Little Rock School District, school board meeting minutes and correspondence

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LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT February 2, 2001 Ann Marshall, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: EC IVE I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting held on November 16, December 7, December 14, 2000 and January 11, 2001. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if I can provide additional information. Sincerely, kGriffin Executive Assistant to the Superintendent Enclosures 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 11, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Thursday, January 11, 2001, immediately preceding the regularly scheduled agenda meeting in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kum1s Judy Magness Mike Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Larry Berkley ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER E EV President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 5 :07 p.m. Five members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 5: 12 p.m., Mr. Berkley was absent. In addition, ex-officio representatives to the Board were also present
Scott Andress, teacher at Cloverdale Middle School, and Jake Phillips, student from Hall High School. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting listed the following item: A. Approval of Covenant SPECIAL BOARD MEETING January 11, 2001 Page2 III. ACTION AGENDA A. Approval of Covenant The Board was asked to approve the Covenant for the Future in order to affirm the District's commitment to continue good faith efforts to improve academic achievement of all students and to create an equitable, nondiscriminatory learning environment. A copy of the Covenant will be filed with the Courts at the time the District asks to be released from federal court supervision. A copy of the Covenant will be attached to these minutes. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to adopt the Covenant, Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Stckland moved to adjourn at 5:15 p.m. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board moved directly into their regularly scheduled agenda session. t4dwi7/7~, ~atherine Mitchell, President APPROVED: I -~ s -C) I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 25, 2001 MAR 1 6 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School Distiict held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, 2001, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Kathetine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: one ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. All members of the Board were present at roll call. In addition, ex-officio representatives to the Board were present: Scott Artdress, teacher at Cloverdale Middle School, and Jake Phillips, student at Hall High School. II. READING OF MI UTES: Minutes from the regular meeting of December 14, 2000, and a special meeting on January 11, 2001, were presented for approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. REGULAR BOARD MEETI G January 25, 2001 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPER! TENDENT'S CITATIO S Dr. Carnine introduced Margo Swanson, coordinator of nursing for the District. Prior to the Board meeting, a reception was held in honor of school nurses who had been nominated for nurse of the year. Ms. Swanson introduced the honorees
Kim Hagin, from Badgett Elementary School, Patricia Brown who serves at Southwest Middle School, and Ann Calloway from Carver Magnet Elementary who was selected as the District's nurse of the year. Dr. Carnine introduced Diane Barksdale, principal of Carver Magnet Elementary School, and Teresa Richardson, first grade teacher. Ms. Richardson, along with fellow teachers Holly House, Hayley Armstrong, and Eunice Skubal wrote a grant proposal that was presented at the Arkansas Reading Association annual conference in ovember. The proposal was accepted and funded in the amount of $1,000 as a "grant of excellence" and will be presented again at the CA annual meeting in Chicago in April. The proposal, entitled "Recycling and Book Checkout Program Makes for Successful Readers" provides first grade students with books for nightly reading with their families. Ex officio members of the Board were also presented with certificates in recognition of their service for the month of January
teacher representative Scott Andress, from Cloverdale Middle School, and student representative Jake Phillips from Hall High School. B. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Mr. Rose made a motion to accept the new partnerships, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Newly established partnerships include: Badgett Elementary/ LRSD Charter School - represented by Mary Golston & Krishna Young, in partnership with Allen Kerr Insurance Agency, Inc. - represented by Allen Kerr, Marliese Kerr & John Wheeler LRSD Charter School - represented by Krishna Young, in partnership with The Optimist Club of Greater Little Rock - represented by Walter Dickinson and Wesley United Methodist Church - represented by Rev. Mark Norman & Cherry Washburn Franklin Elementary School - represented by Ethel Dunbar, Connie Simpson, Karen Ware, & Karen Carter in partnership with Say's Place (Robert "Say" McIntosh could not attend) REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 25, 2001 Page 3 IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Clementine Kelly, President of Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association, relayed new year greetings from the membership of CTA. She noted that problems and concerns of the CT A were being addressed, and that teachers were continuing to work hard to meet the needs of their students. Joy Springer, representing the Joshua Intervenors, noted that it had been almost three years since implementation of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan. She stated that the Intervenors feel that some improvements have been made, but that there are still some issues to be addressed. Joshua is hoping to dialog with District administrators and the Board about those issues prior to any additional legal filings. She stated that their intentions were to make a difference for the children in the new millennium. V. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Magness reported that she had visited Stephens Elementary School. The building is complete, but work continues on the playground and landscaping of the grounds. She complimented Sharon Brooks, the Stephens principal, on the smooth transition in moving students and staff into the new building over the holidays. Ms. Magness also discussed the Carnegie Initiative and planning process. Study Circles are being formed to discuss ways to improve Little Rock high schools. These groups will meet one night per week for the next three weeks to discuss ways to improve the learning environment in our schools. The groups have met once, and are still seeking participation from the community. She invited the public to attend a meeting at Parkview on February 1, 6:00 p.m. to listen to Kati Haycock discuss ways to address the achievement gaps and improve the learning environment for our children. Mr. Rose noted that his daughter has been visiting middle schools in anticipation of being a sixth grader next school year. He encouraged parents to review their options carefully when making decisions for their children's educational future. He also encouraged listeners to make contributions to the Central American earthquake relief efforts. Mr. Kurrus asked about a report on achievement test results and comparative analyses for measuring improvements. He noted that this is an exciting time in Little Rock, and he encouraged parents to go into the schools to see for themselves the kind of education their children are receiving in our schools. He asked the viewing audience to also visit our schools to see for themselves, not to rely on what they read in the newspapers as accurate or dependable information. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 25, 2001 Page 4 Dr. Daugherty stated that public education "takes a beating" in every political election. He noted that there is some truth in the statements that there is never enough funding or parent participation, but there is also an inaccurate perception that all public schools are inadequate in meeting the needs of the children. There is a collective effort to improve the learning climate in our schools and increased public support is the key to making the improvements. Dr. Mitchell reported on attendance at a staff development activity at the Instructional Resource Center, Writing Across the Curriculum. She thanked Marion Woods for her work in coordinating the District's staff development activities. Dr. Mitchell is also planning to attend a Smart Start Conference in Fairfield Bay with some District administrators. On the issue of the Superintendent search, Dr. Mitchell reported that letters of interest from applicants had been received and that packets of information had been returned to the applicants. She noted that February 1 is the deadline to return the applications and supporting documents, and that the Board would review the applications and select individuals for interview or further consideration. VI. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS None. VII. ACTION AGENDA A. Second Reading: JLD - Guidance and Counseling Policy Policy JLD, Guidance and Counseling Program, was submitted for the Board's review and first reading approval in January. It was presented for second review and final approval at this time. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the policy on second reading. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. B. First Reading: IAA - Professional Development A new policy for Professional Development was presented for the Board's first reading and approval. Regulations for administration of the policy were also provided for the Board's review and comments. Dr. Bonnie Lesley and Marion Woods, Staff Development Specialist, were present to respond to questions. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the policy on first reading. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 25, 2001 Page 5 C. 21 st Century Community Learning Centers Grant The U. S. Department of Education recently notified the District that we were selected to receive $1,628,454 over a three-year period for expansion and implementation of the 21 st Century Community Leaming Centers. This award will improve the current program by establishing four new sites at Meadowcliff Elementary, Southwest Middle School, J. A. Fair High School, and the Alternative Leaming Center. Marion Baldwin, Director of the McClellan Community Education Center, prepared the application and presented it for the Board's consideration and approval. Ms. Strickland made a motion to accept the proposal as submitted, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. D. Safe & Drug Free Schools and Communities Application JoEvelyn Elston submitted the District's 2000-01 Safe & Drug Free Schools & Communities application for the Board's review and approval. As a recipient of federal funds, we are required to implement a drug abuse prevention program in grades K- 12. Our allocation for the current school year is $127,645 . Ms. Strickland made a motion to approve the submission as presented. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. E. Student Calendar, 2001-02 Mr. Gadberry presented the proposed student calendar for the 2001-2002 school year. In addition, a calendar for the three extended year schools was also submitted for Board approval. Representatives of the three Pulaski County Districts met to align the calendars to the degree possible and all three Districts will begin classes on August 23, 2001 . Mr. Berkley moved to approve the calendars as presented. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. F. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to graciously accept the donations. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Kurrus read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Central High School Refrigerator/freezer valued at Linda's Used Furniture approximately S 150.00 Jefferson Elementary School Microwave oven, valued at $80.00 for use Mr. & Mrs. John Deering in the teachers lounge Buzzer system, valued at approximately Jefferson Elementary PT A $500.00 for use in quiz bowl and other competitions Pulaski Heights Middle School Signet oboe,valued at $1,000 to the Band Ms. Janet Aronson Deoartment REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 25, 2001 Page 6 G. Personnel Changes Personnel items were printed in the agenda and the administration recommended approval of the items presented. In addition, a temporary salary adjustment for Linda Austin, Interim Director of the Safe Schools/Healthy Students Initiative, was recommended. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve personnel items as presented. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. H. Financials The monthly financial reports were provided for review and approval. Dr. Stewart provided an explanation of the revenue shortfalls reflected in the report
that they are due to collection of delinquent taxes by Pulaski County. He also reported that he and Mr. Milhollen would be meeting with campus leadership teams to develop next year's budget and that they would be better prepared to meet with the Board after each campus had set their primities. Dr. Stewart predicted that the budget would be tight and that we would have to "get leaner" for a number of reasons, including state funding shortfalls, the need to increase teacher salaries, and fund the initiatives established to improve student achievement. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve the financial reports as presented. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. SUSPENSION OF THE RULES Ms. Magness made a motion to suspend the rules in order to consider an item not previously presented as an agenda item. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Gadberry presented a proposal for making up the four student attendance days that were missed due to inclement weather in December and January. The days would be made up on February 19, March 5, March 23 and April 13. These days were previously noted on the calendar as parent conference, staff development, and teacher record days. The teachers will make up the days at the end of the school year or on their own time. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the change in the student attendance calendar. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT A. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs reminded the Board that open enrollment for the 2001-02 school year was currently in progress through February 2. School Open Houses and "check-us-out" activities were also being held at all schools across the District. He issued an invitation for parents to visit their neighborhood schools and review the other options available to them through the Student Registration Office. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 25, 2001 Page 7 He also reported that development of the Covenant was continuing and that he and other District administrators were currently meeting with building principals, campus leadership teams, brokers and parents to gain input before finalizing the language of the Covenant, which will be incorporated into existing policy. B. Budget Update No report. C. Construction Report on Bond Projects Mr. Goodman's report on current bond projects was printed as a part of the Board's agenda. He was present to respond to questions. D. Internal Auditor's Report Mr. Becker was present and noted that he was available to meet with the Board members individually or as a group at their discretion. His monthly report was printed as a part of the monthly agenda. E. SF Update Vanessa Cleaver, Coordinator of the ational Science Foundation Grant for the District, presented a brief slide show highlighting some of the successes of the LR CPMSA initiative. In addition, Dennis Glasgow, Marcelline Carr, Trish Killingsworth, Docia Jones and Renee Kovach were present. A printout of the slides was distributed for the Board's review and for future reference. X. ANNOUNCEMENTS one XI. HEARINGS one EXECUTIVE SESSIO The Board agreed unanimously to convene an executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. The session began at 7:45 p.m. The Board returned from executive session at 8:25 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 25, 2001 Page 8 XII. ADJOURNMENT There bemg no further business before the Board, Mr. Kurrus moved to adjourn at 8:25 p.m. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. APPROVED: d._ J
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., '- Katherine Mitchell, President LITI'LE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 9, 2001 MAR l 6 20u The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Friday, February 9, 2001, in the conference room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESE T: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSE T: Mike Daugherty ALSO PRESE T: one. I. CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 5: 10 p.m. Six members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETI G The meeting was called for the purpose of reviewing the applications for the position of Superintendent of Schools. There was no printed agenda. III. EXECUTIVE SESSIO Mr. Kurrus moved for the Board to convene an executive session for the purpose of reviewing personnel information. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. The Board returned from executive session at 6:15 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING February 9, 2001 Page2 IV. ACTION Larry Berkley made a motion to invite Dr. Mary Guinn and Dr. Ken James to interview for the position of Superintendent of the Little Rock School District. Tony Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IV. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m. \ i CJfi~ PlkitJG
Katherine Mitchell, President APPROVED: J -dJ_ O I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 REC IVEO APR 1 0 2001 OlfiGE r DE8EGREGATIO ITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2001, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Six members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 6:08 p.m. In addition, ex-officio representatives to the Board were also present: Karisa ichols, teacher at Dunbar Magnet Middle School, and Ahran Washington, student'at McClellan High School. II. READI G OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular meeting of January 25, 2001, and a special meeting on February 9, 2001, were presented for approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. REGULAR BOARD MEETI G February 22, 2001 Page 2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. STUDENT PERFORMANCE Students from the Baseline Elementary School Show Choir performed two selections for the audience. They were directed by Mr. Will Dunn, Baseline music teacher. B. SUPERINTENDENT'S CITATIO S Dr. Carnine introduced Leon Modeste to present certificates of appreciation to coordinators of the diversity training "Learning to Cope with Differences." The coordinators present included: Leon Adams, Marion Baldwin, Susan Chapman, Dennis Glasgow, Kathy Lease, Marian Shead-Jackson, Linda Watson, and Marion Woods. In addition, Mable Donaldson and Marie Mc eal participated as trainers in the sessions but were unable to be present at the meeting. Ex-officio members of the Board were also presented with certificates in recognition of their service for the month of February
teacher representative Karisa Nichols, from Dunbar Magnet Middle School, and student representative Ahran Washington from McClellan High School. C. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the new partnerships, Mr. Rose seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Newly established partnerships include: M. L. King Interdistrict Magnet School - represented by Debbie Finkbeiner, in partnership with Four Oaks Living Center - represented by JoAnn Wilson and Rodney Swaty Forest Heights Middle School - represented by Eloise Hudson and Carol Young, in partnership with Pulaski Bank & Trust - represented by Kevin Scribner Forest Heights Middle School - represented by Eloise Hudson and Carol Young, in partnership with Immanuel Baptist Church West - represented by Steve Black McClellan Community/Business High School - represented by Cherie Walker and Michelle Brown in partnership with Urban Financial Services Coalition - represented by DeMarcus Bell REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 Page 3 IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES V. A. Presentation: Vision Little Rock- Education and Youth Work Group Frank Cox and Mike Kumpuris briefly reviewed activities of the City of Little Rock Initiative - Vision Little Rock. Mr. Cox and Mr. Kumpuris serve as co-chairmen of the Vision Team for Education and Youth. They provided a written summary of the objectives established for their work group and proposed recommendations for the City of Little Rock Board. They asked the LRSD Board to provide comments or recommendations to be included in their presentation to the city. B. Clementine Kelly, President of Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association, noted that teachers were busy and were looking forward to the remainder of the school year. She announced Read Across America to be held in March, and noted that teachers were also preparing for spring achievement testing. She stated that she had enjoyed working with Dr. Carnine and she wanted the Board to know that she appreciated his support and willingness to meet with CT A representatives on a monthly basis. She also expressed appreciation for Sadie Mitchell and the assistance she receives when contacting Ms. Mitchell's office. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Rose stated that he recognized and appreciated that more churches are partnering with District schools as a result of Sharefest. He announced that he had attended an open forum where several legislators, including Senator Blanche Lincoln, Lieutenant Governor Winthrop Rockefeller, and others discussed the needs of public schools. Mr. Rose also reported that a group of students from our District had visited his workplace at UALR as a part of the Share America collaborative. He was very impressed and happy to see the manner in which these students represented the District and their school. Dr. Daugherty thanked the city for their recent vote to invest in the central Little Rock neighborhoods by working to preserve areas around older schools. Mr. Kurrus thanked Frank Cox for his presentation and for the work of the Vision Little Rock team. He also expressed appreciation to the Baseline students who performed for the Board and he thanked the Baseline parents for their support. Mr. Kurrus also noted that he had attended the Daisy Bates Memorial Garden dedication ceremony. He was pleased to see that people from all backgrounds were represented at the ceremony and were celebrating together for a common interest. He invited the audience to "step into our world" in celebrating the diversity of our school district. Mr. Kurrus noted that the L. R. Central High School women's soccer team placed first and the men placed second in a recent statewide tournament. He thanked the great volunteers and community supporters for all their hard work with these teams, especially volunteer Bill Spivey who coaches the women's team. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 Page 4 Ms. Magness announced the final wrap-up session for the Study Circles. The meeting will be on March 1, 6:00 p.m., at Parkview Magnet School. There were 15 study circles with over 180 participants. Their work will provide the framework for development of improvement plans for our high schools. Dr. Mitchell applauded the efforts of the campus leadership teams and their participation in Quality Workshops. She noted that our principals are serious about the process of improving the quality of leadership and learning in our schools. Dr. Mitchell also announced that she had written a letter to Dr. Carnine commending him for his leadership over the past four years. She thanked him for his work in the LRSD and stated that the Board would expect his continued support of the Little Rock School District. Dr. Mitchell then announced the schedule for interviewing the candidates for Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Mary Guinn will interview on Sunday, February 25 and Dr. Ken James will interview on Wednesday, February 28. Public receptions will be held and an opportunity will be provided for district staff to meet with both of the candidates. She noted that the Board was hoping to make their decision as soon as possible and that a public announcement would be made as soon as the interview process was complete. VI. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Students Roy Baker, Rani Cooksey, Madra McAdoo, Jake Phillips, Justin Schieder, and Samir Shah each spoke to the Board regarding the exemption of second semester senior students from semester testing. They argued that this incentive was worthy of the Board's reconsideration due to the fact that they felt it motivated and encouraged students to do their best in their day-to-day academics and attendance. They provided strict guidelines for earning the incentive and asked for the Board's approval. It was noted that the students who qualified for the exemption were those who would most likely not benefit by the grades earned on a single test and that their class grade point averages were already high enough that passing or failing one additional test would not affect their final grades. After the student presentation, Mr. Berkley made a motion to move the action on this issue to this point in the agenda so that the students who were present could hear the remainder of the Board's discussion and the outcome of their vote. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The vote will be reported as Item A under the Action agenda. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 Page 5 VII. ACTION AGENDA A. Semester Exam Exemption The issue of exemptions from semester exams for high school seniors was brought back to the table for additional discussion and review at the request of Mr. Kurrus as a result of petitions presented by students from each of the high schools. The issue had been on the Board's agenda previously in August 2000, and again in October 2000. The administration had recommended that no exemptions be allowed and that all students be required to take their final exams. Building principals met as a group with Dr. Lacey, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Schools. Dr. Lacey presented the recommendations of the building leaders and responded to questions from the Board. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the student's request for exemptions from semester exams for second semester seniors. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion. After a great deal of discussion and a review of the students' proposal, Mr. Rose made a motion to amend the recommendation to require students to earn a grade of 85% or higher for each of the nine-weeks grading periods instead of 80% noted in the proposal and petition. Dr. Daugherty seconded the amendment to the motion, but the motion to amend failed 3-4. On the original motion to approve the students' request for exemptions from testing for second semester seniors, the motion carried 5-2 with Dr. Mitchell and Ms. Strickland casting the "no" votes. B. Second Reading: IAA - Professional Development The policy for Professional Development was presented for the Board's first reading approval at the January 2000 Board meeting and was brought before the Board at this time for second reading and final approval. Regulations for administration of the policy were also provided for the Board's review and comment. Mr. Kum1s made a motion to approve the policy on second reading. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. C. First Reading: AB - The People and Their School District Board policy AB, The People and Their School District, was presented for the Board's review and approval on first reading. This policy is intended as an affirmation of the Board's commitment to the Covenant, which was approved by the Board in January. The policy and Covenant will be made a part of a court submission, which is due to be filed in mid-March. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve policy AB on first reading, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. REGULAR BOARD MEETI G February 22, 2001 Page 6 D. First Reading: Fiscal Policies The Board received copies of fiscal policies DFA - Revenues from Investments/Use of Surplus Funds, and DJ - Purchasing, for review and first reading approval. In addition, procurement regulations DJ-Rl were provided for information only. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the policies as presented. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. E. First Reading: Evaluation of Instructional Programs Policy IL, Evaluation of Instructional Programs, was presented for first reading approval. Evaluation instruments will be developed and designed by the local schools in conjunction with the Division of Curriculum and Instruction. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the policy on first reading with an amendment to delete reference to the Research Advisory Committee. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion to approve the policy as amended on first reading, and it carried unanimously. F. QZAB Funding Application The Arkansas Department of Education recently released application forms for Qualified Zone Academy Bonds (QZAB)for reimbursement of costs related to energy projects which will be considered by the State Board of Education at their regular April Meeting. Dr. Stewart reported that he had met with state representatives regarding our application and eligibility issues. It was clear from these meetings that not all of the funding would be approved on the first submission
it was estimated that only $4.6 million would be available on the first round. It is expected that we will receive partial reimbursement on the first application and that we would then re-file on the second grant period. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the application for submission to the State. Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. Dr. Daugherty was absent during part of the action portion of the agenda. He returned at approximately 8:50 p.m. G. Space for Continuous Instruction Centt
r The Board was asked to approve a lease agreement with Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church to provide space for a Continuous Instruction Center as part of the Safe Schools Grant. The church has agreed to provide the space and custodial services necessary for implementation of the program. This center will replace the center which was located at Temple of Restoration Church. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the lease agreement, Mr. Kurrus seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 Page 7 H. Approval of Revised Construction Project Estimates Dr. Stewart and Mr. Gadberry presented a proposal for increasing the budgeted amounts for several of the largest construction and renovation projects across the District. It was estimated that an additional $10.3 million would be needed, including $2.8 million for a District Technology Center. The Technology Center would provide space for Information Services staff, Technology staff, Voice Communications equipment and staff, a Help Desk, Technology Equipment, training rooms, and a production facility. Administration requested the Board's approval of the revised budget. The other projects that would require an increase in the budget at this time include Mabelvale Middle School, Hall High School, and Central High School. It is also anticipated that additional funding will be needed for the renovations at Mann Magnet, but the architect, engineer, and construction firms have not yet completed their assessments of the structural problems at that site. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to approve the proposal for increasing the construction budget at these sites. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion. After a lengthy discussion, the Board asked for additional information in order to determine the need for the Technology Center, and asked that they be allowed to approve the proposal for funding the projects listed, excluding the Tech Center at this time. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to amend the original motion to defer approval of the Tech Center, but approve the project list for Mabelvale Middle School, Hall High School, and Central High School. Dr. Daugherty seconded the amendment to the motion and it carried unanimously. The amended motion carried unanimously. I. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance ofrecent donations to the District. Ms. Strickland made a motion to graciously accept the donations. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Kurrus read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DO ATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR > Booker Arts Magnet Elementary School $500 cash for purchase of athletic Carson & Associates, Inc. equipment Chicot Elementary School $100 cash to purchase school unifonns for Wal-Man Store #124 students Geyer Springs Elementary School $800 cash for purchase of stage risers Geyer Springs PTA $100 cash for purchase of games for students Mabelvale Middle School Workstation for front office valued at Greg Han of Southern Otftce Supply $2,000 Wilson Elementary School Vision machine, valued at approximately Cheryl Chapman & Chara Stewan of $ I ,500 for health room UALR Share America Program Little Rock School District 26 Sony TV's & rolling cans for Avaya Commumca11ons distribution to the schools. Total value approximately $14,8 12.00 REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 Page 8 J. Personnel Changes Personnel items were printed in the agenda and the administration recommended approval of the items as presented. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the personnel items presented. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. K Financials The monthly financial reports were provided for review and approval. In addition, Mr. Milhollen introduced Don Smith from the Thomas & Thomas Auditing Firm who reported on the District's annual audit. The audit had been provided for the Board's review and approval at the February agenda meeting. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the monthly financial reports and the District's annual audit report. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERI TENDENT A. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs reported that he has been working with our attorneys to complete the Covenant and the court filing that is due in mid-March. In addition, the student registration office has been preparing the mail out of letters to all homes next week notifying students of their 2001-02 school assignments. All open enrollment and assignment activities are reported to be on schedule at this time. B. Budget Update Dr. Stewart reported that his staff had been working on the 2001-02 budget submission
plans are to present them for discussion by the Board at the March agenda meeting. C. Construction Report on Bond Projects ) Mr. Goodman's report on current bond projects was printed as a part of the Board's agenda. Mr. Eaton was present to respond to questions. Dr. Daugherty requested information on the Districts' hiring of small business construction firms, those with 25 or fewer employees. D. Internal Auditor's Report Mr. Becker's report was printed as a part of the Board's agenda. No additional information was requested at this time. REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 Page 9 E. Technology Update Lucy Neal provided a brief report to advise the Board on technology activities since her last report in December. The technology plan that was submitted to the Arkansas Department of Education in December was approved and our E-rate application was completed and submitted. She reported that the State had approved our grant application that will provide summer training for teachers as part of a partnership with the UALR Technology Department. Ms. Neal announced that the Tech 2000 Work Group would be meeting next week and she invited the Board and staff members to attend. She noted that EDS representatives had been interviewing key District technology staff and that they would be reporting back to the Board on their findings. Related to the Board's decision to delay approval of the request for budgetary consideration of a Tech Center, Ms. Neal briefly reviewed some of the reasons this was a critical need for the District's technology and information services operations. She will be providing additional information to identify operational savings that would be realized by housing the technology equipment and staff in a centralized location. F. Title IX Report The Board received a written report as requested. Once they have had a chance to review the report and request additional information they will place it back on the agenda for further discussion. G. Teacher Recruitment The Executive Summary of the Recruitment and Placement Services Annual Report was printed as a part of the Board's agenda. Dr. Hurley and Mr. Robinson responded to questions from the Board. X. ANNOUNCEMENTS None XI. HEARINGS one REGULAR BOARD MEETING February 22, 2001 Page 10 XII. ADJOURNME T There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved to adjourn at 9:10 p.m. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 3 -11 0/ X4LJ~ Katherine Mitchell, President 1 , LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 4, 2001 r APR 10 2001 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION M01 ITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Sunday, March 4, 2001, in the board conference room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 2:06 p.m. All members of the Board were present at roll call. TI. PURPOSE OF THE MEETI G The meeting was called for the purpose of selecting the next Superintendent of Schools for the Little Rock School District. There was no printed agenda. III. EXECUTIVE SESSIO Mr. Kurrus moved for the Board to convene an executive session for the purpose of reviewing personnel information. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board moved into the Boardroom at 3: 10 p.m. and opened the meeting to the public. Dr. Mitchell reported that the Board was returning from executive session and that no action had been taken. , SPECIAL BOARD MEETI G March 4, 2001 Page2 IV. ACTION Dr. Daugherty made a motion to extend an offer and employment contract to Dr. Ken James for the position of Superintendent of the Little Rock School District, effective July 1, 2001. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IV. ADJOURNME T The meeting adjourned at 3:12 p.m. APPROVED: J<lJ.Q/ Katherine Mitchell, President I ( // ,} LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT EIVED MAR 1 G 2001 March 9, 2001 Ann Marshall, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting held on January 25 and February 9, 2001. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if I can provide additional information. Sincerely, ~ Beverly J. Griffin Executive Assistant to the Superintendent Enclosures 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLEROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Tuesday, March 13, 2001, in the board room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Baker Kurrus ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER ECEIVED MAY 14 200i OIRGEQf President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 6:13 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call. Six members of the Board were present
Mr. Kurrus was absent. In addition, ex-officio members of the Board were also present
Tonya Johnson, teacher from Forest Heights Middle School, and Michael Gutierrez, student from Parkview Magnet High School. Prior to calling the meeting to order, Dr. Mitchell asked Ray Gillespie, Athletic Director, and Marian Lacey, Assistant Superintendent, to present a report on Title IX activities and compliance. Members of the Board asked questions regarding athletic expenditures, and equity between male and female athletic budgets. Dr. Daugherty requested that more recognition be given to female athletic achievements during Board meetings. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 2001 Page2 II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the meeting included the following items for action: I. Compliance Submission II. Technology Center ill. 2001-02 Budgetary Considerations IV. Student Reinstatement Petition V. Employee Hearing III. ACTION I. Compliance Submission Chris Heller, attorney for the LRSD, presented the Compliance Report that was prepared for filing with the Court on March 15. The information provided by Mr. Heller also included a proposal for settlement with the Arkansas Department of Education of the $20 million desegregation loan and future State funding options. The Board had been briefed prior to the meeting and was asked to approve the compliance agreement for filing. Mr. Berkley made a motion to submit the completed document on March 15, 2001. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. II. Technology Center Don Stewart provided a revision of the capitol projects report for the Board's review in consideration of adding funding for a District Technology Center. The Tech Center would provide additional training space, computer labs, space for telephone equipment, a help desk, and all of the technology employees who are housed in the administration building and in the Instructional Resource Center. It is hoped that the Center can be located in the southwest area of the city, near Metropolitan. Additional information will be provided prior to the regular March Board meeting. The administration requested that the Board place this on the agenda for approval at that time. III. 2001-02 Budgetary Considerations Dr. Stewart briefly reviewed a listing of possible areas for budget reduction in the 2001-02 school year. He noted that the Board and the administration must work over the next few weeks and months to "re-set priorities" and decide where expenses can be reduced. He suggested areas for possible reductions as travel, administrative staff positions, certified, and non-certified staff. He noted that the intent is for eliminating positions by attrition and there is no intent to "pink-slip" anyone. There was also a brief discussion regarding the possibility of a severance package for up to 150 employees who voluntarily resigned from SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 2001 Page 3 their positions. He noted that this was not intended to be an "early retirement" package as was offered several years ago, but a way to eliminate some of the higher paid positions. Mr. Rose suggested that budget managers be required to provide narrative budget justification requests. Dr. Stewart noted that he would consider that request as the process continues. EXECUTIVE SESSION IV. The Board was asked to convene an executive session for the purpose of hearing student and employee appeal petitions. Ms. Magness moved for the executive session at 7:45 p.m. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. Student Reinstatement Petition Linda Watson presented a reinstatement petition from Lemond Smith, a 13-year-old student who was expelled from Southwest Middle School on May 25, 2000. He had been attending Pulaski Alternative Leaming Academy for the past year, and was asking for permission to return to the LRSD. Dr. Watson recommended placement at the Juvenile Justice Center's Step One Alternative Program, where he can begin to earn regular school credits. If he is successful, he can then be transitioned into a regular school setting. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the administration's recommendation for placement at the JJC. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. V. Employee Hearing Dr. Carnine recommended the termination of Carver Magnet Elementary School Teacher Angie Sunderman. The letter of termination stated that the recommendation was based on conduct unbecoming of a Little Rock School District teacher. Specifically, she: I) failed to notify building principal of her arrests, per Article 7, Section 12 of the P.N. agreement
and 2) her arrests indicate unprofessional conduct which fails to meet the competencies expected of a teaching professional (ie: uses sound judgement
promotes respect for the teaching profession
and is socially well-adjusted.) Ms. Sunderman requested a Board hearing on the recommended termination. The hearing was conducted pursuant to this request and was held in a closed session. Dick Hurley, Director of Human Resources, presented the administration's case against Ms. Sunderman. Dr. Hurley notified her on January 18, 2001, that she was being placed on administrative leave with pay, pending an LRSD investigation into allegations that she SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 2001 Page 4 was involved in possessing and manufacturing illegal drugs. Dr. Hurley told the Board that Ms. Sunderman had been arrested and charged for various drug offences. Dr. Hurley introduced the arresting officers to explain the circumstances of Ms. Sunderman's arrest. They informed the Board that her arrest was based on the fact that illegal drugs were found in her residence together with the tools and ingredients for the manufacture of meth-amphetamines. Following the administration's presentation, Ms. Sunderman told the Board that she' was not guilty of the charges and that the items the officers said were used to manufacture meth-amphetamines were common household items which she had not used for that purpose. Ms. Sunderman said that she was in jail for 2 days after her arrest, and that once released on bond, she made an effort to contact her supervisor. She admitted that she did not reach her supervisor by telephone and did not leave a message. The Board members convened in private to discuss their options and returned at 9:15 p.m. Dr. Carnine reiterated the basis for his termination recommendation set out in his letter of January 22, 2001, to Ms. Sunderman, but suggested that the Board might modify the termination recommendation to a suspension without pay pending adjudication of the criminal charges against Ms. Sunderman. The Board voted to find as fact that Ms. Sunderman had failed to notify her immediate supervisor in a timely manner of the criminal charges filed against her as required by the PN Agreement. The Board then voted to find as fact that Ms. Sunderman engaged in conduct unbecoming of a LRSD teacher. Finally, the Board voted to suspend Ms. Sunderman without pay pending the resolution of the criminal charges against her. The Board returned from the closed session to report that the Board unanimously voted to suspend Ms. Sunderman without pay pending the resolution of the criminal charges against her. It was noted that a non-renewal letter would be sent to Ms. Sunderman. However, once the case is heard in court and a final determination is made on the criminal charges pending, Ms. Sunderman would be allowed further consideration of her employment status. EXECUTIVE SESSIO The Board reconvened the executive session at 9: 15 p.m. for the purpose of discussing a personnel issue. They returned at 9:35 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. Mr. Berkley made a motion to offer a base salary of $141,000 annually to Dr. Ken James for the position of Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2001. Mr. Rose seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The Board agreed by consensus to authorize President Katherine Mitchell to meet with the attorneys to get the appropriate contract drafted for Dr. James' review and approval. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 13, 2001 Page 5 IV. ADJOURNME T There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Rose, seconded by Mr. Berkley. 'tdlwJfl~Wu Katherine Mitchell, President APPROVED: ~-l&-0/ LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 19, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Monday, March 19, 2001, in the board room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Tony Rose Sue Strickland ne El ED ~~'( 1 !\ 700\ -= ~,roa\ll MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 5:07 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call. All members of the Board were present. Dr. Mitchell noted that Dr. Don Roberts, previous Superintendent of Schools, was present. In addition, Dr. Ken James, the next Superintendent of Schools, was also in attendance. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose ofreviewing a settlement agreement that was approved by the Arkansas Board of Education. Mr. Chris Heller, attorney with the Friday, Eldredge & Clark firm, was present to review the document and provide information. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING March 19, 2001 Page2 III. ACTION IV. Mr. Heller conducted a briefreview of the settlement agreement which was approved on this date by the Arkansas Board of Education. He noted that on-going discussions would be held with Attorney John Walker regarding the terms of the agreement as related to the LRSD's obligations to the desegregation plan. He explained the benefits of the agreement related to the effect on the statewide school funding formula in that the manner in which the LRSD structures its bond sales and repayment schedules would have an effect on the amount of school funding the State must pay to other school districts. Under the terms of the agreement the State will not attempt to reduce funding for LRSD desegregation programs for at least seven years. After seven years, the State would be free to seek modifications to the agreement as it relates to funding of those programs. In addition, $15 million of the desegregation loan would be forgiven immediately and the remaining $5 million would be forgiven if the LRSD is granted unitary status and released from federal court supervision by July 1, 2004. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to approve the agreement between the State of Arkansas and the LRSD. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 5 :20 p.m. on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. ~
/~ {fu&u Katherine Mitchell, President APPROVED: L/ 'J.~ 0 I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 22, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 22, 2001, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Vice President Baker Kum1s presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Katherine Mitchell ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER RECEIVED Mt>.Y 14100\ Vice President Baker Kurrus called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Six members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Mitchell was absent. In addition, ex-officio representatives to the Board were also present: Tonya Johnson, teacher at Forest Heights Middle School, and Michael Gutierrez, student at Parkview Magnet High School. II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular meeting of February 22, 2001, and a special meeting on March 4, 2001, were presented for approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Ms. Magness. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 22, 2001 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT'S CITATIONS Dr. Carnine presented a certificate from the Arkansas School Boards Association to Tony Rose in recognition of his completion of six hours of inservice training for new Board members. Diane Vibhaker was introduced and thanked for her volunteer service to the District. Ms. Vibhaker recently led the Study Circles sessions by providing support and technical assistance to volunteers who met over the course of several weeks. This effort was funded by the Carnegie Corporation and is intended to provide public input for improvements in the Districts five high schools. Dr. Carnine introduced Paulette Mabry who coaches the Central High School women's swim team. Ms. Mabry introduced team members and recognized several individuals for their achievements. Students who perform on the team include: Christina Horton, Ann Campbell, Emily Evans, Lauren Frost, Elizabeth Hoffman, and Laura Beth May. The Central High School men's basketball team recently won the 5-A statewide championship for the second time in the past three years. Coach Oliver Fitzpatrick could not be present at this meeting, but Coach Craig Bankhead and Assistant Principal Daniel Whitehorn were present along with several members of the winning team. Ex-officio members of the Board were presented with certificates in recognition of their service for the month of March
teacher representative Tonya Johnson, from Forest Heights Middle School, and student representative Michael Gutierrez from Parkview Magnet High School. The Superintendent announced the annual VIPS celebration, An Evening for the Stars, to be held on April 10 at Ricks Armory. In addition, he introduced Thelma Jasper, PT A Council President, who made a brief announcement regarding this year's PT A membership drive. Districtwide membership has increased over the past three years from approximately 12,000 members to over 18,000 members. Twenty-one schools achieved 100% membership, and Central High and Mann Magnet Middle School each have over 1000 members. She thanked Dr. Carnine for provide incentives to the schools for membership increases and for his three years ofleadership. B. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Ms Magness made a motion to accept the new partnerships, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 22, 2001 Page 3 Newly established partnerships include: Parkview Magnet High School - represented by Linda Brown & Fred Boosey, in partnership with Arkansas Repertory Theatre - represented by Ann Muse, and Lelie Golden In addition to the partnership presentation, Ms. Milam introduced two new members of the VIPS office staff who will be involved with the Parent Involvement component. Kaye Rainey is the Parent Involvement Coordinator, and Stella Loya is the ESL Parent Liaison. Each of these individuals took a moment to introduce themselves to the Board and provide a brief explanation of their responsibilities within the Parent Involvement office. IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES V. Eleanor Coleman, former President of the Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association, was present representing the organization, as Ms. Kelley could not attend. REPORT ON LITERACY PROGRAMS The Board agreed by consensus to reorder the agenda to hear a report on the District's Literacy Programs. Pat Price, Director of Early Childhood Programs, and Suzi Davis, Director of English and Foreign Language, made a slide show presentation indicating progress in the literacy initiatives across the District. Board members received a written report for further reyjew of test data, and the final summary indicated that student achievement improved Districtwide after the first year of the new literacy curriculum. VI. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Rose thanked Ms. Price and Ms. Davis for their report. He was pleased to note the District's improved test scores and stated, "As we experience success, we expect more success. . . as we improve, we will go places." Ms. Magness reported that Gibbs students and their parents are at this time on an exchange trip to Lion, France, attending school in that city. They are having a wonderful time in Lion, have visited Barcelona and will travel to Paris before returning home. Mr. Berkley stated that the Literacy Program report was good news, and that the information reinforces that once we are freed from some of the requirements of the old desegregation plan that we will be better able to focus on the things that really matter to our students. He is looking forward to hearing more progress reports over the next year. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 22, 2001 Page4 VII. Mr. Kurrus read a written statement from Dr. Katherine Mitchell, who was attending a ational School Boards Association meeting in San Diego. Her statement expressed appreciation to Dr. Carnine for his leadership and to the District's entire staff for their dedication to the children of our city. She noted that the agreement between the District and the State of Arkansas, along with the recent submission of the compliance report to the Federal Court, were monumental moments in our District's history and would mark the beginning of a new era of academic progress for our children. She thanked the rest of the Board members for their work and commitment of time expended in the successful search for a new superintendent. She thanked the Chan1ber of Commerce for their assistance and members of the community who provided their support and input into the process of selecting the next leader for our District. After completing Dr. Mitchell's comments, Mr. Kurrus stated that he felt it was very noteworthy that we have reached a settlement with the State, and that as a part of this settlement, the District will not be required to repay $15 million in desegregation loan funds. The release from repayment of this loan is due to the way in which the District has agreed to restructure its bond sales and debt repayment. He noted that there are twenty private schools within his zone, and that he continues to be amazed that the District's successes are still "secret," even though we continue to demonstrate that we are a successful school district. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Delores Logan addressed the Board regarding the importance of the HIPPY Program to the pre-school aged youngsters in our District. She stated that 3, 4, and 5 year olds are provided one-on-one assistance in their home environment to help them become ready for school. These aides work with the parents in order to help them know how to teach their children the skills they need when they enter kindergarten. She urged the Board to continue to support funding for the HIPPY program. Elizabeth Daley, parent of students at Parkview Magnet High School, asked the Board to review the course credit requirements at that school. She feels that there will be a potential problem for her son to earn the Honors Seal on his diploma because he is enrolled in the ROTC program. She asked that ROTC curriculum credits be counted in lieu of the technology course requirements, or that the administrators at Parkview be directed to come up with a way for ROTC students to be eligible for the Honors Seal. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 22, 2001 Page 5 VIII. ACTION AGENDA A. Second Reading: AB - The People and Their School District Board policy AB, The People and Their School District, was presented for the Board's review and approval on first reading at the February meeting of the Board. This policy is intended as an affirmation of the Board's commitment to the Covenant, which was approved by the Board in January and is presented at this time for second reading approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve policy AB on second reading, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Second Reading: Fiscal Policies The Board received copies of fiscal policies DFA - Revenues from Investments/Use of Surplus Funds, and DJ - Purchasing, for second reading approval. These policies were approved on first reading in February 2001. Procurement regulations DJ-Rl were provided for information only. Ms. Magness moved to approve the policies on second reading. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. C. Second Reading: Evaluation of Instructional Programs Policy IL, Evaluation of Instructional Programs, was presented for approval on second reading. First reading approval was granted at the February Board meeting, with a modification to remove reference to the Research Committee. Mr. Rose made a motion to approve the policy on second reading. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Lease Agreement: Stephens Elementary School The Board was asked to approve a ninety-nine year reciprocal agreement that allows the city sufficient property to operate the community center at Stephens Elementary School and, in return, the LRSD will be allowed to maintain its educational facility at that site. Ms. Strickland moved to approve the lease agreement, Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. E. Board Zones On the advice of Attorney Clay Fendley, the Board was asked to adopt a resolution authorizing the administration to review our compliance with the laws governing school board zones. This review is to be done every ten years after the census
the current zones were developed after the 1990 census with the assistance ofMetroplan, and were approved by Judge Wright. Ms. Magness moved to approve the suggested resolution. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETI G March 22, 2001 Page 6 F. Psychological Examiners The District's Psychological Examiners petitioned the Board requesting that they be permitted to withdraw from the L. R. Classroom Teachers' Association. The District's administration took a neutral position on the request and asked the Board to make a determination based on the information from the Examiners, taking into consideration the LRCTA's opposition to the request. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the request from the Psychological Examiners to be removed from representation by the L. R. Classroom Teachers Association. Mrs. Magness seconded the motion. Mr. Rose questioned the legality of taking such action while a valid contract is in force, and Mr. Kurrus recommended that additional discussion take place prior to making the final decision. Ms. Magness suggested that the original motion be amended to make certain that this action would not have any effect on the current contract. Although there was no formal amendment to the motion, it was agreed by consensus that there was no intent to change the current contract by approval of the Examiner's request. The motion passed, 5-1, with Mr. Kurrus casting the "no" vote. G. Short Term Debt for Bus Purchase Mr. Gadberry presented a proposal for the purchase of seven to eleven diesel buses to replace several older buses that need to be retired from the special needs transportation fleet. The administration plans to review and inspect several used buses that are available .. and if they are of good quality, we would be able to purchase eleven used buses for the same price as seven new ones. The administration requested Board approval to expend approximately $390,000 for the purchase of school buses. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the purchase. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. H. Technology: Dr. Stewart reviewed the information provided for consideration of a District Technology Center. In addition to a centralized technology facility, the Board was asked to consider the funding proposal for network systems integration and cabling for non-E-rate schools. Each of these projects was submitted as part of the total technology plan which was completed by the Tech 2000 work group. Dr. Stewart discussed purchasing existing property to house the Tech Center compared to the cost of building a new facility. An extensive report was provided as part of the printed agenda. As part of this report, Mr. Paradis, Director of Procurement, provided information on the Request for Proposals for the various services which will be contracted through outside vendors. REGULAR BOARD MEETI G March 22, 2001 Page 7 Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the administration's request to begin negotiations with EDS, and to proceed with the study and further investigation of a Technology Center site. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Prior to the actual vote, the Board qualified their action by asking for additional information prior to any contractual commitments on the Technology Center. I. Resolution in Support of PCSSD Bond Election The Pulaski County Special School District asked for the LRSD Board to publicly support their efforts to pass a millage increase in a special May 8 election. The Board was reminded that approximately 1,036 LRSD students attend school in the Pulaski County District due to M-to-M transfer options. A Resolution in Support of the Putting Children First Campaign was presented for the Board's endorsement. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the Resolution
Mr. Rose seconded the motion. It carried unanimouslv. J. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to graciously accept the donations. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. Dr. Daugherty read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Central High School S4,825.00 cash for Financial Support Central High School PTSA Grant Forest Heights Middle School Clarinet valued at $125.00 Minnie Washimzton Jefferson Elementary Planing services and u e of planting Rick Minor/Cantrell Gardens equipment valued at approximately $ I 50.00 for planting donated trees Trees, valued at approximately $ I 00.00 KA TV - Channel 7 Trees, valued at approximately SI 00.00 Dr. & Mrs. Jim Ingram Trees, valued at approximately $100.00 Carlos Munevar / Crain Kia Trees, valued at approximately S100.00 Ted Mitchell Party City Trees, valued at approximately S 100.00 Drs. Jeffrey & Laurie Barber Trees, valued at approximately $100.00 Jefferson Elementary PT A Williams Magnet Elementary Picture frames, valued at $912.0010 the Becky Tanner Art Department SI 0,000 cash for purchase of software for Williams Magnet PTA computer lab and computers for classrooms REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 22, 2001 Page 8 K Personnel Changes Personnel items were printed in the agenda and the administration recommended approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the personnel items presented. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. L. Financials The monthly financial reports were provided for review and approval. Mr. Milhollen was , present to respond to questions from the Board. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the monthly financial reports. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT A. Desegregation Update Mr. Babbs reported that since the completion of the Covenant and the March court filing, activities within his Division had calmed somewhat. The Student Registration Office had completed the general mailing of 2001-02 school assignment notification letters and the appeals process will continue throughout the summer months. B. Budget Update Dr. Stewart reported that his staff had been working on the 2001-02 budget submission, but that no meaningful budget projections could be made until the legislative session is over and final educational funding issues are determined. Building level budget amounts are being sent to each principal next week. They will not be asked to write up narrative budget projections, but they will return their budgets for review during the next few weeks. In addition, Dr. Stewart briefly discussed the upcoming bond sale that relates to the District's settlement with the State of Arkansas. Under the terms of our agreement, all of the remaining construction bonds must be sold immediately. He has been working with Stephens Inc. to get the bond sale scheduled during the first week of May. Based on current interest rates of just over 5%, it is expected that the sale will generate approximately $87 million. Our goal is to get the District's 2002 calendar year debt payment to $11.8 million dollars in order to keep the District's budget neutral. He stated that the process is a real "balancing act" due to the nature of interest rates and that they were all hopeful that there will be a favorable interest rate on the day of the sale. .. REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 22, 2001 Page 9 C. Construction Report on Bond Projects Mr. Goodman's report on current bond projects was printed as a part of the Board's agenda, and he was present to respond to the Board's questions. Dr. Daugherty thanked Mr. Goodman for providing the report on our general contractors. D. Internal Auditor's Report Mr. Becker's report was printed as a part of the Board's agenda. No additional information was requested at this time. X. ANNOUNCEMENTS None XI. HEARINGS None XII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Berkley moved to adjourn at 8:35 p.m. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: l.f-)(,-01 Jjl! {f
::u,t!f~ REC1VED LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MAY 14 200\ MI UTES O'fflCEOf llSfr.t:ltEA':"J \i\Otutti\KQ SPECIAL BOARD MEETI G April 3, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Tuesday, April 3, 2001 , in the Board conference room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESE T: Katherine Mitchell Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Baker Kurrus Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSE T: Tony Rose ALSO PRESENT: I. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call. Six members of the Board were present
Mr. Rose was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of approving the negotiated contract for the new Superintendent, Dr. T. Kenneth James. III. ACTION Members of the Board had been provided copies of the contract negotiated between the District and Dr. T. Kenneth James, effective July 1, 2001 . Mr. Kurrus made a motion to approve the contract. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Dr. Mitchell noted that the formal signing of the contract would take place at the Board's agenda meeting, April 12, 2001, where Dr. James would be present. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 3, 2001 Page 2 IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 5:04 p.m. on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Ms. Strickland. Katherine Mitchell, President APPROVED: t.f-J.~ O I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT D APR l O 2001 OFfiCEOF DESEGREGATION MO ITORING April 4, 2001 Ann Marshall, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting held on February 22 and March 4, 2001. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if I can provide additional information. Sincerely, ~ Beverly J. Griffin Executive Assistant to the Superintendent Enclosures 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012 ' LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 12, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, April 12, 2001, in the board room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESE T: Katherine Mitchell Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Baker Kurrus ALSO PRESE T: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes Mary Rutherford, Student Ex-Officio Representative I. CALL TO ORDER l\!CEI E MAY 14 'lil \ President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 5: 17 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call. Six members of the Board were present
Mr. Kurrus was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of approving summer school principal assignments and to conduct an employee hearing. In addition, the Board agreed by consensus to suspend their own rules to consider an item not previously noted as an action agenda item, Approval to Establish a Wellness Clinic at McClellan High School. SPECIAL BOARD MEETI G April 12, 2001 Page2 Ill. ACTION IV. A. Summer School Principal Assignments The Board was provided with a list of summer school sites and the administration's recommendations for principal and assistant principal assignments to those sites. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the recommended personnel assignments. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The summer school sites with principal assignments are noted in the following chart: SCHOOL PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Baseline Elementary Eleanor Cox Booker Magnet Elementary Joyce Willingham Brady Elementary Ada Keown DehvinSmith Washington Magnet Elementary Les Taylor Southwest Middle School Sherry Rogers Valerie Tatum Central High School Jerome Farmer Carolyn Lamb B. McClellan High School Wellness Clinic Prior to calling the special meeting to order, Margo Swanson, Health Services Coordinator for the District, and Dr. Peggy Bell, from the UAMS College of ursing, provided information for the establishment of a School Based Health Clinic at McClellan Community High School. A memorandum of understanding between the Arkansas Department of Health and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences was provided for the Board's review. This MOU outlined the operational expectations for the clinic and provided a written overview for the Board's consideration. Ms. Magness called for a suspension of the rules in order to consider approval of the McClellan Wellness Clinic. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion to suspend the rules and it carried 6-0. Ms. Magness then moved to approve the establishment of a Wellness Clinic at McClellan Community High School, Mrs. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Magness made a motion for an executive session for the purpose of conducting an employee termination appeal hearing. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. ' . . ' - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING April 12, 2001 Page 3 The hearing convened at 6:19 p.m. Dr. Hurley provided documents from the personnel file of Mahasin Siddiq for the Board's review. Ms. Siddiq was a probationary employee who was first hired by the District in September 2000, as an Instructional Aide in one of the Continuous Instruction Centers of the Alternative Programs Division. Dr. Carnine recommended termination, and notification was sent by certified mail to Ms. Siddiq in March 2001. The recommendation for termination was based on poor performance as an instructor, and for a number of unacceptable performance factors. A copy of the individual improvement plan, which was developed by Ms. Siddiq's immediate supervisor, provided detailed areas of deficiency and misconduct. Ms. Siddiq asked for the Board to reconsider the administration's recommendation for termination and to allow her to continue to work as an instructional aide. She denied the allegations of misconduct and stated that she was under the impression that she was doing a good job. She asked for additional training and offered to be reassigned to another position ifthere was a problem with her performance at the CIC. The Board took a briefrecess to review the evidence and discuss possible options. They returned from recess and Ms. Magness moved to uphold the Superintendent's recommendation for termination. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it carried unanimouslv. The Board returned from Executive Session and reported that they had upheld the administration's recommendation for termination and that no other action was taken during the executive session. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m. on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by~ t,( /21!.,zte__,,/ Katherine Mitchell, President APPROVED: l..f.-d--& 01 EC IVED JUN 7 200! LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETI G April 26, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 26, 2001, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESE T: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Tony Rose MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without an official roll call. Six members of the Board were present
Ms. Strickland was absent. In addition, student ex-officio representative to the Board, Mary Rutherford, was also present. There was no teacher representative in attendance. EXECUTIVE SESSION Prior to the convening of the regular meeting, Ms. Magness moved for an executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel issues. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 6:00 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. The Board moved directly to the business portion of the meeting. ' REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 26, 2001 Page2 II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular meeting of March 22, 2001, and from special meetings held on March 13, March 19, April 3, and April 12, 2001, were presented for approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. III. PRESE TATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDE T'S CITATIONS Dr. Carnine introduced Rosalind Nicholson, student at McClellan High School. Ms. Nicholson is a senior, and plans to become a teacher. She recently attended the National Future Educators of America conference in New Orleans, and placed first in the essay contest. The Superintendent presented citations to Jimmie Lou Neal, kindergarten teacher at Pulaski Heights Elementary School, and Anne Hansen, Assistant Principal at Parkview Magnet High School. The Little Rock PTA Council named Ms. Neal Teacher of the Year, and Dr. Hansen Administrator of the Year at the annual PTA awards program. Students who participated in this year's Quiz Bowl were recognized for their achievements in the competitions. Dunbar Magnet School students, coached by Arthur Olds, took first place in the Middle School Division. Team members included Katie Dunn, Brint Maries, Tyler Lee, Lawrence Watts, Nathan Scarborough, and Laura Soderberg. The Elementary Division I champions were from Gibbs Magnet Elementary Sc/zoo/. Coached by Susan Branch, the team included Grace Nam, Dalton Wise, Bea Vena, Kathryn Tull, Nick Matthews, Nate Kinne, Ross Ingram, Brittany Hudson, and Joey McE!derry. Elementary Division II champions were from Western Hills Elementary Sc/zoo/. Team members were unable to attend the Board meeting, but the Superintendent announced that the team coach was Beth Collins, and members included Christian Outlaw, LeTara Moore, Brad Cook, Klayton Taunton, and Chris Rhodes. Michael Peterson, Principal of Metropolitan Career and Technical Center, announced student winners in the VICA statewide competitions, which were held in Hot Springs, April 17 - 18, 200 I. Metro students competed in each Division, and took honors including gold, silver and bronze medals. Other awards included software packages valued at $78,645.00, and scholarships totaling $13,000.00. Areas of competition included medical professions, commercial arts & photography, cosmetology, culinary arts and commercial baking, architectural drafting, computer-aided drafting, automated manufacturing, drafting, auto body repair, diesel technology, and other automotive technology. Student winners have been invited to participate in the national competitions, to be held in Kansas City, Missouri in June. REGULAR BOARD MEETI G April 26, 2001 Page 3 Dr. Carnine introduced Pat Knighten, Project WILD Coordinator at the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. Ms. Knighten presented a check to Cassandra Norman, principal of J. A. Fair High School, and Martha Rains, Fair's Science Department Chairperson. The funds are a grant for the development and expansion of the outdoor science classroom at Fair. A certificate of appreciation was presented to the student ex-officio representative to the Board for the month of May, Mary Rutherford, from Central High School. B. PART ERSINEDUCATIO Debbie Milam presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Mr. Berkley made a motion to accept the new partnerships, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Newly established partnerships include: Badgett Elementary School - represented by Mary Golston, Kim Dunahay and Wanda Varady, in partnership with Barnes & oble Books - represented by Carolyn McNutt Brady Elementary School - represented by Ada Keown and Eileen McMurry in partnership with Markham Street Baptist Church - represented by Ron Ross and members of the church family Jefferson Elementary School - represented by Roberta Mannon, in partnership with the University of Arkansas System - represented by Chiquita Munir and Lynda Bertram IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES VI. Victor McMurry, member of the Board of the Little Rock Classroom Teachers Association, was present to represent the association in Ms. Kelley's absence. There was no official report. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Magness thanked Suellen Vann and the Communications Office staff for their efforts in coordinating the Stephens Elementary School dedication ceremony. She also expressed appreciation to the organizations who participated in the dental screening of over 3,000 LRSD students. Students in eleven of our elementary schools were provided this service through collaborative efforts of Share America and UAMS, and Colgate. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 26, 2001 Page4 Mr. Kum1s announced that the Central High School women's soccer team had won against Mt. St. Mary's. He thanked the parents who support the soccer programs across the District. Mr. Kurrus also reported that he had spoken at the sixth grade honors assembly at Southwest Middle School. He was impressed by the students' behavior and was encouraged to see the excellent academic achievements of these students. Mr. Rose noted that he had also enjoyed the dedication ceremony at Stephens Elementary School and remarked that he was impressed by the speech given by Mrs. McClinton, who was one of Mrs. Stephen's former students. Mrs. McClinton expressed the impact that Mrs. Stephens had on her life, and he wanted current teachers to know the impact that they can have on their students' lives. Dr. Mitchell thanked everyone who worked on the Stephens dedication program. She congratulated Hall High School drama students for their production of Fame, and the Parkview Magnet School performing arts students who performed The Wiz. Dr. Mitchell reported that she had attended both of these performances and that she was truly impressed with the talent of our students. Dr. Mitchell also displayed a plaque received from the Arkansas School Boards Association by our Board as commendation for their participation in Board Leadership Training through the Arkansas Leadership Academy and the ASBA. She thanked Ms. Magness for encouraging our Board to participate in this very worthwhile effort. Debbie Milam was recognized for the hard work and efforts of the VIPS staff in coordinating the annual Evening for the Stars. VII. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Versie Burgess, a parent of students at Southwest Middle School, addressed the Board regarding improvements in the school climatP. over the past two years. Ms. Burgess noted that the staff moral has improved and that the atmosphere has become more pleasing to parents and community volunteers. She invited the public to visit Southwest and see that good things are happening in the school. Betty Flowers addressed the Board as a supporter of and participant in the HIPPY Program. Two of her children are HIPPY students and she is proud of the positive impact the program has had on her children's academic achievement and on their future ability to succeed in school. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 26, 2001 Page 5 Alice Gray addressed the Board on behalf of the Parkview Magnet School ROTC Program. ROTC students were also in attendance and stood at attention around the room during Ms. Gray's presentation. She asked the Board to modify current curriculum requirements to allow participation in ROTC for four years. She stated that the current requirements only allow ROTC students to participate for two years in order to be able to complete other elective requirements, specifically, two years of technology courses. Some students would like to be able to take four years of ROTC in order to qualify for grants and scholarships. Kalina Gilmore, Stephen Dailey and Denise Stephens also spoke to the issue of Parkview ROTC participation. It was noted that a minimum of 100 students must be enrolled in the program in order to maintain the current level, and each of these individuals expressed appreciation for the discipline, respect, and sense of family that are learned through their experiences in ROTC. VIII. ACTION AGE DA A. Science Textbook/ Materials Adoption Dennis Glasgow, Director of Mathematics and Science, presented the recommendations of the science textbook committee for the Board's review and adoption. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the recommended textbooks and materials. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. 2001-02 Calendar Revision The Board was asked to suspend their rules to consider revision of the 2001-02 revised school year calendar. Ms. Magness moved to suspend the rules, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The revised calendar, as provided by Mr. Gadberry, was discussed briefly. The revisions were made in response to a conflict in our previously approved calendar with the Arkansas Department of Education schedule for administration of the benchmark examinations in 2001-02. The recommended change was to move the week of spring vacation up one week. It was noted that the Pulaski County and North Little Rock School Districts would also change their spring break dates to be able to remain consistent with our calendar dates. Mr. Berkley made the motion to approve the recommended calendar for 2001-02. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 26, 2001 Page 6 C. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to graciously accept the donations. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Kurrus read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Booker Arts Magnet School $1,500 cash to purchase school sign Nell ie Leonard and Maggie Hawkins/East Broadway Neighborhood Association S 1,500 cash match for purchase of school Booker Arts Magnet School PTA sign Dunbar Magnet Middle School S 1,000 cash for Close-up trip Michael and Ti Rohr $200 cash for Close-up trip Georgiana Soderbert $2,058 cash for Close-up trip Roy and Louise Gutierrez J. A. Fair High School Covered batting cage and dressing room J. A. Fair Booster Club I Booster Club valued at aooroximatelv S 18,000 President Larry Bradley Forest Heights Middle School $300 cash to the Athletic Department at Ivy Crenshaw FHMS M. L. King Elementary Magnet $2,835.54 cash to purchase wall mounted M. L. King Magnet PTA fans for 54 classrooms McClellan Community High School 20 -$5.00 gift certificates and $1,700 cash Baseline Wal-Mart Store for student awards Metropolitan Career-Technical Center 2001 Cadillac Seville STS, valued at General Motors Corporation YES S40,000 for use in auto technolo11:v class orowam Parkview Magnet High School S900 cash to Parkview baseball prowam Jerry Peters/ Webster University LRSD English & Foreign Language Dept. $20,000 gift to fund reading improvements Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation at the at the Middle School level request of the Honorable Henry L Jones, Jr. LRSD Dept. of Instructional Technology Magazine cases and binders, valued at Office of Desegregation Monitoring S300 to be distnbuted to school libraries LRSD 23 computers, 18 printers, a scanner and U. S. Bankruptcy Court assorted supplied valued at approximately SI 1,000 D. Personnel Changes Personnel items were printed in the agenda and the administration recommended approval. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the personnel items presented. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 26, 2001 Page7 E. Financials The monthly financial reports were provided for review and approval. Mr. Milhollen was present to respond to questions from the Board. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the monthly financial reports. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTE DENT X. A. Desegregation Update Dr. Carnine reported that since the filing of the compliance report and the motion for unitary status with the courts, that we had been working through the attorneys and maintaining compliance with timelines as required. The Board will be kept informed of any developments, as they become available. B. Budget Update Dr. Stewart reported that there was no budget report ready as yet for the Board's review. He noted that there were some new procedures being utilized in the production of the budget document, and that as revenue figures become more firm the reports will be developed. He anticipated that a tentative budget might be ready for the Board's discussion in mid-May. He also reported as good news that tax revenue collections are up over the predicted amounts and that would have a good result for our budget. We are scheduled to receive approximately $1.2 million more in state teacher retirement and health insurance funds than we originally predicted. Dr. Stewart reported that the next bond sale is tentatively set for May 22 at 10:00 a.m. C. Construction Report on Bond Projects Mr. Goodman's report on current bond projects was printed as a part of the Board's agenda, and he was present to respond to the Board's questions. D. Internal Auditor's Report Mr. Becker's report was printed as a part of the Board's agenda. No additional information was requested at this time. ANNOUNCEMENTS None REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 26, 2001 Page 8 XI. HEARINGS None XII. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Magness made a motion for the Board to convene an executive session for the purpose of discussing a personnel issue at 7:25 p.m. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 8:25 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. XIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Rose moved to adjourn at 8:25 p.m. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED:5J4 0 I RECEIV D JUN 7 2001 (I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MI UTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 10, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, May, 2001, in the board room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Tony Rose Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSE T: None ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes Everette Calloway, Student Ex-Officio Representative I. CALL TO ORDER Prior to the call to order, Dr. Mitchell recognized Ethel Ambrose, representing the Central High School Neighborhood Association. She had been invited to make a brief presentation by Board Member Tony Rose. Mrs. Ambrose asked the Board to assist her neighborhood association in efforts to reduce the number of students who drive to school. She suggested a method that is being used in other cities whereby students are given colored parking stickers which allow them to drive on a designated day of the week. Senior students would be allowed to drive each school day. This method would serve to encourage carpooling and would reduce the number of vehicles on the streets during the school day. President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 5:55 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call. All members of the Board were present. .---------.-- ------- -- SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 10, 2001 Page2 II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of considering student expulsion recommendations from Dr. Linda Watson, student hearing officer. III. ACTION Four students had been recommended for expulsion from the District as a result of being in possession of a firearm. Each of the students had been recommended for placement at the Step-One Alternative School at the Pulaski County Juvenile Justice Center. Students Willie Davis and Leese Grimes had been enrolled at McClellan High School. Brandon Reed and Curtis Wells were from Central High School. The Superintendent recornrnended placement at the Step-One Center. Ms. Magness made a motion to uphold the administration's recornrnendation for expulsion and alternative placement. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board convened in an open session at 6:05 p.m. to report that they had upheld the recornrnendation of the Superintendent in the matters of student disciplinary action. IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION After reconvening at the end of the student disciplinary hearings, the Board continued in executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters. They returned from executive session and reported that no action had been taken. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7: 10 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Mr. Kurrus. KJtJiJJ:kc atherine Mitchell, President APPROVED: J
) Lf-0 I J LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT June 5, 2001 Ann Marshall, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring One Union National Plaza 124 West Capitol, Suite 1895 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Marshall: 0 ----EIVED JUN 7 20D1 OfRCEOf I am enclosing minutes of the LRSD Board of Directors meetings held on April 26 and May 10, 2001. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if I can provide additional information. Enclosures Sincerely, Beverly J. Griffin Executive Assistant to the Superintendent 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 24, 2001, in the Boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Tony Rose MEMBERS ABSE T: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESE T: I. Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Six members of the Board were present
Ms. Strickland was absent. In addition, student ex-officio representative to the Board, Everette Calloway, from J. A. Fair High School and teacher exofficio representative, Virginia Booth, from Mabelvale Middle School were also present. IT. READING OF MI UTES: Minutes from the regular meeting of April 26, 2001 and from a special meeting held on May 10, 2001, were presented for approval. The minutes were unanimously approved on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Mr. Berkley. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDE T'S CITATIONS Prior to presenting citations, Dr. Carnine congratulated thirty-seven employees who were recognized at a reception prior to the Board meeting. These thirty-seven retiring employees represented a total of 831 years of service to the LRSD. Students from the Pulaski Heights Middle School MathCounts team were presented with citations in recognition of their first place award at the statewide Math Counts competitions. Their coach, Trela Cook, was present, as well as team members Eliza Borne, Yang Dai, Alex DePriest, and Jamie Willbanks. In addition, it was announced that Yang Dai placed first in the individual competition and will attend the national finals. Lawrence Watts, student from Dunbar Magnet Middle School, placed second overall in the individual MathCounts competition and will also attend the nationals. One student from each of the five high schools received a $200 check as an award for winning the District's annual art competition. Their work will be displayed in the administration building lobby for the next year. Students present to receive their award included: Laura Wilson, J. A. Fair High School
Jenna Dixon, Hall High School, Latarsha Burns, McClellan High School, and Ashley Tribulak, Parkview Magnet High School. Katherine Hubbard from Central High School was unable to attend the meeting but was recognized for her achievement and will receive her check by mail. Lucy Neal and Barbara Williams received citations in recognition of their recent receipt of awards from the Arkansas Association of Instructional Media. Mrs. Neal received the 2000 Outstanding Media Program Award, and Mrs. Williams received the Leadership Award. Danny Fuller, chemistry teacher and Science Department Chair at Parkview Arts & Science Magnet School, was recognized for his receipt of the High School Chemistry Teacher of the Year Award from the Central Arkansas affiliate of the American Chemical Society. The LRSD received one of fifteen Arkansas Pathwise mentoring grants from the Arkansas Department of Education. The grant is intended to implement a pilot mentoring program to guide novice teachers in their first year in the classroom by pairing them with a mentor teacher. Marcelline Carr, Katherine Wright-Knight, and Marian Woods were recognized as certified Pathwise trainers for the LRSD. In addition, Dr. Carnine expressed appreciation to the 61 mentor teachers who participated in our District's Pathwise Program this school year. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 Page 3 A certificate of appreciation was presented to the ex-officio representatives to the Board, Virginia Booth, teacher from Mabelvale Middle School, and Everette Callaway, student from J. A. Fair High School. B. PARTNERS IN EDUCATION Debbie Milam introduced Phil Burch, chairman of the VIPS Board of Directors. Mr. Burch reported that the District's volunteer hours for the year totaled 309,740, representing over 1$4 billion in man-hours. Mr. Burch thanked the Board members for their support and participation in various VIPS activities. Ms. Milam then presented certificates to businesses and individuals that recently established working partnerships with District schools. Mr. Kurrus made a motion to accept the new partnerships, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Newly established partnerships include: Dodd Elementary School - represented by Martha Lowe, in partnership with Kidsports - represented by Denver Walker and Lou Ann Hawks Gibbs Magnet Elementary School - represented by Felicia Hobbs and Nancy Hamilton, in partnership with Kidsports - represented by Denver Walker and Lou Ann Hawks Gibbs Magnet Elementary School - represented by Felicia Hobbs and Nancy Hamilton, in partnership with Fellowship Bible Church Stephens Elementary School - represented by Margaret Williams and Becky Mehlburger in partnership with UALR Share America - represented by Heather Gage and Shara Stewart Woodruff Elementary School - represented by Janice Wilson, in partnership with University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences - represented by Amy Hester and Sheila Cook LRSD - IRC - represented by Barbara Williams, Lucy Neal, Kris Huffman and Suzi Davis, in partnership with Barnes & Noble Booksellers - represented by Carolyn McNutt REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 Page4 IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Anwar Hardin, volunteer and youth specialist with the American Red Cross, introduced First Lady Janet Huckabee, who was promoting participation in the Arkansas Rapid Response Team project. This initiative would involve representatives from each of our high schools in training sessions designed to prepare students to aid their peers in times of crisis. It is hoped that teams can be formed in each high school in the state. Board members were provided with packets of information on the Rapid Response Team project, as well as information on other summer youth educational activities available through the Red Cross. Mr. Hardin invited the Board and the public to contact him for any assistance or for additional information. V. REMARKS FROM BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Mitchell recognized Dr. Ken James, the superintendent-elect, who was in attendance at the meeting. Dr. Mitchell reported that Dr. James would be reporting to work sometime during the month of June and she welcomed him to the community. Dr. Mitchell also reported that the Chamber of Commerce and the District had plans to hold a retirement reception for Dr. Carnine sometime within the next few weeks. She expressed appreciation to Dr. Carnine for his service to the District over the past four years, and thanked him for speaking at the five high school graduation ceremonies. She noted that he had also spoken at the Adult Education and HIPPY commencement ceremonies during the past few weeks. Dr. Daugherty announced that he had attended the Central High School prom last weekend. He thanked the school staff and students for inviting him to participate. In addition, he thanked the representatives of the Red Cross for attending tonight's meeting and for their offer to assist our students with crisis training strategies. He noted that his term on the Board expires in September and that he is contemplating a run for re-election. Mr. Kurrus expressed appreciation to parents, volunteers, students and teachers for a great year. He thanked Dr. Carnine for his four years of hard work and congratulated him on building a good team and for leading the team to do good things for children. Ms. Magness stated that she is excited about the District's fine arts program and is gratified to know that our students are benefiting from these arts activities. She reported that she had attended the Williams Magnet School production ofHotmds of the Baskervilles, and had attended an opera written and performed by students at Gibbs Magnet School. In addition, Ms. Magness noted that the District had received a federal magnet school grant in the amount of $7 million. Linda Austin, with the assistance of Phale Hale, was instrumental in getting this grant application completed and submitted. The funding will benefit students at McClellan and Fair High Schools and Mabelvale and Cloverdale Middle Schools. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 Page 5 Ms. Magpess reported that the Carnegie Education Trust representatives were very complimentary about our high school teams working together to develop our plans. She expressed appreciation to Dr. Carnine for his commitment to the District and promised him that we will continue to progress in the work that he began during his time here. Mr. Berkley thanked Dr. Carnine for his hard work, especially for his guidance in leading the successful millage campaign. Mr. Rose echoed Mr. Berkley's comments and thanked Dr. Carnine for leading the way to site-based management and the formation of campus leadership teams. VII. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Michelle Wright presented a proposal for the commission of a bronze monument honoring the Little Rock Nine, to be placed on the campus of Central High School. She provided the Board members with a summary report of her proposal and asked for their support. Elizabeth Daley, representing the Parkview Magnet School PTSA, requested consideration for changes in the course credit requirements for Parkview Arts Magnet students. ROTC students' concerns have been previously presented to the Board, but Ms. Daley indicated that all Arts students are affected by the credit requirements that limit the number of electives that a student may take. Dawn McCall, also a Parkview Magnet parent, discussed some of the specific problems her daughter had encountered with credit requirements at Parkview. Her daughter had been home-schooled prior to enrollment at Parkview and she felt that her child's educational options and opportunities for additional art and music instruction were limited by the course requirements for the honors seal on her diploma. VIII. ACTION AGENDA A. Technology Center Lucy Neal presented the administration's proposal for building a Technology Center on the campus of Metropolitan Career Education Center. The District's technology plan requires that the main telephone and computer equipment be housed together in a central location. Space must be provided for the staff needed to support the technological functions of the District to be located at this same site, along with classrooms for training. The proposal projects a cost of $3 million for the center, with approximately fifteen months for completion. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve construction of the technology center as recommended by the administration
Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 Page 6 B. Resolution Authorizing the Issuance of Bonds The Board was asked to approve a resolution authorizing the issuance and delivery of bonds in the amount of $87.6 million. Action on this request required a suspension of the Board's rnles prior to consideration. Ms. Magness made a motion to suspend the rules, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Prior to approval of the resolution, Don Stewart and Mark McBryde, from Stephens, Inc., responded to questions from the Board. Merrill Lynch was the low bidder, with an effective rate of 5 .2764%. Dr. Stewart reported that this rate will allow us to raise significantly more money that was originally projected. Ms. Magness made a motion to authorize the issuance of bonds. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. C. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to graciously accept the donations. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Kurrus read the list of donations
items are noted in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Geyer Springs Elementary Riding lawnmower valued at $851.93 Geyer Springs PT A Cloverdale Elementa,y After-School Program Four boxes of range golf balls and two ball David Dukes/ Lakewood Golf School tubes valued at $160. & D,iving Range 15 sets of junior golf clubs with canvas Steve Ralston and Matt Watts/ Bums bags valued at $450. Park Golf Course 25 dozen golf balls valued at $75 Patrick Boyd of Golf world 25 dozen golf balls valued at $75.00 Gerald Staley/ ironwood Driving Range 20 golf clubs valued at $100.00 Don Parker / Lake View Count,y Club Cloverdale Elemental)' $25.00 gift certificate for Science Ma,y Gibson/ Baseline Wal-Mart Store Invention Convention Pulaski Heights Elemental)' Playground equipment including play Pulaski Heights Elementa1y PTA structure and bench, rubber surfacing, concrete base, plastic border edging and certified supervision. Total value $27,196.98 Little Rock School District 75 Win Pentium PC's with monitors and Social Security Adminisnation keyboards valued at approximately $22,500.00 REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 Page 7 D. Personnel Changes Personnel items were printed in the agenda and the administration recommended approval. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the personnel items as presented. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. E. Financials The monthly financial reports were provided for review and approval. Mr. Milhollen was present to prmride brief remarks and respond to questions from the Board. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the monthly financial reports. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. IX. REPORTS FROM SUPERINTENDENT A. Desegregation Update No report. B. Budget Update Dr. Stewart provided a brief summary on receipt of tax revenues as it relates to cash flow issues and the need for short-term financing for District operations. Additional information will be provided for the Board as he reviews our options over the next few weeks. It is anticipated that QZAB Funding for energy-efficiency lighting projects will generate $3.3 million over a ten-year period, resulting in an average -4% interest rate. C. Technology Update Lucy Neal provided a brief progress report on implementation of the District's Technology Plan. Approval of the funding for the Technology Center will allow the Plan to progress as anticipated, and upgrading of the Wide Area Network capabilities will be possible. Phone systems will be upgraded so that teachers will have access to a telephone with voice mail in every classroom and improved accessibility to computers and e-mail systems. This will enhance parent/teacher communications, and the WAN will provide more professional development opportunities. Cabling for the new phone system is scheduled to begin July 1. D. Construction Report on Bond Projects Mr. Goodman's report was provided as part of the printed agenda. In addition, Mr. Goodman was present to provide a briefreview and update. It is anticipated that many of the larger projects will begin as soon as school is dismissed for the year. Many of the projects will be completed over the summer months. - - REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24, 2001 Page 8 Dr. Daugherty suggested that we post the bond project listing on the District's website. Dr. Stewart indicated that this would be a simple matter of providing the information to the Communications Office. E. Internal Auditor's Report Mr. Becker's report was printed as part of the Board's agenda. He was not present. X. ANNOUNCEMENTS XII. XI. Dr. Mitchell announced that there would be a special meeting at 11 :00 on tomorrow, May 25, 2001, to receive the report from the Athletic Review Committee. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Magness made a motion for the Board to convene an executive session for the purpose of conducting an employee hearing at 8 :25 p.m. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. HEARING The Board conducted a closed hearing at the request of Mr. William Noid. Mr. Noid was appealing the administration's recommendation to terminate his employment as an employee of the Facilities Services Department. The termination recommendation was based upon poor attendance, the loss of District property, using a District vehicle for personal business, and failing to report an accident in a District vehicle. The Board heard from Doug Eaton and Dick Hurley and then questioned Mr. Noid on the circumstances surrounding his employment. He was originally hired in July 1997, and performance appraisals which were provided by Mr. Eaton indicated that Mr. Noid was a "satisfactory" employee overall, with the exception of "unsatisfactory" ratings in attendance. Previous disciplinary sanctions included being required to reimburse the District for "lost" equipment, and being suspended for four days for failing to report an automobile accident. Mr. Noid asked the Board to reconsider termination and he appealed to them to allow him to retain his employment with the LRSD. The Board recessed to deliberate on the evidence presented. They returned from review, and Mrs. Magness made a motion to uphold the administration's recommendation for termination. The motion died for lack of second. REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 24,2001 Page 9 Mr. Berkley offered an alternative motion
that Mr. Noid be retained as a District employee as a general laborer and that that he be placed on six-month probation. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 5-0-1, with Ms. Magness abstaining. XIII. ADJOURNMENT The Board returned from executive session and reported that the employee hearing had been conducted in a closed session and that the employee was granted his request to be allowed to continue working for the LRSD Facilities Services Department. There being no further business before the Board, Mr. Kurrus moved to adjourn at 9: 17 p.m. Mr. Rose seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: -0 . J-9 -0 I y{~Yb~ LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 25, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting at 11 :00 a.m. on Friday, May 25, 2001, in the boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Tony Rose MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Kathe1ine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 11 :00 a.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call. Six members of the Board were present
Ms. Strickland was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of hearing a report from the Athletic Task Force. Members of the committee were present and included: Junious Babbs, Skip Rutherford, Rett Tucker, Rudolph Howard, Sandy Becker, and Marian Lacey. III. PRESENTATION Dr. Mitchell introduced Dr. Carnine and asked that he provide a brief preface to the presentation from the Athletic Task Force. He expressed appreciation to the media representatives for their attendance at the meeting. He also noted appreciation to Junious Babbs and to each of the committee members for giving up their time for this worthwhile investigative review. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 25, 2001 Page 2 Mr. Babbs presented the Task Force's report and indicated that it was limited to finding of fact, an overview of all documents, and results of interviews with witnesses. It is hoped that the findings will result in improved performance by administrators of the LRSD athletic programs. Mr. Babbs introduced Skip Rutherford to present findings. Mr. Rutherford reported that the committee had found that one student athlete was not eligible to play as of January 12, 2001, and that there had been a breakdown in the SIP process for remediation of academics. There were students who had exceeded the number of excused absences, and one student had received grade changes which allowed him to become eligible to play during the second semester. Mr. Rutherford noted that the committee was "troubled" by these grade changes, but there was "no evidence to suggest that athletes were the primary beneficiaries of grade changes." Mr. Howard spoke briefly and indicated that the Task Force report would serve to compel us to "review what we do," to take the committee's findings and improve ourselves. He apologized to the community and offered to return the basketball team's winning trophy to the AAA office. Dr. Mitchell thanked the committee for their work and indicated that the Board would review the report to make sure that we comply with all AAA and LRSD rules. She opened the floor for media questions. John Walker requested a moment to speak to the Board and to address the committee and media representatives. It was his opinion that Mr. Howard should not return the trophy. He continued by saying that teachers were allowed to change grades for many reasons and that recruitment for academic purposes was not forbidden. IV. ACTION Mr. Kurrus made a motion that the Board accept the Task Force Report and Finding of Facts with gratitude to the committee. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. After a brief discussion, Mr. Kurrus offered a second motion for the Board's consideration: the motion would preclude any further action until the Board has the opportunity to fully review the report. This would allow administrators to deliver a copy of the report to the AAA office, but would prevent the return of the trophy or any other action until the Board has a chance to decide further steps to be taken. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. The Board members agreed to reconvene on Tuesday, May 29, 2001 to make a recommendation for further action. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May25,2001 Page 3 V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 11 :50 a.m. on a motion by Mr. Kurrus, seconded by Ms. Magness. APPROVED: (o.J.80 I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 29, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, May 29, 2001, in the boardroom of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. President Katherine Mitchell presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Katherine Mitchell Baker Kurrus Judy Magness Larry Berkley Mike Daugherty Tony Rose MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Leslie V. Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of the Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER President Katherine Mitchell called the special meeting to order at 12:05 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call. Six members of the Board were present
Ms. Strickland was absent. II. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING III. The meeting was called for the purpose of presenting the Board's comments and reactions to the Athletic Task Force Report, which was received on Friday, May 25, 2001. Dr. Mitchell called the meeting to order and opened the floor for discussion and comments by Board members. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 29, 2001 Page 2 Mr. Kurrus discussed the issues relating to the violations in the SIP Program, and stated that the blame needs to be directed where it belongs - - to the administrators who are responsible for following the rules and regulations and making sure that these types of things don't happen. Mr. Berkley stated that, as a result of all the allegations, the school climate was hurtful to the students. His fear was that we are "giving kids the impression that poor academic performance is tolerated in the super athletes." He wants the Board and administration to take measures to improve and correct this message. Ms. Magness expressed regret that the adults who were responsible allowed the breakdowns to occur. She wants us to make sure all our students have an opportunity to become fine scholars as well as great athletes. Dr. Mitchell thanked the committee for doing a "remarkable job" in a short period of time. She asked that we work to establish long-range and permanent solutions so that there is no chance we will ever play an ineligible student athlete. She announced that the position of Athletic Director had been posted as a vacancy, and that the Board was hopeful that a new person could be on board by July 1. She stated that the new Athletic Director would work with the superintendent and the Board to establish new policies and procedures to ensure accountability. Dr. Carnine commented on Mr. Howard's offer to return the trophy to AAA, and agreed that this action would be appropriate. He agreed that the SIP program procedures needed to be monitored more closely, but also noted that in the long run, we will have fewer students who require the SIP program because of the other programs that are in place to insure academic achievement. Students know that the rules are there for the benefit of "fair play" and they will follow the rules established. Mr. Babbs stated that the appropriate and required action was that we "self-report," and that this had been done by delivery of the Task Force report to the AAA office. He noted that it was now up to AAA to review our findings and investigate to determine the appropriate sanction. IV. ACTION Mr. Kurrus offered a motion for the Board's consideration
that we immediately self-report to AAA and to the Arkansas Department of Education and that we will cooperate in all investigations and abide by their rulings. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Ms. Magness asked that the record reflect that the Task Force report had been delivered to the AAA on Friday, May 25, 2001. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING May 29, 2001 Page 3 V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 12:25 p.m. on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. APPROVED: l, ~? -0( LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING June 14, 2001 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meet
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<dcterms_creator>Little Rock School District</dcterms_creator>