Little Rock School District, school board meeting minutes and correspondence

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LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING July 10, 1997 AUG 2 ~ 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, July 10, 1997, in the Board Room of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Micheal Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Judy Magness Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Les Carnine, Superintendent Designee Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes Colleen Kidda, Teacher Ex officio, ALC Tiffany Mays, Student Ex officio, Central High I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 5:45 p.m. A quorum was stipulated without a roll call
all members of the Board were present. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING July 10, 1997 Page2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting contained the following action items: I. Proposed Budget for Annual School Election II. Superintendent's Contract ACTION AGENDA In compliance with Arkansas law, (Ark. Code Ann 6-13-622) the Board of Directors is required to approve a proposed budget for the 1998-99 school year, and a tax rate levy sufficient to provide such funding. This must be published not less than 60 days prior to the annual school election. The proposed budget was prepared by Mr. Milhollen and administration recommended approval. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the proposed budget, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. EXECUTIVE SESSION Mr. Berkley moved for the Board to convene an executive session for the purpose of discussing a personnel issue. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. The Board returned from executive session at 6:10 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. SUPERINTENDENT'S CONTRACT Mr. Berkley made a motion to extend Dr. Roberts' current contract to December 31, 1997. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Ms. Strickland made a motion to offer a contract to Dr. Les Carnine for the position of superintendent of schools. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m. Immediately following adjournment, Dr. Carnine and Board members signed the contract. APPROVED: '7 -.
2LJ-Cf'7 I<, ~ ~ Micheal Daughe ~ ecretaryC PROPOSED BUDGET OF EXPENDITURES TOGETHER WITH TAX LEVY FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 1998, TO AND INCLUDING JUNE 30, 1999 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District No. 60-01 of Pulaski County, Arkansas in compliance with the requirements of Amendments No. 40 and No. 74 to the Constitution of the State of Arkansas and of Arkansas Code Ann. 6-13-622 (1993 Rep!.), has prepared, approved, and hereby makes public the proposed budget of expenditures together with a supporting tax rate as follows: 1. Salary Fund Expenditures $ 64,331,159.00 RECEIVED 2. Instructional Expense $ 19,533,734.00 3. Maintenance & Operation Expense $ 11,162,134.00 4. Pupil Transportation Expense $ 10,464,500.00 AUG 2 s 1997 5. Other Operating Expense $ 26,847,025.00 6. Nonbonded Debt Payment $ 360,676.00 OFFICE OF 7. Bonded Debt Payment $ 6,827,445.00 DESEGREGATION MONITORING 8. Building Fund Expense $ .00 9. Dedicated Maintenance & Operation $ .00 To provide for the foregoing proposed budget of expenditures the Board of Directors proposes a total school tax rate (state and local) of 41.40 mills on the dollar of the assessed value of taxable property located in this School District. The proposed tax includes the uniform rate of 25.00 mills (the "Statewide Uniform Rate") to be collected on all taxable property in the State and remitted to the State Treasurer pursuant to Amendment No. 74 to the Arkansas Constitution to be used solely for maintenance and operation of schools in the State. As provided in Amendment No. 74, the Statewide Uniform Rate replaces a portion of the existing rate of tax levied by this School District and available for maintenance and operation of schools in this District. The existing rate of tax levied by this School District is 41.40 mills composed of 32.00 mills specifically voted for maintenance and operation and 9.40 mills voted for debt service previously voted as a continuing levy pledged for the retirement of existing indebtedness. The surplus revenues produced each year by debt service millage may be used by the District for other school purposes. In accordance with the provisions of Amendment No. 59 to the Arkansas Constitution and Act No. 848 of 1981, the proposed tax levy applies to real property ( exclusive of real property owned by public utilities and regulated carriers). The tax rate applicable to personal property and to all property (real and personal) owned by public utilities and regulated carriers will be the rate computed in accordance with the provisions of Amendment No. 59 and Act No. 848. - The total proposed school tax levy of 41 .40 mills represents no increase over the current tax rate. Given this 10th day of July, 1997. Little Rock School District No. 60-01 of Pulaski County J LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 24, 1997 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, July 24, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The Vice President, Judy Magness, presided. A brief budget work session was conducted prior to the call to order of the regular meeting. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland RECEn,~o SEP
1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING MEMBERS ABSENT: Larry Berkley John Riggs, IV ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. Board Vice President, Judy Magness, called the meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Five members of the Board were present
Mr. Berkley and Mr. Riggs were absent. Tiffany Mays, Central High School student ex officio, was also present. READING OF MINUTES: The minutes from the regular board meeting of June 26, and a special meeting conducted on July 10, were presented for the Board's approval. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve the minutes, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 24, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT The Superintendent presented citations to Central High School teachers who participated in a Goals 2000 grant staff development project, directed by Dr. Brenda James. The following teachers were present to accept their citation: Paulette Blevins, Tandy Cobb, Melissa Donham, Marion Easter, Kathy Gates, Gracie Mays, Dorothy McDonald, Angel Nash, Ellen Teeter, and Barbara Wilder. Other teachers who completed the training include: Beverly Broadnax-Thrasher, Sandy Deitz, Sarah Dixon, Karen Hammons, Gwen Hardin, Gary Hufford, Melinda Kalb, Doris Nash, Carolyn Pittman, Julia Post, Marilyn Rutledge, Annice Steadman, Flora Thompson, and Christopher Threatt. In addition, Linda Watson, Lloyd Sain, David Spillers, and Frank James were recognized for serving as consultants on the project. Dr. Roberts presented plaques to Rett Tucker and Baker Kurrus in recognition of the leadership roles they have assumed during the past year. Mr. Tucker serves as the president of the Central High Museum project and co-chairs the 40th anniversary recognition ceremonies. He also serves on the board of the Little Rock Alliance for Our Public Schools. Mr. Kurrus serves as president of the Alliance board and volunteers on several LRSD committees, including the strategic planning committee and the student assignment work team. Tiffany Mays who recently graduated from Central High School served as the student ex officio representative on the Board for the month of July and was presented with a citation for her service. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES TRUCE Program Presentation - Little Rock Rotary Club Mr. John Ostner provided a brief report on the success of the TRUCE (Teens Resisting Unhealthy Choices Everyday) Program. The Board was given copies of the membership figures for the 1996-97 school year and a list of participating business sponsors. He asked for the Board's endorsement to expand the program to include junior high school students in theLRSD. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 24, 1997 Page 3 D. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden reported on ODM participation in the Vital Link program this summer. Several businesses in the Heritage West building participated in Vital Link and all of them reported having positive and successful experiences. She expressed appreciation to Debbie Milam and Deana Keithley for their assistance in coordinating the Vital Link activities. 2. Classroom Teachers Association Grainger Ledbetter, newly elected president of the CTA, introduced himself and expressed confidence that efforts to establish a more positive working relationship between the teachers' union and the District administration would be successful. 3. Joshua Intervenors Joy Springer noted concerns regarding the student rights & responsibilities handbook revisions, specifically the proposed changes to the due process section. Dr. Roberts asked the Board to table action on the handbook until the committee could work through some of the concerns and questions that still exist in the revisions. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Daugherty presented a brochure from the Office of Emergency Services and asked the public to be aware of requirements to have addresses clearly visible on the outside of homes. He also remarked that his son will be attending Pulaski Heights Jr. High School next year. Ms. Gee commented on the response to a question she had asked in the budget meeting prior to the regular meeting: the recently negotiated pay increases for teachers would also be granted to other employees in the District. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 24, 1997 Page4 Ms. Magness attended a reception at the Student Employability Center that operated this summer as a part of the state Employment Security Division office. The center is run by students who provide training for other students in employability skills, i.e. how to fill out applications, how to dress appropriately for an interview, how to respond to interview questions, etc. The Center is funded by grants from the City of Little Rock and the New Futures Initiative. Ms. Magness also thanked the Southwestern Bell Pioneers service organization for painting maps of the United States on school playgrounds. She and Mr. Berkley had visited Rightsell School this week while the volunteers were working on the map. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS None. V. ACTION AGENDA A. Common Ground Proposal Franklin Elementary School submitted a proposal in the amount of $42,000 to the Common Ground Program for a project to improve academic performance and citizenship of students through a wide range of behavior management activities. The Board was asked for authorization to maintain the grant submission. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve the submission, Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. B. Resolution: Arkansas Teacher Retirement System Picked Up Contributions and Purchased Service The Board was asked to approve a resolution authorizing the District to participate in the "picked-up" contributions program. Employees who are active Arkansas Teacher Retirement System members may opt to have their retirement deductions made from taxable income prior to federal and state income tax deductions. This option will allow members to take home more of their wages. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the resolution, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. C. ESEA, Title 1, 1997-98 District Plan The Board was asked to authorize submission of the 1997-98 ESEA, Title I District plan. The funding allocation is $4,202,821 based on 11,081 eligible students. Ms. Gee made a motion to approve the submission. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 24, 1997 Page 5 D. ESEA, Title VI, 1997-98 Application The Board was asked to authorize submission of the 1997-98 Title VI application to the Arkansas Department of Education. The funding allocation, in the amount of $135,197, is based on enrollment of eligible public and private school students in the LRSD. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the submission. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. E. Technology Literacy Challenge Grant A technology Literacy Challenge Grant application was submitted to the Arkansas Department of Education on the deadline date, July 15. The Board was asked to approve maintaining the submission. The proposal seeks $94,000 for a one-year initiative
continuation funding is expected to be made available over a 5 year period. No matching fund commitment is required. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the grant submission. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. F. Implementation of Registered Volunteers Program (Act 1012 of 1997) Act 1012 of 1997 allows local school districts to establish registered volunteer programs to provide additional personnel to supervise extracurricular or interscholastic activities under the direction of a certified staff member. The Board was asked to approve the formation of a registered volunteers program in the LRSD for the 1997-98 school year, with initial costs for background checks and training to be paid from the secondary school budget. Dr. Victor Anderson responded to questions from the Board. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the implementation of Act 1012, registered volunteers program. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. G. Second Jleading: Appropriate Use of Computer Networks Policy Act 801 of the 1997 Legislative Session requires the Board of Directors to adopt a policy concerning student and staff use of District-owned computers in accessing the Internet. The law also requires the policy be incorporated into the written student discipline policy if there is punishment for students who misuse District-owned computers. The policy was passed on first reading at the regular meeting in June with an amendment to include "normal district progressive disciplinary sanctions" in the policy statement. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve the policy on second reading. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 24, 1997 Page6 H. Second Reading: Strategy Five Policy Proposals Members of Strategic Planning Team 5 met monthly to facilitate implementation of the community partnership portions of the strategic plan. This group drafted three proposed policies, Partners in Education, School-based Mentoring Programs, and Relations with Community Organizations, which were approved on first reading at the regular meeting in June. Ms. Strickland made a motion to approve these three policies on second reading. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. I. Approval of Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook Action on approval of the student rights & responsibilities handbook was tabled by consensus. It will be included as an action item in August. J. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR J. A. Fair High Apple Computer/printer Dr. & Mrs. Aubrey Hough for Science Dept. Instructional Technology Star NX-1000 Printer Mr. W. J. Fitzhugh K Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. Ms. Strickland moved to accept the recommendations, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. L. Financial Reports Financial reports were provided prior to the regular meeting during the budget work session. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the reports. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 24, 1997 Page 7 VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Budget Update All budget information was presented in the work session prior to the regular meeting. B. Discussion: Progress Report on Annual Goals The Board briefly reviewed the annual goals, but did not take any action. Dr. Roberts reported that the work teams will be asked to present their reports to the Board at special meetings scheduled on August 14 and 18. Dr. Roberts will then present his recommendations from the work team reports at a special meeting on August 25. The Board will then be given an opportunity to review the recommendations before taking action in September. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS - None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY None. ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Ms. Strickland moved for adjournment at 7:30 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Daugherty, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 8' d---'g -'i '( LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 5, 1997 RECEnfED SEP 4 1997 OFFICE Of DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Tuesday, August 5, 1997, in the superintendent's office of the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. Judy Magness, Vice President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: John Riggs, IV Micheal Daugherty ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent Mark Milhollen, Manager of Financial Services Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Ms. Magness called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. Five members of the Board were present, Mr. Riggs and Dr. Daugherty were absent. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called for the purpose of adopting a resolution requesting the Pulaski County Board of Election Commissioners to reduce the number of polling places for the Little Rock School District annual school election, scheduled for September 16, 1997. .. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 5, 1997 Page2 ACTION AGENDA In compliance with Arkansas law, (Act 545 of 1997) the Board of Directors was asked to approve a resolution petitioning the Pulaski County Election Commission to reduce the number of polling places in the September school elections. By doing so, the District anticipates saving approximately $20,000 in election costs. A copy of the resolution which further explains the law and the requirements is attached to these minutes. Ms. Gee made a motion to adopt the resolution. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 5:03 p.m. on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Ms. Strickland. APPROVED: $-Jz-q1 Resolution 1997 School Board Elections WHEREAS, Act 545 of 1997 passed by the Arkansas General Assembly amends Arkansas Code Annotated 6-14-102, related to school board elections
and WHEREAS, Act 545 states that "In any election year, if no more than one (1) candidate for school district director or member of the county board of education presents a petition or notice in writing to the county board of election commissioners as required by 6-14- 111, and there are no other ballot issues to be submitted to district electors for consideration, the board of directors of any school district may, by resolution duly adopted, request the county board of election commissioners to reduce the number of polling places"
and WHEREAS, only one candidate has filed a petition in each of the three school election districts which are up for election this year, and there are no other ballot issues
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District of Pulaski County adopts this resolution to request the county board of election commissioners to reduce the number of polling places. Secretary Adopted LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 14, 1997 RC 1997 OFRCEOF REGAT/DN MONITOR/~ The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Thursday, August 14, 1997, immediately following the regular agenda meeting, at the administration building at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. Judy Magness, Vice President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: John Riggs, IV ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Ms. Magness called the meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Six members of the Board were present
Mr. Riggs was absent. Kamie Smith, 11 th grade student ex officio from Fair High School, and Ann McLennan, 2nd grade teacher ex officio from Badgett Elementary School were also present. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 14, 1997 Page2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting listed the following items: I. Ratification of Personnel Contracts II. Student Reinstatement Petitions ill. Work Team Reports ACTION AGENDA Ratification of Personnel Contracts Brady Gadberry provided a brief summary of the personnel agreements and asked for the Board to approve the negotiated contracts. Ms. Strickland moved to approve the contracts, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. Student Reinstatement Petitions The Board convened an executive session for the purpose of reviewing student disciplinary reports. Dr. Watson submitted 17 petitions for reinstatement and recommended various placements for the students involved. Dr. Mitchell moved to accept the administration's recommendations and Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. The students and recommended placements for the 1997-98 school year are listed in the chart which follows: PREVIOUS RECOMMENDED STUDENT'S OFFENSE PLACEMENT PLACEMENT NAME Joseph Blue Physical Assault/Staff ALC/JJC Dunbar Jr. High Phillip Chandler' Possession/Weapon ALC/JJC Regular High School Jabari Cummins Inciting to Riot Central Central/Other High School Deon Earnest Inciting to Riot Central Central/Other High School Edmar Higgins Verbal Abuse/Staff Central Sr. HighALC James Hubbard Verbal Abuse/Staff Central Sr. HighALC Shamil<a Hudson Physical Assault/Staff ALC/JJC Jr. HighALC Latricia Logan Possession/Weapon McClellan McClellan Valarie Logan Possession/Weapon Mabelvale Jr. High Jr. High ALC Calvin Love Physical Assault/Staff Central Sr. HighALC Brandi Maclntrush Verbal Assault/Staff ALC Dunbar Jr. High Kevin Morrison Arson Central/Metro Central High Mashieka Murphy Possession/Weapon Fair/JJC Fair Chris Royster Verbal Abuse/Staff Hall Hall Shawnrita Sain Physical Assault/Staff Central Regular High School Louis Shelton Verbal Abuse/Staff Forest Heights Jr. HighALC Jasper Vick Verbal Abuse/Staff Parkview Sr. High School MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 14, 1997 Page 3 WORK TEAM REPORTS: The Curriculum-Reading & Mathematics work team report was presented by team leader, Sharon Davis and committee members, Gene Parker and Dennis Glasgow. The School Revitalization work team report was presented by team leader, Marian Lacey and other committee members, Selma Hobby and Carol Green. The Incentive School work team report was presented by Sadie Mitchell, Margaret Gremillion, Ethel Dunbar, Lillie Scull, Lionel Ward, Sharon Brooks, and Anne Mangan. The Alternative Education & Discipline work team reports were presented by Jo Evelyn Elston, Linda Watson, Everett Hawks, and Lee Ann Byrd. Additional reports will be presented to the Board on August 18, 1997 at 6:00 p.m. Dr. Roberts will present recommendations from these reports to the Board on August 28, 1997. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. APPROVED: 2 -
).. f-9 ( Micheal Daughe ~ .. LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 18, 1997 RECEIVE SEP 4 1997 DES OFFICE OF 'EGREGATION MONITOR/NG The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Monday, August 18, 1997, at the administration building at 810 West Markham
Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs Judy Magness Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strick.land MEMBERS ABSENT: Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Five members of the Board were present
Mr. Berkley and Dr. Daugherty were absent. Ann McLennan, 2nd grade teacher ex officio from Badgett Elementary School was also present. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 18, 1997 Page2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of hearing the final work team reports. No official board action was taken. WORK TEAM REPORTS: The Classroom-Community Links work team report was presented by team leader, Carol Green, and committee members, Selma Hobby and Julie Rhodes. The Leadership & Staff Development work team report was presented by team leader, Betty Raper, and team members, Robert Robinson, Marion Woods, and Skip Gardner. The Technology work team report was presented by team leader, Lucy Lyon, and committee members, Lillie Carter, Skip Marshall, Rich Kennedy, Paul Smith, and John Ruffins. Patrick Kennedy, Central High School student, also presented a video demonstration. The Student Assignment work team recommendations were presented by team leader, Baker Kurrus. Dr. Roberts will present recommendations from these reports to the Board on August 28, 1997. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 8 :00 p.m. on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Ms. Strickland. 8 APPROVED: f-J-f-97 Micheal Daughe~ecretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 RECF''' SEP 2 6 1997 OFFICE OF IISEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 28, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, John Riggs, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. All members of the Board were present at roll call. II. READING OF MINUTES: The minutes from the regular board meeting of July 24, and special meetings conducted on August 5, August 14, and August 18, were presented for the Board's approval. Mr. Berkley requested a correction to the minutes of July 24. That correction was noted and Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the amended minutes. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT The Superintendent presented a citation to Dionne Bennett who was recently selected as the 1997 Sallie Mae First Class Teacher. Ms. Bennett, a science teacher at Mann Magnet Junior High School, received $1,500 cash and a trip to Washington, D.C. Larry Berkley and Micheal Daugherty, school Board members, were recognized by the Arkansas Schools Boards Association for completing fifteen hours of inservice training. Six hours of training per year is required under Act 767 of 1987. B. PARTNERSHIPS Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator for the District recognized recently formed partnerships between schools and community businesses. Those partnerships include: Arkansas Youth Symphony Orchestra and Booker Arts Magnet School, represented by Cheryl Simmons-Carson and Lou Alley KLRE Radio Station and Booker Arts Magnet School, represented by Cheryl Simmons-Carson and Lou Alley KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, represented by Charlotte Daniel, Dorsey Jackson and Cathy Reid, partnering with Carver Magnet School, represented by Diane Barksdale and Yana Scott Loomis, Fargo & Company, represented by Mike Teeter, in partnership with Chicot Elementary, represented by Jane Harkey Safety & Environmental Associates, Inc., represented by Keina Jennings, in partnership with Chicot Elementary, represented by Jane Harkey Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the new partnerships. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 Page3 SUPERINTENDENT'S PRESENTATION: Work Team/Desegregation Recommendations - Dr. Roberts reviewed recommendations contained in the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, dated August 28, 1997. He will ask the Board to approve the recommendations included in this report at the regular Board meeting in September. District attorneys will gather comments from all parties to the desegregation lawsuit, and their input will be considered before submitting the document to the court. A copy of the report is attached to these minutes. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES City Board member Joan Adcock introduced L.O.V.E (Let Our Violence End) program directors, Robert Holt and R. B. Smith. The L.O.V.E. program teaches teamwork and selfesteem and provides jobs and training for young people in an effort to curb violence and gang activity. They made a presentation of their program goals and objectives and asked the Board to consider donating the old Eastside School to the L.O.V.E. program. Students who participated in the presentation included Derrick Almon, Romy Chambliss, and Antoine Perkins. Community member Shirley Marshall also stated support for the program on behalf of the residents near Eastside. The Board recessed at 7:35 and reconvened at 7:55 p.m. Dr. Daugherty did not return from recess. D. 1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Office of Desegregation Monitoring No report. 2. Classroom Teachers Association Grainger Ledbetter reported that CT A representatives and members were pleased with the negotiations process this year, especially with the fact that all groups were under three-year contract agreements. Two items especially popular with the membership were the direct deposit of paychecks, and technology training for teachers. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 Page4 IV. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Riggs expressed personal pleasure in the fact that school is back in session and that it seemed to be a smooth opening with the exception of a few transportation problems. He congratulated Ms. Magness, Ms. Gee and Ms. Strickland who were unopposed for positions on the Board. Each of these Board members will serve three more years on the Board and will be sworn in at the September 18 meeting. Mr. Riggs also commented on the impact of the recommendations made in the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, which was the basis for Dr. Roberts' presentation earlier in the agenda. The Board's decision to approve these recommendations will impact the children in our city for many years. Mr. Riggs asked the Board to remain prayerful
to ask for strength, courage and wisdom. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Sandy Becker representing the Panky Community Improvement Association asked the Board to extend the deadline for the required improvements to property in Panky that was previously deeded by the District. He also thanked the Board for continuing to implement Strategic Plan recommendations, especially those from Action Team 5. Enos Jones asked the Board to consider the current requirements for volunteer coaches. He provided copies of the Arkansas Law and AAA rules which address the issue. Debbie Vail expressed concern regarding transportation problems. Her daughter attends Dunbar Jr. High and has been late several times this school year and last. Terri Watkins also reported problems with late buses. Her son has missed first period classes several times this year, She has reported problems to Laidlaw, but doesn't feel that her problem is being resolved. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 Page5 Gary Banks and Larry Oberste representing Pepsi Bottling Company, expressed support for Ray Gillespie and the LRSD Athletic Program and proposed establishing a partnership to benefit LRSD students involved in athletic programs. V. ACTION AGENDA A. Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook The Board had been provided copies of recommended revisions to the current Rights & Responsibilities Handbook. Dr. Roberts recommended postponing action until further discussion could be held with committee members. The Board agreed by consensus to table action until the meeting of September 18. B. Central High School Right of Way Easement The city of Little Rock requested a Corporation Dedication Deed, which would grant a small amount of property on the northeast comer of the Central High School site to allow the city to widen the curb radius at the intersection of West 14th & Park Streets. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the request, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. C. Criminal Background Checks for New Non-Certified Employees Under Act 1314 of 1997, the State requires criminal background checks for all new noncertified employees, full and part-time. This background check would currently cost approximately $39 per employee, and would include fingerprinting and a background investigation by the FBI. Brady Gadberry was present to respond to questions from the Board. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve the District paying for the entire cost of conducting the background check for the current (1997-98) school year. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 5-1, with Ms. Gee casting the "no" vote. D. Proposed School Closing for Central High School Events & Activities Dr. Roberts asked the Board to approve closing all high schools in the District on September 25, 1997, the day that commemorates the 40th anniversary of the integration of Central High School. He has petitioned the Arkansas Department of Education to consider that day as an excused absence for students. In addition, students in other grade levels would be granted an excused absence if parents provide a written request. Students and staff members of the District would be encouraged to participate in the scheduled activities. Ms. Magness moved to approve the Superintendent's recommendation
Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 Page6 E. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Ms. Magness. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOUDEP ARTMENT ITEM DONOR Forest Park Elementary Cash to purchase Forest Park PTA computers ($10,742.) Brady Elementary 200 Folding Chairs Bradv PTA Hall High Books for ESL students Carolyn Newbern Air Conditioner for the Home Depot Field House K. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the recommendations, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. L. Financial Reports Financial reports for the month of July were incomplete at the time of the meeting. They will be provided for approval at the September meeting. (Dr. Daugherty returned at 8:45 p.m.) VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The update was printed in the agenda. There was no additional information provided. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 Page7 B. Budget Update Dr. Roberts reported that he would consider asking the Board to meet for discussion of the budget sometime during the month of September, before submission to the Arkansas Department of Education on September 15. He would like to include some budget projections from the work team recommendations in the final budget submission. In reference to the request to consider donating the Eastside building to L.O.V.E. or any other community group, Dr. Roberts asked the Board to give the administration an opportunity to review the options regarding sale or use of the building before making any decisions or promises. There have been several inquiries as to the possible sale or lease of the property and he would like to be able to recommend the best options for the District. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS VIII. None. DISCIPLINARY Dr. Daugherty made a motion to convene an executive session for the purpose of conducting student and employee disciplinary actions at 9:00 p.m. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Dr. Watson, student hearing officer, requested the Board's approval for reinstatemet of several students who had been previously suspended or expelled from the District. Each of these students will be placed under strict probation for a period of one school term. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the recommended placements. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Students who are being reinstated and their recommended placements are listed in the table which follows. STUDENT Danielle Freeman John Grant Andre Harris Herbert Harris Diana Hill Kevin Holmes Shavonne Palmer LaTan a Rice Rondi Smith PREVIOUS SCHOOL Central Hi Central Hi Central Hi RECOMMENDED PLACEMENT am am REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 28, 1997 Page 8 The Board recessed briefly and reconvened at 9:20 p.m. to consider an employee's appeal of District disciplinary actions. (Dr. Daugherty excused himself from the hearing.) Jonathan Miller had been an employee of the Plant Services Department and was represented in this hearing by Attorney Alvin Clay. The District was represented by Clay Fendley. Mr. Miller had been an employee of the District for over 12 years. He was accused of being in possession of a handgun on District property. The incident occurred after the regular school/work day during an athletic event at Quigley stadium. His attorney, Mr. Clay, asked the Board to give Mr. Miller another opportunity, and Ray Gillespie, District Athletic Director, testified on his behalf. Mr. Miller was working for Mr. Gillespie at the time of the incident. Doug Eaton, Director of Plant Services, testified that he had brought the charges against Mr. Miller and that there were charges filed in Pulaski County Circuit Court related to the altercation. The incident had been reported to Bobby Jones, Director of Safety & Security for the District on the morning after the incident. Dr. Roberts recommended that the Board suspend Mr. Miller, without pay, pending the final outcome of the charges that are pending in Circuit Court. Mr. Miller would then have the option of coming back to the Board to ask to be reinstated if he is cleared of the charges in Circuit Court. Ms. Magness made a motion to suspend Mr. Miller indefinitely, without pay. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. ADJOURNMENT The Board returned from executive session at 9:30 p.m. Ms. Magness moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Berkley, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 9-(g-q1 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING September 11, 1997 SEP 2 6 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Thursday, September 11, 1997, immediately following the regularly scheduled agenda meeting, at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Micheal Daugherty ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 5:47 p.m. Six members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty was absent. Carthoria Johnson, teacher ex officio from Bale Elementary School was also present. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING September 11, 1997 Page2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of approving the 1997-98 budget submission to the Arkansas Department of Education. ACTION: Board members were provided copies of a budget summary earlier this week. They were also given a copy of the full budget submission prior to the meeting. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions. Dr. Roberts reminded the Board that the budget can be modified further after submission to the State. He asked the Board to consider a budget work session sometime within the next few weeks. The Board agreed to conduct a work session on October 9, in conjunction with the regular October agenda meeting. Ms. Magness moved to approve the submission to the Arkansas Department of Education. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Berkley. APPROVED: q -{ 8 ,q ~ LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 RECEIVED OCT 2 9 1 97 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its monthly meeting at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, September 18, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. This meeting was rescheduled from the usual 4th Thursday to the 3rd Thursday to accommodate plans for the 40th anniversary programs commemorating the integration of Central High School. The President, John Riggs, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Micheal Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESE T: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Les Carnine, Superintendent Designee Carthoria Johnson, Teacher Ex-officio Yolanda Baskins, Student Ex-officio Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Five members of the Board were present at roll call
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 6:20 p.m. and Dr. Mitchell arrived at 7:00 p.m. Judge Chris Piazza was present to administer the oath of office to Little Rock School District Board members Judy Magness, Pat Gee, and Sue Strickland. Ruth White Tucker, re-elected to the Pulaski County Special School District Board, and Ernie Davis, re-elected to a position on the Pulaski County Board of Education, were also sworn in by Judge Piazza. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page2 II. READING OF MINUTES: The minutes from the regular board meeting of August 28, 1997, and a special meeting on September 11, 1997, were presented for the Board's approval. Ms. Magness moved to approve the minutes as written. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT The Superintendent introduced Greg Harris and Barbara Byrd, teachers at M. L. King Elementary School. They were recently recognized for their programs to teach economics to elementary students by the Bessie B. Moore Arkansas Awards program. Kiffany Pride was also awarded an honorable mention, but was unable to attend the Board meeting. William Reid, owner of Reid-Vining Jewelers, was recognized for restoring two silver trophies that have been on display in the Central High School trophy case for many years. Age had blackened and corroded these trophies, dated 1908 and 1910. He presented the restored trophies to Principal Rudolph Howard. Dr. Roberts presented a certificate ofrecognition to Sharon Brooks, principal of Rightsell Incentive School. Ms. Brooks recently hosted U.S. Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater and his staff on a tour of Rightsell, which included a visit with students and a live broadcast from the school's media center. Ms. Brooks was commended for the work she does at Rightsell, for the high expectations set for staff and students, and for her strong leadership abilities. Marion Woods was introduced to present certificates to the first graduates of the Mahl on Martin Professional Development Leadership class. The District received a Goals 2000 grant to fund this staff development program. The graduates are: Stacy Blacknall Marian Jackson Mary A. Smith Marilyn Bostic Mary Lawson Eunice Thrasher Sharon Bryant Ken Milton Janis Tucker Luverda Clay Debra Murray William Vann Carmelia Crawford Mike Peterson Nona Whittaker Donna Hall Julia Post R. J. Williams Gregory Harris Bemestine Rhodes Clarice Woodley Rory Hill Lillie Scull Karen Worsham Laureen Isom REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page 3 The final citations were presented to Carthoria Johnson, teacher ex-officio from Bale Elementary and Yolanda Baskins, student ex-officio from Hall High School. B. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Baker Kurrus, representing the Little Rock Alliance for Our Public Schools, spoke in support of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan proposed by Dr. Roberts and presented to the Board in August. Odies Wilson, vice president of the Alliance Board, also addressed the board and asked them to make a commitment to the process of educating the children in our community by voting in favor of the proposed desegregation and education plan. He announced that the Alliance would work with the Chamber of Commerce over the next few weeks to develop a city-wide reading initiative. Jim Hathaway, representing Fifty for the Future, expressed support for the revised Plan and asked the Board and administrators to focus on strong fiscal management of the District. To promote stability, he suggested hiring additional, qualified staff and reorganizing the current staff to make operations more efficient. Speaking on behalf of the Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, Hubert Barksdale read a resolution adopted by the Chamber Board. He also introduced Paula Patterson, the newly appointed Chairman of the Chamber Education Committee. D. 1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden was present and spoke briefly to the Board. ODM has not been monitoring in the LRSD this year, therefore there are no issues or concerns to report at this time. 2. Classroom Teachers Association Grainger Ledbetter remarked on the cooperative efforts of the task force which has been working to coordinate technology training for over 600 employees who have expressed interest in this area. He also reported receiving several calls from teachers who want to participate in activities at Central High School on September 25, and he asked the Board to consider allowing all employees the opportunity to attend. He concluded his presentation by remarking that he had worked with the faculty at Metropolitan who were concerned about implementation of an alternative program at that school. He introduced Laurie Prather, who teaches at Metropolitan. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page4 Ms. Prather stated that the faculty and staff is not opposed to locating an alternative program at Metro, but that they are concerned about how the students would be served. She stated the faculty feels that they had been left out of the planning process and should have been consulted earlier. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PTA Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Daugherty congratulated Ms. Magness, Ms. Gee and Ms. Strickland on their re-election
all three were uncontested for their seats on the Board. He also introduced Dr. Dwayne Jackson who attended the meeting. Ms. Gee remarked that, although she was unopposed, she did not take the election for granted. She promised to continue to work towards a more cooperative and unified Board. Mr. Berkley also congratulated the re-elected Board members and stated that he was looking forward to the next year. Ms. Magness introduced her family and thanked them for their support of her service on the Board. She stated that she appreciated the opportunity to serve three more years and thanked district employees for the great beginning of school. She recognized the Alliance and Chamber of Commerce Board and thanked them for their contribution to the success of the past year. Ms. Strickland introduced her husband and thanked him for supporting her in her efforts on the Board. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page 5 IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS V. Maureen Rose from Waste Management of Arkansas was present as Murfee Green, a character who promotes recycling education programs. She provided copies of educational materials WMA will distribute to our students promoting recycling. Dick Burchett introduced himself as a supporter of Metropolitan and the program offered there. He questioned the Board about the selection of Metro as a site for new alternative learning programs. Mr. Burchett stated that his wife is a teacher at Metro and that he lives in Bryant. Sandy Becker, chair of Strategic Planning Team 5, School and Community Partnerships, stated support for the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan proposed by Dr. Roberts. He welcomed Dr. Carnine to the District and pledged his support in the coming year. Mr. Becker encouraged the Board to continue to support the Strategic Planning process and continue to bring new opportunities to the students. The Board took a briefrecess and reconvened at 7:30 p.m. ACTION AGENDA A. Election of Officers Mr. Riggs opened the floor to nominations for the position of President of the Board. Mr. Berkley nominated Ms. Magness. Dr. Mitchell moved that the nominations be closed and that Ms. Magness be elected by acclamation. The vote was unanimous. For the position of Vice President, Ms. Strickland nominated Mr. Berkley. Mr. Riggs moved that the nominations close, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. The vote was unanimous. Mr. Riggs nominated Dr. Daugherty for the position of Secretary. He moved that the nominations close and that Dr. Daugherty be elected by acclamation. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. B. Approval of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan Dr. Roberts presented a summary of the modifications to the Plan which had been provided to the Board at the August 28 Board meeting and urged the Board to approve the Plan for submission to the Court. He indicated that approval of this Plan by the Court would restore a common sense approach to educating the children of Little Rock and would result in a significant increase in the levels of parent and community involvement in the schools. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page6 Mr. Riggs made a motion to approve the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan and authorize our attorneys to file the plan and any necessary supporting documents with the district court within the time allowed by the district court's order approving the plan development period. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A transcript of the Board member's comments regarding the approval of this Plan for submission is attached to these minutes. C. Approval of the 1996-97 Annual Report The District's 1996-97 Annual Report was printed as a part of the agenda and Suellen Vann, Director of Communications, was present to respond to questions. She reminded the Board that under Arkansas law, this report must be filed by October 1 of each year. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the report. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Approval of the Student Rights & Responsibilities Handbook Dr. Roberts briefly reviewed changes that had been incorporated into this year's Rights & Responsibilities Handbook. Linda Watson, Student Hearing Officer, and members of the handbook committee were present to respond to questions from the Board. Ms. Gee moved to approve the handbook, Mr. Riggs seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0 . Dr. Daugherty left the meeting and was not present for the remainder of the meeting. E. Goals 2000 Grant Application An application for a Goals 2000 grant had been submitted to the Arkansas Department of Education for a September 12 deadline. The Board was asked to approve maintenance of that submission. The grant would provide continuation funding for two professional development programs established in 1996 with Goals 2000 funding. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the submission. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. F. Ratification of Aides & Custodians Contract The Board was provided with information on the negotiated contract with District Custodians and paraprofessionals. Mr. Gadberry was present to respond to questions from the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the contract agreements. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. G. Consolidated Application for Special Education and Related Services, 1997-98 The 1997-98 application for special education funding was presented for the Board's approval. Ms. Strickland moved to approve the application for submission to the Arkansas Department of Education. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page7 H. Resolution: Arkansas Public Schools Week Suellen Vann, Director of Communication, presented a resolution in support of the Arkansas School Public Relations Association celebration of Arkansas Public Schools Week, October 5-11, 1997. This year's theme is Everyone's Business ... Everyone's Future. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the resolution, seconded by Dr. Mitchell. The resolution was approved, 6-0. I. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Riggs made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Dr. Mitchell. The motion carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR McClellan High $100.00 cash First Commercial Bank Chicot Elementary $102.00 cash Loomis, Fargo & Company Franklin Incentive RCA VCR Connie Simpson Sears VCR Ellistine Gaddy Dell Computer System Arkansas Democrat Hall High Air Conditioner for Best Buy Field House Fulbright Elementarv Microwave/CBI class Easy Cash Pawn Shop Wilson Elementary Frigidaire Refrigerator Valerie Pearsall/Rich Roy Pulaski Heights Jr. High Four IBM Computer Arkansas Community systems, assorted Foundation software and accessories Eight IBM Computer PHJHPTA systems with uogrades Otter Creek Elementary Five IBM hard drives, Steve Aurillio, Alltel keyboards and monitors Mabelvale Elementary Apple II GS Computer Les & Jerri Sue Finch - REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page 8 J. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the recommendations, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. K. Financial Reports Financial information for the months of July and August were presented in the Board agenda. Mr. Milhollen, Manager of Financial Services, responded to questions from the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the reports as presented. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Budget Update The Board did not hear a budget update, but scheduled a budget work session for October 9, 1997. B. Board Goals Update The Board reviewed the status of the goals established May 22, 1997. Mr. Berkley and Ms. Magness will develop a strategy to begin reviewing and revising the Board policy manual over the next few months. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY The Board convened an executive session for the purpose of hearing a student disciplinary petition. Dr. Linda Watson presented a student reinstatement petition for Latesha West, who had been expelled from Southwest Jr. High School during the 1996-97 school year. Latesha had enrolled at the P.C. Juvenile Justice Center and had earned passing grades in that program. Dr. Watson recommended reinstatement on strict probation to a district junior high school. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the administration's recommendation. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 18, 1997 Page9 ADJOURNMENT The Board returned from executive session at 8:35 p.m. Mr. Riggs moved for adjournment, seconded by Dr. Mitchell, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: /0. ).J. o/7 Riggs: Daugherty: Magness: Daugherty: Magness: Berkley: LRSD Board of Directors Meeting September 18, 1997 TRANSCRIPT - BOARD MEMBERS COMMENTS on Revised Desegregation and Education Plan Recommend by Superintendent Don Roberts MOTION: I move we approve the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan and authorize our attorneys to fi le the plan and any necessary supporting documents with the district court with in the time allowed by the district court's order approving the plan development period. Second. Is there any discussion? There is. I've looked at all the information that different groups have provided for us, I've talked with Dr. Roberts about the different things within the Plan, and I definitely support the Plan, but I don't want us to forget that there was a reason for this deseg. order in the first place. That there were problems that faced this district and this country that people were not willing to acknowledge or deal with and unfortunately it took going to court in order to get people to comply, and in order to do the right thing. And rather than do the right thing, some of the parents took their kids out of our schools. But even with that we still continue to educate kids in this district. By voting for this I'm not saying that I disagree with the efforts of Mr. Walker and individuals like him, because it was individuals like Mr. Walker that made the difference. It was his effort, and efforts of people and attorneys like him that began the change. But, after awhile after you've fought dragons for so long, when you go out you're looking for dragons even when there aren't any left. We are fortunate to have had Dr. Roberts for this last year. He's really made a difference. We look forward to the work of Dr. Carnine. But I don't want this Board, because we are going to be judged by what we are implementing here tonight. We can say last year - year before last that we didn't have anything to do with the old deseg plan. But this is ours and we are going to be judged by this. So it's going to be up to us to make sure that the things in here are implemented and done according to what the judge directs us to do. But again, I don't take anything away from the individuals who had to go out and fight to get individuals within this district, at one point, to comply and do the right thing. And, you know, as I said, I do support this. Thank you. Any other discussion? Mr. Berkley. I appreciate your comments Dr. Daugherty. I think we have to keep in mind that the whole purpose for the original desegregation litigation was to assure and demand equitable education. And we are in a different place than we were when this was initiated as a nation and as a city, and I want to say that I have never experienced anything in the schools that I've been to, the people I've talked to, anything other than a total commitment to that issue. Board members, teachers, principals, the superintendent, everybody who I've talked to realizes that it is a moral, ethical, right thing to do, and I congratulate Dr. Roberts on the development of this plan and on the community input that was required to develop it and I absolutely support it. LRSD Board of Directors Meeting September 18, 1997 Page 2 Magness: Mitchell: Magness: Riggs: Thank you. Dr. Mitchell I simply want to say again that the best recruitment tool that the District can have is one where we are providing quality education for the children that we serve regardless to where they live and how they look. I'm just pleased that we now have something to submit to the court that really focuses on what we should be doing - - providing educational opportunities for the children and I'm glad that it's not detailed as to how it's going to be done, Dr. Roberts, because frankly, that's one of the things that impeded our progress before, that we were too specific, too detailed, I mean, in whatever you wrote in the plan the people expected for you to do it whether it worked or not. Or it if didn't work, you had to prove it didn't. And so in order for us to be effective at the schools, to provide the activities to devise the activities to use whatever educational programs that would better meet the needs of the children in that particular setting, that I think this is the best way to present it, and not go into any specific details so I support it and I'm glad that we are now focusing on what we ought to be doing and not just throwing out bait to try to lure people to the district. But show that our students are important . . . (End of tape 1 - remainder of Dr. Mitchell's comments are inaudible.) Mr. Riggs I certainly agree with the other Board members on what they've said about what we're trying to do tonight. I particularly empathize and understand some of the comments Dr. Daugherty made about the people in the past who have fought for the rights of our children and those people to me are heroes. The other thing that he said, that we have to be cognizant of, and I caution this Board or talk to you or maybe I will talk to you for the next year anyway - is that when we agree on this plan, if we pass this plan tonight, we are making a contract with the community to follow this, and they are going to hold us accountable, and not only do you make a contract for yourselves, but you make a contract for all the Boards that follow you. I've sat up here at this dais before, with Dr. Mitchell and Ms. Gee, and wondered who it was that put that past plan in place, and I can even remember some Board members saying "Well, we didn't vote on it, so we're not going to do it." and we landed in Court. We accepted that, didn't we? That Board member's not on this Board right now. But I want to caution you about that, and as part of Board leadership the Board members that follow us -- that needs to be part of our policy that we teach them the obligations they have. You can't allow Board members to come onto this Board and not know the obligations that we are making for them tonight and for the next several years. So, particularly our three new Board members who are going to be here for at least three years, I want to encourage you to keep that thought in mind as you get new Board members on this Board, that part of their education process has to be that we show them the obligations that they have as a member of this Board. Lastly, I just want to say to this Board we are at a historic crossroads. Although we've had a lot of hoopla in town about what's going to go on in the city this week and next week, I believe ten years hence and probably twenty years hence a lot will be forgotten about the 40th anniversary of the desegregation of Central High. But the steps you take tonight, I think, will be remembered .. because you're taking, in my opinion, taking a good school district - one of the best in Arkansas - and making it a world class school district. And I think those are historic steps. LRSD Board of Directors Meeting September 18, 1997 Page 3 Magness: Thank you. Any other comments? That was well said. Thank you all for your comments. We do have a motion on the floor - to approve the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan and authorize our attorneys to file the plan and any necessary supporting documents with the district court within the time allowed by the district court's order approving the plan development period. All those in favor (Unanimous vote.) LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT September 26, 1997 Ann Brown, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Brown: SEP 2 6 i~~' Off\C0r OtSEGR~Gfi.i\Oi4 t/lOtliOR\Wl I am enclosing minutes of LRSD Board of Directors meetings held on August 28 and September 11, 1997. 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) 324-2000 REC IVE-LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS oc 2 9 t!l97 mliCECF MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING October 15, 1997 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Wednesday, October 15, 1997, at 810 West Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas. Judy Magness, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Larry Berkley John Riggs, IV Katherine Mitchell MEMBERS ABSENT: Micheal Daugherty Pat Gee Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Ms. Magness called the meeting to order at 5:10 p.m. Four members of the Board were present
Dr. Daugherty, Ms. Gee and Ms. Strickland were absent. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING "ft
:1T~'UI1!~\S The meeting was called for the purpose of reinstating students who had been suspended or expelled previously and for conducting student disciplinary appeal hearings. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING October 15, 1997 Page2 ACTION: Linda Watson, Student Hearing Officer, presented information on the recommendation for expulsion from Central High School of student Antoine Shephard. Dr. Watson had upheld the school's recommendation and Antoine's mother, Ms. McDonald, asked to appeal that decision to the Board. Antoine (and his brother, Corey) had been involved in a major fight at school on September 30, 1997, and had both been charged with inciting to riot. Dr. Watson had recommended placement in the Juvenile Justice Center, Step-One Alternative Program. The superintendent recommended upholding the schools petition for expulsion and concurred with the alternative placement recommended by Dr. Watson. Mr. Riggs made a motion to uphold the administration's recommendation. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 4-0. Ms. McDonald withdrew her request for a hearing on Corey Shepherd's expulsion recommendation. The Board was also presented with a list of students who were recommended for placement in alternative settings, but who had not requested a hearing before the Board. Additional information was requested from the Student Hearing Officer before action by the Board. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 6:02 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Mr .Riggs. (1d~ ,( /m-Ld',Y -l'dc---=: ~J~Magness, President APPROVED: lo -
3. 1: LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 REC IVED NOV 2 5 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its monthly meeting at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 23, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, Judy Magness, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell John Riggs, IV Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Marva Pearson, Teacher Ex-officio Hanna Dolle, Student Ex-officio Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. Board President, Judy Magness, called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. All members of the Board were present at roll call. Ex-officio members of the Board were also present: Hanna Dolle, student at McClellan, and Marva Pearson, teacher at Baseline. READING OF MINUTES: The minutes from the regular board meeting of September 18, and a special meeting on October 15, 1997, were presented for the Board's approval. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the minutes as written. Mr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts introduced Daryl Newcomb, a teacher at Booker Arts Magnet Elementary School. Ms. Newcomb was recently selected by Entergy Arkansas as an Outstanding Teacher of the Year for 1997. She was also named as a finalist for the 1998 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. A superintendent's citation was presented to Claudia Rodgers, physical educ~tion teacher at Dunbar Junior High School. Ms. Rodgers was recently honored by the Association of Teacher Educators as the Outstanding Cooperating Teacher of the Year. Dr. Roberts presented a citation to Frances McCorkle in recognition of her selection as a participant in the Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program. Ms. McCorkle will visit Japan for three weeks next fall. Representatives from Centro Hispano were honored for volunteer hours contributed to help Chicot Elementary School families during the opening of school this fall. Karen Latch, teacher at Williams Magnet Elementary School, received a Superintendent's citation for recently being named as a recipient of the Arkansas Retired Teachers Association Parsons-Burnett Scholarship. The $1,000 award is for continuing education. The superintendent recognized a number of people who contributed to the Central High School Fortieth Anniversary recognition programs. Central staff members Rudolph Howard, Nancy Rousseau and Brenda James were present to accept citations of appreciation for the time they contributed to making the events a success. Mr. Howard also received a certificate of appreciation from the White House Communications Agency in recognition of his assistance to the presidential staff. Vicki Saviers, Cynthia East, Billie Rutherford, and Jeannie Andrews, PT A officers at Central High School, were recognized for the time they devoted to planning the many activities that were scheduled at Central over the last month. Doug Eaton and staff members at Plant Services were recognized for their extra efforts in ensuring that all of the maintenance projects were completed before the Central High School anniversary events. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page 3 Several months oflandscaping projects were coordinated by Jerry Compton of ServiceMaster Management Services. ServiceMaster donated $10,000 to make improvements to the front lawn at Central High School
the district matched this amount and much of the work was done by volunteers from Merlin E. Seamon Associates, Master Gardners, and 4-H Club members. Southwestern Bell and its employees were given citations recognizing their donation of $100,000 worth of Internet access wiring at Central High School. Members of the Southwestern Bell Pioneers and the Communications Workers of America volunteered their time to install the wiring during their off hours. The final citations were given to the ex-officio Board members for the month of October
Marva Pearson, teacher from Baseline Elementary, and Hanna Dolle, student from McClellan High School. The final presentation was to Board member John Riggs, who was recognized for his year of service as president of the board. The other members of the Board presented him with a gavel. B. PARTNERSHIPS Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator for the District, recognized recently formed partnerships between schools and community businesses. Those partnerships include: ITT Technical Institute, represented by Kevin Standiford and Dr. Pat Honeycutt, partnering with McClellan High School, represented by Patricia McMurray and Jodie Carter Little Rock Hilton, represented by Sandra Anthony, Anrianne Beck and Tracy Bennett, partnering with McClellan High School, represented by Patricia McMurray and Jodie Carter ITT Technical Institute, represented by Kevin Standiford and Dr. Pat Honneycutt, partnering with Metropolitan Vocational Center, represented by Michael Peterson Mr. Riggs made a motion to accept the new partnerships. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page4 C. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS - 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden thanked Dr. Roberts for serving as superintendent during the past year and for providing positive leadership for the District. 2. Classroom Teachers Association Frank Martin spoke on behalf of the faculty at Metropolitan, some of whom are opposed to placement of the ALE program on the Metro campus. He stated that the community would be opposed to having alternative education students at that site and that some of them would probably transfer their students out of the district. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. D. BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Daugherty acknowledged that there were concerns about placement for students with disciplinary problems and students who merely had problems learning in the regular classroom setting. He stated that the proposed alternative programs were geared to address the needs of the individual students. Dr. Mitchell issued a challenge to parents and teachers to form partnerships to provide children with the things they really need in order to succeed in learning. She stated that children do best in school when parents, teachers and the community cooperate as a support team. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page 5 Mr. Riggs thanked the Board for allowing him to serve as president for the past year. He congratulated three people who have recently been publicly recognized for outstanding service to the school district
Marian Lacey for receiving the Milken Award, Diane Vibhaker for being recognized by the Arkansas Times as a "hero", and Don Roberts who has worked with the Board over the past year to ensure that they had a productive year while searching for a new superintendent. Mr. Berkley congratulated Mr. Howard and the Central High School staff for providing a positive focus on Little Rock schools during the recent national media focus. Ms. Magness thanked the staff and volunteers at Central High School for the work they had done over the past few months preparing for the 40th year commemoration events. Ms. Magness had attended a coffee at Wilson Elementary School, read to first grade students at Watson Elementary School, and attended a sixth grade musical production at the PT A open house at Jefferson Elementary. She complimented the good behavior of Dunbar band students who marched in the red ribbon parade, and thanked Mike Peterson and the Culinary Arts students at Metro for hosting the October agenda meeting. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Todd Skaggs introduced himself as a former culinary arts student at Metro. He spoke in opposition to placing alternative education students at the Metro campus. Michael Drake spoke in support of the Pankey property deed extension. He is a member of CANDO, an alliance of fourteen west Little Rock churches, which has pledged their support to the building of a Pankey Community center. Sandy Becker thanked the Board for continuing their support of the Pankey community in their efforts to build a community center. He serves as pastor of a church in that community. Wali Caradine, with Architectural Innovations Group, is working with the Pankey Community to develop the plans for building a community center. He provided information on plans that must be approved by the city planning commission. Ray Walters serves as a mentor to students at Metro. He asked the board not to approve plans to place an alternative program at Metro. Rick Evans teaches at Metro and expressed concerns about placement of ALE students at the Metro campus. He stated that area students and those from Bryant and Bauxite would pull out of the Metro Vocational programs if alternative students were assigned to attend there. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page6 Tracy Hairston, a student in the Metro extended day program, asked the Board to consider other placement for the ALE students. Larry Lee stated that training provided at Metro is not available anywhere else. He suggested that the students at Metro attend there because they want to be there and that Metro would not "work" for ALE students who are forced to attend the programs or who do not have a choice about where they are assigned. David McCree teaches radio and television broadcasting at Metropolitan. He asked the Board not to assign ALE students to Metro programs in the middle of the school year and stated that courses offered there require that students be there from the beginning of the semester. He stated that vocational education does not have a good reputation and that the public perception of having an ALE program will impact negatively on the success of Metro. Selma Douglas addressed the board as a 43-year resident of the Pankey community. She provided historical information on the land that has been proposed for development as a community center site. Robert Savary, who serves on the Metro Board, stated that proposed changes to the Metro program will be a detriment to the school's success. He asked the Board not to approve the recommended ALE programs. V. ACTION AGENDA Mr. Riggs asked the Board to reorder the agenda to allow Item "F" to become Item "A" on the action agenda. There were no objections to his request. A. Resolution: Beacons/School-Based Community Centers Dorothy N ayles, representing New Futures, made a brief slide presentation to update the Board on a proposal for operating school-based community centers. The Board was asked to adopt a resolution supporting the school-based community center concept which promotes collaboration with the City of Little Rock, the Department of Health, the Department of Human Services, New Futures for Youth, and the Pulaski County United Way. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to approve the resolution, Mr. Riggs seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A copy of the resolution is attached to these minutes. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page 7 B. Central High Architectural Conservation Planning Grant The Board was asked to approve submission of a planning grant to the Getty Grant Program of Los Angeles. The application request is in the amount of $25,000 for planning restoration and architectural conservation of Central High School. Ms. Gee moved to approve the submission. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried 7-0. The Board elected to take action on items C, D, and E with a blanket motion C. National Science Foundation Grant A grant application was submitted to the National Science Foundation to establish a fiveyear program to increase enrollment in upper level mathematics and science courses. First year applicants are allowed up to $200,000 for start up activities and recipients are allowed to apply for up to $800,000 in years two through five. The Board was asked to approve the submission. D. Vital Link Grant The Board was asked to approve the submission of an application to the Little Rock Education Commission for financial support in the amount of $35,000 for the Vital Link Program. This funding would pay transportation costs for the summers of 1998 and 1999. E. Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Applications As a recipient of federal funds, the district is required to implement a comprehensive drug abuse prevention program in grades K-12. The 1997-98 allocation will be in the amount of $166,696.00, and the Board was asked to approve the application for submission to the Arkansas Department of Education. Mrs. Elston was present to respond to questions from the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to approve items C, D, and E. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. F. Resolution: Arkansas Drug Free Youth and Red Ribbon Campaign In support of the National Red Ribbon Campaign for Drug Free Youth, the Board was asked to adopt a resolution endorsing Red Ribbon Week and urging all citizens to make a commitment to drug free education and to the future of our children. Dr. Mitchell moved to adopt the resolution. Mr. Riggs seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A copy of that resolution is attached to these minutes. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page 8 G. Pankey Community Center - Approval to Amend Deed An amended deed for property previously transferred to Pankey Community Improvement Association, Inc. was presented for the Board's approval. The PCIA asked the Board to extend the requirement to construct a building for educational and/or community center purposes to January 1, 2000. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the deed amendment. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A copy of the amended deed is attached to these minutes. H. Service Learning Sites A listing of Service Learning Sites recommended by the Arkansas Division of Volunteerism was presented for the Board's approval. In addition to approval of the sites listed, the Board was asked to approve Central High MuseumNisitors Center and Advocates for Battered Women as Service Learning Sites for LRSD students. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the service learning sites listing. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. I. Alternative Learning Environment Proposal for 1997-98 The Superintendent asked the Board to approve Alternative Learning Environment sites at the Alternative Learning Center, Forest Heights Jr. High School, Metropolitan VocationalTechnical Education Center, Penick Boys Club, and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Dr. Roberts responded to questions from the Board. Dr. Daugherty, Mr. Berkley and Mr. Riggs spoke in support of the motion
Ms. Gee spoke in opposition. Ms. Strickland made the motion to approve the proposal, seconded by Mr. Berkley. The motion carried 6-1, with Ms. Gee casting the "no" vote. The Board took a briefrecess at 8:45 p.m. and returned at 8:50 p.m. Dr. Daugherty did not return from recess. J. 1997-98 Budget Submission The Board was asked to approve draft 7 of the proposed 1997-98 budget which was reviewed extensively at the work session on October 9, 1997. The revised figures included recommendations from the work groups, computer technology training time for teachers, and increased funding for the ALE programs. A $2,000,000 draw from the settlement loan fund was reflected in the submission. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the revised budget. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page9 K. Interim Millage Adjustment The board was asked to approve a resolution setting the personal property and real property rates at 41 .40 mills. The State of Arkansas requires the Board of school districts in Pulaski County to certify their applicable tax rates to the County Clerk prior to the regular November quorum court meeting. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the resolution, seconded by Ms. Gee. The motion carried 6-0. L. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Ms. Strickland. The motion carried 6-0. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR VIPS Program $1,000 for Vital Link Entergy Corp McDermott Elementary $9,000 for construction McDermott PT A of a retaining wall Pulaski Heights Elementary Kenmore Refrigerator & Mr. & Mrs. Sidney Ogden 12 x 12 carpet Computer/Monitor/ Ms. Mildred Cooper Printer/Software 100 primarv chairs Pulaski Heights PT A Chicot Elementary $240 cash to fund field Anonymous trips M. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. Dr. Mitchell moved to accept the recommendations, Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page 10 N. Financial Reports Financial information for the month of September was presented in the Board agenda. Mr. Milhollen, Manager of Financial Services, responded to questions from the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the reports as presented. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Articulation Agreement - ITT Technical Institute An agreement with ITT Technical Institute was reported for the Board's information. Through this agreement, students will receive advanced college credit for 1st year Drafting and Design, 2nd year Engineering, Drafting and Design, and 1st and 2nd year Electronics Technology courses taken at Metropolitan. B. Desegregation Update The Desegregation Update for the month of October was printed in the Board's agenda. There were no additional questions. C. Board Goals Update The Board goals, established May 22, 1997, were provided for review. There were no additional questions or comments. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY Dr. Linda Watson presented a student appeal petition for an expulsion recommendation from Central. The student, Brandon Davis, was represented by Attorney Michael Booker. Clay Fendley from the Friday, Eldredge & Clark Law Firm was present for the District. Brandon was charged with inciting to riot for an incident involving a group of students at Central High School on September 30, 1997. Witnesses to the incident were present: Andrea Smith, Security Guard, Little Rock Police Resource Officer Mobley, and Eric Brandon, teacher and coach at Central. In addition, Rudolph Howard, principal and Brenda James, assistant principal, were present. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 23, 1997 Page 11 All of the witnesses indicated that the incident was, or appeared to be gang related. Brandon denied any participation in gang activity at Central and denied that he had participated in the fight. Brandon's mother, Sharon Davis, was present and asked the Board to reinstate Brandon to Central High School. Keith Richardson was also present to speak on Brandon's behalf and to appeal to the Board to allow Brandon to return to school. Although the school administration agreed that Brandon had not participated in the actual fighting, they determined that he had been a party to the escalation of the fight by flashing hand signals that were, or appeared to be, gang-related. The Superintendent recommended the Board uphold the administration's request for expulsion. Ms. Gee moved to discuss the matter in executive session. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 5-1, with Mr. Riggs casting the "no" vote. The Board returned from executive session at 10:35 p.m. to report that no action had been taken. Ms. Strickland moved to accept the administration's recommendation for expulsion. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion. Mr. Riggs and Ms. Gee spoke in opposition to the motion
Mr. Berkley spoke in support of the expulsion recommendation. The motion for expulsion passed by a vote of 4-2, with Ms. Gee and Mr. Riggs casting the "no" votes. On another student disciplinary action, Dr. Watson presented a request for reinstatement for Tommy Glaspie. Tommy had been expelled from Southwest Jr. High School in February 1997. He completed the 1996-97 school term at the Pulaski County Juvenile Detention Center. He presented a request for reinstatement to the Little Rock School District for placement in the 10th grade. Based on the information presented, Dr. Watson recommended reinstatement on strict probation, with assignment at McClellan High School. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the reinstatement petition. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. ADJOURNMENT Dr. Mitchell moved for adjournment at 10:43 p.m., seconded by Mr. Riggs, and it carried unanimouslv. ~?J~ -M-i-ch-e-al-D-au-gh-erty-,-~.-~.e.. ,,_e_~ Resolution A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE SCHOOL-BASED COrv1:MUNITY CENTER CONCEPT
DIRECTING THE CONTINUANCE FOR DEVELOPMENT OF AN IMPLEMENTATION PLAN IN PARTNERSIDP WITH THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK AND VARIOUS OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Whereas, the Little Rock School District Board of Directors continues to support the development of quality programming for the youth in our City
and Whereas, the Little Rock School District Board of Directors continues to promote the development of collaborative efforts with the City of Little Rock, the Department of Health, the Department of Human Services, New Futures for Youth and the Pulaski County United Way
and Whereas, the School District supports the utilization of existing resources, i.e. public school facilities and existing programming to develop community-based initiatives that strengthen school, family and community linkages
and Whereas, the School-Based Community Center concept is a comprehensive, year-round, after-school, neighborhood-based, safe haven for children and family support, located in public school buildings and operated by community-based organizations
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Little Rock School District Board of Directors supports the concept of School-Based Community Centers and directs the Superintendent to work with the City of Little Rock, the Department of Health, the Department of Human Services, New Futures for Youth and the Pulaski County United Way to develop ideas for programs, funding, and operation of these community-based centers in the public schools. Little Rock School District Board of Directors 1 ( ' w ~ )?h_."[?f-c~/ Micheal Daughi,&cretary Whereas, Arkansas' youth have a right to be educated in an environment conducive to learning
and Whereas, all schools and administrative buildings of the Little Rock School District are designated as Drug Free Zones
and Whereas, programs such as D.A.R.E., Just Say No, T.R.U.C.E., Peer Helpers and Student Assistance which promote drug awareness and prevention for youth, have been implemented in Little Rock public schools
and Whereas, during the week of October 25-31, 1997 special emphasis will be placed upon drug free youth with the observance of National Red Ribbon Week
and Whereas, a joint effort must be made by parents, schools, and the community working together toward a common commitment for preparing our children to be tomorrow's leaders, NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Little Rock School District endorses National Red Ribbon Week and urges all citizens to make a commitment to drug free education and to the future of our children. Adopted this 23rd day of October, 1997. I , :?zz/4,~e: -C,4s,z?r5 Micheal Daugherty, Secretary LTITLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT October 28, 1997 Ann Brown, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Brown: REC!Ei,,eo OCT 2 9 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITOR/Na I am enclosing minutes of LRSD Board of Directors meetings held on September 18 and October ,5, 1997. Please let me know ,f 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) 324-2000 - LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 20, 1997 RECEIVED JAN 1 2 199U OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONrJORU The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its monthly meeting at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, November 20, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, Judy Magness, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Larry Berkley Pat Gee John Riggs, IV Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Micheal Daugherty Katherine Mitchell ALSO PRESENT: Les Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Jeanette Stephenson, Student Ex-officio Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. Board President, Judy Magness, called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Five members of the Board were present at roll call. Dr. Daugherty and Dr. Mitchell were absent. The Ex-officio student representative Jeanette Stephenson, student at Parkview, was also present. READING OF MINUTES: The minutes from the regular board meeting of October 23 were presented for the Board's approval. Ms. Magness requested a correction to the minutes, which was noted. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the minutes as edited. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 20, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: Ms. Magness recognized Lillie Carter, principal of Pulaski Heights Elementary School, who introduced the P. H. music teacher, Leeta Robertson, and kindergarten teachers, Ms. Willis and Ms. Neal. Kindergarten students performed a "pipe" demonstration of musical notes sounded by varying lengths of plastic pipe. A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Carnine presented a citation to Ms. Gail McKinnon, AP English teacher at Hall High School. Ms. McKinnon was recently selected to serve a second year as chief reader for the SAT II: Writing Essay in Wilmington, Delaware. Jodie Carter, principal of McClellan High School, was called to accept a certificate of recognition from the Arkansas Famous and Historic Tree Program (AFHTP) for a flowering dogwood which was planted on the campus of McClellan in 1970 during the first "Earth Day." This tree, named the Marylou Andreelli Tree in honor of its' donor who was a McClellan Humanities teacher, was recently registered as official #0004 in the AFHTP. Gwen Efird, coordinator of Health Services, presented plaques and certificates of recognition to school nurses who were nominated for their commitment to students in the District. The first year nurse award was presented to Patricia Brown, who serves students at Bale Elementary and Southwest Jr. High. Stevie Cherepski was the recipient of the School Nurse of the Year Award. Ms. Cherepski provides nursing services to students at M. L. King Elementary School. In addition, six nurses were presented with certificates of recognition for their nomination in the school nurse of the year program. They were: Ann Callaway, Garland Elementary School
Beverly Heron, Terry Elementary and Parkview Magnet Schools
Carla Kelley, Henderson Health Science Magnet Jr. High School
Marsha Mahan, Romine and Western Hills Elementary Schools
Lavelle Rollins, Franklin Elementary School
and Uvita Scott, Booker Magnet Elementary School. The final citation was presented to the ex-officio student representative to the Board for the month of November, Jeannette Stephenson, from Parkview Magnet High School. SPECIAL PRESENTATION Dan Farley, representing Arkansas Friends for Better Schools, made a presentation recognizing Diane Vibhaker as a Public School Hero. Ms. Vibhaker was selected for the numerous volunteer services she provides to the District and for her commitment to public education in the city. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 20, 1997 Page 3 B. P ARTNERSIDPS Lee Ann Matson represented the VIPS office for recognition of newly established partnerships between area businesses and schools. The following school/business partnerships were presented for the Board's approval. All About Travel in partnership with Fulbright Elementary School, represented by Mac Huffman Baptist Medical Center, represented by Colleen Woodruff, Sandra Brown and Missy Nesterenko, in partnership with Henderson Health Sciences Magnet Junior High School, represented by James Washington and Mickey Bates Dr. Beatrice Reed, Optometrist, was present to accept a certificate recognizing her partnership with McClellan Business/Community Magnet School, represented by Jodie Carter and Wanda Baskins FOXY 99.5 Radio Station, represented by Jeff Hedman, in partnership with McClellan Business/Community Magnet School, represented by Jodie Carter and Wanda Baskins Aristotle Internet Services, represented by Tara Perrin, in partnership with Washington Magnet School, represented by Jennifer Lindsey Ms. Gee made a motion to accept the new partnerships. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. C. SPECIAL PRESENT A TIO NS Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden had no formal report, but welcomed Dr. Carnine to the District. 2. Classroom Teachers Association Grainger Ledbetter, president of the CTA, welcomed Dr. Carnine to Little Rock and remarked that he felt positive about their first two meetings. He stated that teachers were looking forward to technology training, scheduled to begin in January. He noted concerns from the building level, including: 1) implementation of direct deposit of payroll
2) the inadequate pool of substitute teachers
and 3) the number of grievances which had been filed recently with the CT A. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 20, 1997 Page4 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council Doris Williams thanked the Board for supporting the PTA Council and for attending Council meetings whenever possible. D. BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Gee congratulated Essie Middleton and Becky Rather for the successful 6-7 grade transition meeting which was held on November 9, at Forest Heights Jr. High School. She also remarked that the recent Board retreat was very beneficial. Ms. Gee also made a statement regarding the number of complaints she had received regarding the poor service by Laidlaw this year. She wanted parents to be assured that the District was aware of their concerns and would be looking at a number of options for transporting students next school year. Ms. Strickland thanked Ms. Magness for facilitating the Board retreat and stated that it was a wonderful way for Board members to communicate better with each other. Ms. Magness was wearing a Baseline Elementary sweat shirt and stated she had visited that school to observe the Success for All program. She had also visited Gibbs Magnet Elementary School's international festival which focused on Bolivian culture and featured food, dress, and lifestyle displays. She also commented on the success of the transition meeting at Forest Heights Jr. High School, and thanked the City of Little Rock Board of Directors who attended the recent joint meeting with the District Board. Ms Magness had prepared a summary report on the Board retreat which was distributed to other Board members. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 20, 1997 Page 5 IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES V. V. The National Dunbar Alumni Association presented plans for improvement of the Dunbar Magnet Jr. High School campus. Elise Argue, president of the Dunbar PTSA, and Dr. Erma Glasgow Davis, president of the National Dunbar Alumni Association, requested the District's financial support for the project, which is estimated at approximately $53,000. The Alumni association is contributing $10,000 to the PTSA for the project, which they hope to have completed by July 1999, when the National association meets in Little Rock. Chris Cooper presented the landscape plans and explained the proposal for improvements in the landscaping and structural modifications to the sidewalks and irrigation system. Zenobia Harris, parent, and Victoria Boykins, student, spoke in support of the proposal and asked for the Board's consideration. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Don Campbell spoke to the Board regarding the District's practice of prohibiting suspended and expelled students from getting credit for school assignments. He provided letters supporting his request for the Board to reconsider the portion of the handbook which addresses this issue. ACTION AGENDA A. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Riggs made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Ms. Strickland. The motion carried 5-0. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOUDEP ARTMENT ITEM DONOR Baseline Elementarv $450 for field trips Waste Management of Ark. Mann Magnet School Miscellaneous clothing Sheila Ballard items for the Drama Dept. Athletic Department $1,500 Randy Johnson/Alltel Corp. McClellan Community School $100 to Teachers of Sidney A. Moncrief Tomorrow - REGULAR BOARD l\1EETING November 20, 1997 Page6 M. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the recommendations, Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 5~0. N. Financial Reports Financial information for the month of October was presented in the Board agenda. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the reports as presented. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 5-0. VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Truancy Report Jo Evelyn Elston, Director of Pupil Services, provided a report on truancy during the first nine week period of this school year. She also provided background information on the truancy center previously operated by the District, and current efforts to reduce truancy. The Dropout Center coordinates efforts to have students picked up by the LR Police Department and delivered to the nearest secondary school. B. Discipline Report Linda Watson provided a summary report oflong term expulsion and alternative school placements for the current school year. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY None. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 20, 1997 Page? ADJOURNMENT The Board adjourned at 7:30 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Riggs, seconded by Ms. Strickland. 1fb.1!7:.p?!i.~ APPROVED: /3-, IC-17 I JI.. , ?
u.~, /~ ,{_ ~ Micheal Daugherty, ~ LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 18, 1997 ECEnteo JAN 2 7 199B OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITOR/NG The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its monthly meeting at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, December 18, 1997, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Board President, Judy Magness, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Larry Berkley Micheal Daugherty Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell John Riggs, IV MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Les Carnine, Superintendent of Schools Fatimah McKindra, Student Ex-officio Gordon McIntyre, Teacher Ex-officio Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. Board President, Judy Magness, called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Five members of the Board were present at roll call. Dr. Daugherty arrived at 6:18 p.m.
Ms. Strickland was absent. The ex-officio student representative, Fatimah McKindra from Central High School, and ex-officio teacher representative, Gordon McIntyre, were also present. READING OF MINUTES: The minutes from the regular board meeting of November 20, 1997, were presented for the Board's approval. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the minutes, seconded by Ms. Gee. The motion carried 5-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 18, 1997 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: Students from the Rockefeller Show Choir, directed by Ms. I. J. Routen, performed for the Board. The children were dressed in their pajamas, robes and slippers, and sang several non-traditional Christmas songs. A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Carnine presented citations to the ex-officio representatives to the Board for the month of December, Fatimah McKindra, from Central High School, and Gordon McIntyre, from Brady Elementary. B. P ARTNERSIDPS Debbie Milam recognized representatives of area businesses and schools who had recently established partnerships. The following school/business partnerships were presented for the Board's approval. Jostens Learning, represented by Jim Hardwick, in partnership with Chicot Elementary School, represented by Jane Harkey and Leola Fields Barnes & Noble Booksellers, represented by Kathy Johnson, in partnership with Mabelvale Elementary School, represented by Donna Clark Party City, in partnership with Romine Elementary School, represented by Karen Greenlee Mr. Riggs made a motion to accept the new partnerships. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. C. SPECIAL PRESENT A TIO NS 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Skip Marshall had no formal report, but brought holiday greetings on behalf of the ODM staff. 2. Classroom Teachers Association Clementine Kelley attended the meeting representing the CT A. She had no formal report but brought season's greetings to the Board and administration. REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 18, 1997 Page3 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. D. BOARD MEMBERS Ms. Gee wished fellow Board members a happy holiday and thanked the student performers for their presentation. She encouraged everyone to move forward to become the best they can be. Dr. Daugherty expressed disappointment in the recent fire that occurred at Franklin Incentive School. He asked the Board to consider implementing a reward system to encourage citizens to come forward and name the person or persons responsible for this fire and other vandalism damage to District property. Ms. Magness thanked District staff members who responded promptly to the fire at Franklin
many people worked over the weekend to ensure that school could be in session Monday morning. She had recently attended the Forest Heights Junior High School Career Day activities. Ms. Magness thanked the student groups who performed at the recent Arkansas School Board's Association convention, and commended Marian Lacey for representing the District in a presentation at that same convention. She extended a special thank you to the Chamber of Commerce for inviting Board members to the recent annual meeting and luncheon. IV. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Jerry Cohen from MEMS Ambulance Service made a brief presentation highlighting some of the educational activities that MEMS provides for our students. Students are allowed to tour ambulances, and paramedics provide safety and educational activities to prevent drinking and driving. MEMS employees also work with the medical professions students at Metro to encourage further education in the paramedical field. REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 18, 1997 Page4 V. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Don Campbell asked the Board to respond to his presentation at the November Board meeting asking for assistance in allowing suspended and expelled students to make up their course work. V. ACTION AGENDA A. Dwight D. Eisenhower 1997-98 Professional Development Grant The Board was asked to approve maintenance of the December 1 submission of the 1997- 98 Title II, ESEA, D. D. Eisenhower grant proposal. Funding from this grant would provide professional development in math, science, and social studies activities in the amount of $141,798. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the submission. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. B. Adult Education Direct & Equitable Proposal A request to the Arkansas Department of Education for funding in the amount of $56,623 to serve educationally disadvantaged adults will be submitted upon approval by the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the submission, seconded by Ms. Gee. The motion carried, 6-0. C. Adult Education Institutional/Correctional Proposal The Board was also asked to approve a grant submission to the Arkansas Department of Education in the amount of $56,241 to fund adult education services to institutionalized/ correctional adults. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the submission. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. D. Approval of AP Art History Course/Parkview Magnet The principal and staff of Parkview Magnet High School requested the Board's approval of the addition of an AP Art History course at Parkview beginning with the 1998-99 school year. The course would follow the curriculum established by the College Board and would compliment other visual arts specialty courses at Parkview. Dr. Anderson responded to questions from the Board. Mr. Riggs made a motion to approve the course. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 18, 1997 Page 5 E. Age Requirements for Compulsory Attendance Under the terms of Act 1230 of 1997, the enrollment age for students in Arkansas is set as five (5) years of age on or before September 15, instead of the current date of October 1. There is a provision in this act that allows school districts in the state having 50% or greater student population eligible to receive free or reduced lunches, to elect to use any other date between September 1 and October 1. Upon approval by the Board, the LRSD will file for this waiver to maintain the current enrollment date of October 1. Other Districts within Pulaski County have also elected to maintain the October 1 enrollment date. Mr. Riggs moved to approve submission of the waiver application. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. F. Grant Application: Arkansas Abstinence Education (Project FATE) G. Grant Application: Avon Kids Care Breast Cancer Awareness Crusade The Project FATE grant application would provide $35,000 for implementation of an early intervention program in sexual abstinence at Otter Creek Elementary School for 5th grade female students and their parents. Otter Creek is partnering with the Southwest Community Center and the McClellan Community School to implement this program. The Avon Breast Cancer Awareness and Education Grant requests $48,637 for the development of a program for female students at Forest Heights and Cloverdale Junior High Schools. The application would include a partnership with the city-wide Healthy Family Celebration, the Witness Project, the Encore Program at the YWCA, the American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the Arkansas Department of Health, CARTI, and St. Vincent's Infirmary Medical Center. Mr. Riggs requested that these two grant applications be approved by a combined motion. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. H. Waiver from State Standards for Senior High Athletic Eligibility A proposal, submitted by Ray Gillespie, Director of Athletics, petitions the Arkansas Department of Education to approve a waiver from recently adopted standards for academic requirements for participation in competitive interscholastic activities. The request for a waiver is to be filed with a plan to implement a supplemental instruction program for students who fall within the guidelines. That plan was presented in draft form for the Board's approval. Assistant Superintendent Victor Anderson was present to respond to questions from the Board. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve submission of the plan and waiver application. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 18, 1997 Page6 I. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the donations, seconded by Mr. Riggs. The motion carried 6-0. Donated items are listed in the chart which follows. DONATIONS SCHOOLJDEP ARTMENT ITEM DONOR Bale Elementary NC Color Video Alan Robinette and Monitor and VCR Brentano's Bookstore Mabelvale Jr. High Seven office chairs Joy Ballard/Superior Federal Bank Rightsell Elementary Four NCR Computer Rodney Slater, Secretary of processors, monitors US Department of and keyboards Transoortation Parkview Magnet High School 23 pairs of tennis shoes Derrick Fisher/LA Lakers and LRSD Athletic Deot. through "Skechers" Mitchell Incentive School $1,000 for purchase of Wal-Mart, Inc. dance and drill team costumes Pulaski Heights Jr. High Microwave Oven A vis Mitchell Mabelvale Jr. High $50.00 gift certificate Wal-Mart/Baseline store $25 .00 gift certificate Wal-Mart/Landers store J. Personnel Changes The Board was asked to approve personnel items printed in the agenda. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the recommendations. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. K. Financial Reports Financial information for the month of November was presented in the Board agenda. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the reports as presented. Mr. Riggs seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 18, 1997 Page? VI. REPORT AGENDA Bond Fund Status Report As requested by the Board, a Bond Fund report was printed in the meeting agenda. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions from the Board. The Board asked Mr. Milhollen to provide additional information and a brief oral report at the next meeting. Desegregation Update As requested, the District enrollment report as of December 15, 1997, was printed in the agenda. Ms. Acre was present to respond to questions. She was asked to prepare an enrollment comparison as of October 1 for each year for the next meeting. Board Goals Update The Board goals were printed in the agenda. There was no additional discussion. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. DISCIPLINARY None. EXECUTIVE SESSION At 7: 15 p.m., Mr. Riggs made a motion to convene an executive session for the purpose of discussing a personnel matter. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 8:15 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. ADJOURNMENT The Board adjourned at 8: 15 p.m. on a motion by Mr. Riggs, seconded by Dr. Mitchell. APPROVED: / - .
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This project was supported in part by a Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives project grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and Council on Library and Information Resources.

<dcterms_creator>Little Rock School District</dcterms_creator>