 2000 American Honda Motor Computer Co., Inc. E. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. In addition, a slip sheet addendum reflecting the promotion of John Ruffins to the position of Acting Director of Information Services was provided for the Board's approval. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve all personnel recommendations, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. J. Financial Reports Financial reports for the month of February 1997 were presented for the Board's approval. Mark Milhollen responded to questions regarding collection of delinquent tax payments. Dr. Roberts reported briefly on legislative issues that might affect the District's financial status and remarked that Mark Milhollen and Brady Gadberry had been attending meetings at the Capitol when school finance issues were on the agenda. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the reports, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 27, 1997 Page6 VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The desegregation update was printed in the monthly agenda. Mr. Riggs asked Dr. Roberts for information regarding the monitoring visits of the biracial committee during the court approved moratorium on monitoring. Ms. Gee requested a list of the schools that offer the four-year-old program. B. Budget Update Dr. Roberts reported that additional budget information would be provided once the state legislature made final decisions on the school funding issues. The strategic planning committee on school finance has continued to meet and will remain available to assist the district with budgetary decisions once the necessary dollar figures can be determined. C. Desegregation Work Group Report Dr. Roberts provided a brief oral report on the work of the work teams. All groups had met at least one time and were providing the schedules of their meetings for the Board's information. Additional and more detailed information will be provided over the next few months. SUSPENSION OF THE RULES Ms. Magness moved to suspend the rules for the purpose of considering an item that was not on the meeting's agenda. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. Mr. Berkley proposed establishment of a committee of citizens to develop and recommend criteria for selection of a superintendent. Each board member was to submit the names of four people from their election zones, and to have Mr. Modeste compile the list of names and include other individuals from the community to ensure broad-based representation. Mr. Berkley's proposal was presented in the form of a motion, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. (Ms. Gee was not present for the vote.) VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 27, 1997 Page? EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Magness moved for the board to convene an executive session for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary action at 7:55 p.m .. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VIII. DISCIPLINARY Staci Ellis appealed a five-day suspension from Cloverdale Jr. High School for fighting with another student. Staci had been attending school since the date of the incident pending the appeal process. The board heard testimony from Staci, her father, Mr. Holmes, and the school principal, Ms. Mason. The board voted 6-0 to uphold the recommended 5-day suspension on a motion by Ms. Strickland, seconded by Ms. Magness, (Dr. Mitchell was not present for the vote). ADJOURNMENT The board returned from executive session to report that they had unanimously upheld the administration's recommendation on the student disciplinary action. With no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved for adjournment at 8:28 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. Berkley, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: J./- J.. 4 -Y 7 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 10, 1997 JUL 1 5 1997 OFFICE OF Dl$EGREGATIONMONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the agenda meeting on Thursday, April 10, 1997, in the Board Room of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Larry Berkley Pat Gee MEMBERS ABSENT: Micheal Daugherty Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: I. Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes Kate Nelson, Hall High Student Ex-officio Robin Bailey, Mann Magnet Teacher Ex-officio CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 5:23 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call
four members of the Board were present, Dr. Daugherty, Dr. Mitchell, and Ms. Strickland were absent. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 10, 1997 Page 2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the meeting reflected the following items: I. Resolution Approving the Issuance of Tax and Revenue Anticipation Promissory Notes (TRANS) II. Employee Hearing ACTION AGENDA Resolution Approving the Issuance of TRANS The Board was asked to approve the issuance of Tax and Revenue Anticipation Promissory Notes to secure funding to pay expenses of operating the district through the summer months. This process has been followed for the past seven years. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions, as well as representatives from Stephens, Inc., Mark McBride and Ken Russ. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the TRANS issuance. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 4-0. EXECUTIVE SESSION The board took a briefrecess and reconvened in executive session at 5:50 p.m. for the purpose of conducting an employee hearing. Brady Gadberry, Director of Labor Relations and Andy Turner, from the Friday law firm, provided the information for the District. Frank Martin, Executive Director, represented the employee, Ernest Mason. Mr. Mason was employed as an assistant custodial supervisor at Parkview Magnet High School. He and a female custodial employee had been involved in an altercation on January 23, 1997, that concluded with a physical assault. The female employee, Shirley Brown, has been off from work since the time of the incident due to injuries that she alleged were caused by Mr. Mason's assault. Mr. Mason was recommended for termination. Robert Knox and Lee Goins, Parkview employees, witnessed the incident and responded to questions from Mr. Turner and Mr. Martin. Mr. Junious Babbs, principal, was also present at the hearing. He testified that he did not witness the incident, but was informed of the events the day after the altercation by Ms. Brown. The superintendent recommended to the Board that the termination recommendation be upheld. The board took a briefrecess for discussion and returned at 7:28 p.m. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the superintendent's recommendation. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 10, 1997 Page 3 ADJOURNMENT The Board returned from executive session and reported that they had unanimously accepted the administration's recommendation on the employee disciplinary appeal. Mr. Berkley made a motion to adjourn at 7: 30 p.m. The motion was seconded by Ms. Magness and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: '-( -~ 4-1? Michael Daugherty, LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 14, 1997 R C/1J!o u'Ul 1 S 1997 DES~ OFFICE OF LGREGAT/OfJ MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Monday, April 14, 1997, in the Board Conference Room of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Micheal Daugherty ALSO PRESENT: Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes Kate Nelson, Hall High Student Ex-officio I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call
six members of the Board were present, Dr. Daugherty was absent. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of reviewing the responses to the Request for Proposals for a Superintendent's Search firm. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 14, 1997 Page 2 ACTION AGENDA Mr. Berkley had reviewed all responses to the RFP for a superintendent search firm. The group briefly reviewed each proposal and discussed the positive and negative aspects of each response. It was determined that the most important considerations, other than the cost of hiring a search firm, should be whether or not the response indicated they could work within the time frame established previously by the Board and whether the firm could provide a broad range (national) search. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to select Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates as the firm to conduct the search. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A roll call vote was recorded. ADJOURNMENT The Board adjourned at 6:55 p.m. A joint meeting with the City of Little Rock Board of Directors followed this meeting. A copy of a summary of that meeting is attached to these minutes. APPROVED: t-/-'d L/ , '17 0 , - ,,, , - ~ 1 / 1-J>,,//,,_,, r J.-- ....-fo_,/, .. c ,,/"-- --. Michael Daugherty, Seefetary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 16, 1997 RECEIVED JUL 1 5 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Wednesday, April 16, 1997, in the Board Room of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Micheal Daugherty Larry Berkley Katherine Mitchell MEMBERS ABSENT: Judy Magness Pat Gee Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes Kate Nelson, Hall High Student Ex-officio I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Four members of the Board were present
Ms. Magness, Ms. Gee, and Ms. Strickland were absent. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 16, 1997 - Page2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called in response to a petition of parents from Hall High School. Mr. Riggs stated at the beginning of the meeting that the group was entitled to one hour to present their concerns and that Board policy would prevent them from taking any action or responding in any way to the concerns. ACTION AGENDA Carol Miles opened the meeting with a brief review of concerns regarding the school environment and reported statistics that allege black students are disproportionately disciplined at Hall High School. The group is asking for the school principal to be removed. Sheila Miles addressed the Board concerning disciplinary sanctions imposed upon her son
he had recently been arrested while at school. Janice Bryant provided copies of behavior reports issued to her son during the 1994-95 school year and copies of documentation regarding his suspension for possession and selling paging devices. Sandra Settles reported on an incident that occurred the previous day when she arrived at the school to perform volunteer service in the media center. Minnie Thompson and Regina Mickens addressed concerns regarding fair treatment of the students at Hall. Carol Miles provided a closing statement asking the Board to investigate the allegations presented and to take into consideration fair treatment of all students. ADJOURNMENT Mr. Berkley made a motion to adjourn at 7: 00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Mitchell and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: J./-,
i__t.f Ji1 Michael Daugherty~ cretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 JUL 1 51997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION M01 ITOM The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on April 24, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, John Riggs, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of five Board members
Ms. Strickland arrived at 6:05 p.m. and Dr. Daugherty arrived at 6:10 p.m. The teacher ex-officio, Robbin Bailey from Mann Magnet Jr. High School, and Kate Nelson, student ex-officio from Hall High School were also present. II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of March 27, and from special meetings conducted on April 10, April 14, and April 16, 1997, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were approved 5-0, on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts presented a citation to Wanda Baskins, teacher at McClellan Business Communications Magnet School. Ms. Baskins was recently granted $1000 by the Geraldine Dodge Foundation for her entry in the Celebration of Teaching program. Susan Schoessel, teacher at Washington Magnet Elementary School was recognized for being selected to represent Arkansas in the "Teacher Who Cares About KIDS" Program of the Center for Development and Learning. She received a $500 cash award at the recent Plain Talk About KIDS Summit in New Orleans. The Superintendent presented a special citation to Natesha Mahone, a second grade student at Rightsell Elementary School. Natesha's home was recently destroyed by a fire that was started by a younger sister playing with matches. Natesha acted quickly to remove her sister and grandfather from the home and phoned 911. She is credited with saving the lives of her family members. Pam Cook, Matthew Mock, Justin Rapp, and Michael Tang, students at Dunbar Magnet Jr. High School, along with their faculty sponsor, Lenora Murray, were presented citations for their performance at the state and regional MathCounts competitions. A citation was presented to Elizabeth Smith, the District's 1997 Teacher of the Year nominee, who teaches at Jefferson Elementary School. She was recently honored as an outstanding Arkansas teacher. Stella Hayes was presented with a citation in honor of her selection as the 1997 Clementine Mathis Rouse Scholarship recipient. Ms. Hayes teaches at Mann Magnet Jr. High School. Larry Berkley was presented with a certificate from the Arkansas School Boards Association in recognition of his completion of 6 hours of required in-service training. Essie Middleton presented the Golden Leaf award from the Arkansas PT A Council to Garland Incentive School. Dr. Daugherty accepted the plaque and will present it to the Garland parents and staff at their next PT A meeting. The award is given annually to the PT A chapter which has the greatest overall increase in membership. The ex officio members of the board, Robbin Bailey, teacher from Mann Magnet Jr. High School, and Kate Nelson, student from Hall High School were presented with certificates of appreciation for their service on the Board for the month of April. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 Page 3 B. PARTNERSHIPS Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator, presented certificates in recognition of two newly established partnerships: Mt. Zion Baptist Church, represented by L. T. Davis, Seth Porchia and Ellen Carpenter, in partnership with King Interdistrict Magnet Elementary School, represented by Tyrone Harris. Hometown Foods, in partnership with Western Hills Elementary School, represented by Scott Morgan and Beth Collins Ms. Gee moved to accept the new partnerships, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES None D. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Skip Marshall, representative of ODM, was present but did not have a report. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors The agenda was reordered by Board consensus to allow a Joshua monitor to present a report at a later point in the agenda. Mr. Walker remarked on concerns of parents and students at Hall High School regarding issues of fair treatment. He stated that there were problems at all District high schools, but that they were most prevalent at Hall and Central. He introduced Ms. Carolyn Cooley who had been monitoring at Hall High School on a regular basis over the past few weeks as a representative of the Joshua Intervenors. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 Page4 Ms. Cooley briefed the Board on the results of recent monitoring visits to Hall High School and repeated some of the concerns expressed by Mr. Walker regarding fair treatment of Black students. She specified problems with the manner in which she was questioned upon arrival for her monitoring visits and also noted concerns with the assignment of Black students to the in-school suspension classroom. She had observed faculty race relations and stated that teachers were not setting an example of racial harmony. She requested the Board direct the administration to conduct an investigation of the allegations made by Joshua monitors and concerned parents and students of Hall High School. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Gee expressed appreciation to the citizens group who met to identify the qualifications for the next Superintendent. She also thanked Ann Brown for serving as the facilitator of the group. Ms. Magness thanked Ms. Jackson, teacher at Dunbar Magnet Jr. High School, for coordinating the annual food festival. She also announced that Mr. Riggs would be attending the President's Summit on Volunteerism in Philadelphia during the last week of April. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Michael Keener expressed concerns about a reading assignment his Southwest Junior High School student brought home. He did not feel that some of the language was appropriate for junior high school aged children. Cornelius Roberts, a 9th grade civics teacher at Forest Heights Junior High School, was present as a demonstration to his students, who attended the meeting with him. He presented concerns on behalf of the students: 1) the leadership of the District and the turnover rate in the Superintendent's position
2) student test scores - students should be pressured into improving their performance
and 3) recruitment of students - concentrate on teaching the students who are here instead of continuing efforts to recruit from other districts. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 Page 5 Kay Dietz was recognized, but ceded her time to Dr. John Yarrington. Dr. Yarrington expressed support for the administration and teaching staff at Hall High School. His student has had a successful year at Hall and he thinks that most parents feel that the school environment is safe and stable. Teri Paulson also spoke in support of the Hall High School Staff. She was a 1972 graduate of Hall and felt that racial problems at Hall at that time were much worse than they are now. Benny Smith is a school volunteer and expressed concern over the negative publicity that was being generated by some adults at Hall High School. He asked for more attention to be given to the positive aspects of the educational environment at Hall and he congratulated the Hall principal and staff for offering a positive environment for the majority of students. Mary Lee Watson also spoke in support of the Hall High School staff. She expressed the opinion that more children should be taught to respect authority. Ms. Watson presented a petition of signatures in support of the faculty and staff of Hall High School and the Principal of Hall. She also presented a petition requesting a special board meeting to address concerns of the majority of Hall High School parents. Scott Suddeth introduced himself as a "recovering private school enthusiast." His daughter has attended Hall and he expressed support for the administration of that school. He asked that all parties work together to make the school atmosphere stable and secure for the benefit of students who want to learn. Kelly Powell is a senior at Hall High School. She asked that the administration be allowed to get back to what is most important - education. She stated that she had never experienced any discrimination from staff members during her three years at Hall and that students who treated others with respect were treated with the same respect. Ricky Wilson, also a senior at Hall, stated that he had never felt held back by his teachers and that he had always been supported by the school staff. He also remarked that students who disrupt the learning process deserve to be punished. Alita Mantels spoke in support of the Hall High School faculty and staff and provided the Board members with a written statement. Minnie Thompson had previously addressed the Board in a special meeting of concerned Hall parents who felt that Black students were not treated fairly in disciplinary matters. Carol Miles and Sandra Stewart ceded their time to Ms. Thompson, who continued an emotional plea for the Board to investigate allegations of unfair treatment. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 - Page6 The Board took a brief recess and reconvened at 7 :20 p.m. The report of the Joshua monitor, Ms. Cooley, which was reported previously in these minutes, was conducted at this time. Steven Muhammad remarked on a recent visit to Hall High School where he was denied a visitors' pass. He feels that there is inequitable treatment of Black and White visitors to Hall. Sheila Miles stated concerns about unfair treatment of her son, Dante, who is a Hall High student. Ms. Miles was also present at a previous special meeting of Hall High School parents. Doris Conway distributed copies of information to the Board related to an incident that occurred at Hall High during the last school year involving her son. Sheila Parker commented that she has experienced problems at Dunbar Jr. High School similar to those expressed by Hall parents at this meeting. A. D. Sumler, president of the Hall High School PTA stated that he felt students were still segregated to some extent at Hall and he is concerned that students are not being treated equally. Janice Hawkins stated that she was committed to working for a better school system but she feels that her daughter has been treated unfairly at Hall High School. Dr. Roberts responded to the group of individuals who had spoken of concerns at Hall. He asked for time to develop a specific plan of recommendations that would be fair to all children at Hall and across the District. He also noted that statistics that had been referred to as significant evidence of unfair treatment were not much different from any urban school district in the country. He noted that several adjustments would be made in an attempt to address the problems perceived at Hall: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Principals will be provided with leadership training and staff development programs will be broadened to include human relations skills. The work team for alternative education and discipline will be asked to review the records at Hall to determine if there are any significant problems with the disciplinary procedures. Staff from other locations in the District will be assigned to Hall to serve as "greeters" and to monitor the sign-in process for visitors and monitors. Ron Lanoue, from the National Conference of Christians and Jews, will be invited to conduct a dialogue between groups at Hall High School who perceive racial inequities in an effort to resolve some of these problems. ODM will also be asked to assist, if necessary. Dr. Roberts will be available to speak to individuals who feel they need additional one-on-one conversation with him. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 - Page7 V. ACTION AGENDA A. SUMMER PREVENTION PROGRAM FOR YOUTH The City of Little Rock Department of Community Programs is offering grants for summer employment of youth. The Pupil Services Department will submit an application for funding in the amount of $15,000 to implement a program to recruit and train 10 students to serve as employment counselors for their peers, and to train prospective youth employees in social and employment skills for successful job performance. The Board was asked to approve the submission. Ms. Gee made a motion, seconded by Ms. Strickland and carried 6-0 . (Dr. Daugherty wasn't present at the time of the vote.) B. Central High School Historical Preservation Planning Grant The District has applied to the Getty Foundation for a planning grant in the amount of $25,000, which would allow the initiation of a long term, comprehensive historical preservation program at Central High School. The Board approved this submission by a 6-0 vote, on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Mr. Berkley. (Dr. Daugherty was not present for the vote.) C. Grant Submissions Mini grants developed and submitted during April are listed in the following chart. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the submissions. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. (Dr. Daugherty was not present at the time of the vote.) SCHOOL/DEPT. PURPOSE AMOUNT ORGANIZATION Chicot Elementary Conference Attendance by a school $500.00 AbleNet 1997 Inclusion team A ward Program Jefferson Elementary In-class art instruction and production of $3,500.00 Target Stores a school-wide mural Pupil Services Dept. Violence Prevention Program $2,500.00 City of L.R. Task Force for Youth Fulbright Elementary Peaceable Place Project $2,354.00 City ofL.R. Task Force for Youth REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 Page 8 D. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Ms. Gee made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOUDEP ARTMENT ITEM DONOR LRSD . 20 boxes of paper First Commercial Corporation LRSD 192 rolls Computer paper Buschart Company Mann Magnet Jr. High Carpet cleaning machine Mann Magnet PTA Booker Arts Magnet Riding Lawnmower Booker Students, Staff Elementary and Parents Pulaski Heights Jr. High $100.00 cash for the Stock Morgan Keegan Co. Market Game Dodd Elementary $140.00 cash for purchase HomeQuarters of rugs for K classes Badgett Elementary $350.00 cash to purchase Optimist Club of items for students affected Greater Little Rock by March 1 tornado E. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda, including assignment of summer school principals. Ms. Gee moved to approve all personnel recommendations, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. J. Financial Reports Financial reports for the period ending March 31, 1997 were printed in the agenda. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the reports as printed. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 Page9 VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The desegregation update was printed in the agenda. There were no additional questions from the Board. Work team leaders were asked by the Superintendent to provide brief updates for the Board regarding the progress of their committees. Jo Evelyn Elston and Ann Smith reported for the Discipline and Alternative Education Team
Sharon Davis reported for the Curriculum Work Team
and Betty Raper reported on the work of the Staff Development Work Team. B. Budget Update Mark Milhollen was present and reported that the District's financial committee was scheduled to meet on April 29. Dr. Roberts commented on the status of the Eastside Jr. High School purchase. The group that contracted to purchase the building has not met the terms of the agreement and District attorneys will be asked to contact them regarding termination of the contract if they don't meet the terms of the agreement within a reasonable number of days. C. BOARD GOALS Proposed goals for the Board were provided for review. Ms. Magness read the goals, but no additional action was taken. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDMDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY None. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 24, 1997 Page 10 ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved for adjournment at 10:05 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. Berkley, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: lP J~ _ q I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 R CEIVED 'JUL 1 5 1997 DE The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on May 22, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, John Riggs, presided. Prior to the call to order of the regular meeting, the Board held a committee meeting with Dr. Charles Young and Dr. Charles Almo, consultants for the superintendents search. Dr. Young and Dr. Almo reported on the status of their interview process and informed the Board that they expected to present a slate of candidates for Board consideration by June 3, 1997. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of six board members
Ms. Strickland was absent. The teacher ex-officio, Beth Munson, from Pulaski Heights Jr. High School, was also present. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 1997 Page2 II. READING OF MINUTES: Approval of the minutes from the regular board meeting of April 24, 1997, was tabled and will be included as a part of the May action agenda. III. PRESENTATIONS: The McDermott Elementary School "Just Say No Players, " directed by Counselor Wanda Varady, performed a skit demonstrating appropriate responses to situations of violence. A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts presented citations to members of the Hall High School Girls' Basketball team, the team managers, and Coach Charlie Johnson in recognition of their winning the 1997 AAAA State Championship. Team members were Celia Anderson, Dee Brown, Essence Brown, Liz Clark, Tracye Goodwin, Annette Gregory, Patrice Ingram, Shaneika Lewis, Shannel Parrish, Daisha Reed, and Lakisa Vaughn. The Southwest Jr. High School Drill Team and the faculty sponsors, Sheila Green and Tonya Iverson, were presented with citations in recognition of their performance in national competitions this spring. This team returned with three first place trophies, the grand sweepstakes trophy, the spirit trophy, and the sportsmanship trophy. Members include Toccara Beene, Sabrina Bone, Felicia Buckley, Teandra Cantlow, Constance Cummings, Shannae Hendricks, Chertieu Jones, Khala Quarles, Tabitha Robinson, Zoshua Shelton, Kim Torrence and LaTriece Williams. The Superintendent presented citations to several students from Pulaski Heights Jr. High School who participated this spring in the national mock trial competitions in Nashville, TN. Cash East and Phillip McMath were present at the meeting to accept certificates on behalf of the group of students and the teacher/sponsor, Sam Stueart. The participating students, in addition to Cash and Phillip, were Jessica Davenport, Sarah Huckabee, Kentaura Richardson, Kenetria Richardson, and Nathaniel Wills. Junious Babbs was present to accept a certificate of recognition for Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School, which was recently selected as an outstanding magnet school out of 4,000 magnet schools in the nation. The 42 winning schools were selected based on diversity of population, academic achievement and innovative programs. Citations were presented to representatives from Regas Grill and the Macaroni Grill for their contributions to the recent McClellan ACT Lock-in. Each of these restaurants donated guest passes for the parents and teachers who volunteered their time during the lock-in. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page 3 Rene' Carson was presented with a citation in recognition of her selection to participate in the Fulbright Memorial Program, which was designed to increase awareness of Japan and its culture. Eleanor Cox, principal at Baseline Elementary School, presented a certificate of appreciation to Mr. Pennick of Little Rock Waste Management. Baseline students recently raised funds for Catherine's House and LRWM employees matched the funds. Mr. Pennick accepted the certificate and presented a check for $1,000 to Ms. Cox to pay for end-of-the-year activities at Baseline. Michael Peterson, principal at Metropolitan Vocational Center, recognized several VICA members who recently participated in the statewide VICA competitions. Metro students who won at the state level will be traveling to Kansas City to compete in the national contests. One of the Metro students, Melanie Bynum, designed the winning logo for this year's lapel pins and Board members received one of these pins. Pat Knighten, representing National Project WILD and the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, presented a grant in the amount of $6,429 to Karen Buchanan, principal at Washington Magnet School, for use in developing Pre-K curriculum materials for use in environmental education programs across the state. The ex-officio teacher representative to the Board for the month of May, Beth Munson from Pulaski Heights Jr. High School, received a certificate of appreciation for her service. B. PARTNERSHIPS Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator, presented certificates in recognition of two newly established partnerships: The Otter Creek Land Company, in partnership with Otter Creek Elementary School, represented by Carolyn Teeter and Janis Tucker Rocky Mountain Baptist Church, represented by Rev. John Dean, in partnership with Baseline Elementary School, represented by Eleanor Cox and Sharra Akers Pulaski Heights Christian Church, and Fair Park Elementary, represented by Dale Ann McClellan Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the new partnerships, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page4 C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES On behalf of Debbie Glasgow, and the VIPS Board of Directors, Debbie Milam presented an enlarged check in the amount of $1.9 million, representing the value of volunteer service to the District over the past year. This check was previously presented during the VIPS Night of the Stars program. D. 1. SPECIAL PRESENT A TIO NS Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Guldin reported that although the ODM staff had not been monitoring in the LRSD, they had been working as members of the eight desegregation work teams and would be available as the school year ends to assist with completing this task. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council Karen Greenlee, assistant principal at Romine Elementary, announced the winners ofthis year's PTA Council American Education Week art and writing contests. The winners are listed below. Primary Art A wards 1st place 2nd place 3rd place Honorable Mention Antwion Henderson, 2nd grade Kevin Perry, 3rd grader Allison Wright, Kindergarten Amanda Niets, 2nd grade Keidra Booth, 3rd grade Joshua Keith, 2nd grade Meadowcliff Watson Fulbright Western Hills Washington Watson - REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page 5 Intermediate Essay Awards 1st place Ashley Stewart, 5th grade Jefferson 2nd place Jordan Coleman, 6th grade Booker 3rd place Whitney Ray, 6th grade Watson Honorable Mention Peter Thomas, 6th grade Jefferson Cheryl Kay, 6th grade Booker Shannon Hood, 5th grade Garland Junior Hii:
h Essay Awards 1st place James Fulwider, 8th grade Mann 2nd place Shane Long, 8th grade Mann 3rd place Tracy Holmes, 8th grade Mann Honorable Mention Elise Estes, 8th grade Mann Kelly Austin, 8th grade Mann Senior Hii:
h Essay Awards 1st place Katherine Segnaigo, 10th grade Parkview 2nd place Rachel Kirby, 10th grade Hall 3rd place John Henderson, 10th grade Parkview Honorable Mention Marcus Johnson, 10th grade Parkview E. BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Riggs announced that he had attended all of the District's graduation ceremonies and noted that over $5,400,000 in scholarships were awarded to 1997 graduating seniors. Dr. Mitchell commended Mr. Riggs for attending five graduation services. She had attended the Terry Elementary School International Fest and expressed appreciation to Ms. Ziegler and the Terry faculty, parents and students. Mr. Berkley reported on his attendance at the National School Boards Association conference in Anaheim, CA. He, Ms. Magness and Dr. Daugherty had attended during the last week of April. Dr. Roberts commented regarding the Arkansas Department of Education reports on the NCA/COE evaluation during the current school year. Ten LRSD schools had been through the monitoring process and all of them had received positive and outstanding summary reports. He also remarked briefly on the outcome of the Title I program evaluation, in which the parent involvement component had received exceptional reviews. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page6 IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Mizan Rahman serves as the District's representative to the City Planning Commission. He addressed the Board briefly regarding his responsibilities in that position and provided a listing ofland-use categories, speaking briefly on the annexation issues that are currently pending on the city board's agenda. He offered to return and report to the Board on any issues which might be of particular interest to the school district. Sandy Becker served on the District's strategic planning team. He spoke in favor of school and community partnerships and encouraged the Board and superintendent to continue following the strategic plan. He also presented a request on behalf of the Pankey Community to wait for additional information before acting on the agenda item requesting a change in the deed title for property in Pankey. The Board took a briefrecess and reconvened at 7:45 p.m. V. ACTION AGENDA With no objection from Board members, Mr. Riggs proposed a re-ordering of the agenda to move the proposal from the Pankey Community to the first action item. Also, the work team reports, on the Report Agenda, were heard prior to the remainder of the action items. A. Pankey Community Request The Pankey Community Improvement Association and Pankey New Life Support Center had made a request, by letter to the Board dated April 24, 1997, to have the property at 13440 Cantrell, Parcel 2, Lots 10-13, Block 34, deeded to the Pankey New Life Support Center. The Board had previously transferred the property (in 1991) to the Pankey Community Improvement Association and the request was for a title change only. Members of the Pankey Community who were present at the meeting asked the Board to defer action on this issue until further information could be gathered. They expressed objections to the requested title change. Mr. Riggs asked the Superintendent to investigate the issue and bring additional information to the Board in June. The motion to table was made by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Ms. Magness and carried unanimously. B. Board Meeting Dates, 1997-98 School Year The proposed schedule of regular meeting dates was provided for the Board's review and approval. The second and fourth Thursday of each month are designated by Board policy as regular meeting dates. Exceptions occur during November and December to avoid conflict with holidays. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page7 In addition, due to scheduled activities surrounding the fortieth anniversary of the integration of Central High School, the September meeting will also be held on an alternate date. On a motion by Dr. Daugherty, seconded by Mr. Berkley, the board approved the dates as printed in the agenda, with an exception to reschedule the September meeting. The motion carried unanimously. C. Service Leaming Site Approval The Board approved the granting of credit for Service Learning in the February 1997 Board meeting, as required by Act 648 of 1993. The Board was provided with a list of sites in Arkansas that have been approved by the Arkansas Board of Education. Approval of these sites for implementation in our District, including sites within the Little Rock School District, was requested. Dr. Victor Anderson responded to questions from Board members. Ms. Magness moved to approve the state-wide approved sites, including additional LRSD sites to be determined in the future. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. D. Secondary Health Textbook Adoption The secondary health textbook adoption committee submitted a list of new health texts for use in grades 9-12, in compliance with ADE regulations which require periodic review and selection of new textbooks. The Board was provided a listing of these textbooks and copies were available for their inspection before and after the meeting. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the selections
Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. Ms. Magness made a motion to give blanket approval to the following agenda items. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried 5-1, with Ms. Gee casting the "no" vote. E. Secondary Social Studies Textbook Adoption The secondary level social studies textbook adoption process was conducted by a district committee and a listing of their recommendations was provided to the Board. In addition, copies of the selected texts were available for inspection before and after the meeting. This item was approved by the blanket motion. F. Adult Basic and General Adult Education Applications The Little Rock Adult Education Center was pre-approved to receive $934,185 for vocational education funding using the state-approved formula. The Board was asked to approve submission of the application for funding, which will allow the District to continue serving area adults. This item was approved by the blanket motion. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 22, 1997 Page 8 G. Mini-Grant Submissions Jefferson Elementary School submitted an application to Entergy for support of the ARTREACH Project. The proposal requested $1,000, which would provide in-class art instruction and the production of a mural. This item was approved by the blanket motion. H. Technology Innovation Challenge Grant The Board was asked to approve the submission of an application to the US Department of Education for the Technology Innovation Challenge Grant program, which would request approximately $1,000,000 per year for five years. Approval would require a match that would be fulfilled through staff participation and funds previously designated for computer hardware, software and installation costs
no new matching funds would be required. This item was approved by the blanket motion. I. Learn and Serve America Grant The Board was asked to approve submission of a grant proposal to the Corporation for National and Community Service for establishment of a service-learning component for secondary students at all LRSD schools. The proposal requested $79,745 as part of total program costs in the amount of $137,815 for the first of a three year program. This item was approved by the blanket motion. J. Summer Prevention Program for Youth The New Futures Department submitted an application to the city of Little Rock for a summer prevention program for youth. The proposal seeks $14,719, to benefit students ages 11-18 who live in the Capitol View/Stifft Station area and is a collaborative effort between the District, the city and the Billy Mitchell Boys Club. This item was approved by the blanket motion. K. Board Goals The Board had developed a list of goals during their retreat in February 1997, and Mr. Riggs read these for the record. Several edits were suggested by Board members. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the goals, with revisions. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A copy of these goals, with edits, is attached to these minutes. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page9 L. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Mr. Berkley. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOUDEP ARTMENT ITEM DONOR Gibbs Magnet Elementary $2,100 cash toward student Mary K. Sanders, Susie exchange visit to France Robinson, Elizabeth Dowell, Susan Purvis, Betty Brantley, David King, H. D. Roosth, Wright, Lindsey, and Jennings law firm, TCBY, Ark. Democrat/ Gazette, Wilson Jones, Bettina Brownstein, Mira Frost, Community Bakerv LRSD Misc. office furnishings, Merrill Lynch Co. refrigerator, IBM computer and printer, assorted other items Mabelvale Elementary $2,000 cash for purchase of Mabelvale PT A TV's & VCR's for classrooms Booker Arts Magnet 163 various calendars Charles A. Huie Countrv Cupboard Dodd Elementary $300 environmental grant Wal-Mart Store #124 for e:rounds imProvement Dodd Elementary $1737 grant for 6th grade LR Task Force for field trip to New Orleans Youth Fair High School Reference books and Jan Hecke encvclopedia set McClellan High School $100 cash to drill lteam Dr. Derek Lewis, Ark. Primarv Care Clinic REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page 10 M. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the superintendent's recommendation. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. N. Financial Reports Financial reports for the period ending April 30 were printed in the agenda. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions. Ms. Magness moved to accept the reports as printed. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The work team reports noted here were presented earlier in the agenda at the request of the Board The technology work group members, Lucy Lyon, Lillie Carter, John Ruffin and Rich Kennedy provided a brief review of the work their committee has done. A mission statement has been developed and goals established to guide the implementation of their plan. The major concern of the group is the financial factor and the funding that will be required to implement their plan and provide continual upgrades. They will develop proposals to secure federal grant funding and will seek matching funds from local sources. Dr. Anderson provided copies of a written report from the School Revitalization work team, led by Marian Lacey. Their report proposes implementation of a "Turning Points" model in two schools, Cloverdale and Forest Heights Junior High Schools, for the next school year. Carol Green reported on the progress of the Community Links work team. They have included all existing programs, ie. VIPS, Partners in Education, High-Schools-That- Work, Service Learning, School-to-Work, and Vital Link in their review of community linkages. They meet every Friday at 8:30 a.m. at Metropolitan and Board members were invited to attend. Dr. Roberts reported that he expects a report with recommendations from all work teams to be complete by the end of July or the first part of August. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May22, 1997 Page 11 B. Budget Update No report at this time. C. Eastside Lease The Board was provided with copies of correspondence from the Friday law firm regarding the lease agreement with Acts ofH & K Enterprises and Ms. Kay Hadley for the old Eastside School building. Acts ofH & K is delinquent in their payments for lease of the property and they have been notified that they must vacate the premises. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY None. ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved for adjournment at 9:40 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mr. Berkley, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: {_

)..{p q '1 BOARD GOALS (Revised and Adopted 05-22-97) 1) Establish and complete the proposed desegregation plan modification proce~s and work team activities within the nine-month period. 2) Concentrate on developing excellent leadership skills in building leaders. 3) Continue to implement the strategic plan according to the timetable of that plan. 4) Review and revise the Board policy manual over the next year. 5) Work through the legislative process, with the assistance of the Arkansas School Boards Association, to encourage the Arkansas Department of Education to provide financial information in a more timely manner. 6) Serve as public relations agents to advocate for the benefit of the District. Say and do positive things. LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 3 - 22, 1997 RECEI ED JUL 151997 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District convened a special meeting on June 3, 1997, in the Board Conference Room of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Micheal Daugherty ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Charles Young Dr. Charles Almo Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 5:12 p.m. Six members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty was absent. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of reviewing the slate of candidates for the position of Superintendent of Schools. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 3, 1997 Page2 ACTION AGENDA Ms. Gee made a motion for the Board to convene in executive session, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Dr. Charles Almo and Dr. Charles Young, of Hazard, Young, Attea and Associates, were present to review the preliminary interview findings of six applicants. Cynthia Howell, reporter with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, challenged the Board's right to meet in executive session with the presence of outside consultants. After a brief conference with the District's attorney, the meeting was opened to the public. The search consultants provided background information on six candidates for the Board's review and further consideration. The Board will interview six candidates: Ken James, David Lee, Jim Scales, Peter Horoschak, Mary Guinn, and Les Carnine. The Board recessed the session, to reconvene at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4 to conduct the first two interviews for the Superintendent's position. Wednesday, June 4, 1997 Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. Six members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5 :20 p.m. Ms. Gee made a motion for the Board to convene in executive session, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. Dr. Ken James was interviewed from 5:05 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Dr. David Lee was interviewed from 7:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. The Board recessed the session at 9:30 p.m., to reconvene at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 5. Thursday, June 5, 1997 Mr. Riggs reconvened the executive session at 5:00 p.m. Six members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5:10 p.m. Dr. Jim Scales was interviewed from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Dr. Peter Horoschak was interviewed from 7:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. The Board recessed the session at 9:30 p.m., to reconvene at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 3, 1997 Page 3 Friday, June 6, 1997 The meeting was called to order at 5:08 p.m. Six members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5: 17 p.m. Dr. Mary Guinn was interviewed from 5:10 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Dr. Les Carnine was interviewed from 7:30 p.m. until 9:20 p.m. The session recessed at 9:30 p.m. and will reconvene at 1 :30 p.m. on Saturday, June 7. Saturday, June 7, 1997 The executive session was reconvened at 1 :40 p.m. with Mr. Riggs' call to order. All members of the Board were present. No vote was taken, but the Board agreed by consensus to conduct a second interview with three of the candidates who visited this week
Dr. Ken James, Dr. Jim Scales, and Dr. Les Carnine. The session recessed at 3:00 p.m. The second interviews were scheduled for June 11, 12, and 13. Each of the candidates will be given the opportunity to visit with District administrators and community members. Wednesday, June 11, 1997 The executive session reconvened at 6: 10 p.m. for the purpose of conducting a second interview with Dr. Ken James. The Board recessed at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 12, 1997 The executive session reconvened at 6: 15 p.m. for the purpose of conducting a second interview with Dr. Jim Scales. The Board recessed at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 13, 1997 The executive session reconvened at 6: 14 p.m. for the purpose of conducting a second interview with Dr. Les Carnine. The Board recessed at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 22, 1997 The Board reconvened the executive session at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of selecting the final candidate for the position of Superintendent. The Board returned from executive session at 7: 15 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. Ms. Gee made a motion to offer the position of Superintendent of Schools to Dr. Les Carnine. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 3, 1997 Page4 ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 7:16 p.m. nt APPROVED: {p- ~0 C/1 ll,~ij~ Michael Daugherty.~tru'yl LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING June 26, 1997 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 26, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, John Riggs, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER AUG 2 s 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without roll call, as all members were present. RECEIVED REGULAR BOARD MEETING June 26, 1997 AUG 2 ~ 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING Page2 II. READING OF MINUTES: The minutes from regular board meetings of April 24 and May 22, were presented for the Board's approval. Minutes from a special meeting, which convened on June 3, were also provided. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the minutes of these three meetings. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts introduced Joanna Young, 8th grade student at Pulaski Heights Jr. High School, who made a presentation to the Board. Joanna had researched the Holocaust and her presentation was based on the book, Playing for Time, about the women's orchestra at Auschwitz. Joanna won first place in the District's Arkansas State History Day competition, and she won second place in the state competition. Joanna also represented Arkansas in the national history competition in Maryland earlier this month. After performing for the Board, a Superintendent's Citation was presented to Joanna
her parents, Paul and Dorothy Young were introduced. Superintendent's Citations were presented to members of the Little Rock Alliance For Our Public schools for their contributions to the LRSD over the past year. The members who were present w~re: Hubert Barksdale, Joe Swaty, Gail Nickerson, Odies Wilson, Delia Moore, Jim Hathaway, Leta Jo Anthony, Laura Beth Arnold, Bill Hamilton, Glenn Holloway, Stephanie Johnson, Stacy Pittman, and Diane Vibhaker. Citations were sent to the other members of the Alliance Board, James Adamson, Robin Armstrong, Stephen Arnold, Duane Jackson, Janet Jones, Baker Kurrus, Henry McHenry, Bob Morgan, Cassandra Norman, Gerry Ostermann, John Steuri, Rett Tucker, and Alma Williams. Debbie Milam was introduced for presentation of a video tape of the Vital Link program. The video tape showed students participating in various activities reflecting their Vital Link experience. Ms. Milam presented a certificate of appreciation to Suellen Vann for her participation as a site coordinator for Vital Link students who worked in the District's administration offices. Odies Wilson thanked Dr. Roberts for bringing this successful program to students in the LRSD. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES None. REGULAR BOARD MEETING June 26, 1997 Page 3 D. 1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Office of Desegregation Monitoring Skip Marshall congratulated the Board on the selection of the new superintendent. He also reported that the ODM office will participate in the Vital Link program by hosting ten students beginning July 7. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PTA Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Gee commented that she expected positive things for the future of the LRSD. She announced her candidacy for reelection to the Zone 6 position on the Board. She also expressed gratitude to Dr. Roberts for corning to Little Rock, and to Mr. Riggs for his leadership abilities. Mr. Riggs thanked Gail Nickerson for coordinating the visits of the candidates wives during the recent superintendent's search. He also thanked Beverly Griffm for assisting the board by coordinating the superintendent's search activities. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS None. REGULAR BOARD MEETING June 26, 1997 Page4 V. ACTION AGENDA A. Mini Grant Applications Mini grants developed and submitted during June are listed in the following chart. Ms. Magness moved to approve the submissions, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. SCHOOL/DEPT. PURPOSE Otter Creek Elem. K-6 career education Carver Magnet Elem. Curriculum software & materials B. Appropriate Use of Computer Networks Policy AMOUNT $1,300.00 $1,498.50 ORGANIZATION Ark. Dept. ofEd. EDS Corporation Act 801 of the 1997 Legislative Session requires the Board of Directors to adopt a policy concerning student and staff use of district-owned computers in accessing the Internet. The law also requires the policy be incorporated into the written student discipline policy if there is punishment for students. The District's Technology oversight Committee drafted the proposed policy in cooperation with the Strategic Planning Technology Advisory Committee and the Technology Work Group. Ms. Gee moved to approve the proposed policy on first reading, and Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion. Dr. Daugherty moved to include an amendment that would include disciplinary actions in the policy statement. Ms. Gee seconded the motion to amend and it carried unanimously. The policy will be revised to include "normal district progressive disciplinary sanctions" to paragraph 2. C. Strategy Five Implementation Team - Policy Proposals Members of Strategic Planning Team 5 met monthly to facilitate implementation of the community partnership portions of the strategic plan. This group drafted three proposed policies, Partners in Education, School-based Mentoring Programs, and Relations with Community Organizations, for the Board's consideration. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve these three policies on first reading. Dr. Daugherty 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. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Mr. Berkley. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. REGULAR BOARD MEETING June 26, 1997 Page 5 VI. DONATIONS SCHOOLJDEP ARTMENT ITEM DONOR MeadowcliffElementary Flowers & Shrubs Wal-Mart/Sam's Club Rightsell Elementary Refrigerator/Freezer Mr. & Mrs. James Pierce LRSD Athletic Dept. $2,375. For purchase of Various donors through the football helmets Woodson Walker Law firm Terry Elementary Two IBM Computers Chris Andrews/ Alltel Information Services Goldstar Computer Mr. & Mrs. James Stooker Franklin Incentive School School Sign Arkansas Sign Co. Central High School Tandy 1 OOORL Mrs. Winston Brown Computer & Printer Rockefeller Incentive School Office Panels/Room First Commercial Dividers Bank/Alan Tegethoff E. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda and a slip sheet addendum recommending Susan Beard for the principal' s position at Geyer Springs Elementary School. Ms. Gee moved to accept the recommendations including the slip sheet. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. N. Financial Reports Financial reports for the period ending May 31 were printed in the agenda. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions. Ms. Strickland moved to accept the reports as printed. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. REPORT AGENDA A. Budget Update & Bond Fund Status Report Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions from the Board regarding the report printed in the agenda. The annual budget must be filed by September 15. A budget work session will be scheduled within the next few weeks. REGULAR BOARD MEETING June 26, 1997 Page6 B. First Vote The annual First Vote report was printed in the agenda. Victor Anderson was present to respond to questions. C. Eastside Lease The Board was previously provided information regarding the default of the lease agreement with Acts of H & K Enterprises and Ms. Kay Hadley for the old Eastside School building. Acts of H & K have moved from the premises and Plant Services staff have secured the property. Dr. Roberts reported that several other groups have looked at the building and it is possible that someone will be making an offer on the property within the next few weeks. He suggested that there might be a need to review possible District use of the property as office space. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDMDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY None. ADDITIONAL ITEM: The Board previously voted to approve the meeting schedule for the 1997-98 school year, with the exception of the regular meeting in September, which would normally fall on the 25th of September. That date has been scheduled for activities involving the 40th anniversary of the Central High School integration commemoration. The Board agreed by consensus to hold the regular September Board meeting on the 18th (3rd Thursday). ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Ms. Gee moved for adjournment at 7:35 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Daugherty, and it carried unanimously. ~ APPROVED: 7 JL/,-qty
This project was supported in part by a Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives project grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and Council on Library and Information Resources.

<dcterms_creator>Little Rock School District</dcterms_creator>