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LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING July 18, 1996 NOV b - 1996 Office of Desegrega:ion Monitonn9 ....... , The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District called a special meeting at 5 :00 p.m. on Thursday, July 18, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Linda Pondexter, Board President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Linda Pondexter Ms. Patricia Gee Ms. Sue Strickland Dr. Michael Daugherty Ms. Judy Magness Dr. Katherine Mitchell Mr. John Riggs, IV MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: I. Ms.Beverly Griffin
Recorder of Minutes CALL TO O,RDQt:- . Board President, Li:n:da Pondexter, called the meeting to,ot.der at 5:02 p.m. The roll call revealed the presence,.Df all Board members. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING July 18, 1996 Page 2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The meeting was called for the purpose of accepting the report and recommendations of the contingency committee regarding the Superintendency of the Little Rock School District. Members of the contingency committee were present and are listed: Rett Tucker Roosevelt Brown Debbie Glasgow Marian Lacey ACTION AGENDA Betty Mitchell Skip Rutherford John Walker Mr. Rett Tucker provided a brief summary of the findings of the contingency committee. A copy of their report and recommendations are attached to these minutes. The committee's report included two recommendations: 1) to appoint a five member management team to lead the district until the appointment of an interim superintendent, and 2) to appoint Dr. Don Roberts as interim superintendent, effective August 15, 1996. Members of the recommended management team are: Victor Anderson, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Schools Sadie Mitchell, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools Marian Lacey, Principal of Mann Magnet Jodie Carter, Principal of McClellan Skip Rutherford, member of the LRSD Board of Directors from 1987-1991 Mr. Tucker reported that the committee recommended Dr. Roberts' appointment for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years in order to give the LRSD Board the time necessary to find a permanent superintendent. He also stated that John Walker had agreed to a two year moratorium on any further legal action related to the Desegregation Plan and the settlement agreement. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING July 18, 1996 Page2 Executive Session Dr. Mitchell moved for the Board to convene in executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel issues. Mr. Riggs seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session at 5:35 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. Mr. Riggs expressed appreciation to the members of the contingency committee and Ms. Pondexter thanked members of the Board for supporting her in the formation of the committee. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the recommendations of the contingency committee, Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. DISCUSSION Price Gardner and Chris Heller, attorneys with the Friday firm, were asked to respond to questions of Board members regarding Dr. Williams' contract and the District's financial obligations to Dr. Williams. Mr. Gardner remarked that the contract was still in full effect unless Dr. Williams tendered a letter of resignation. He also stated that the Board could vote to terminate the contract "for cause," but Mr. Heller suggested that the Board take no further action and allow the negotiations between Dr. Williams' attorney and Mr. Gardner to continue. ADJOURNMENT Mr. Riggs made a motion to adjourn at 5:55 p.m. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. ~~?~~ ' Linda Pondexter, President APPROVED: g.J
}., - 9 (, ~~ ,~k&,./J Suetricklan,Secretary CONTINGENCY COMMITTEE REPORT LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT JULY 18, 1996 Rett Tucker and Roosevelt Brown, Co-chairmen Debbie Glasgow, Marian Lacey, Betty Mitchell, Skip Rutherford, John Walker Members of the School Board and citizens of Little Rock, my name is Rett Tucker and I am Co-chairman of the Contingency Committee approved by this Board earlier this year. Other members, who are present, include Co-chairman Dr. Roosevelt Brown, PTA Council President Debbie Glasgow, Mann Principal Marian Lacey, CTA President Betty Mitchell, former school board president Skip Rutherford and attorney John Walker. On behalf of Dr. Brown~ let me begin by thanking the Board for putting your confidence and trust in us. We also want to thank the committee members for their dedication and hard work. We met numerous times in the spring and put together the framework of a contingency plan in the event it was needed. We have had almost perfect attendance at every meeting. We took this assignment very seriously. We considered it an honor and an opportunity to participate in this very important process. We resolved from the beginning that we would put our differences aside and work toward consensus. When we were notified Sunday that Dr. Williams was going to Kansas City, we were prepared. To finalize our recommendations, we have met every day this week and now come before you with a recommended plan of action. This plan comes to you with our unanimous support. In fact, I must say that our committee--with strong wills, strong personalities, strong views and all the diversity we prize in Little Rock--never once had a split vote and never met an issue that we didn't resolve in a civil and thoughtful way. I have been part of many committees both personally and professionally, but this one has represented the best and most gratifying experience I've ever had. Let's clarify first what we did not do. Although there has been a great deal of speculation, we did not consider the selection of a permanent Superintendent. That was not our assignment. We do believe, however, that this is a very important decision in its own right because it comes at such a critical time. We focused on the short-term, although we define short-term as one to two years. Tonight, we have two major recommendations. Our first deals with getting through the next several days and weeks. In this regard, we congratulate Dr. Williams on his new position and wish him well. We thank him for his leadership and his service. This is a tough job. We recognize that and appreciate all he has done. Although Dr. Williams will remain on the payroll until September 1, we know that he will be spending a great deal of his time, his talent and his energy--as he should--on Kansas City and the future. 2 While he will still be a very valuable resource for this school district, we propose--from tomorrow through August 14, the formation of a five-person management team which would report directly to the Board. This team would operate in the same spirit that our Contingency Committee has operated: successfully addressing a short-term assignment. We spent a great deal of time and thought on the membership of this team. We looked for people with experience, with dedication and who had the energy to take on extra assignments. We recommend the following individuals: Dr. Victor Anderson would serve as the daily operations officer. He brings a wealth of experience as a principal, an administrator and, more importantly, as a person who is recognized as both a consensus builder and a team player. He would be in charge of day to day administration. Joining him on the team will be Sadie Mitchell, a former teacher, a former principal, and now an administrator, who has worked very closely with the elementary schools. Also, Jodie Carter, the principal of McClellan High School, who from first hand experience understands both the challenges and the opportunities of our senior high schools. Sadie will be in charge of all elementary schools and Jodie will have the responsibility for the senior high schools. The two other members come from our Contingency Committee. Let me add that neither sought a position on the team. In fact, both had to be drafted. 3 e Marian Lacey is the principal of Mann Junior High School. She is a principal' s principal and was such a positive voice on our committee. Marian knows the junior highs and her outstanding record at Mann speaks for itself. She will focus on all aspects of the junior high schools. Skip Rutherford, the only non-educator on the team, understands the school board better than most. He served on the Board from 1987 to 1991, as its president in 1989 and 1990 and coordinated two victorious millage campaigns. He will supervise communication and student assignments and will serve without pay. All of these members will continue to perform their current responsibilities. Marian Lacey will still be the principal at Mann and Jodie Carter will still be the principal at McClellan. Skip Rutherford will still work at Cranford Johnson Robinson Woods. Vic Anderson and Sadie Mitchell will still be district administrators. All of them, however, for the good of the district, will work on the management team which means extra duty and long hours for each of them. Please note that all four educators are or have been successful principals and the non-educator is a former school board member and president. The team is experienced. It needs to be because much will be happening over the next four weeks--including the opening and beginning of school. We simply can't put this district on hold for that time period. This professional team addresses that issue. 4 The second part of our recommendation relates to the position of Interim Superintendent. We considered many people and possibilities. We listened to board members and to interested citizens. We wanted to recommend someone who could provide effective, steady, experienced leadership
someone with local ties who understands Little Rock, Arkansas and state school funding
someone who could help this district and the Board in its search for a permanent Superintendent. We believe we have found that person. Tonight, we unanimously recommend to you, Dr. Don Roberts--the former Director of the Arkansas Department of Education and the former Assistant Superintendent of the Little Rock School District. Dr. Roberts is an Arkansas native and was educated at Henderson State and the University of Arkansas. He served as State Education Director during the administrations of both Governor Bill Clinton and Governor Frank White. He has been a successful Superintendent in three urban school districts. We recommend him to you as Interim Superintendent for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two. This will give you the time, the breathing room and the opportunity to find the best Superintendent possible. As we know from experience, finding a Superintendent is not always a quick process. Dr. Roberts can and will help you in the search. He is 61 years old and retired in 1994 after seven years as Superintendent of the Fort Worth School District. This is a district with 72,000 students and 9,000 employees. Since that time, he has been doing consulting work with school districts across the country. 5 e He loves Little Rock, loves Arkansas, knows Little Rock and knows Arkansas. We sought him out for this position. He has always been dedicated to high quality desegregated education and seeks to build cooperation across racial lines. He is known as a person who keeps his word and works in good faith. He is an educator, an administrator and, we believe, a healer. He did not seek the job. We went after him. Dr. Roberts can be here tomorrow to meet with you individually and as a group. He can be in Little Rock and on the job no later than August 15. We also recommend the following: When Dr. Roberts arrives on August 15, the management team will become an advisory team to him. Dr. Roberts would, of course, take over the day to day operations, but we envision the advisory team helping him on both a regular and as-needed basis. Their assistance in this transition will be invaluable. As I noted earlier, we believe Dr. Roberts should be given a oneyear contract with the possibility of another year if needed. He has indicated he is not interested in the full-time Superintendent's position, but, again, that subject is a matter for the Board to discuss at the appropriate time. We believe his compensation package should be comparable to that of Dr. Williams. 6 Dr. Roberts said it is extremely important to him that the city's leadership, the business community and other groups come together in support of the public schools. We've seen a great deal of that happening already and tonight we have with us Mayor Dailey, other elected officials, city leaders, school patrons, parents and interested citizens who are here in support of quality desegregated public education in our city. As chairman of the Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, I can pledge to Dr. Roberts, the board, and the management team, the Chamber's continued support. The next two Chamber Chairmen, Doug Buford and Janet Jones, are here to back me up. Finally, and this is very important: to provide this district with stability as it works its way through some difficult problems and prepares for the 21st century, our colleague and fellow committee member John Walker, has agreed--in good faith--to a two-year moratorium on initiating any new legal action against the school district related to the settlement agreement. Dr. Roberts expressed reservations to our committee about accepting a position in a district embroiled in litigation and controversy. This offer was made by Mr. Walker to Dr. Roberts because of Dr. Roberts' past record in the Little Rock School District and the State Department of Education. This means that the Board, Dr. Roberts and the employees in the District, for the first time in almost 40 years, can concentrate totally and fully on educating our children and on implementing and, if necessary, modifying the current desegregation plan and getting out of court. 7 These are our recommendations. We believe they serve as a sound and reasonable short-term plan. We also believe they serve as a new beginning for the district and a bridge to the future. It is amazing what we can accomplish when we work together. Madame President and members of the Board, the Contingency Committee respectfully requests your approval of these recommendations. Having discharged our duties and responsibilities, we have concluded our assignment and will disband as a committee following tonight's meeting. We thank you for this opportunity to serve our school district and our city. Dr. Brown and I as well as members of the committee are now available to answer any questions you might have. Thank you. C:\wpwin6 l lwpdocsltucker\Superintendent. 78 8 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 R NOV 6 - 1996 Of/ice of DesegregatJon Monitonng The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on July 25, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, Linda Pondexter, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Linda Pondexter Ms. Patricia Gee Ms. Sue Strickland Dr. Michael Daugherty Ms. Judy Magness Dr. Katherine Mitchell MEMBERS ABSENT: Mr. John Riggs, IV ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Victor Anderson, Assistant Superintendent Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, Linda Pondexter, called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of six Board members. Mr. Riggs was absent. The teacher ex officio, Dr. Jane Meadows, representing Hall High School, and the student ex officio from McClellan High School, Mitchell Moore, Jr., were also present. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Pondexter asked for a motion from the Board to convene an executive session for the purpose of discussing a contract. Ms. Gee moved for the executive session, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page 2 II. III. The Board returned from executive session at 6:20 p.m. and reported that no action had been taken. SUSPENSION OF THE RULES: Ms. Gee made a motion to suspend the rules to consider an item that was not on the meeting agenda. Ms. Magness seconded the motion at it carried 6-0. Ms. Gee moved to accept a contract designating Dr. Don Roberts as interim superintendent. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of June 27, and from special meetings conducted on June 28, and July 11, 1996, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were approved 6-0, on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Ms. Magness. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Anderson presented citations to the ex officio Board members for the month of July: Dr. Jane Meadows, teacher from Hall High School
and Mitchell Moore, Jr., McClellan High School student. B. PARTNERSHIPS There were no new partnerships presented for the month of July. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Ms. Pondexter invited Mr. Price Gardner to address the Board and answer questions regarding the status of superintendent Henry Williams' contract. He reported that effective August 1, or on the date that Dr. Williams signs a contract in another District, that action would effectively be a resignation from the LRSD and any further obligations to Dr. Williams would be measured as of that date. Mr. Gardner is continuing to negotiate with Dr. Williams' attorney. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page 3 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden reported that ODM monitors had visited extended year (incentive school) sites and would be providing a copy of that report to the Board and administration within the next few weeks. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors Joy Springer introduced Sheree Peterson, a Hall High School graduate who will be attending the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff next school term. Ms. Peterson commented on the treatment of black students by police resource officers and school administrators at Hall High School. She asked that District staff members be provided additional training in sensitivity to the needs of black male students. Ms. Springer commended the Board for commissioning the desegregation committee. She asked the Board and the new administration to review the recommendations contained in the committee's report and base plan modifications on those recommendations. She also asked for hwnan relations committees to be formed in the secondary schools to include students and teachers from all backgrounds to increase interaction and goodwill. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Linda Pondexter expressed appreciation to the members of the desegregation committee and the contingency committee. She also thanked Dr. Don Roberts for accepting the appointment as interim superintendent. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page4 IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Diane Douglas is the parent of a special education student who had been charged with assaulting his teacher at Henderson Jr. High in February, 1996. Ms. Douglas distributed copies of documents, including a summons from the Pulaski County Juvenile Court, and asked the Board to investigate why the teacher waited until mid-July to file charges against her son. Mike Campbell, transportation department employee, asked the Board to consider conducting an internal audit and suggested that they should start with the Transportation Department. Hafeeza Majeed expressed concern about communication between the contingency committee and the community. She questioned whether the community had any input into the recommendations made by the committee or the selection of the interim superintendent. Gwen Porter-Cole discussed the elimination of the truancy center and concerns about the students who would not have access to services previously provided by the truancy center staff. Mark Cole introduced himself as a former LRSD student and commended Sheree Peterson on the comments she made regarding treatment of students at Hall High School. He asked the Board to look for ways to better educate black children in our city. V. ACTION AGENDA A. 1996-97 Carl Perkins Application The Board was asked to approve the submission of an application to the Arkansas Department of Education for a two-year local plan utilizing Carl Perkins funds. The application requested $351,570 to implement vocational evaluation, training, and purchase of additional equipment. Ms. Gee made a motion to approve the submission, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page 5 B. Mini-Grant Submissions The Board was asked to approve the grant submissions listed in the following table. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to accept the proposed applications, Ms. Gee seconded the motion, and it passed 6-0. PROGRAM Develop a Web site for space/science/math education Establish a school greenhouse Install computer in Kindergarten C. Technology Grant SCHOOL Carver Magnet Mabelvale J. H. Fair Park Elem. AMOUNT REQUESTED $1,020 $1,000 $1 ,500 SPONSORING ORGANIZATION Ark. Space Grant Consortium Entergy/AP & L EDS The Board was asked to approve the submission of a grant application which had been forwarded to the Governor's Telecommunications and Information Technology Advisory Board in early July. The application requested $1,060,000 for the purchase of computers, network servers and printers, and would allow school media centers connection to the Internet. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve the grant submission. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it passed 6-0. D. ESEA, Title I District Plan, 1996-97 The ESEA, Title I, District Plan was prepared for submission to the Arkansas Department of Education by August 1, 1996. The Board was provided with copies of the Plan and the program abstract, which included a funding allocation of $4,258,731, based on 11,107 eligible students. Mr. Leon Adams, Director of Federal Programs, was present to respond to the Board's questions regarding the application. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve submission of the application, seconded by Ms. Strickland. The motion carried 6-0. E. ESEA, Title VI Application, 1996-97 The Board was also asked to approve submission of the ESEA, Title VI application for 1996-97. The program abstract was included in the Board agenda and requested $120,520 to support and enhance existing programs in the schools. Ms. Gee moved to accept the submission, Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it passed 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page 6 F. First Reading: District Employee Conflict oflnterest Policy A policy on Conflict oflnterest and Ethics in Business Activities was submitted for the Board's review and approval. Mr. Charles Neal, Director of Purchasing, was present to respond to questions from Board members, and stated that much of the policy text was taken directly from Arkansas purchasing law and procurement codes. Ms. Gee made a motion to accept the policy on first reading. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 5-1, with Dr. Mitchell casting the "no" vote. G. Educational Equity Monitoring Instrument, 1996-97 The Incentive School Monitoring instrument for 1996-97 was submitted for the Board's review and approval. Changes in the document had been suggested and approved by the LRSD Biracial Committee. Ms. Gee moved to approve the instrument, seconded by Ms. Magness. The motion carried 6-0. H. Televised Forum for School Board Candidates Upon approval of the Board, administration will arrange for a live broadcast over the District's cable channel, of a discussion among candidates for school board positions in zones one and five. The telecast will be conducted and sponsored by the LR Neighborhood Coalition. Ms. Magness moved to authorize the administration to proceed with the broadcast. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. I. Student Transfer Request Dr. Ronnie Williams petitioned the Board to approve a transfer request for his son, Torre, from Conway to Little Rock Central High School. The Board was provided copies of Arkansas laws and codes that regulate acceptance of minority students into districts, such as LR, that are operating under court-ordered desegregation plans. Torre would not be prohibited from attending school at Central, if he were living with a relative in the attendance zone, but he would not be allowed to participate in sports without approval of the Arkansas Athletic Association. The Board took no formal action on the request, but referred Dr. Williams to AAA for further information. J. Personnel Changes Dr. Anderson recommended acceptance of the personnel changes printed in the agenda and transfers and promotions listed on a slip sheet to the agenda. The Board asked to vote separately on items previously submitted for approval and additional personnel changes and transfers that were included on a slip sheet to the agenda. Ms. Gee moved to accept the resignations and terminations listed in the agenda. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page 7 VI. Executive Session Ms. Gee moved for the Board to conduct an executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel issues, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board remained in executive session from 7:20 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and returned to report that no action had been taken. Dr. Anderson recommended approval to transfer Dr. Walter Marshaleck to Southwest Jr. High School and Mr. Johnny Neely to the Alternative Learning Center. Ms. Magness made a motion to approve these transfers. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 5-1, with Ms. Pondexter abstaining. Administrative personnel changes were approved unanimously on a motion by Ms. Magness, seconded by Dr. Mitchell. They are listed in the table below. NAME Vernon Smith Kenneth Moore Jimmy Mosby Lloyd Sain Ann Blaylock Jerome Farmer PREVIOUS POSITION Asst. Principal/Fair Teacher/Hope High School Asst. Principal/Henderson Teacher/Hall Teacher/Pulaski Heights Teacher-Coach/Mann NEW POSITION Principal/Forest Heights Asst. Principal/Fair Asst. Principal/Hall Asst. Principal/Pulaski Hts. Pt. Time Asst. Prin./Pulaski Hts. Asst. Principal/Henderson Additionally, Dr. Mitchell made a motion to reinstate elementary assistant principals at six schools where those positions had been eliminated as a budget reduction strategy. Mr. Gadberry responded to questions from the Board and reported that reinstating these positions would cost approximately $160,000. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. K. Financial Reports Financial reports for the month of June were unavailable at the time of the meeting. Mr. Milhollen responded to questions regarding the status of end-of-year closing progress. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update Nancy Acre responded to questions from the Board regarding the report printed in the agenda. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page 8 B. Budget Update Mr. Milhollen reported that court hearings that had been scheduled for review of the budget had been canceled by Judge Wright. After filing the budget, meetings will be held in the Office of Desegregation Monitoring for review of the proposed budget. C. Transportation Update: LRSD/Laidlaw Joint Report Mr. Ed Streeter provided information on transportation operations after the first year of Laidlaw's service to the District. He reported that Laidlaw retained 82% of the former LRSD bus drivers, 71 % of the former mechanics, and 100% of former LRSD supervisors and dispatchers. He also reported that the on-time performance rate for Laidlaw was 97.6% compared with the previous LRSD on-time rate of 78%. A copy of the statistical charts were provided for the Board's review. D. Blueprint for Action Ms. Pondexter had asked for this item to be included on the agenda and indicated that she would provide the information to the Board at a later date. The Board took a briefrecess at 8:24 p.m. and returned at 8:35 p.m. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDMDUALS OR GROUPS Hafeeza Majeed commented on recent actions of the Board relating to the appointment of the management team and the interim superintendent. She questioned the formation of the desegregation committee, the contingency committee and strategic planning committees. She also suggested that Laidlaw provide training in human relations skills for the bus drivers. Lou Ethel Nauden expressed concerns about the teacher contract and the entire negotiations process. She stressed the importance of the fringe benefits to the total contract package. VIII. HEARINGS: DISCIPLINARY None. REGULAR BOARD MEETING July 25, 1996 Page 9 IX. HEARING: LIBRARY BOOK CENSORSHIP Ms. Dee Norton, parent at Pulaski Heights Elementary school, had filed a complaint about two books housed in District libraries
First Date and Beach House, by R. L. Stine. She had appeared before the Board previously, asking that the books be removed from District libraries. The Board had asked for a review of the books, using the District's established procedure for reconsideration of fictional library materials. Ms. Lucy Lyon, Director of Technology and Media Services, coordinated the formation of a review committee, which met to review the books. That committee recommended that the books be retained in the library. Ms. Norton appealed that decision and asked the Board to reconsider the decision of the committee. Dr. Michael Daugherty requested placement of the appeal on the agenda for consideration. In addition to Ms. Lyon, Mr. Mark Burnette spoke on behalf of the committee and its' findings. Other committee members were also present to indicate their agreement with the decision to retain the books on the library shelves: Thelma Watson, Mary Gillespie, Lillie Carter, and Margaret Gremillion. Andy Turner, attorney with the Friday firm, addressed the issue of censorship and provided established precedent for lawsuits that could possibly result from removing library books. He recommended that the Board consider the committee's findings and possible legal exposure resulting in a challenge of the First Amendment. Dr. Anderson suggested that the Board allow the committee's recommendation to stand. Ms. Gee moved to accept the recommendation, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried 5-1, with Dr. Daugherty casting the "no" vote. ADJOURNMENT With no further business to conduct, Dr. Mitchell moved for adjournment at 9:08 p.m. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: <Z-
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).._q(.o LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 8, 1996 AEcs NOV 6 - 1996 Office of Des egregar,on Mon,tormg The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District called a special meeting immediately preceding the regularly scheduled agenda meeting, at 5 :00 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Linda Pondexter, Board President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Linda Pondexter Ms. Patricia Gee Ms. Sue Strickland Dr. Michael Daugherty Ms. Judy Magness Dr. Katherine Mitchell MEMBERS ABSENT: Mr. John Riggs, IV ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Victor Anderson, Assistant Superintendent Mr. Chris Heller, Attorney Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, Linda Pondexter, called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. The roll call revealed the presence of six Board members. Mr. Riggs was absent. Also present were ex officio members of the Board: Thaddeus Leopoulos, a student at Parkview Magnet, and Rose Bogan, a teacher at McClellan High School. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 8, 1996 Page 2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting contained the following items: 1. Westside 2. Eastside 3. CTA Presentation 4. Administrative Staffing Reassignments 5. Recommended Personnel Changes 6. Approval of Secretarial Position 7. Briefing by Legal Counsel 8. Student Hearings 9. Employee Hearing ACTION AGENDA Westside Mayor Jim Dailey presented a letter requesting the Board's approval to donate Westside Junior High School to the Volunteers of America and the Central Little Rock Community Development Corporation. Representatives of VOA and the CDC, Belinda Snow and Jeff Arnett, were also present and requested support for development of their plans which include a three phase implementation. Phase I would be the development of 50 efficiency housing units for the homeless
Phase II would develop office space for public and private non-profit service agencies
and Phase III would renovate the 1000 seat auditorium for performance space for local arts groups and meeting space for community groups. Federal, state and city funds will be used to complete the project. The District had previously accepted an offer on the property with an August 1996 closing date. Ms. Magness moved to extend the previously approved closing date until October 20, and to authorize Doug Eaton to meet with representatives from the city to explore options for purchase other than actual cash. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Eastside Kay Hadley reported that she had met with VOA staff and had used information from their proposal to develop a similar plan for utilizing the now vacant Eastside building. She stated an interest in operating a vocational training center with a day care center. Mr. Eaton was asked by the Board to negotiate a possible lease and report back to the Board at a later date. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 8, 1996 Page3 CT A Presentation Betty Mitchell, CT A President, introduced Rich Nagel who provided copies of a trend chart of the amount of District funds used to pay teacher salaries. Frank Martin commented on a possible crisis situation in the contract negotiations process and questioned the authority of the administrators who were bargaining on behalf of the Board and administration. He stated that if there was not a settlement of the contract this week, teachers would not return to work on the first day of school, August 19. Dr. Anderson remarked that the negotiating team had regularly briefed the management team on the status of the negotiations process. He stated that the negotiating team was operating strictly under the parameters allowable, taking into consideration the District's financial condition. He indicated that there was no reason to believe that the team was not operating in good faith and offered to schedule a meeting between Board members and the management team for further discussion or direction. Ms. Pondexter asked for the parties to continue negotiating and indicated that she would like for the contract issue to be resolved before the start of school. She recognized Mr. Skip Rutherford who also commented on the commitment of the management team to solve the issue positively. Administrative Staffing Reassignments The Board was asked to approve the reassignment of two assistant principals: Patricia McMurray to Henderson Jr. High School, and Gail Pitts to Forest Heights Jr. High School. Ms. Magness moved to approve the recommended reassignments. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Recommended Personnel Changes The Board was asked to approve three assistant principals' assignments for the next school term. Action on this request was split for the purpose of voting. Unanimous approval was given to assign Mary Lou Kahler to the position of assistant principal at King Elementary School, and Thomas Voegele as acting assistant principal at Dunbar Jr. High School on a motion made by Dr. Mitchell and seconded by Ms. Magness. On the third request for reassignment, administration requested Board approval to assign Rhonda Dunn as a half-time assistant principal at Dunbar Jr. High School. Ms. Dunn would continue to serve as a classroom teacher for 1/2 day. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the recommendation, and Ms. Magness seconded the motion. Ms. Pondexter spoke in opposition to the motion and suggested that no additional positions should be approved by SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 8, 1996 Pagei the Board until the teacher contract negotiations are final. The motion failed 4-2, with Dr. Mitchell and Ms. Magness voting in favor of the motion, and Ms. Pondexter, Ms. Gee, Ms. Strickland and Dr. Daugherty voting "no." Approval of Secretarial Position Administration requested approval for funding of a clerical position for the newly created office of the Athletic Director. Dr. Anderson spoke in favor of establishing the position and provided information regarding the cost of funding the position. Dr. Mitchell moved to accept the recommendation and Ms. Magness seconded the motion. Ms. Gee, Dr. Daugherty, Ms. Pondexter and Ms. Strickland all spoke in opposition to the motion. They indicated that, although the position was probably necessary, they would not support creating a new position at this time and suggested that the clerical duties for the Athletic Director should be shared by someone currently employed, either a school-based employee or an employee of the central office. The motion failed 4-2. Briefing by Legal Counsel Mr. Heller was asked to attend the meeting to respond to questions regarding two separate issues before the Board: 1) the erection of a fence on District property during the renovation of adjoining property
and 2) the pending motion to enforce the Settlement Agreement. 1. The City of Little Rock petitioned the Board to allow the City to construct a temporary fence 20 feet from the eastern boundary of the District's property at 501 Sherman Street for one to two years while Curran Hall is being renovated. Curran Hall will become the City of Little Rock's visitor's information center. There were no objections to this request. 2. Mr. Heller requested the Board's approval to appeal a decision on the issue of the "pooling" agreement regarding M-to-M payments from the State of Arkansas. Board members were provided with a copy of a Memorandum and Order dated July 30, 1996, wherein Judge Susan Weber Wright ordered the District to reimburse the PCSSD $345,294 in M-to-M costs for the period FY 1991-92 through FY 1994-95. Mr. Heller indicated he felt an appeal to the Eighth Circuit Court was in order and necessary to limit current and future liability. Ms. Magness moved to accept Mr. Heller's recommendation to appeal the Order. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. The Board recessed at 6:34 p.m.on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Ms. Magness. The regularly scheduled agenda meeting was conducted before reconvening at 7: 17 p.m. Ms. Gee made the motion to move into executive session for the purpose of conducting an employee grievance hearing. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 8, 1996 PageS" EXECUTIVE SESSION Harold Jump, maintenance employee, requested a Board hearing to settle a dispute regarding his placement on the salary schedule for service employees. Brady Gadberry and Doug Eaton were present at the hearing. Mr. Jump felt that he was entitled to placement on the same salary schedule as another maintenance employee who was hired after him. Dr. Anderson recommended that the Board allow Mr. Eaton to review the two positions and make a recommendation based on the process used to set salary steps and grades for plant services employees. He was asked to return at the next Board meeting with his recommendation. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept Dr. Anderson's recommendation to continue the hearing at the next regular meeting. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session and reported that no action had been taken. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, there was a unanimous motion to adjourn at 8:03 p.m. APPROVED: 9 -JJ, -f(
~-~~ ~trickland, Secretary t LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 15, 1996 r, ,I i I ,
REc Nov 6 - 1996 ,i. Office of Dese i , g egation. Monitoring c,.,!':.I..., The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District called a special meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 15, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Linda Pondexter, Board President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Linda Pondexter Ms. Patricia Gee Ms. Sue Strickland Dr. Michael Daugherty Ms. Judy Magness Dr. Katherine Mitchell MEMBERS ABSENT: Mr. John Riggs, IV ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Interim Superintendent Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, Linda Pondexter, called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. The roll call revealed the presence of six Board members. Mr. Riggs was absent. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting contained the following items: 1. Secondary Literature Textbook Adoption 2. Teacher Contract Negotiations Update SPECIAL BOARD MEETING August 15, 1996 Page 2 ACTION AGENDA Secondary Literature Textbook Adoption The Secondary English Literature Textbook Adoption committee provided the Board with a memorandum which contained their recommendations for literature textbooks. Dr. Roberts recommended approval of their recommendation. Ms. Magness moved to accept that recommendation, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. The motion carried 5-1, with Dr. Mitchell casting the "no" vote. Teacher Contract Negotiations Update Brady Gadberry reported on the progress of the negotiating team in reaching an agreement on the contract for teachers for the 1996-97 school year. He reported that the teachers had voted to ratify the agreement that afternoon and he asked for the Board to suspend the rules to also approve the contract. The one year contract would provide a 2.46% increase, plus the step increase on the salary schedule. There were also some revisions to the fringe benefit package. A copy of that agreement is attached to these minutes. Ms. Gee moved for a suspension of the rules to take action on the proposed contract, Ms. Strickland seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Dr. Mitchell moved to accept the negotiated 1996-97 teacher contract. Ms. Gee seconded the motion, and it carried 5-0. (Dr. Daugherty left the meeting during the voting and explained that since his wife was employed by the District he was abstaining to prevent any suggestion of a conflict of interest.) ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Gee moved for adjournment at 6:17 p.m. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 8~
i._? ~ C/k:.- f ,,,\ 0\ ~ rt\'~\ Salary: LRCTA PROPOSAL August 15, 1996 - 3:45 p.m. 0 / Step+ 2.46% + topped-out stipend of $810 ~~0 .:. . ~ / ~ '
. nur:tion: i f7 ~: --1 year - Fringe Bene.fits: Insurance -Health $164.00 per month (1bis amount can be applied to any health insurance plan including the spouse and/or family plans.)~emium coverage will revert to the 1994-95 contract language at the end of the 97-98 contract year) Drop Long Term Disability Insurance. The savings are reflected in the salary schedule. . Employees who have health insurance from a source other than the LRSD who do not take any of the health insurance plans will receive a $550 stipend. -
fv_ ~ ~ ~ ~ fl.,,__ liCJ-4 ~ ~ lfti) N{)i. \<5'"'- ~cr1~~ M it ~~ c',~wtt.'f ...,,, M,,,, /l,yi,,
l,.,i ~ ~? ~~ /i'J(,, LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 R NOV 6 - 1996 Office of Des egrega11.o n Monitoring The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on August 22, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, Linda Pondexter, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Linda Pondexter Patricia Gee Sue Strickland Michael Daugherty Judy Magness Katherine Mitchell John Riggs, IV MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board President, Linda Pondexter, called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and stipulated a quorum without a roll call
all members of the Board were present. The teacher ex officio, Rose Bogan, representing McClellan High School, and the student ex officio, Thaddeus Leopoulos, from Parkview Magnet High School, were also present. II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of July 25, and from special meetings conducted on July 18, August 8, and August 15, 1996, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were approved unanimously, on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Dr. Mitchell. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 Page 2 III. PRESENT A TIO NS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts asked for the Superintendent's Citations script to be read by Ms. Pondexter. Mr. Riggs distributed the certificates of appreciation. Four of the District's school based security officers were recognized for exemplary service to the schools and the students they served during the 1995-96 school year. Those officers were: Robert Moore, from Pulaski Heights Jr. High School
Donald McTyre, from Cloverdale Jr. High School
Brian Anderson, from Forest Heights Jr. High
and Don Allen, from Hall High School. Three of the District's teachers were recognized for their participation in the 1996 Reading/Language Arts Summer Institute at Tulane University sponsored by The National Faculty. They were Theresa Harris, Kathryn Thomas, and Tammy Frahm. Barbara Byrd and Gregory Harris, both teachers at M. L. King Interdistrict Elementary School, were recognized by the Arkansas Council on Economics Education by winning third place honors in the intermediate category of the Bessie B. Moore Arkansas Awards Program for Teaching of Economics. Citations were also presented to the ex officio members of the Board for the month of August
Rose Bogan, McClellan High School teacher, and Thaddeus Leopoulos, student at Parkview Magnet High School. B. CITIZENS COMMITTEES There were no reports from citizens committees. C. 1. SPECIAL PRESENT A TIO NS Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden reported on ODM informal monitoring activities during the first week of school. When questioned by Mr. Riggs, Ms. Gulden offered to have Board Members visit the schools with ODM monitors. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 Page 3 2. Classroom Teachers Association Frank Martin remarked on the negotiations process and expressed appreciation to Linda Pondexter for supporting the efforts of the CT A. He thanked all members of the contract negotiations team for their hard work in reaching a settlement before the opening of school. He welcomed Dr. Roberts to the District and pledged support for the new administration. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Mike Daugherty read a prepared statement in response to recent media reports regarding his educational background and stressed his commitment to serving the LRSD. Pat Gee complimented the staff of the District, and parents of our students, for a good opening of school week. She also provided a reminder that the LRSD is a service business. Judy Magness expressed appreciation to the teachers, the staff, and the management team, for a good opening of school week. Ms. Magness introduced Larry Berkley, who is unopposed candidate for the Zone 5 Board position. Linda Pondexter offered congratulations to Mr. Berkley, who will be her replacement on the Board. She also offered as advice to fellow Board members to be true to their own conscience when making decisions that affect the District and the students. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 Page 4 IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS V. Robert "Say" McIntosh commented on the recent sentencing of Governor Jim Guy Tucker. He remarked on the recent publicity surrounding the educational background of Mike Daugherty and noted that serving on the school board does not require a college degree. He also remarked on the improvements made to the campus of Shorter College under the direction of Dr. Mitchell. Dr. Roberts asked for a moment to provide comments before taking action on the agenda items. He thanked the staff for the opening of school week, and recognized the negotiations team for their work in reaching a settlement. He also expressed appreciation to all District employees who report to work each day with a good attitude. He asked the Board to recognize that all recommendations for action at this meeting were based on the recommendations of District staff and that he reserved the right to ask for modifications at a later date, if necessary. ACTION AGENDA A. Second Reading: District Employee Conflict of Interest Policy Mr. Charles Neal, Director of Procurement & Materials Management, was present to provide background information and respond to questions from Board members. The policy providing guidelines for ethical operations of the District's purchasing process was provided for second reading. District attorney, Harry A. Light, provided a legal review of the proposed policy and his recommendations were incorporated into the drafting of the final documents. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve the policy on second reading, and Ms. Gee seconded the motion. Dr. Mitchell spoke in opposition to the motion and stated that the document was too long, too impractical, not binding, and that she would vote against approval. The motion to approve the policy on second reading carried, 6-1. B. Strategy Three: Action Plan #1 - Policy Revisions First Reading: Promotion and Retention of Students - Regulation for Retention in K- 6 and Regulation for Student Promotion Strategic Planning Team #3 recommended adoption of a policy statement providing for intervention strategies for retention at the elementary level, and guidelines for promotion of elementary school students. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the recommended policy statement and regulations on first reading. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 Page 5 First Reading: Comprehensive Intervention/Follow Up Remediation - Regulation on Intervention/Follow Up Remediation Also a part of the Strategic Plan was the recommended adoption of a policy statement on intervention, follow up remediation, and regulations for operation. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the policy statement and regulations recommended by administration and Strategic Planning Team #3. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. C. First Reading: Parent Involvement Policy Statement The Parent Involvement Administrative Team developed a statement which will serve to encourage active parent participation in District activities and was intended to convey the Board's belief in the importance of involving all parents in school activities. The Superintendent recommended approval of the statement on first reading. Ms. Gee moved to accept the statement on first reading. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. D. Student Crime Watch Program The Little Rock Police Department requested instituting a Student Crime Watch program in the schools. The program would operate similarly to the Crime Stoppers Program currently operated by the City and would provide rewards to students for reporting criminal activity or behavior at school or in the community. Sgt. Al Dawson, of the LRPD, was present to respond to questions from Board members. Ms. Gee spoke in favor of the program, and made a motion to accept the proposal. Ms. Magness seconded the motion. Dr. Mitchell and Ms. Pondexter spoke in opposition to the motion and after much discussion, Ms. Magness suggested amending the proposal to include a one-year trial period of implementation. Ms. Gee seconded the motion to amend. The motion to amend failed, as did the original motion, by identical 4-3 votes, with Ms. Gee, Dr. Daugherty and Ms. Magness casting the "yes" votes, and Ms. Pondexter, Ms. Strickland, Dr. Mitchell, and Mr. Riggs voting "no." E. Arkansas Public Schools Week The Arkansas School Public Relations Association announced the theme for this year's observance, October 6-12, 1996, of Arkansas Public Schools Week. By proclamation of Governor Mike Huckabee, the theme is Arkansas Public Schools: Put Yourself in the Picture. The Board was asked to pass a resolution in support of this state-wide observance. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the resolution, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 Page 6 F. Facilities Study Committee Ms. Strickland requested the Board's approval to add four additional persons to the Districtwide Facilities Study Committee. The Board was provided an updated list of the participants on this committee. The newly appointed members were: Lou Ethel Nauden, Gregg Stutts, Skip Marshall, and Brady Gadberry. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the additions to the committee. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. G. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Riggs made a motion to accept the donated items, the motion was seconded by Dr. Mitchell and it carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Packard-Bell Computer/ Meadowcliff Elementary Monitor and Epson Printer Mary Mitchell Meadowcliff Elementary Sharp UX-185 Fax Sam's Club Machine Mann Arts/Science Magnet Computer/Monitor/Printer Mr. & Mrs. Stanley and Software Bauman, Jr. Chicot Elementary $50.00 cash Wal-Mart Store# 124 H. Personnel Changes Dr. Roberts recommended approval of personnel changes printed in the agenda and referred the Board to Dr. Hurley to answer specific questions. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the personnel changes, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. I. Financial Reports Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions of the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the financial reports for the period ending June 30, 1996. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 7-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 Page 7 VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The Desegregation Update was printed in the agenda. August 21, 1996 enrollment figures were provided for comparison with 1995 data. B. Budget Update Mark Milhollen was present and answered questions from the Board regarding the financial reports printed in the agenda. Later in the meeting, Dr. Roberts reminded the Board of the upcoming dates for filing the final budget and suggested that an extension would be requested so that the budget can be finalized. He indicated that the Board might be asked to hold a special meeting to approve the final budget prior to submission. C. Briefing by Legal Counsel Chris Heller, Attorney with the Friday, Eldredge & Clark law firm, provided a brief written report regarding two issues pending before the Court. 1) The North Little Rock School District's motion to close Baring Cross School
and 2) a motion filed on behalf of school districts across the state to intervene as defendants in the Pulaski County School Desegregation case. Mr. Heller was not present at the meeting, but his report offered to provide additional information as needed. D. Transportation Update: LRSD/Laidlaw Joint Report Ed Streeter, terminal manager for Laidlaw, and Mary Jane Cheatham, from the District's transportation department provided a written report for the Board's approval. Ms. Gee asked several questions regarding safety stops, the costs involved in adding stops to existing routes, and adding additional routes. E. Update: Truancy Pick Up Procedures Jo Evelyn Elston, Director of Pupil Services, and Officer Archie Adcock from the Southwest precinct, were present to answer questions regarding the revised truancy pick up procedures printed in the agenda. F. Status Report: Grants Writer The Board had no additional questions regarding the summary report provided by Marvin Schwartz, District grants writer. Ms. Pondexter commented that she wanted to ensure that the grants writer's salary was being paid from grant funding received. REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 22, 1996 Page 8 G. District Advisory Committees At Ms. Pondexter' s request, membership lists of subcommittees that developed as a result of the Strategic Planning process were provided as a part of the agenda. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. HEARINGS: DISCIPLINARY Ten students were recommended for reinstatement to LRSD schools and two students were referred for placement at the Pulaski County Juvenile Justice Center by Linda Watson, Student Hearing Officer. Dr. Roberts upheld those recommendations. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the recommended reinstatements and alternative placements, Mr. Riggs seconded the motion, and it carried 7-0. A list of the students is attached to these minutes. EXECUTIVE SESSION Ms. Pondexter asked for a motion from the Board to go into an executive session for the purpose of discussing a personnel matter. Mr. Riggs made the motion, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. The motion was unanimously approved. The Board returned from executive session and reported that no action was taken during that session. Board President Pondexter asked for a motion and recognized Mr. Riggs. Mr. Riggs made a motion for the Board to accept Dr. Williams' resignation and, in exchange for service rendered to the District, allow Dr. Williams to retain those moneys already expended in Item 5 E of his contract, and the unused vacation for which he has already been compensated. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried 6-1, with Dr. Mitchell casting the "no" vote. ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Mr. Riggs moved for adjournment at 8:03 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Daugherty, and it carried un imousl . #Liu APPROVED: C-f J&, -9&
LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING September 12, 1996 NOV 6 - 1996 Offi~e of Deso r g eg lion Monitoring The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, September 12, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Linda Pondexter, Board President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Ms. Linda Pondexter Ms. Patricia Gee Ms. Sue Strickland Dr. Michael Daugherty Ms. Judy Magness Mr. John Riggs, IV MEMBERS ABSENT: Dr. Katherine Mitchell ALSO PRESENT: Mari Flemons, Teacher Exofficio, Parkview Magnet High School Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Linda Pondexter, called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and stipulated the presence of a quorum. Dr. Mitchell was absent. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting contained the following items: 1. Student Reinstatement Petitions 2. Student Appeal Hearings SPECIAL BOARD MEETING September 12, 1996 Page2 Suspension oftlze Rules Mr. Riggs made a motion to suspend the rules in order to act on an item not included in the published agenda. Ms. Strickland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Riggs made a motion to rescind a previous Board action. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. At a special meeting on August 8, 1996, the Board voted 4-2 to deny the administration's request to create a clerical staff position for the office of Athletics. Administration was given authority to proceed with staffing the position. ACTION AGENDA The Board moved into executive session for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary hearings on a motion by Ms. Gee, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. Linda Watson, Student Hearing Officer presented recommendations for placement and reinstatement of two students: Orlando Ellis was expelled from McClellan High School in March 1996, for participating in a gang-related disturbance. He petitioned the Board for reinstatement and the principal of McClellan agreed to his reinstatement there on strict probation. Janai Washington was expelled in November 1995, from McClellan High School. He had petitioned for reinstatement, but due to his age (17), it was recommended that Janai be given an assignment to the Alternative High School at the Job Corp Center. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the administration's recommendations for reinstatement and placement of these two students. Mr. Riggs seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Three students were present to appeal their expulsions to the Board. Zainab Opurum was recommended for expulsion from Hall High School for possession of a weapon. She asked the Board to reconsider the administration's recommendation and allow her to return to school. Dr. Watson recommended placement at the Job Corp Alternative High School for the remainder of the first semester. She would be allowed to petition for reinstatement to Hall High School if she maintains a good record in the JC program. Ms. Strickland moved to accept the recommendation, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING September 12, 1996 Page 3 Vinson Anderson was recommended for expulsion from Forest Heights Jr. High School on August 27, 1996. He had been charged with being in possession of a pocket knife. Dr. Watson recommended placement at the ALC for the remainder of the first semester. Vinson would be considered for reinstatement at semester if he maintains good progress. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the recommended placement, Ms. Magness seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. Shakina Floyd, eighth grade student from Forest Heights Jr. High School, was recommended for long-term suspension for participating in a group fight in which she was charged with inciting to riot. Dr. Watson upheld the principal's recommendation for a long-term suspension and assigned Shakina to the Alternative Leaming Center for the remainder of the first semester of the school year. Shakina's mother objected to placement at the ALC and appealed to Dr. Vic Anderson and then to the Board when Dr. Anderson also recommended the ALC placement. Ms. Strickland moved to accept the administration's recommendation for placement at the ALC. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 4-2, with Mr. Riggs and Dr. Daugherty casting the "no" votes. Jabari Cummins had also been scheduled to appeal his expulsion to the Board, but did not arrive for the hearing. His parent phoned to ask for another hearing date. The Board returned from executive session at 6:43 p.m. and reported that the administration's recommendations had been accepted unanimously. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Ms. Gee moved for adjournment at 6:45 p.m. Mr. Riggs seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Pat Gee, Vice-President APPROVED: q. J.w 9 l.o ~~,he=-} Sue rickland, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 NOV 6 ~ 1996 Office of Deseg regat,.o n Monitoring The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on September 26, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The Vice-President, Pat Gee, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Pat Gee Larry Berkley Michael Daugherty Judy Magness Katherine Mitchell John Riggs, IV MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: I. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes Judge Chris Piazza Chris Heller, LRSD Attorney CALL TO ORDER Prior to the call to order, Judge Chris Piazza administered the oath of office to Larry Berkley, newly elected Board representative from Zone 5. Board Vice-President, Pat Gee, called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of five Board members
Dr. Daugherty arrived at 6: 17 p.m. The teacher exofficio, Mari Flemmons, representing Parkview Magnet High School was also present. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 2 II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of August 22, 1996, and from a special meeting conducted on September 12, 1996, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were approved unanimously, on a motion by Mr. Riggs, seconded by Dr. Mitchell. III. PRESENT A TIO NS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Gene France from the Arkansas Allergy Society presented the District's physician, Dr. Chris Smith, with 51 epipens for placement in each school in the District. These pens are for use when a student suffers a severe allergic reaction. Use of the epipen allows nonmedical personnel to administer the proper treatment in an emergency. Ms. Linda Pondexter was presented with a plaque and gavel in recognition of her service to the LRSD Board of Directors, 1993-1996
she served as president of the Board for two years of her term. Mr. Wendell Redmond, math teacher at Mann Magnet Jr. High School was presented with a citation in recognition of his selection as an Entergy Outstanding Teacher of the Year. He will be honored by Entergy by receipt of a $500 cash award. The final citation was presented to Ms. Mari Flemmons, teacher at Parkview Magnet High School, who served as the ex-officio member of the Board for the month of September. B. PARTNERSHIPS Dr. Roberts recognized Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator, who presented the partnership certificates to the following schools and local businesses: UALR Division oflnternational and Second Language Studies, partnering with Brady Elementary School
Ada Keown, principal, accepted the partnership certificates on behalf of UALR Staff, Dave McAlpine, Dr. Mary Garrett, and Professor Stephanie Dhonau, who could not be in attendance at the meeting. Geyer Springs Neighborhood Association, represented by Linda Heffington and Verleen Williamson, in partnership with Geyer Springs Elementary School, Julie Davenport, principal. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the new partnerships, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 3 C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES Vice Mayor, Joan Adcock, presented information to the Board regarding the city's "Cash for Trash Dash - 1996" scheduled for Saturday, November 2, 1996. Vice-Mayor Adcock challenged the Board to adopt a neighborhood for clean-up and asked for participation from school groups within the District. Ms. Magness asked Ms. Gee to recognize Hafeeza Majeed for presentation of the Factfinding Committee's report on the Desegregation Plan. Ms. Majeed instead presented a petition requesting a special meeting of the LRSD Board for the purpose of presenting recommendations for modification of the current Desegregation Plan. D. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring No report. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. SPECIAL REPORT Ms. Gee requested that Chris Heller, Attorney for the District, present information scheduled on the agenda under "Reports" at this time. Without objection from other Board members, Mr. Heller provided a briefing on two issues relating to the Desegregation case and on the Lakeview School District lawsuit. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 4 Mr. Heller reported that Judge Wright acknowledged the Joshua Intervenors agreement at the time of the Settlement, and that the two million dollar fee paid by the District at that time was to cover future monitoring of the desegregation case by Joshua. She found, therefore, that the District did not owe any additional fees to the Joshua Intervenors for monitoring. With respect to the District's motion to end federal court jurisdiction, Mr. Heller reported that school districts across the country are being dismissed from federal court supervision when they are found to be in substantial compliance with their desegregation plans. It is his belief that federal court jurisdiction over the LRSD should end because there is evidence to prove substantial compliance with our obligations. Judge Wright had rejected our argument that the desegregation plan was a six year plan, but did so without a formal hearing on the evidence. There are two motions pending in the Court concerning desegregation compliance issues, both filed by the Joshua Intervenors. One suggests that an independent party should be named to run the incentive schools
the other asks that the District be held in contempt for non-compliance with its obligations. Mr. Heller suggested that we ask the Judge to reconsider her decision on our motion, and to schedule a hearing in conjunction with the hearing Joshua is seeking so that we might have the opportunity to present our evidence. The District has thirty days from the date of the order to consider filing an appeal. Mr. Heller indicated that he would ask the Judge to reconsider the motion and to schedule a hearing unless there was objection from the Board. There were no objections noted by Board members. Regarding the lawsuit filed by the Lakeview School District, Judge Annabelle Imber ruled that the state school funding formula was unconstitutional and the state was given two years to propose a constitutional plan for funding school districts. A trial is scheduled for November to determine whether or not they have complied. The Lakeview School District has filed to make the suit a class action lawsuit and, therefore, Mr. Heller believes the LRSD should intervene in order to be properly represented in the lawsuit and to protect our interests in the case. Mr. Heller also reported that if Amendment One fails (on the November ballot) the State's present plan for funding school districts will also fail. If that occurs, decisions regarding future plans for funding will probably be made in Judge Imber's courtroom. The central Arkansas school districts should be a part of this process for the purpose of protecting our future interest in school funding. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 5 E. BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Mitchell reported on her visit to the Adult Education Building and commended the staffs of Adult Ed. and HIPPY for the work that has been done at their new location. She also offered congratulations to Sterling Ingram, who recently announced his intent to retire from the District. Dr. Daugherty invited members of the Board and community to attend a PTA rally to be held at Garland Incentive School on October 8. He extended a welcome to new Board member, Larry Berkley. Ms. Magness reported on attending open houses at Gibbs, Hall, and Dunbar. She thanked Vernon Smith, the new principal at Forest Heights, for providing a tour of the school, and invited other patrons to visit FHJH. She expressed appreciation to Laidlaw and District transportation employees for the on-time bus service during the first few weeks of school. Ms. Magness also thanked the Little Rock Alliance for Our Public Schools and the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce for the reception they hosted to welcome Dr. and Mrs. Roberts. Mr. Berkley thanked Board members and administration employees who had been helpful in providing assistance to him during his first few days on the Board. He reported that he had visited Terry, Dunbar and Central, and thanked District employees who had been involved in providing a quality education to his children. Ms. Gee thanked Sterling Ingram for his many years of service to the District. She also welcomed Larry Berkley to the Board. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Hazel Bowers, a retired LRSD employee, commented on the dedicated serviced provided to LRSD students by Mr. Ingram. She spoke on behalf of Cleveland Ellis and asked for the Board to support funding for the STOP (Students That Officially Patrol ) program coordinated by Mr. Ellis. Cleveland Ellis provided information to the Board regarding the STOP Program and asked for consideration to continue funding. He is currently funded through the Healthy Family Center Grant
that funding will end September 30. Casey Latimore, a student who has participated in the STOP Program, also asked the Board to fund the STOP Program. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 6 V. ACTION AGENDA A. Election of Officers Mr. Riggs made a motion to table the election of officers until after the Zone 1 run-off election on October 8, 1996. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. B. Second Reading: Promotion and Retention of Students Regulation for Retention in K-6 - Student Promotion Regulation Second Reading: Comprehensive Intervention/Follow Up Remediation - Regulation on Intervention/Follow Up Remediation Policy revisions and regulations for promotion and retention of K-6 students and for intervention and follow up remediation procedures for elementary students, as recommended by the Strategic Planning Team Three, were approved on first reading at the August Board meeting. Mr. Riggs moved to approve both of these policies on second reading. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it passed 6-0. C. Second Reading: Parent Involvement Policy Statement The Parent Involvement Administrative Team develop~d a statement to encourage active parent participation in District activities. The statement is intended to convey the Board's belief in the importance of involving all parents in school activities. The policy statement was approved on first reading at the August meeting of the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the policy on second reading, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. D. Naming of Drive at Henderson for James L. Washington Students and staff at Henderson Health Science Magnet School requested the naming of the driveway at Henderson for James L. Washington, principal, in recognition of his commitment to improving the school and community. Ms. Magness moved to accept the recommendation of the administration to allow placement of a sign naming the drive James L. Washington Court. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. E. Approval of the 1995-96 Annual Report District program managers developed the 1995-96 annual report which is required to be published in the form of a legal notice prior to September 30 of each year. Administration requested the Board's approval of the report for submission to the Arkansas DemocratGazette for publication. Dr. Mitchell made a motion for approval, which was seconded by Mr. Riggs, and carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 7 F. Goals 2000 Grant Submissions Two Goals 2000 Grant applications were submitted to the Arkansas Department of Education for consideration. One would provide funding to train administrators and teachers preparing for administrative certification
the second would provide math and science staff development for instructors at Central High School. The administration asked for the Board's approval to maintain the submissions. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the grant submissions. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. G. Mini-Grant Submissions Two mini-grant applications were submitted for consideration during the month of September. Dr. Mitchell moved to approve the submissions
the motion was seconded by Ms. Magness and carried unanimously. SCHOOL Rightsell Elementary Fulbright Elementary PROGRAM Academic achievement through exposure to community and professional activities Classroom literacy program to increase reading skills. H. Capitol Improvement Proposal AMOUNT ORGANIZATION $2,000 Rockefeller Foundation $2,000 Rockefeller Foundation Administration requested the Board's approval to submit a proposal for funding capitol improvements to the Adult Education Center in the amount of $16,392.00. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the request, Mr. Riggs seconded the motion, and it carried 6-0. I. Consolidated Application for Special Education and Related Services, 1996-97 The Board was asked to approve the 1996-97 application for funding Special Education and Related Services under the Consolidated VI-B Budget. Mr. Berkley moved to approve the application, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 8 J. Approval of 1996-97 School Year Budget The 1996-97 School Year budget, due for submission to the Arkansas Department of Education on September 27, 1996, had previously been provided to Board members for review. Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions and provide additional information. Dr. Roberts recommended approval of the budget for submission and indicated that he would begin the process of reviewing the budget for modifications over the next few months. Mr. Riggs moved to accept the superintendent's recommendation. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. K. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Mr. Riggs made a motion to accept the donated items, the motion was seconded by Dr. Mitchell and it carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR LRSD/Health Services 50 Epipens Ark. Allergy Society Central High School Used IBM Computer/ Charles Bolton/UALR Monitor Metropolitan Vo-Tech 1989 Ford Festiva Anonymous Metropolitan Vo-Tech 1996 Geo Metro Chevrolet Motor Division/Bale Chevrolet McDermott Elementary Exterior Sign McDermott PTA L. Personnel Changes Dr. Roberts recommended approval of personnel changes printed in the agenda and referred the Board to Dr. Hurley to answer specific questions. Dr. Mitchell moved to accept the personnel changes, Mr. Riggs seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. M. Financial Reports Mark Milhollen was present to respond to questions of the Board. Mr. Riggs moved to approve the financial reports for July and August, as printed in the agenda. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 9 VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The Desegregation Update was printed in the agenda. Members of the Board did not ask any additional questions. B. Class Action Lawsuit: Lakeview School District vs. State of Arkansas Chris Heller, attorney with the Friday Law Firm provided his report earlier in this agenda at the request of the Board. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS Sarah Facen, candidate for Zone 1 on the Board, presented two knives that she indicated had been found on the bus stop in her neighborhood. She asked the Board to develop a policy that would insure safety of children at bus stops. Ms. Magness moved for the Board to go into executive session for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary hearings at 7:30 p.m. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. VIII. HEARINGS: DISCIPLINARY Five students petitioned the Board for reinstatement and their requests were provided for the Board's review. Dr. Linda Watson, student hearing officer, provided information on the following students: Keon Johnson had been expelled from McClellan High School in January 1996, for participating in gang activity. Since he is an 18 year-old, 12th grade student, the principal was willing to readmit him on strict probation in order to give him the opportunity to complete high school. The administration recommended allowing Keon to return to McClellan. Barbara Miller was expelled from Forest Heights Jr. High School in November 1995, for inciting to riot. She had been assigned previously to the Juvenile Justice Center, but did not successfully complete that program. The administration recommended denial of the petition to return to the Little Rock School District and again made a referral for Barbara to attend the JJC. REGULAR BOARD MEETING September 26, 1996 Page 10 Kendrick Alexander was recommended for expulsion from Henderson Jr. High School for possession of a weapon on the bus stop. The principal requested that the Board allow Kendrick to return to school on strict probation, and administration recommended that the Board approve that request. Billy Robinson was charged with possession of a weapon, and recommended for expulsion from Henderson Jr. High School, in the same incident noted above for Kendrick Alexander. The principal requested an opportunity to work with Billy and recommended that the Board allow him to return to school. The superintendent recommended approval of the principal's request for reinstatement. Christopher Berry was recommended for expulsion from Mann Magnet Jr. High School for possession of a weapon. The weapon was found during a scan and had not been used to threaten or injure anyone. Since the student had no prior disciplinary charges, the principal requested reinstatement. Administration recommended approval of the principal's request. The Board returned from executive session and reported that the Board approved the administration's recommendations on student disciplinary requests by a unanimous vote, on a motion made by Mr. Riggs and seconded by Dr. Mitchell. ADJOURNMENT --- APPROVED: IO JL/ -Cf (t, PULASKI COUNTY 96 68875 P.O. Box 2659 Little Rock, AR 72203-2659 CAROLYN STALEY Circuit County Clerk and Registrar 40 I WEST MARKHAM, SUITE I 00 LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS 72201-2325 OFFICIAL OATH County Circuit Court 50 t-J40-S-l3 I FAX 501-340-8340 I, LARRY BERKLEY , do hereby solemnly swear or affirm, that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Arkansas, and that I will not be interested directly or indirectly, in any contract made by the district of which I am a Director, except that said contract be for materials bought on open competitive bid and let to the lowest bidder and that I will faithfully discharge the duties as school director in LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT, ZONE 5 of Pulaski County, Arkansas, upon which I am about to enter. Cl uJ
::, >-i Cl Ln WW o=: _J..J ~ a:) <(CJ c:...
, ::c ->- UJ c::: c:r 'f)~ = "''::[ =5 :2: .-o I :CJ ~ = ~ LL.! -....! ~ ~== u.. NAME ~ \L\'~~~ .c ~~"'k ~?< .. ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP CODE CJ ... '.. .. Sworn to and subscribed before me, >i:7""~--------'--:....&.....----' a c~~/ ~ in the County of Pulaski this the One Thousand Nine Hundred and Ninety-Six A.D. Civil / Criminal (50 I) 340-843 I Fax (50 I) 340-8420 Marriage License (50 I) 340-8330 Real Estate (5 0 I) 340-8433 Voter Registration (50 I) 340-8683 Fax (50 I) 340-8340 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING October 10, 1996 Nov 6 - l99i Office Of D esegregat,on M The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately preceding the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, October 10, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. Pat Gee, VicePresident, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Patricia Gee Larry Berkley Michael Daugherty Judy Magness Katherine Mitchell John Riggs, IV MEMBERS ABSENT: Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes Mitchell Perry, teacher ex officio, Metropolitan I. CALL TO ORDER Ms. Gee called the meeting to order at 5: 15 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of six board members
Ms. Strickland was absent. on,tormg SPECIAL BOARD MEETING October 10, 1996 Page 2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting contained the following items: I. Swearing in Ceremony II. Election of Officers III. Personnel Item IV. Expulsion Recommendations V. Student Appeal Hearing ACTION AGENDA Prior to the call to order, Carolyn Staley, County and Circuit Clerk, administered the oath of office to Katherine Mitchell, who was reelected to represent Zone 1 on the Board of Directors. Election of Officers Ms. Gee, Vice-Presidentppened the floor for nomination for the position of president. Dr. Mitchell nominated John Riggs for the position of President of the Board. There being no other nominations for president, Ms. Gee requested a motion for election by acclamation. Dr. Mitchell moved for election by acclamation, seconded by Ms. Magness and the motion carried unanimously. Mr. Riggs opened the floor for nominations for the position of vice president of the Board. Mr. Berkley nominated Judy Magness for election by acclamation. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Mr. Riggs asked for nominations for the position of secretary. Ms. Magness nominated Ms. Gee, who declined to accept the nomination. Dr. Mitchell nominated Michael Daugherty for the position of secretary. Mr. Berkley seconded the nomination and it carried unanimously. Personnel Item Dr. Daugherty moved to rescind a previous Board action which denied approval of a halftime assistant principal position at Dunbar Magnet Junior High School, and by that action to approve the position. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. Dr. Roberts also recommended that the Board approve of the position of secretary to the athletic director. Dr. Mitchell moved to accept Dr. Robert's recommendation, Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried 6-0. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING October 10, 1996 Page 3 Mr. Riggs asked for a motion to recess the special meeting to conduct the regular agenda meeting at 5:25 p.m .. Ms. Gee moved to recess, seconded by Mr. Berkley, and carried 6-0. Dr. Mitchell left at this time due to a previous appointment. After conducting the agenda meeting and recessing for a short break, the Board returned to the special meeting agenda at 6:28 p.m. Student Hearings Linda Watson, Student Hearing Officer presented information and recommendations for students who had received disciplinary suspensions or expulsion sanctions. Those students and the recommendations are noted for the Board's action. Kelton Montgomery was suspended from Central High School for possession of a weapon. He did not appeal the suspension and the Board was asked to uphold the administration in the expulsion. Misty Odem-Harris, from Pulaski Heights and Corey Young, from Henderson, were both recommended for expulsion for verbal abuse of staff. The hearing officer has been unable to reach the parents of these students to schedule hearings or reinstatement conferences. The Board was asked to officially expel these students for their behavior. Dr. Roberts upheld the recommendation of the student hearing officer. Ms. Gee moved to accept the recommendation, Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried 5-0. Dimitrios Stubblefield appeared before the Board to appeal the decision of the school administration to place him at the Alternative Learning Center. Dimitrios was expelled from Cloverdale Junior High School for possession of a weapon. Due to the number of previous suspensions and expulsions, the principal asked that Dimitrios not be returned to Cloverdale, but that he be given the opportunity to continue his education at the ALC. Dr. Watson agreed with the building administration and also recommended placement at the ALC. Dimitrios and his mother asked the Board to allow him to return to Cloverdale. Dr. Roberts supported the recommended placement at the ALC for the remainder of the first semester. IfDimitrios exhibits acceptable behavior during his assignment to the ALC, he could return to Cloverdale Jr. High School for the second semester. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the recommendation, seconded by Mr. Berkley, and the motion carried unanimously. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING October 10, 1996 Page4 On completion of the student hearings, and at the Superintendent's request, the Board convened an executive session at 6:45 p.m., for the purpose of discussing a personnel matter. The motion was made by Dr. Daugherty, seconded by Ms. Gee, and carried unanimously. The Board returned from executive session to report that they had upheld the superintendent's recommendation on all student disciplinary hearings and that no action was taken during the personnel discussion. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, Dr. Daugherty moved for adjournment at 7:38 p.m. Ms. Magness seconded the motion and it carried unanimouslv. APPROVED: I 0-~ 4 -qe, ~.L, .L ~ L Michael Daugherty,retary PULASKI COUNTY P.O. Box 2659 Little Rock, AR 72203-2659 CAROLYN STALEY Circuit County Clerk and Registrar 401 WEST MARKHAM, SUITE 100 LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS 72201-2325 OFFICIAL OATH County Circuit Court 501-340-843 I FAX 501-340-8340 I, KA THERINE PHILLIPS MITCHELL , do hereby solemnly swear or affirm, that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Arkansas, and that I will not be interested directly or indirectly, in any contract made by the district of which I am a Director, except that said contract be for materials bought on open competitive bid and let to the lowest bidder and that I will faithfully discharge the duties as school director in LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DIS CT, ZONE 1 of Pulaski ADDRESS n L L f+k +:Ge_(( }H2_ ? J-J-a
.___ CITY STATE (zIP CODE Sworn to and subscribed before me, CAROLYN STALEY a CIRCUIT COUNTY CLERK for the County of Pulaski this the -./-0- day of October, One Thousand Nine Hundred and Ninety-Six A.D. Civil/ Criminal (501) 340-8431 Fax (50 I) 340-8420 Marriage License (501) 340-8330 Real Estate (501) 340-8433 Voter Registration (50 I) 340-8683 Fax (501) 340-8340 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on October 24, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The Vice-President, Judy Magness, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee MEMBERS ABSENT: Katherine Mitchell John Riggs, IV Sue Strickland ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER Board Vice-President, Judy Magness, called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of four Board members. Mr. Riggs, Dr. Mitchell and Ms. Strickland were absent. The teacher ex- officio, Mitchell Perry, representing Metropolitan Vocational-Technical High School was also present. II. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of September 26, 1996, and from a special meeting conducted on October 10, 1996, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were fil!I!TI)Ved by a 4-0 vote, on a motion by Mr. Berkley, seconded by Dr. Daugherty. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 Page 2 ill. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts recognized several students who had entered artwork in the Bus Safety Week competition
the winning posters were on display in the Board Room. Forest Heights Jr. High students, Calvin Williams, Chris Graham, James Mauney, Jordan Smith, Kari Riedy, Lonzell Pride and Ray Braxton were winners in the group competition
Mabelvale Jr. High student, Thomas Bennett, was the winner in the individual competition. Dr. Ann Smith, history professor at Henderson State University presented a plaque to Christine Green, who teaches history at Hall High School. Ms. Green was recognized by the Arkansas Association of College History Teachers as the Outstanding High School History Teacher for 1996-97. Mr. Lee Gordon, Director of the Arkansas Business and Education Alliance, was at the meeting to recognize the Men of Dunbar, who serve as mentors to students at that school. The Men of Dunbar were awarded the Arkansas Friends for Better Schools/ Arkansas Times 1996 Public School Heroes Award. The membership in_cludes John Talley, Bruce Washington, Carl Hines, L. T. Davis, Lucious Powell, Sterling Rogers, James Vault, Jack Gilbert, Addison Dean, Emmett Willis, Eugene Porter, and Wendell Shead. The members who were present accepted the plaque and other gifts on behalf of the entire group. Miro Hundley, Wayne Cranford, and Gary Smith were recognized for their efforts in offering an opportunity for all 4th grade students in the District to attend "The Snow Queen. " Although these individuals were unable to attend the Board meeting, they will receive a letter of appreciation for their contribution to our students. Dr. Roberts presented a citation and plaque to Leonard Willis, who has been employed by the District for 50 years. There will be a reception honoring Mr. Willis on October 30, in the administration building lounge. The final citation was presented to Mitchell Perry, teacher at Metropolitan VocationalTechnical High School, who served as the ex-officio member of the Board for the month of October. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 Page 3 B. PARTNERSHIPS Dr. Roberts recognized Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator, who presented the partnership certificates to the following schools and local businesses: Corky's Restaurant, represented by Carla Hilburn, in partnership with Fulbright Elementary School, represented by Mac Huffman and Beverly Jones. Arkansas Bar Association, represented by Carol King and Jerry Rutledge, partnering with the LRSD Social Studies Department and Mann Magnet School, represented by Marie McNeal, Marian Lacey and Martha Daniel. Cyber Learning Academy, represented by Ron and Yona McFarlane, in partnership with Cloverdale Jr. High Academy, represented by Cassandra Norman. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept the new partnerships, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried 4-0. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES None. D. SPECIAL PRESENT A TIO NS 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden, representing ODM monitors, notified the Board that they should have received a current list of monitoring priorities for the current school year. She reported that monitors visited 18 schools in the LRSD during the first few weeks of school and that a report would be forthcoming. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 Page 4 4. Knight Intervenors No report. 5. PT A Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Daugherty reported that he had attended a PTA meeting at Garland Incentive School on October 8, 1996, where PTA officers were elected and installed. He encouraged everyone to vote in the election on November 5, 1996. Ms. Gee encouraged participation in the Coats for Kids Campaign, sponsored annually by Channel 7 and Fashion Park Cleaners. She invited the public to attend a tailgate party preceding the McClellan High School Homecoming Game on October 25. She also reminded the school community that uniforms have been approved by the Board, in concept, and that implementation of individual school uniform policies do not have to be approved by the Board. Ms. Gee reminded the public that transportation complaints should be reported and she provided the telephone numbers for Laidlaw and for an administration office. Ms. Magness congratulated Parkview drama students on their recent performance of "Tales From the Crypt. " She also commented on a recent visit to Dunbar Magnet Jr. High School, where she participated in a science project. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Diane Vibhaker announced her recent appointment as Executive Director of Parents for Public Schools. She pledged support and commitment to building bridges between schools and the community. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 Page 5 V. ACTION AGENDA A. National Science Foundation Grant The District was invited to submit a proposal for a program to increase the number of students enrolling in and completing courses in math and science through the Little Rock Comprehensive Partnership for Mathematics and Science Achievement. If awarded, the grant would provide up to $200,000 in the first year and up to $800,000 per year for years 2-5. Ms. Gee moved to approve submission of the grant application. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion, and it carried 4-0. B. Eastside Junior High School Building Acts of H & K Enterprises rendered an offer to lease to purchase the old Eastside Junior High School building for $260,000. This community organization would renovate the building and use the space for vocational and technical education programs. Kay Hadley, President of Acts ofH & K, was present to answer questions posed by the Board. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the lease/purchase offer from Acts ofH & K. Ms. Gee seconded the motion and it carried 4-0. C. Hepatitis B Immunizations The Arkansas Department of Health offered the District a supply of Hepatitis B vaccine for use in immunizing District students and employees. Gwen Efird, Coordinator of Health Services, and Brady Gadberry, Director of Labor Relations, were present to respond to questions regarding this offer. Ms. Gee made the motion to approve acceptance of the vaccine, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it passed, 4-0. D. Safe & Drug Free Schools and Communities Application The Board was asked to approve submission of the 1996-97 Safe & Drug Free Schools and Communities application to the Arkansas Department of Education. JoEvelyn Elston, Director of Pupil Services, reported that the grant amount would be $130,084. for implementation of drug abuse prevention programs in grades K-12. Dr. Daugherty moved to approve submission of the application. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. E. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the donated items, the motion was seconded by Mr. Berkley, and it carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the following chart. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 Page 6 VI. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Pulaski Heights Jr. High Office/Classroom furniture Greg Hart/Southern Office Supply Chicot Elementary Cash ($70.73) Wal-Mart Store/from Sam's Cola Vending Machine Adult Education Center 12 used 386 SX Computers/ ETOP of AT & T and 13 Monitors/8 Keyboards IBEW Jefferson Elementary Microwave Oven Alice Lynn Greenwood Jefferson Elementary 250' of Chain Link Fence Dr. Tom Smith F. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda and asked that the approval include a slip sheet recommendation to employ Lillie Scull as the principal at Mitchell Incentive Elementary School. Mr. Berkley moved to accept the personnel items, including the slip sheet. Dr. Daugherty se~onded the motion and it carried 4-0. G. Financial Reports Financial reports for the period ending September 30, were presented for the Board's approval. Mr. Berkley made the motion for approval, seconded by Dr. Daugherty and the motion carried 4-0. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The Desegregation Update was printed in the agenda. Members of the Board did not ask any additional questions. B. Budget Update Dr. Roberts reported that he would be meeting with Mark Milhollen, LRSD Manager of Financial Services, and Skip Marshall with the Office of Desegregation Monitoring to begin working on a budget proposal for next year. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 Page 7 C. Cash for Trash Dash Dr. Roberts reported that it was unknown at this time whether any LRSD schools would be participating in the city-sponsored project, Cash for Trash. He will try to determine if any school groups are participating and provide a report to the Board at a later date. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDMDUALS OR GROUPS None. VIII. HEARINGS: DISCIPLINARY Dr. Daugherty moved for the Board to go into executive session for the purpose of conducting student disciplinary hearings at 7:20 p.m. Mr. Berkeley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. The Board took a briefrecess and recoRvened at 7:35 p.m. Dr. Linda Watts, acting Student Hearing Officer, presented information on students who had been recommended for suspension or expulsion from District schools. Those students and the circumstances surrounding their disciplinary sanctions are reported. Monika Wright was charged with possession of a weapon and recommended for expulsion from Henderson Jr. High. The "weapon" was a screwdriver, which was found when a security officer asked to see a hall pass. The weapon had not been used in a harmful or threatening manner. The principal agreed to allow Monika to return to school, if that return included a strict probationary period. The Superintendent recommended reinstatement on strict probation for the remainder of the school year. Dr. Daugherty moved to accept Dr. Roberts' recommendation. Ms. Gee seconded the motion, and it carried 4-0. Ricardus Flowers was recommended for expulsion from Fair High School for use of a weapon. Ricardus had a pocket knife, which he attempted to use during a fight with another student. During the altercation the police resource officer, as well as the other student, suffered minor injuries from the knife. At the hearing before the Board, Joy Springer was present to represent the student. His parents wanted him readmitted to school, but Ricardus has a pending court date related to this incident, which would prevent his assignment to the alternative high school program at the LR Job Corp Center. Dr. Roberts recommended that Ricardus be allowed to enroll in that program after the November 14 court date. If there are other charges pending, which would prevent assignment to the Job Corp program, he would be referred to the Juvenile Justice Center. Dr. Daugherty made a motion to accept the Superintendent's recommendation. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried 4-0. REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 24, 1996 Page 8 Two additional students were scheduled for hearings before the Board, but did not appear. Meagan Grinage, Forest Heights Jr. High School student, accepted the administration's recommended placement at the Alternative Learning Center for the remainder of the 1996-97 school year. Willis Bowie, McClellan High School student, did not appear at the scheduled time. The hearing office will attempt to contact his parents to determine if they accepted the recommended placement at the Juvenile Justice Center. The Board returned from executive session and reported that the Board had approved the administration's recommendations on student disciplinary requests by unanimous votes. ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Mr. Berkley moved for adjournment at 8:22 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Daugherty, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: l )- ~ I -1 e.p J
~~ 61. ~ Michael Daugherty, Se
?tary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING November 7, 1996 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting immediately following the regular agenda meeting on Thursday, November 7, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: Larry Berkley Pat Gee ALSO PRESENT: Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes Fran Ables, Teacher Ex officio, Cloverdale Jr. High Crystal Holman, Student Ex officio, Hall High I. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of five board members
Mr. Berkley and Ms. Gee were absent. Ex officio members of the Board, Fran Ables, teacher at Cloverdale Jr. High School, and Crystal Holman, student at Hall High School, were also present. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING November 7, 1996 Page 2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The special meeting was called in response to a request by petition, submitted by the Fact Finding Committee for the LRSD Desegregation Plan. ACTION AGENDA Hafeeza Majeed, Chairman of the Fact Finding Committee for the LRSD Desegregation Plan, addressed the Board and presented a report of recommendations for review. A copy of that report is attached to these minutes. Ms. Majeed's presentation included remarks about increased gang activity in the schools, and she expressed concerns about the safety and security of students while on school buses. She noted that bus drivers were not trained to handle disruptive students. Parents who were in attendance at the meeting were also invited to share their concerns with the Board: Desmond Reed related personal experiences as a new resident of the city. He noted concerns regarding a lack of information available for parents. Rose Williams expressed concerns regarding the District's discipline policy and stated that the process used in hearings at school were unfair. Mary Givens stated concerns about the process used to fill magnet school seats. She also noted the increase in gang activity in the schools, especially at Southwest Junior High School. Pauline Reed remarked that there seemed to be a need for better communications and a better relationship between the school and the home. Barbara Johnson stated that some buses were too crowded and suggested that some behavior problems could be eliminated by running more buses and having them run on time. Some problems have escalated because students are alone at stops for too long. The Fact-Finding Committee for the LRSD Desegregation Plan - Is It Mr. Curtis Hall Mr. Howard Love Ms. Hafeeza Majeed Rev. Larry Staggers Mr. Dale Charles Working For African-American Youth? DATE: NOVEMBER 7, 1996 TO : FROM: LRSD BOARD OF DIRECTORS SUPERINTENDENT DON R. ROBERTS THE FACT-FINDING COMMITTEE FOR THE LRSD DESEGREGATION PLAN - IS IT WORKING FOR AFRICAN-AMERICAN YOUTH? SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR AMENDING LRSD DESEGREGATION PLAN The Fact-Finding Committee For The Little Rock School District Desegregation Plan - Is It Working For African-American Youth? submits the following recommendations for amending the LRSD Desegregation Plan, as outlined in the "Desegregation Plan Amendment Process (Deseg. Tool Kit, April 2, 1996~ Appendix D). Please review and reply to the Committee by December 6, 1996, informing us of any action(s) made by the Board regarding the following recommendations: 1. It is our recommendation that the LRSD Board of Directors and Superintendent Don Roberts clearly delineate the District's desegregation mission to the staff and to the community as required in the "Commitment To Desegregation In The Little Rock School District. (Desegregation Tool Kit, April 2, 1996, page 1) 2. It is our recommendation that "Opportunity Learning", as outlined in "Voices Of The City", be further researched and studied for consideration as an effective program for effectively educating youth in the LRSD. 3. It is our recommendation that the current educational curriculum of the LRSD be reviewed and revised to include a thorough education of Africa and African-American History. 4. It is our recommendation that "Conflict Resolution" education be provided for LRSD students, beginning at the elementary level. 5. It is our recommendation that the "Zero Tolerance" policy in the LRSD be reviewed and revised. LRSD Board November 7, 1996 Page Two 6. It is our recommendation that all LRSD monitoring instruments be revised to include input from students. 7. It is our recommendation that teachers and parents in all LRSD schools be required to attend PTA meetings just at parents in LRSD Magnet schools are required to attend. 8. It is our recommendation that independent "Community Teams" be formed to provide independent monitoring by parents, students and community members. 9. It is our recommendation that each schoolbus transporting LRSD students have an adult monitor to assist the d~iver. 10. It is our recommendation that no amendments be made to the LRSD Desegregation Plan until the Board and Superintendent have attempted to address these recommendations. Respe tfully submitted: Mr. Curtis Hall, 11/7/96 Rev. Larry Staggers, 11/7/96 MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING November 7, 1996 Page3 ADJOURNMENT Ms. Magness moved for adjournment at 8:00 p.m. Dr. Daugherty seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: 11 -J. (-9 "- LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 21, 1996 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m., on November 21, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. The President, John Riggs, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER II. Board President, John Riggs, called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call revealed the presence of all Board members. The teacher ex-officio, Frances Ables, from Cloverdale Jr. High Academy, and the student ex-officio, Crystal Holman, from Hall High School, were also present. READING OF MINUTES: Minutes from the regular board meeting of October 24, 1996, and from a special meeting conducted on November 7, 1996, were presented for Board approval. The minutes were unanimously approved, on a motion by Dr. Mitchell, seconded by Ms. Magness. REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 21, 1996 Page2 III. PRESENTATIONS: A. SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Roberts recognized students from Rockefeller Incentive School Show Choir, directed by I. J. Routen, who performed before the Board. These students have been invited to a choral festival at Carnegie Hall, and they are currently involved in fund-raising activities to enable them to participate. B. PARTNERSHIPS Dr. Roberts introduced Gwen Efird, Health Services Coordinator, who presented School Nurse Awards. Karen Terry received the First Year Nurse Award. Five nurses received certificates in recognition of their nomination for School Nurse of the Year, Stevie Cherepski, Carla Kelley, Marsha Mahan, Betty Nieser, and Lucia Perry. Deborah Bolls was awarded a plaque in honor of her naming as School Nurse of the Year. The Superintendent read a proclamation recently signed by Mayor Jim Dailey, naming November 21, 1996, as "Education Day" in the City of Little Rock. A copy of that proclamation is attached to these minutes. Four LRSD teachers were recently named recipients of the Stephens Awards, which are awarded annually through the City Education Trust Fund. Each of these teachers received a $5,000 award: Leslie Kearney, who teaches German at Central High School
Melissa Donham, who teaches biology at Central High School
Tommie Sue Wood, who teaches history at Fair High School
and Mildred Walker, a mathematics teacher at McClellan High School. Citations were presented to the ex-officio members of the Board for the month of November
Frances Ables, teacher from Cloverdale Jr. High Academy, and Crystal Holman, student from Hall High School. Lee Ann Matson represented the VIPS office in presenting the new partnership certificates. The following schools and local businesses were recognized: ITT Technical Institute, represented by Ken Sullivan, in partnership with Cloverdale Jr. High School, represented by Cassandra Norman and Fran Ables. BFI of Arkansas, represented by Tom Boston and John Embree, partnering with Geyer Springs Elementary School, represented by Julie Davenport and Kathy Farley. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 21, 1996 Page 3 Arkansas Federal Credit Union, represented by Richard Gilliland and Lorraine Darral/, in partnership with Mitchell Elementary School, represented by Lillie Scull and Mary Ann Hanson. A collaborative partnership with four ecology related entities has been established by the Washington Magnet School staff: Project Learning Tree, partnership certificate accepted by Susan Glaze
Project WET, Arkansas Department of Pollution Control & Ecology, accepted by Jim Shirrell
Project WILD, Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, accepted by Pat Knighten
and Toltec Mounds State Park, represented by Melanie Thornton. Washington Magnet School staff members present to accept certificates were Katherine Snyder, Betty Hansberry, Cathy Schwartz, and Sheila Flaxman. Ms. Magness moved to accept the new partnerships, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried 7-0. C. CITIZENS COMMITTEES None. D. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS 1. Office of Desegregation Monitoring Melissa Gulden, representing ODM monitors, stated that their staff is working to complete several reports, including the annual emollrnent comparison reports of the three Pulaski County Districts and a staffing report on the Incentive Schools in the LRSD. 2. Classroom Teachers Association No report. 3. Joshua Intervenors No report. 4. Knight Intervenors No report. REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 21, 1996 Page 4 5. PTA Council No report. E. BOARD MEMBERS Mr. Berkley reported that he had attended a PTA meeting at Fulbright Elementary School and commended the parents and staff for their work in landscaping the school grounds. He also reported on his attendance at the first meeting of the social studies textbook selection committee. Dr. Daugherty thanked the members of the Rockefeller Show Choir for their performance earlier in this meeting. He especially thanked those persons responsible for the inclusion of handicapped students in the choir's presentation. Dr. Mitchell remarked that she attended an assembly at Wilson Elementary School where students were recognized for their academic achievements and citizenship improvements. She also commended District personnel who coordinated the rally last Sunday at Henderson Junior High School for 6th grade students who will attend 7th grade next year. Ms. Magness expressed appreciation to District teachers and principals who spent a weekend in staff development training at the Hilton. IV. REMARKS FROM CITIZENS Pam Marshall, who works with the Central Little Rock Community Development Council, asked the Board to consider an extension of time for development of a proposal for the purchase of the Westside Junior High School property. Volunteers of America had requested, and had been granted an option for purchase of the property. They have been unable to meet their obligations under the terms of the agreement and had indicated a desire to terminate that agreement. V. ACTION AGENDA A. Interim Millage Adjustment The Pulaski County Quorum court establishes the rates of taxation to be levied on taxable real and personal property for the use and benefit of the cities, towns, and schools, as required by State law. As a result of the countywide reappraisal, the millage rates for personal and real property will be adjusted effective January 1, 1997. The new personal property rate will be 41.90 mills, and the new real property rate will be 41 .40 mills. REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 21, 1996 Page 5 The Board was asked to approve a resolution acknowledging the certification of applicable taxes to the County Clerk prior to the regular November Quorum Court meeting. Dr. Mitchell made a motion to approve the resolution, Mr. Berkley seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. A copy of that resolution is attached to these minutes. B. Donations of Property The Board was asked to approve acceptance of recent donations to the District. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the donated items, the motion was seconded by Dr. Daugherty, and it carried unanimously. Donated items are listed in the following chart. DONATIONS SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR Booker Arts Magnet Elem. 386/25 Computer System Robert Bradley Booker Arts Magnet Elem. Two Echo trimmer/ brush Booker Arts PT A cutters McDermott Elem. Garden Plants/supplies Home Depot Jefferson Elem. Microwave Oven Mr. & Mrs. Price Roark Chicot Elem. $300.00 (for cheerleading J. A. Riggs Tractor Co. outfits) Fulbright Elem. Prone Stander (for disabled Mr. & Mrs. Kelton students) Brown MeadowcliffElem. $504.00 (for carpeting in Metropolitan National classrooms) Bank/AR Capital Corp. Fair High School Lab Equipment & Supplies AT&T F. Personnel Changes The Superintendent requested the Board's approval of personnel items printed in the agenda Ms. Strickland moved to accept the personnel items, Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously. REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 21, 1996 Page 6 G. Financial Reports Financial reports for the period ending were presented for the Board's approval. Mark Milhollen was present and responded to questions from Board members. Mr. Berkley made a motion to approve the reports, seconded by Dr. Mitchell, and the motion carried unanimously. VI. REPORT AGENDA A. Desegregation Update The Desegregation Update was printed in the agenda. Nancy Acre responded to the Board's questions regarding the ten-day pre-registration period scheduled early in 1997. B. Budget Update Mark Milhollen provided information regarding the project management tool and updated the Board on meetings with budget managers. Mid-year budget adjustments will be done in mid-December. VII. AUDIENCE WITH INDMDUALS OR GROUPS Vicki Gonterman invited the Board and Superintendent to attend the 10th annual arts festival at Gibbs Magnet School on Monday, November 25, 1996. ADJOURNMENT With no further business before the Board, Ms. Magness moved for adjournment at 7:55 p.m. The motion was seconded by Dr. Mitchell, and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: / 8.. -I CJ 1 ~ I I I : ' f I j 't G0 cAII G0 ~ &~ cs@~ ~hall ~ome ~l-1"-.L/A WHEREAS, a quality education system is vitally important to the well-being of a city - to its quality of life, its economic vigor and the future of its children
and, WHEREAS, the Little Rock Board of Directors is committed to education and work jointly with the school district to strengthen the link between government and school officials in an effort to bolster everyone's participation in public education
and, WHEREAS, the City of Little Rock is an active participant in the Partners-In-Education Program, taking an active role in the educational process, supporting those who work tirelessly to ensure our children receive the skills they need to succeed
and, WHEREAS, Little Rock Mayor Jim Dailey joins Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, along with other Mayors across the country, in encouraging communities to take advantage of the unique opportunity to renew the public school system and work collectively with our schools. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jim Dailey, Mayor of the City of Little Rock, Arkansas, do hereby proclaim the 2 I st day of November, 1996, "Education Day" in the City of Little Rock and encourage all citizens to join me in playing a role in the long-term viability of our schools. IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused che seal of che City of Little Rock to be affixed on chis 18th day of November, in the year of our Lord, 1996. ' ~m~ Mayor RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PROPERTY MILLAGE RA TES FOR THE YEAR 1996 WHEREAS, the Pulaski County Quorum Court will levy county, municipal, and school taxes for the year of 1996 as required by Ark. Code Ann. 14-14-904
and WHEREAS, Ark. Ann. 26-73-202 requires that the governing body of any taxing entity approve the applicable taxes prior to the adoption of the county levy
NOW, 1HEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of the Little Rock S~hool District of Pulaski County approves the established level of 41 . 90 mills for personal property and 41. 40 mills for real property within the district for the year 1996. ,8 Secretary ll-J.1-1eo Adopted LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS MINUTES SPECIAL BOARD MEETING November 26, 1996 The Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District held a special meeting on Tuesday, November 26, 1996, in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 810 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas. John Riggs, President, presided. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Riggs, IV Judy Magness Michael Daugherty Larry Berkley Pat Gee Katherine Mitchell Sue Strickland MEMBERS ABSENT: None ALSO PRESENT: I. Dr. Don Roberts, Superintendent of Schools Ms. Beverly Griffin, Recorder of Minutes CALL TO ORDER Mr. Riggs called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m., and stipulated a quorum without a roll call
all members were present. - MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING November 26, 1996 Page 2 PURPOSE OF THE MEETING The agenda for the special meeting contained the following items: I. Superintendent's Presentation II. ODM Remarks III. Parties' Remarks IV. Board Discussion/Comments/Action PRESENTATION Dr. Roberts presented his views on the current status of the Little Rock School District and made recommendations for operational improvements that he sees as necessary to the future of the District. He asked the Board to adopt a resolution that would allow him to proceed in askingfor Court approval to modify the current desegregation plan by working during a six to nine month period without formal monitoring by the Office of Desegregation Monitoring. If approved by the Court, ODM monitors would assist the District with other operational areas, such as budget, staff development, student assignment, and discipline. Ann Brown, ODM Monitor, made brief remarks regarding the importance of building a strong partnership between the ODM office and the LRSD. She stated support for Dr. Roberts' recommendations and presented a book to him, entitled Re-thinking America. John Walker, attorney for the Joshua Intervenors, commented on Dr. Roberts' presentation and questioned whether or not the Courts would allow the federal monitors, as an arm of the Court, to become involved in the daily operations of the District. He made several remarks regarding the current staff of the District and suggested that it was insufficient to meet the needs of the total student population. Although he stated that adoption of the proposed resolution was inappropriate, Mr. Walker did agree to support Dr. Roberts in his efforts. ACTION AGENDA Dr. Roberts read the proposed resolution and asked for the Board's approval. A copy of that resolution is attached to these minutes. Ms. Magness made a motion to accept the Superintendent's recommendation and approve the resolution as read. Mr. Berkley seconded the motion, and it carried by a unanimous vote. MINUTES - SPECIAL BOARD MEETING November 26, 1996 Page 3 ADJOURNMENT Mr. Berkley made a motion to adjourn at 8:35 p.m. Dr. Mitchell seconded the motion and it carried unanimously. APPROVED: Id. -
q-7&:J /L,~~ Michael Daugherty, Secretary LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the court has repeatedly expressed the view that the Little Rock School District ("LRSD") could benefit from modification to its desegregation plan and has provided expert testimony in order to guide LRSD in the development of plan modifications
WHEREAS, students and desegregation the necessary LRSD can improve its educational program for all can enhance the prospects for the long term of the District if given the opportunity to devote time and resources to the task
WHEREAS, LRSD is prepared to work cooperatively with the other parties and with the Office of Desegregation Monitoring ("ODM") in order to develop and present to the court plan modifications to improve education and desegregation within the District
and WHEREAS, ODM could, with court authorization, support LRSD's efforts by consulting with the parties and participating in the development of a modified plan for education and desegregation in LRSD
redeploying monitors to provide assistance to LRSD in areas such as budget development, staff development, student assignment and resolution of discipline issues, and to withhold any further monitoring of the current LRSD plan (other than the completion of monitoring reports presently in process) for a six to nine month period during which a modified education and desegregation plan will be developed. IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED that LRSD Superintendent Dr. Don Roberts is authorized to submit to the court appropriate pleadings as necessary to secure the time and resources needed to develop a modified education and desegregation plan for the Little Rock School District. (
\ha,,o\foodloylinld\ 112696.,ca CERTIFICATE I, the undersigned Secretary of the Board of Directors of the above District, certify the foregoing to be a true copy of a Resolution duly adopted by the Board at a special meeting of the Board held on the 26th day of November, 1996. The Resolution appears in the official minutes of the meeting which are in my custody. At the time of the meeting, the duly elected, qualified and serving members of the Board and their respective votes on the adoption of the Resolution were as follows: Vote Director (Aye, Nay, Abstain or Absent) John Riggs, IV Aye Judy Magness A e Micheal Daugherty A e Larry Berkley A e Patricia Gee A e Katherine Mitchell A e Sue Strickland A e I further certify that the meeting of the Board was duly convened and held in all resp
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<dcterms_creator>Little Rock School District</dcterms_creator>