Desegregation plan modifications (April 1992 plan)

byu 3- HERSCHEL H. FRIDAY 11 922-1 9941 ROBERT V. light. P.A. WILLIAM H. SUTTON. P.A. JAMES W. MOORE BYRON M. EISEMAN. JR.. P A. JOE 0. BELL. P.A. JOHN C. ECHOLS. P.A. JAMES A. BUTTRY, P A. FREDERICK S. URSERY. P.A. H.T. LARZELERE. P.A. OSCAR E. DAVIS. JR.. P.A. JAMES C. CLARK. JR.. P.A. THOMAS P. LEGGETT. P.A. JOHN DEWEY WATSON. P.A. PAUL B. BENHAM 111. P.A. LARRY W. BURKS. P.A. A, WYCKLIFF NISBET, JR.. P.A. JAMES EDWARD HARRIS. P.A. J. PHILLIP MALCOM. P.A. JAMES M. SIMPSON. P.A. MEREDITH P. CATLETT. P.A. JAMES M. SAXTON. P.A. J. SHEPHERD RUSSELL III. P.A. DONALD H. BACON. P.A. WILLIAM THOMAS BAXTER. P.A. WALTER A. PAULSON II, P.A. BARRY e. COPLIN, P.A. RICHARD 0. TAYLOR. P.A. JOSEPH B. HURST. JR.. P.A. ELIZABETH ROBBEN MURRAY. P.A. CHRISTOPHER HELLER, P.A. LAURA HENSLEY SMITH. P.A. ROBERT S. SHAFER. P.A. WILLIAM M. GRIFFIN III. P.A. THOMAS N. ROSE. P.A. MICHAEL S. MOORE, P.A. DIANE S. MACKEY, P A. WALTER M. EBEL UI, P.A. FRIDAY, ELDREDGE & CLARK A PARTNERSHIP OF INDIVIDUALS AND PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS ATTORNEYS AT LAW 2000 FIRST COMMERCIAL BUILDING 400 WEST CAPITOL LITTLE ROCK. ARKANSAS 72201-3493 TELEPHONE 501-376-201 1 KEVIN A. CRASS. P.A. WILLIAM A. WADDELL, jR.. P A. CLYDE -TAB- TURNER. PA. CALVIN J. HALL. P.A. SCOTT J. LANCASTER. P A. JERRY L. MALONE, P.A. M. GAVLE CORLEY. P.A. ROBERT B. BEACH. JR.. P.A. J. LEE BROWN. P.A. JAMES C. BAKER. JR.. P A. H. CHARLES GSCHWENO. JR.. P A. HARRY A. LIGHT. P.A. FAX NO. 501-376-2147 June 30, 1995 JUi 1995 Office of DesegrsgciiC'h i.-cr SCO H. TUCKER. P.A, JOHN CLAYTON RANDOLPH. P.A. GUY ALTON WADE. P.A. PRICE C. GARDNER. P.A. J. MICHAEL PICKENS TONIA P. JONES DAVID 0. WILSON JEFFREY H. MOORE ANDREW T. TURNER DAVID M.GRAF CARLA G. SPAINHOUR JOHN C. FENDLEY. JR. ALLISON GRAVES JONANN C. ROOSEVELT R. CHRISTOPHER LAWSON GREGORY 0. TAYLOR TONY L. WILCOX FRAN C. HICKMAN BETTY J. DEMORY couMseu WILLIAM J. SMITH WILLIAM A. ELDREDGE, JR.. P.A. 8.S. CLARK WILLIAM L. TERRY. P.A. WILLIAM L. PATTON. JR.. P.A. WRireil'S DIRECT NO. l50n 370-1 553 Mr. John W. Walker JOHN W. WALKER, P.A. Attorneys at Law 1723 Broadway Little Rock, Arkansas Mrs. Ann Brown Attorney at Law Heritage West Building, Suite 520 201 East Markham Street 72206 Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Mr. Sam Jones WRIGHT, LINDSEY i JENNINGS Attorneys at Law 2200 Worthen Bank Building 200 West Capitol Avenue Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Mr. Richard Roachell ROACHELL & STREETT Attorneys at Law First Federal Plaza, Suite 504 401 West Capitol Avenue Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Mr. Stephen W. Jones JACK, LYON t JONES, P.A. 3400 Capitol Towers Capitol & Broadway Streets Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Re: LRSD V. PCSSD, et al Gentlemen and Mrs. Brown: Enclosed please find a copy of LRSD's Motion for Modification of Desegregation Plan and Memorandum Brief in Support of LRSD's Motion for Modification of Desegregation Plan which are being filed with the Court today. d iana\pcsM\aiiomey. it2Gentlemen and Mrs. Brown June 30, 1995 Page 2 Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Jerry L. Malone LRSD Attorney JLM/dtw Enclosures cc (w/enc): Dr. Henry P. Williams Dr. Russell Mayo Dr. Robert Glowers LRSD Board of Directors diana\pcs$d\at(orney. 1(2A IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF ARKANSAS WESTERN DIVISION LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT PLAINTIFF VS. NO. LR-C-82-866 PULASKI COUNTY SPECIAL SCHOOL' DISTRICT NO. 1, ET AL REGS''"' DEFENDANTS , tazs MRS. LORENE JOSHUA, ET AL INTERVENORS KATHERINE KNIGHT, ET AL Jill 1995 INTERVENORS D . Office of Desegregc.ticn Monitoring LRSDS MOTION FOR MODIFICATION OF DESEGREGATION PLAN The Plaintiff, Little Rock School District ("LRSD" or "District") , for its Motion for Modification of Desegregation Plan, states: 1. The LRSD currently operates approximately twenty-three (23) elementary area schools for the education of children in the various attendance zones for each school and as otherwise may be assigned to a particular school. Two of those schools. Fair Park Elementary School and Badgett Elementary School, have been identified for closing beginning'the 1995-96 school year after a thorough review of the facts. circumstances and financial constraints of the District. 2 . Attached hereto as Exhibit One (1) is a true and accurate copy of the business case developed by the Little Rock School District to support the recommendation to close Badgett Elementary diana\pc5sd\(nodirica(ion.nKK -1-School. Attached hereto as Exhibit Two (2) is a true and accurate copy of the Memorandum reflecting the time line for the various tasks necessary to give the appropriate notices and allow for the appropriate involvement of community, patrons and other interested parties. 3 . Attached hereto as Exhibit Three (3) is a true and accurate copy of the business case developed by the Little Rock School District to support the recommendation to close Fair Park Elementary School. Attached hereto as Exhibit Four (4) is a true and accurate copy of the Memorandum reflecting the time line for the various tasks necessary to give the appropriate notices and allow for the appropriate involvement of community, patrons and other interested parties. 4 . This Court has consistently encouraged the District to pursue budget reduction strategies which reflect its appreciation of the need to eliminate recurring expenditures through the use of strategies which are themselves recurring in nature from year-to- year. In light of the number of vacant seats which exist in the District, the under-enrollment of certain schools in the District and the major expenses required to operate and maintain a school. among other factors. the LRSD has determined that it IS a reasonable budget deduction strategy to consider school closings among the various other strategies reviewed and considered by it. Since the development and approval of LRSD's Desegregation Plan, there have been significant changes in conditions which warrant diana\pcs$d\modificaiioft. mo( -2-modification of that plan. Namely, there has been a significant decline in student enrollment at each school since the 1989-90 school year and, consequently, operational costs per student have continued to increase. Further, the physical structures are in need of renovation and upgrading. but to do so would cost considerably more than the average cost of renovating and upgrading other buildings in the District. 5 . The modification of the desegregation plan which is most suitably tailored to the changed circumstances is to permit the District to close Badgett Elementary School and Fair Park Elementary School. Such a modification would allow the District to reassign the students currently attending those schools, reassign building administrators and staff to allow for greater efficiency and, to some extent. improve the racial balance at the receiving schools. In those instances where the racial balance of the receiving school will not be improved, the District will attempt to accomplish reassignment in such a manner that the current racial balance is not significantly impacted in a negative manner. Attached hereto as Exhibit Five (5) is a true and accurate copy of the District's rating sheet and explanations for the study made of its facilities to determine whether schools should be closed. As noted, Badgett Elementary School and Fair Park Elementary School had the highest negative ratings. 6. This proposed modification is in compliance with the standards for modification of consent decrees set out in Rufo v. dianaxpcssdVmodificaiHJn.nxx -3-1 Inmates of Suffolk County Jail. 502 U. S. , 112 S.Ct. 748, 116 L.Ed.2d. 867 (1992) and Appeal of Little Rock School District. 949 F.2d. 253, 258 (8th Cir., 1991). WHEREFORE, for the reasons set out above and in the accompanying brief. LRSD prays for modification of the LRSD desegregation plan to permit it to close Badgett Elementary School and Fair Park Elementary School beginning with the 1995-96 school. year. Respectfully submitted. FRIDAY, ELDREDGE & CLARK Attorneys at Law 2000 First Commercial Building 400 West Capitol Little Rock, Arkansas (501) 72201-3493 diana\pcsl\nxxlificaiKxi.mo( 376-2011 ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT Jerry L. Malone Bar No. I. D. 85096 -4- 1 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I, Jerry L. Malone, do hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing LRSD's Motion for Modification of Desegregation Plan has been served by U. S. Mail, postage prepaid, except as otherwise 7> indicated. on the 3o day of 1995, upon the following: Mr. John W. Walker JOHN W. WALKER, P.A. Attorneys at Law 1723 Broadway Little Rock, AR 72206 Mr. Samuel M. Jones, III WRIGHT, LINDSEY & JENNINGS Attorneys at Law 2200 Worthen Bank Building 200 West Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 Mr. Stephen W. Jones JACK, LYON & JONES, P.A. Attorneys at Law 3400 Capitol Towers Capitol & Broadway Streets Little Rock, AR 72201 Mr. Richard W. Roachell ROACHELL & STREETT Attorneys at Law First Federal Plaza, Suite 504 401 West Capitol Avenue Little Rock, AR 72201 Mrs. Ann Brown (Hand-delivered as per Order by the Court) Attorney at Law Heritage West Building, Suite 520 201 East Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 Jerry L. Malone dianftxpcssdkmodiftcaiiofl.mot -5-- exhibit 1 Little Rock School District Badgett School Relocation A Business Case January, 1995 Addition Modification 4 Deletion $523,000 savings EXHIBIT 1 'I'WiRadgett School Relocation Business Case 2 jExecutiv^umm^^ For several years, the Little Rock School District (LRSD) has faced austere budgets. Though many strate^es were developed to cut costs, most have been one time cuts. A comparison of the district s total building capacity and total enrollment shows many vacant seats. While a larger than normal number of seats are necessary for desegregation, the number of vacant seats is significant. Said another way, LRSD has too many school buildings. The financing of any school is a major expense. Therefore, serious consideration must be given to closing some schools. It is a reasonable strategy. The savings are significant and are repeated from year to year. As attractive as it is to saving mone), it is more unattractive to the patrons of the school considered for closing. Because it is an emotional issue, specific research criteria were used in making the decision about which school to close. Badgett has become expendable as a public school because of its isolation, its declining enrollment, and its increasing costs in per pupil expenditure and in building operation. The following are closing: reasons why Badgett Elementary School is considered for 1. 2. 3. As of October 1,1994, the school was filled to only 68.87% of its capacity
The capacity of the school itself (257) is below the district average of 475 for area elementary schools. Therefore, if the school were at capacity, the school would not operate efficiently when compared to other average size schools
Enrollment since 1989 has declined steadily from 237 to 177 and is expected to continue
4. The school is out of racial balance by 15.14%. It has not been within balance as far back as 1989 in spite of efforts to reverse this. A dramatic increase of 5.30% in percentage black occurred this year
5. Because the attendance zone (160) is smaller than the capacity of the school (257), students must come from elsewhere to fill the school. Successful experience in recruiting has not been achieved for this school. 6. The per pupil cost has increased to $4021.87 in 1994-95 which is the highest of any area elementary schools
7. The school is geographically isolated from other populations. The additional population to fill the school must come from other attendance zones which will negatively impact other schools
8. Operational costs for the building have increased enough to make this school one on the most expensive to operate annually
and, 9. The building is in need of renovation and upgrading. Together these costs will exceed 51,000,000, which is considerably more that the average cost of renovation and upgrading needed at other buildings. t iBadgett School Relocation Business Case 3 By the opening of school fitr 1995-96, Badgett students will be relocated, faculty will be reassigned according to the negotiated contract, and appropriate reductions in positions will be completed with a minimum of disruption to these individuals and the school district. Plan. Fulfilling this proposal will require a modification to the LRSD Desegregation This proposal supports LRSD goals relating to securing financial necessary to support schools and the desegregation program. resources a The problem will be considered solved if the following list of criteria is met: 1. New attendance zones affected by this relocation will reflect a better racial balance
2. 3. 4. The community is given the opportunity to be heard on the decision
Transportation is re-routed to accommodate these students
Special activities are plarmed and implemented by each new school to make the new students and patrons feel welcomed
5. New patrons are included in appropriate school correspondence and activities with those who have been enrolled
6. 7. 8. Leaders within the community are made aware of the relocation plan and have the opportunity for input
Immediate cost savings is realized
and, The relocation of students and staff at will be complete before the opening of school 1QQC nr r o for 1995-96. Most of these benefits will occur when the process concludes. Desegregation Plan goals will not be altered. Parent concerns about the process and their newly assigned school will be minimal District officials are aware that the community will be concerned about relocating the students. A number of school buildings have been abandoned in the city. These are of paramount concern to many community members. Some will want to know if a plan exists for use of the building when the students are relocated. Some will want assurance that students will receive equal program quality in the reassigned school. While these concerns are understandable, we believe we can offer our students an equal program in a more economical way. Negatives 1. Students and staff will experience their friends
some disappointment in being separated from 2. Communit}' reaction will be strong against the decision for fear of the impact on the community as mentioned above
3. The building may stand vacant for a period of time if not used by an agency or the community
Badgett School Relocation Business Case 4 4. The general community may react to the redrawing of attendance general area of the city. zones in that Positives 1. Students will receive assignment to schools equal to current programs
2. Special activities will be planned and implemented by each newly assigned school make new students and patrons feel welcomed
to 3. New patrons are included in appropriate school correspondence and activities with those who have been enrolled
4. Elementary schools in contiguous areas are capable of absorbing the student population of Badgett
0. Immediate and year-to-year cost savings will be realized of approximately $523,000
and,. 6. The Badgett School facility may be available to the community for use pending court approval. The risks of not implementing this solution is increasing district costs thus inhibiting the expected goals of desegregation and responsible fiscal management. It is critical that the process be complete before the opening of school for 1995-96. If this solution is to be implemented, patrons will need to know immediately after the Board of Directors decides to pursue this alternative. Awareness and input must be generated in the community through meetings. Eventually, students must be notified of their new assignments, and a number of other tasks as noted in the timeline (later page) must be addressed. This will impact projected enrollment at other schools, transportation, food services, and the relocation of students, staff, and equipment. The following milestones for implementing this proposal are suggested and will be monitored by the Associate Superintendent for Desegregation. Milestone___________________ 1 Develop a list of key people in the community who should be contacted immediately 2. Contact the principals of surrounding schools who may be affected by the relocation 3. Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval____________ 4. Make contact with key people in the community who should be contacted immediately and solicit support for getting people to community information meetings. Include PTA president and ministers.___________________ 5. Compile list and mailing labels of all students living in the Badgett School attendance zone and those scheduled to attend the school. Sort the lists by: a) those who attend Badgett School but live outside of the attendance zone b) those who attend Badgett School but live in the attendance zone
and, c) those who do not attend Badgett School but live in the attendance zone. Date 1/13/95 1/25/95 1/31/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 Person Modeste Modeste Williams Modeste MayoBadgett School Relocation Business Case 5 Milestone Develop notice of relocation and dale of community information meeting to send to a) parents 4 students: b) community groups and churches
c) media (press release) d) for door-to-door delivery in the neighborhood 7 Conduct informational meeting with the pnncipal, faculty, and staff about the proc^ 8. Mail notice of possible relocation and date of community information meetino to"------ a) parents & students: b) community groups and churches
c) media (press release) 9. Deliver fliers, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and date of the infonnation meeting 10. Conduct community information meetings by 11 Notify finance person to include this as a budget reduction strategy _1_2. File motion with the U. S. Federal Court to relate students at aadgeff School 13. Develop letter to parents and students with announcement and reassignment 14. Inventory building ' ------------------ 15. Design plan for new attendance zones in southwest. 16. Mail letter to parents and students with announcement and assignment' 17 Remove matenals and equipment from school --------- 18. Reroute transportation of students 19. Secure building 20. Reassign staff___________ 21. Send final assignment notices Date 2/10/95 2/10/95 2J2QI^S 2/22/9S 2/28/95 3/3/95 3/15/95 4/19/95 5/30/95 6/1/95 6/15/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 8/1/95 Person Mayo Modeste Mayo Mayo Williams Williams Williams Mayo Neal Mayo Mayo Eaton Cheatham Eaton Hurley Mayo Background For several years, the LzffZe Rock School District (LRSD) has faced austere budgets. K ______J_____1____J . . . - . many vacant seats. Though many strate^es were developed to cut costs, most have been one time cuts. A comparison of the district's total building capacity and total enrollment shows While a larger than normal number of seats are necessary for desegregation, the number of vacant seats is significant. Said another way, LRSD has too many school buildings. The financing of any school is a major expense. Therefore, serious consideration must be given to closing some schools. It is a reasonable strategy. The savings are significant and are repeated from year to year. As attractive as it is'to saving money, it is more unattractive to the patrons of the school considered for closing. Because it is an emotional issue, specific research criteria were used in making the decision about which school to close. Based on the criteria used, Badgett Elementary School is a school that must be considered for closing. It is located in the extreme eastern tip of the City of Little Rock. See Attachment A. Reasons for this conclusion are explained in this business case. I Problem Definition Badgett has become expendable as a public school because of its isolation, its declining enrollment, and its increasing costs in per pupil expenditure and in building operation.Badgett School Relocation Business Case 6 The following are reasons why Badgett Elementary School is considered for closing: 1. As of October 1,1994, the school was filled to only 68.87% of its capacity
2- The capacity of the school itself (257) is below the district average of 425 for area elementary schools. Therefore, if the school were at capacity, the school would not operate efficiently when compared to other average size schools
3. Enrollment since 1989 has declined steadily from 237 to 177 and is expected to continue
The school is out of racial balance by 15.14%. It has not been within balance as far back as 1989 in spite of efforts to reverse this. A dramatic increase of 5.30% in percentage black occurred this year
5. Because the attendance zone (160) is smaller than the capacity of the school (257), students must come from elsewhere to fill the school. Successful experience in recruiting has not been achieved for this school. 6. The per pupil cost has increased to $4021.87 in 1994-95 which is the highest of any area elementary schools
The additional 7. The school is geographically isolated from other populations. population to fill the school must come from other attendance zones which will negatively impact other schools
8. Operational costs for the building have increased enough to make this school one on the most expensive to operate annually
and, 9. The building is in need of renovation and upgrading. Together these costs will exceed $1,000,000, which is considerably more that the average cost of renovation and upgrading needed at other buildings. Figure 2 illustrates some of these trends.Badgett School Relocation Business Case 7 Figure I Badgett Elementary Enrollment History Criteria Enrollment % Black % Out of Balance Capacity__________ Attnd. Zone Ttl.~ AZ % Black 1989-90 1990-91 1991-92 1992-93] 1993-94 237 76.00 16.00 92.22 222 74.77 14.77 86.38 220 73.18 13.18 85.60 202 76.24 16.24 78.60 189 69.84 9.84 73.54 135 65.93 1994-95 177 75.14 15.14 68.87 160 61.25 to bring children of different cultures together for 0 d^egXgZ To toe to M-M transte across that ime to Badgett, if permitted, would ' J , ,, - ------because that area of PCSSD ic North Little Kock School District, which does not participate in M to M Iransfeis now. To the west. the school is buffered from the See Attachment A. rest of the city by the airport and industrial complexes. Analysis of Alternatives Solutions were discussed with LRSD. Data on attendance a committee representing administrators in the zones, enrollment, ethnic makeup of students in the school as well as those in the attendance zone were reviewed, .^/considerable discussion It was decided that three things must be addressed for an alternative to be satisfactory. They were declimng enrollment, increasing costs, and location. Addressing only or two and not all three aspects seriously compromises an effective solution. one Inherent in the selection of an alternative is the assumption that the problem can 1 J J , , ----- uiai uic pruDiem ran be addressed adequately if the alternative offers quality for students and cost efficiency for tax.payers. To be a good alternative, it must address adequately all areas of concern. The alternative solutions considered are listed below: 1. Change nothing This will not address any aspect of the problem and will allow costs to grow annually
' Enrollments are for Octoller of each year. Attendance zone data is available for two vears only.Badgett School Relocation Business Case s 2. Redraw the attendance zone to increase the number of students attending Badgett School. per-pupil costs at Badgett but will increase costs elsewhere since :s zone must be reduced to enlarge Badgett's. Further it wnnlH impact in negative ways the enrollment of other schools. This reduces the another attendance areas of the problem. addresses all three a) A plan to relocate students will be devised. Attachment C
One possible scenario appears in b) An immediate savings of approximately $523,000 will be eliminating the need for management staff, food and utilities to name a few
realized by service, building maintenance, c) d) t Staff will be relocated according to the provisions of the negotiated contract. I* 0 ihools under the program for that particular school. k r? location causes it to be ^ficult to desegregate. Recruitment has been tried in IKSD. The results havM ^n stgiuficM. U the enrollment of Badgett were increased by this effort, it would attendar^^zone "* n- To the south of the if ^CSSD boundary line. M-M transfers across that line to Llk 'oL *T^oXh T predominately Little Rock School ff ' in M to M transfers now. To the west the school IS Recommendation Alternative 3 is recommended. addresses all of the Objective By the opening of school for 2995-96, Badgett students will be relocated, faculty will be reassigned according to the negotiated contract, and appropriate reductions in positions will be completed with a minimum of disruption to these individuals and the school district.Badgett School Relocation Ptisincss Case 9 Fulfilling this proposal will Th. proposal support mllhof " necessary to support schools and the desegregation Plan. to The problem will be considered solved if program. securing financial resources 1. 2. 3. 4. New attendance the following list of criteria is met
zones affected by this relocahon will reflect a better racial balance
The community is given the opportunity to be heard Transportation is Special activities i re-routed to accommodate these students
on the decision
Students and patrons feel welcomed
plemented by each new school to make the new " and activities with 6. Leaders within the opportunity for inpu*^ "" P' have the 7. Immediate cost savings is realized
and, 8. The relocation of students and staff for 1995-96. at will be complete before the opening of school Most of these benefits will Plan goals will not be altered. occur when the process concludes. Desegregation assigned school will be minimal. arent concerns about the process and their newly The desegregation plan must be modified to accommodate this proposal.' District officials are aware that the community will be concerned about relocating the students. A number of school buflto
Sv^e Z aranS::? Pamount concern to ^y co^unity members. _ Of the buildmg when the students are relocated. Some will --s .."J receive equal program quality in the reassigned know if a plan exists for use in the city. Some will want to want assurance that students will concerns are understandable, we believe we c^ offer an equal program in a more economical way. our students Negatives 1. Students and staff will their friends
experience some disappointment in being separated from 2 Community reaction will be strong against the decision for community a.s mentioned above
fear of the impact on the Badgett School Relocation Business Case 10 3. The building may stand vacant for a period of time if not used by an agency community
or the 4. The general community may react to the redrawing of attendance general area of the city. Positives zones in that 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Students will receive assignment to schools equal to current programs
Special activities will be planned and implemented by each newly assigned school make new students and patrons feel welcomed
to New patrons are included in appropriate school correspondence and activities with those who have been enrolled
Elementary schools in contiguous areas are capable of absorbing the student population of Badgett
^mediate and year-to-year cost savings will be realized of approximately $523,000
The Badgett School facility may be available to the community for use pending court approval. Risks The risks of not implementing this solution is increasing district costs thus inhibiting the expected goals of desegregation and responsible fiscal management. The risks of implementation of this solution are several. Some are criticism for abandoning another school building in the community, inconveniencing the students who walk to school, and the possibility that this solution will not realize all of the benefits exactly as anticipated. Timing It is critical that the process be complete before the opening of school for 1995-96. If this solution is to be implemented, patrons will need to know immediately after the Board of Directors decides to pursue this alternative. Awareness and input must be generated in the community through meetings. Eventually, students must be notified of their new assignments, and a number of other tasks as noted in the timeline (later page) must be addressed. This will impact projected enrollment at other schools, transportation, food services, and the relocation of students, staff, and equipment. IBadgett School Relocation Business Case Resources Analysis Personnel No additional positions are necessary to implement this proposal. 77 Instead, some positions will be eliminated. No one will lose his or her Job, however. Attrition will be used to eliminate positions. Financial A savings of approximately $523,000 is the estimated benefit under this plan. This includes the cost of relocating students, staff, and equipment. The savings are year-to-year. Revenue Source A source of revenue is unnecessiry. Implementation of this proposal creates a cost-reducing strategy for the district's budget. I Force Field Analysis I I Primary supporters of this proposal will be those who do not have children attending the school. The Board of Directors and administration of the school district are well aware of the improvement this solution will bring for student opportunities and for cost savings. Those most opposed to the solution will be those in the immediate area of the school. These include some parents of students attending the school, community groups, and churches. They may argue that too many buildings have been closed, abandoned, and now are eye-sores in communities
That a school is the life of a wholesome community. Some say that removing a school from a community removes the last hope for the survival of that community. The negative reaction may be reduced by keeping everyone informed as the decision is made and implemented. One-to-one meetings with key community people will allow for their questions and an attempt to resolve their concerns.I I bl I ! ! IH I il I i 1 I I I! I i I!!: II ! I I' Badgett School Relocation Business Case I General Implementation Plan 12 The following milestones for implementing this proposal are suggested and will be monitored by the Associate Superintendent for Desegregation. Milestone 1. Develop a list of key people in the community wtio should be contacted immediately _______ / - 11 < I w a A w > 2. Contact the pnncipals of surrounding schools who may be affected by the relocation -'X Hi IcirtAee I 3. Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval 4. Make contact with key people in the community who should be contacted immediately and solicit support for getting people to community information meetings. Include PTA president and ministers. 5. Compile list and mailing labels of all students living in the Badgett School attendance zone and those scheduled to attend the school. Sort the lists by: a) those who attend Badgett School but live outside of the attendance zone b) those who attend Badgett School but live in the attendance zone: and. ___those who do not attend Badgett School but live in the attendance zone. zone 6. Develop notice of relocation and date of community information meeting to send tO' a) parents & students: b) community groups and churches: c) media (press release) d) for door-to-door delivery in the neighborhood 7. Conduct informational meeting with the pnngpal. faculty, and staff about the a ______________I_____- ... .. iHccung wnn me pnngpal, racutty, and staff about the process 8. Mail notice of possible relocation and date of community information meeting to a) parents & students: b) community groups and churches: c) media (press release)_______________ 9. Deliver fliers, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and date of the information meeting 10. Conduct community informabon meetings by 11. Notify finance person to include this as a budget reduction strategy 12. File motion with the U. S. Federal Court to relocate students at Badgett School_____ 13. Develop letter to parents and students with announcement and reassignment.______ 14. Inventory building 15. Design plan for new attendance zones in southwest. ~ 16. Mail letter to parents and students with announcement and assignment___________ 17. Remove materials and equipment from school 18 Reroute transportation of students___________________ 19. Secure building ~ 20. Reassign staff 21. Send final assignment notices Date 1/13/95 1/25/95 1/31/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 2/20/95 2/22/95 2/28/95 3/3/95 3/1S/95 4/19/95 5/30/95 6/1/95 6/15/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7I3M95 31-1195 Person Modeste Modeste Williams Modeste Mayo Mayo Modeste Mayo Mayo Williams Williams Williams Mayo Neal Mayo Mayo Eaton Cheatham Eaton Hurley MayoBadgett School Relocation Business Case J 3 Attachment A Copy of map of Little Rock, eastern most area, with Badgett Elementary and other schoolsBadgett School Relocation Business Case 14 Attachment B Copy of pages from 1994-95 Budget relating to the cost of Badgett Elementary SchoolHM* laaM MM .MM MM Little Rock School District Department Budget Unit Func Ob| - Description Actual 92793 FTE 92793 Budget 93794 Actual 93794 FTE 93794 Budget 94795 FTE 94795 0019 BADGETT ELEMENTARY_____________________ _______1105 FOUR YEAR OLD PROGRAM 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0120 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED__ ' 0210 SCX:iAL SECURITY TAX_________ 0240 INSURANCE____ ______________0380 FOOD SERVICES_______________ 04 i 0 SUPPLIES_____ ____________0416 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 0540 EQUIPMENT-PERSONAL PROPER 1105 FOUR YEAR OLD PROGRAM 1110 KINDERGARTEN_________________ 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_ ______0240 INSURANCE________________ '____0410 SUPPLIES__________________ 04 i 2 LOCAL SUPPLIES SP TRACKIN _____0416 SUPPLIES SUPPLY CENTER 1110 KINDERGARTEN 1120 ELEMENTARY______________________ Olio REGULAR CERTIFICATED_______ 0117 STIPENDS____________________ di 20 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED 02 i 0 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_________ 0240 INSURANCE_____________ 0326 REPAIRSEQUIPMENT__________ 0342 POSTAGE _________________ 0360 PRINTING A BINDINQ-INTERN___ 04 i 0 SUPPLIES _______________ 04 i 6 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER ______04 i 8 PRIOR ENCUMBRANCES_______ 0421 TEXTBOOKS - LOCAL SOURCES ~ 0540 EQUIPMENT-PERSONAL PROPER fl20 ELEMENTARY 1124 ELEMENTARY MUSIC________ 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0216 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE IV,,.. S' ^'01 Pri.p nutxx)2 29,078.00 9,960.00 _2.?8a54_ 2,935.05 2^510.10 325.76 _____000 0.00 47,795.45 66,968.40 5,123.11 3,116 29 13541 000 000 75,345.21 238,811.46 000 31,32381 20,665.95 15,887.16 _____25.00 66.31 000 4342 987.23 ______0 00 ______0.00 500 01__ 308,330.37 OQO 0.00 o'oo 1.00 1.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 e.oo 3.00 11.00 30,753.00 9,643.93 2,935.42 2,512.88^ ___10300 ___176.65 ___139 50 ____0.00 46,264.56 70,319.00 5,014.49 2,633.57 262.95 461.44 0.00 78,711.45 241,781.40 0.00 29,666.37 20,919.72 14,759.75 515.00 257.50 267.50 979.74 1j030.00 3,581'96 257.50 257.50 314,465.94 15,256.00 1,167.00 592.00 ___34,367.00 ____10,411.00 _____3 J 78 87 2,137.62 2,431.35__ 35.00 Mr47 _ 0.00 52,798.31 40,670.00 3,049.48 1,127.13 145.86 0.00 71.05 45,063.52 215,094.04 0.00 22,217.80 16,030.14 10,238.22 0.00 102.47 21.00 3,221.22 1,365 67 000 0.00 0 00 270,290.56 17,233.50 _____1,316 32 565.96 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 7.50 4.00 11.50 0.50 69.359 00 20,318 00 5,757 61 4,420.00 5,400.00 3,07600 178 00 3,600 00 102J 10.61 40,670.00 2,938.90 1,10500 240^00 0.00 000 44,953.90 206,775.00 300.00 22,893.30 16,016.24 11,602.50 500 00 100.00 ______0.00 200.00 1,892.00 0.00 0.00 ______0.00 262,281.04 17,635.00 1,274.34 552.50 2 00 200 4 00 t 00 1.00 7.50 3 00 10.50 0.50Unit ' 'U -I Little Rock School District Department Budget Func Ob| - Description 1124 ELEMENTARY MUSIC Actual 92/93 0.00 FTE 92/93 Budget 93/94 17,015 00 [ Actual 93/94 19,117.78 FTE 93/94 0.50 Budget 94/95 19,461 84 FTE 94/95 0 50 ____1195 ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAM __________0120 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_______ _ 0240 INSURANCE 1195 ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAM 0 00 0^00 o?ob 0.00 1.00 1.00 10,411.00 ___796 44 1,292 94 12,500 38 4,390.97 _336 00 425.11 5,152.08 1.00 1.00 4,164 40 300.93 442'00 4,907.33 0 40 0 40 1210 ITINERANT INSTRUCTION ______0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX ______0240 INSURANCE____________ 1210 ITINERANT INSTRUCTION ___14,782.56 1,130.89 768.03 16,681.48 1.00 1.00 __15,627.5^ ____1^1442 _____654 92 17,'396.64 ___15,627.60 1,19544 ______561^4 17,384.08 1.00 1.00 ____16,029 00 '1,158 29 _______552 50 17,739.79 0 50 0 50 1220 RESOURCE ROOM__________ ______0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX ______0240 INSURANCE____________ 1220 RESOURCE ROOM 1560 ACADEMIC PROGRESS GRANTS 0124 CLERICAL OVERTIME_______ 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX ______0331 PUPIL TRANSPORTATION ______0380 FOOD SERVICES___________ 0410 SUPPLIES_________________ ______0416 SUPPUES - SUPPLY CENTER _0416 PRIOR ENCUMBRANCES 1580 ACADEMIC PROGRESS GRANTS 1910 GIFTED AND TALENTED____ 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED ______0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE 1910 GIFTED AND TALENTED 2120 GUIDANCE SERVICES_______ ______0116 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE Date 8/ 5/94 Prog: BUD002 l> HV 34,784.58 2,661.27 2,809.43 40,255.28 Ji^l 99.49 244.79 575.76 440.15 165.00 0.00 0.00 4,625J 9 11,888 24 909.40 636.56 13,43420 29,058 00 2,223.10 1,532.64 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.25 0 50 24,892.00 1,775 06 1,776.20 28,443.26 33,886.02 2,365.61 2,662.61 38,934.44 1.00 1.00 13,216 50 955 20 552 50 14,726 20 0 50 0 50 0.00 0.00 000 0.00 0.00 0.00 172.10 172.10 0.00 000 0.00 0.00 ^162.72 11.49 0.00 9,174.21 0.00 0 00 0 00 000 0 00 aoo 0 00 o.ob^ 15,095.50 l'076.46 652.55 16,824.51 31,413 98 2,381.65 1'218.64 35,014.47 2.00 2.00 32,322.80 2,335.70 1.105.00 35,763.50 1 00 1 00 15,366.50 1,M5.79 653.77 15,366 52 1,154.68 563.86 0.50 _15.^8jpO__ _l.139 42__ 552'50 0 50MM .JMM Little Rock School District Department Budget Unit Func Obi * Description 2120 GUIDANCE SERVICES Actual 92/93 32,613.74 [ FTE 92/93 0.50 Budget 93/94 I 17,116.0'6 Actual 93/94 17,085.06 FTE 93/94 0.50 Budgt 94/95 17,459.92 FTE 94/95 0.50 NliQSING^SERVICES_____________ 0120 REGULAR NON CERTIFICATED io SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE 2134 NURSING SERVICES 90.62 6.94 ooo 97.56 0 30 0.30 0 00 0.00 0.00 000 0.00 000 0.00 0 00 5,139 00 371.35 221.00 5,731.35 0 20 0 20 2222 SCHOOL LIBRARY SERVICES ______0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED____ _____0120 REGULAR NON CERTIFICATEO 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE__________ 0410 SUPPLIES 0416 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 2222 SCHOOL LIBRARY SERVICES 2410 OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL _______0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0120 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE 0410 SUPPLIES 0416 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 24io OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL 2542 UPKEEP OF BUILDINGS OiiO REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED ______0210 SOCIAL SECURITY T/kX________ ~ 0230 PUBLIC EMPLOYEES RETIREME 0240 INSURANCE_________________ 0321 UTILITY SERVICES-NATURAL ______0322 UTILITY SERVICES-ELECTRIC 0323 UTILITY SER-WATER/SEWAGE/ 2542 UPKEEP OF BUILDINGS 2590 OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES-BU 0416 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 2590 OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES-BU P.iie S/VQ4 I'mg nunofl2 32,692.33 1,152.12 2,589.07 1,701.25 1,458.83 0.00 39,593.60 54,411.43 24,502.13 6,036.72 4,230.79 0.00 0.00 89,181.07 22,786.15 1,743.24 55251 2,481.37 6,901.65 18,764.99 2,493.27 55,723.18 893.05 893.05 1.00 1.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 34,540.67 0.00 1,770.37 1,420.74 176.85 257.50 38,166.13 34,455.67 0 00 2,614.46 1,166 64 1,553.64 0.00 39,790.61 1.00 1.00 35,364.58 _____0 00 2,555 51 1,105.00 1,607.00 0 00 40,632.09 1.00 1 00 58,104.28 25,304.67 6,099.61 3,769.99 176.85 257.50 93,712.90 57,067.14 15,229.39 5,47884 2,220.15 0.00 ____aoo 79,9d5 52 1.00 2.00 3.00 58,150 36 21,275.48 5,739.47 2,652.00 200 00 200.00 88,217 33 1 00 f40 2.40 21,511.93 1,656.04 573 68 2,421.08 8,400.00 17,500.00 2,700.00 54,762.71 23,571.00 1,803.16 673.60 1,684.73 7,358.75 19,225.15 1,382.87 55,799.26 2.00 2.00 23,106 65 1,669.74 __10.00___ 2,21000 O^OOO.OO 16,200 00 2,700.00 55,886.59 2 00 2 00 2,000.00 2,000.00 1,253.66 1,253 66 2,000.00 2,000.00Unit Func Ob| Description 0019 BADGETT ELEMENTARY Dale: 8/5/94 lacc 64 Prog
DUD()02 Little Rock School District Department Budget Actual 92/93 RE 92/93 Budget 93/94 Actual 93/94 FTE 93/94 Budget 94/95 RE 94/95 724,769.38 24.05 737.551.84 686,853.56 27.50 711,871.49 24 50Badgett School Relocation Business Case 15 A possible scenario for relocating students Badgett School Relocation Business Case 76 Possible Scenario for Badgett Relocation 1. Two four-year-old classes must be relocated intact or a plan modification must be submitted to eliminate these classes. 2. Work with Dr. Kohler, Special Education Dept., to relocate self-contained class of six 3. resource students (5 black and 5 non-black) to another building. ^nd the twenty-eight black students currently attending Badgett who are not living in BzinCTpf+c -TAWA 1,. lI___1-_____i. Badgett's attendance zone back to their area school. 4. Encourage the thirty-seven non- i-black students to apply to either Booker Magnet School Q 1 T oLuuciiu, LU apply to eitner DooKer bchool or to Booker T. Washington Magnet School. For each white student assigned to Washington Magnet School, a black student who not 15 currently attending Badgett b^ause he/she could get into their attendance zone school, Washington, can be assigned to Washington if they are on Washington's waiting list 5. Badgett will lose twenty-seven sixth graders to jr. high school thereby leaving a total of 104 students to reassign (85 black and 37 non-black) if we are unsuccessful in convincing pyents to select Booker or Washington. If successful, we are looking at reassigning only about thirty- black students. 6 6/ a) PLAN FOR 85 BLACK STUDENTS i) Offer seats in the Incentive Schools ii) Enlarge Chicot and reconstruct the attendance attendance zone. b) PLAN FOR 30 BLACK STUDENTS i) Offer seats in the Incentive Schools zone to include the former Badgett ii) Reassign to Pulaski Heights Elementary' School Pulaski Heights currently vacant seats. has 26 6. iii) Offer Brady as the overflow school Effect of Racial Balance on receiving schools:^ a) b) Booker - Will remain the same 53.8% (if 37 non-black students and 37 black students opt to go to Booker). Washington - Will remain the same 57.3% (if 37 non-black students and 37 black students opt to go to Washington). c) Pulaski Heights' current percentage black is 47.6%, this will increase to 54.8 including Badgett s thirty black students. 0 o bv - student assignment must assign black students on a matching basis with non-black students to maintain the current racial balance within the attected magnet schools.Little Rock School District MEMORANDUM : exhibit 1. 2. To: From: Date: Subject: Dr. Henry P. Williams, Superintendent Russ Mayo, Associate Superintendent pL/ June 29. 1995 Closing of Badgett School Updated Timeline (Revised since 6/21/95 memo) I Miktteae Develop a list of key people in the community who should be contacted immediately Design possible scenarios for new attendance zones 3. Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval____________________ 4. Notify patrons at February registration of the possibility that the school will close.___________ 5. Compile list and mailing labels of all students living in the Badgett School attendance zone and those scheduled to attend the school. Sort the lists by: a) those who attend Badgett School but live outside of the attendance zone b) those who attend Badgett School but live in the attendance zone
and, c) those who do not attend Badgett School but live in the attendance zone._______________ 6. Develop notice of relocation and date of community infonnation meeting to send to: Date 1/13/95 1/30/95 1/26/95 2/6/95 2/1/95 1/26/95 7. a) b) c) d) parents & students
community groups and churches
media (press release) for door-to-door delivery in the neighborhood Conduct informational meeting with the principal, faculty, and staff about the process 8. Mail notice of possible relocation and date of community information meeting to: 1/25/95 1/26/95 9. a) parents & students
b) community groups and churches
c) media (press release)___________________________________________________ Deliver fliers, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and date of the information meeting 10. Conduct community information meetings_____________________________________________ 11. Notify finance person to include this as a budget reduction strategy_________________________ 12. Finalize a specific plan for new attendance zones_______________________________________ 13. Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval_______________________ 14. File motion with the U. S. Federal Court to relocate students at Badgett Seftoo/___________ 15. Determine date for Student Assignment personnel to go to school and offer guidance to patrons about choices for their students._________________________________________________ 16. Develop letter to parents and students with announcement of closing and choices asking for a response by a deadline. Deadline must be after student assignment guidance meeting._____ 17. Develop flyer to parents and students with announcement of closing and date of guidance meeting at school to help patrons with choices._____________________________________________ 18. Receive court approval^ 19. Mail letter of relocation and date of guidance meeting to patrons____________________________ 20. Deliver fliers, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and date of the guidance meeting_________ 21. Inventory building_________________________________________________________________ 22. Conduct patron guidance and information meeting no later than____________________________ 23. Mail letters to parents and students with announcement and notifying them of new assignment 24. Remove materials and equipment from school__________________________________________ 25. Reroute transportation of students___________________________________________________ 26. Secure building__________________________________________________________________ 27. Reassign staff___________________________________________________________________ 28. Send final assignment notices to patrons and students 1/26/95 2n/95 3/3/95 6/20/95 5/22/95 5/30/95 6/26/95 6/26/95 6/26/95 7/7/95 7/10/95 7/10/95 7/14/95 7/20/95 7/21/95 7131/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 6/3/95 C: Superintendent's Cabinet EXHIBIT 'Remaining timeline is based on Court approval. Modeste Mayo Williams Mayo Mayo Mayo Modeste Mayo Mayo Mayo Williams Mayo Williams Williams Mayo Mayo Mayo Williams Mayo Mayo Neal Mayo Mayo Eaton Cheatham Eaton Hurley Mayo M MAiainiar2 E X H1 Blt I 3 u Little Rock School District Fair Park School Relocation A Business Case January, 1995 Addition Modification Z Deletion $637,000 savings EXHIBIT 3 l/ MJFair Park School Relocation Business Case 2 I Executive Summary For several years, the Little Rock School District (LRSD) has faced austere budgets. Though many strategies were developed to cut costs, most have been one time cuts. A comparison of the district's total building capacity and total enrollment shows many vacant seats. While a larger than normal number of seats are necessary for desegregation, die number of vacant seats is significant. Said another way, LRSD has too many school buildings. The financing of any school is a major expense. Therefore, serious consideration must be given to closing some schools. It is a reasonable strategy. The savings are significant and are repeated from year to year. As attractive as it is to saving money, it is more unattractive to the patrons of the school considered for closing. Because it is an emotional issue, specific research criteria were used in making the decision about which school to close. Fair Park has become expendable as a public school because of its isolation, its declining . enrollment, and its increasing costs in per pupil expenditure and in building operation. The following are reasons why Fair Park Elementary School is considered for closing: 1. As of October 1,1994, the school was filled to only 80.34% of its capacity
2. The capacity of the school itself (351) is below the district average of 425 for area elementary schools. Therefore, if the school were at capacity, the size itself is significantly below the average
3. Enrollment since 1989 has declined from 332 to 282 and is expected to continue
4. The school is out of racial balcince by 12.34%. It has not been within balance as far back as 1989 in spite of efforts to reverse this
5. The per pupil cost has increased
6. Operational costs for the building have increased to make this school as one on the most expensive to operate annually
7. The building is in need of renovation and upgrading. Together these costs will exceed $1,000,000, which is considerably more that the average cost of renovation and upgrading needed at other buildings
By the opening of school for 1995-96, Fair Park students will be relocated, faculty will be reassigned according to the negotiated contract, and appropriate reductions in positions will be completed with a minimum of disruption to these individuals and the school district. Fulfilling this proposal will require a modification to the LRSD Desegregation Plan. This proposal supports LRSD goals relating to securing financial resources necessary to support schools and the desegregation program. The problem will be considered solved if the following list of criteria is met: 1. New attendance zones affected by this relocation will reflect a better racial balance
Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 3 2. The community is given the opportunity to be heard on the decision
3. Transportation is re-routed to accommodate these students
4. Special activities are planned and implemented by each new school to make the new students and patrons feel welcomed
5. New patrons are included in appropriate school correspondence and activities with those who have been enrolled
6. Leaders within the community are made aware of the relocation plan and have the opportunity for input
7. Immediate cost savings is realized
and, 8. The relocation of students and staff at will be complete before the opening of school for 1995-96. Most of these benefits will occur when the process concludes. Desegregation . Plan goals will not be altered. Parent concerns about the process and their newly assigned school will be minimal. District officials are aware that the community will be concerned about relocating the students. A number of school buildings have been abandoned in the city. These are of paramount concern to many community members. Some will want to know if a plan exists for use of the building when the students are relocated. Some will want assurance that students will receive equal program quality in the reassigned school. While these concerns are understandable, we believe we can offer our students an equal program in a more economical way while achieving a better racial balance. Negatives 1. Students and staff will experience some disappointment in being sepsurated from their friends
2. Community reaction will be strong against the decision for fear of the impact on the community as mentioned above
3. The building may stand vacant for a period of time if not used by an agency or the community
4. The general community may react to the redrawing of attendance zones in that general area of the city. Positives 1. Students will receive assignment to schools equal to current programs
2. Special activities will be planned and implemented by each newly assigned school to make new students and patrons feel'welcomed
ffl/r Park School Relocation Business Case 4 3. New patrons are included in appropriate school correspondence and activities with those who have been enrolled
4. Elementary schools in contiguous areas are capable of absorbing the student population of Fair Park
5. Immediate and year-to-year cost savings will be realized of approximately $637,000
and, 6. The Fair Park School facility may be available to the community for use pending court approval. The risks of not implementing this solution is increasing distrirt costs thus inhibiting the expected goals of desegregation and responsible fiscal management. It is critical that the process be complete before the opening of school for 1995-96. If this solution is to be implemented, patrons will need to know immediately after the Board of Directors decides to pursue this alternative. Awareness and input must be generated in the community through meetings. Eventually, students must be notified of their new assignments, and a number of other tasks as noted in the timeline (later page) must be addressed. This will impact projected enrollment at other schools, transportation, food services, and the relocation of students, staff, and equipment. The following milestones for implementing this proposal are suggested and will be monitored by the Associate Superintendent for Desegregation. Milectone 1. Develop a list of key people in the community who thould be contacted immediately 2. Contact the principals of sunounding schools who may be affected by the relocation 3. Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval____________ 4. Make contact with key people in the community who should be contacted immediately and solicit support for getting people to community infonnation meetings. Include PTA president and ministers. ___ 5. Compile list and mailing labels of all students living in the Fair Park School attendance zone and those scheduled to attend the school. Sort the lists by
a) those who attend Fair Park School but live outside of the attendance zone b) those who attend Fair Park School but live in the attendance zone
and, c) those who do not attend Fair Park School but live in the attendance zone.___ 6. Develop notice of relocation and date of community information meeting to send to: a) parents & students: b) community groups and churches
c) media (press release) d) for door-to-door delivery in the neighborhood_____________________________ 7. Conduct informational meeting with the pnncipal. faculty, and staff about the process 8. Mail notice of possible relocation and date of community information meeting to: a) parents & students: b) community groups and churches
c) media (press release)_________ 9. Deliver fliers, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and dale of the information meeting________________________________________ 10. Conduct community information meetings by_______________________________ 11 Notify finance person to include this as a budget reduction strategy______________ 12 File motion with the U S Federal Court to relocate students at Fair Park School Date 1/13/95 1/25/95 1/31/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 2/20/95 2/22/95 2/28/95 3/3/95 3/15/95 Peraon Modeste Modeste Williams Modeste Mayo Mayo Modeste Mayo Mayo Williams Williams WilliamsFair Park School Relocation Business Case 5 Milestone 13. Devotop totter to poontt and ttudonf with nnounewnent ond reitugnmeni. 14. Inventory buildinfl__________________________________________ 15. Deargn plan toe new attendance zonee in aouttrweet._____________________ 16. Mail totter to parents and atudentt with announcement and assignment_____ 17. Remove matanala and equrpment from sctxl__________________________ 18. Reroute transportation of atudentt 19. Secure bunding 20. Reaaaign ataff 21. Send final aaaignment noticea Date 4/18/85 5AXV95 6/1/95 6/1S/95 7/31/85 7/31/95 7/31/85 7/31/85 8/1/95 Peraon Mayo Neal Mayo Mayo Eaton Cheatham Eaton Hurtay Mayo Background For several years, the Little Rock School District (LRSD) has faced austere budgets. Though many strategies were developed to cut costs, most have been one time cuts. A . comparison of the district's total building capacity and total enrollment shows many vacant seats. While a larger than normal number of seats are necessary for desegregation, the number of vacant seats is significant Said another way, LRSD has too many school buildings. The financing of any school is a major expense. Therefore, serious consideration must be given to closing some schools. It is a reasonable strategy. The savings are significant and are repeated from year to year. As attractive as it is to saving money, it is more unattractive to the patrons of the school considered for closing. Because it is an emotional issue, specific research criteria were used in making the decision about which school to close. Based on the criteria used. Fair Park Elementaiy School is a school that must be considered for closing. It is located north of 1-630 and just west of University Avenue in the City of Little Rock. See Attachment A. Reasons for this conclusion are explained in this business case. Problem Definition Fair Park has become expendable as a public school because of its isolation, its declining enrollment, and its increasing costs in per pupil expenditure and in Imilding operation. The following are reasons why Fair Park Elementary School is considered for closing
1. As of October 1,1994, the school was filled to only 80.34% of its capacity
2. The capacity of the school itself (351) is below the district average of 425 for area elementary schools. Therefore, if the school were at capacity, the size itself is significantly below the average
3. Enrollment since 1989 has declined from 332 to 282 and is expected to continue
Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 6 4. The school is out of racial balance by 12.34%. It has not been within balance as far back as 1989 in spite of efforts to reverse this
5. The per pupil cost has increased
6. Operational costs for the building have increased to make this school as one on the most expensive to operate annually
7. The building is in need of renovation and upgrading. Together these costs will exceed $1,000,000, which is considerably more that the average cost of renovation and upgrading needed at other buildings
Figure 1 illustrates some of these trends. Figure 1 Fair Park Elementary Enrollment History ':x< 2S9<-9S Enrollntenfl % Black % Out of Balance Capacity Attnd. Zone Ttl.^ AZ % Black 332 72.00 12.00 94.59 345 80.87 20.87 98.29 320 80.31 20.31 91.17 243 79.01 19.01 69.23 263 76.05 16.05 74.93 343 49.27 282 72.34 12.34 80.34 348 53.44 Analysis of Alternatives Solutions were discussed with a committee representing administrators in the LRSD. Data on attendance zones, enrollment, ethnic makeup of students in the school as well as those in the attendance zone were reviewed. After considerable discussion, it was decided that three things must be addressed for an alternative to be satisfactory. They were age of building, increasing costs, and low capacity. Addressing only one or tuo and not all three aspects seriously compromises an effective solution. Inherent in the selection of an alternative is the assumption that the problem can be addressed adequately if the alternative offers quality for students and cost efficiency ' Enrollments are for October of each year. 2 Attendance zone data is available for two years only. k itrM Ik*Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 1 ioT tax-payers. To be a good alternative, it must address adequately all areas of concern. The alternative solutions considered are listed below: 1. 2. 3. Change nothing. This will not address any aspect of the problem and will allow costs to grow annually
Redraw the attendance zone to increase the number of students attending Fair Park School. This reduces the per-pupil costs at Fair Park but will increase costs elsewhere since another attendance zone must be reduced to enlarge Fair Park's. Further, it would impact in negative ways the enrollment of other schools. Relocate students from Fair Park to solve the problem. This alternative addresses all three areas of the problem. a) b) c) d) A plan to relocate students will be devised. One possible scenario appears in Attachment C
An immediate savings of approximately $637,000 will be realized by eliminating the need for management staff, food service, building maintenance, and utilities to name a few
Staff will be relocated according to the provisions of the negotiated contract The curriculum offered at Fair Park will be offered at other schools under the program for that particular school. 4. Intensify recruitment ejfbrts. Recruitment has been tried. The results have not been significant. If the enrollment of Fair Park were increased by this effort, it would have a negative impact on neighboring attendance zones. Kecommeniation Alternative 3 is recommended. 3. Relocate students from Fair Park to solve the problem. This alternative addresses all of the problem areas. Objective By the opening of school for 1995-96, Fair Park students will be relocated, faculty will be reassigned according to the negotiated contract, and appropriate reductions in positions Uill be completed with a minimum of disruption to these individuals and the school district. Fulfilling this proposal will require a modification to the LRSD Desegregation Plan. This proposal supports LRSD goals relating to securing financial resources necessary to support schools and the desegregation program. The problem will be considered solved if the following list of criteria is met: az* *Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 8 1. New attendance zones affected by this relocation will reflect a better racial balance
2. The community is given the opportunity to be heard on the decision
3. Transportation is re-routed to accommodate these students
4. Special activities are planned and implemented by each new school to make the new students and patrons feel welcomed
5. New patrons are mcluded in appropriate school correspondence and activities with those who have been enrolled
6. Leaders within the community are made aware of the relocation plan and have the opportunity for input
7. Immediate cost savings is realized
and, 8. The relocation of students and staff at will be complete before the opening of school for 1995-96. Most of these benefits will occur when the process concludes. Desegregation Plan goals will not be altered. Parent concerns about the process and their newly assigned school will be minimal. |lOTpflcfA^a/ysis | The desegregation plan must be modified to accommodate this proposal. District officials are aware that the community will be concerned about relocating the students. A number of school buildings have been abandoned in the city. These are of paramount concern to many community members. Some will want to know if a plan exists for use of the building when the students are relocated. Some will want assurance that students will receive equal program quality in the reassigned school. While these concerns are understandable, we believe we can offer our students an equal program in a more economical way while achieving a better racial balance. Negatives 1. Students and staff will experience some disappointment in being separated from their friends
2. Community reaction will be strong against the decision for fear of the impact on the community as mentioned above
3. The building may stand vacant for a period of time if not used by an agency or the community
4. The general community may react to the redrawing of attendance zones in that general area of the city.Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 9 Positive* 1. Students will receive assignment to schools equal to current programs
2. Special activities will be planned and implemented by each newly assigned school to make new students and patrons feel welcomed
3. New patrons are included in appropriate school correspondence and activities with those who have been enrolled
4. Elementary schools in contiguous areas are capable of absorbing the student population of Fair Park-, 5. Immediate and year-to-year cost savings will be realized of approximately $637,000
and, 6. The Fair Park School facility may be available to the community for use pending court approval. Risks The risks of not implementing this solution is increasing district costs thus inhibiting the expected goals of desegregation and responsible fiscal management The risks of implementation of this solution are several. Some are criticism for abandoning another school building in the community, inconveniencing the students who walk to school, and the possibility that this solution will not realize all of the benefits exactly as anticipated. Timing It is critical that the process be complete before the opening of school for 1995-96. If this solution is to be implemented, patrons will need to know immediately eifter the Board of Directors decides to pursue this alternative. Awareness and input must be generated in the commxmity through meetings. Eventually, students must be notified of their new assignments, and a number of other tasks as noted in the timeline (later page) must be addressed. This will impact projected enrollment at other schools, transportation, food services, and the relocation of students, staff, and equipment. ^Resources^A^lysis Personnel No additional positions are necessary to implement this proposal. Instead, some positions will be eliminated. No one will lose his or her job, however. Attrition will be used to eliminate positions.Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 10 Financial A savings of approximately $637XX)0 is the estimated benefit under this plan. This includes the cost of relocating students, staff, and equipment. The savings are year-to-year. Revenue Source A source of revenue is unnecessary. Implementation of this proposal creates a cost-reducing strategy for the district's budget. I Force Field Analysis Primary supporters of this proposal will be those who do not have children attending the school. The Board of Directors and administration of the school district are well aware of the improvement this solution will bring for student opportunities and for cost savings. Those most opposed to the solution will be those in the immediate area of the school. These include some parents of students attending the school, community groups, and churches. They may argue that too many buildings have been closed, abandoned, and now are eye-sores in communities
That a school is the life of a wholesome commimity. Some say that removing a school from a community removes the last hope for the survival of that community. The negative reaction may be reduced by keeping everyone informed as the decision is made and implemented. One-to-one meetings with key community people will allow for their questions and an attempt to resolve their concerns. General Implementation Plan The following milestones for implementing this proposal are suggested and will be monitored by the Associate Superintendent for Desegregation. Milestone 1. Develop a list of key people in the community who should be contacted immediately 2. Contact the pnncipals of suirounding schools who may be affected by the relocation 3. Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval____________ 4. Make contact with key people in the community who should be contacted immediately and solicit support for getting people to community information meetings. Include PTA president and ministers.___________________________________ 5. Compile list and mailing labels of all students living in the Fair Par^ School attendance zone and those scheduled to attend the school. Sort the lists by: a) those who attend Fair ParU School but live outside of the attendance zone b) those who attend FairPait School but live in'tha attendance zone
and, c) those who do not attend Fair Park School but live in the attendance zone. Date 1/13/95 1/25/95 1/31/95 2/10/95 2/10/95 Person Modeste Modeste Williams Modeste MayoFair Park School Relocation Business Case n Mileatone 6. Davatop notice of relocation and data of communlly mformation maatmg to tend to: a) paranta & atudants
b) community groupa and churcbaa
c) madia (praaa ralaaaa) d) for door-to-door daHvary In the naiflbboftTOOd_______________________________ 7, Conduct Informational maatingwtth Iha principal, tacufty, and ataff about the procaaa 6. MaH notioa of poaaibla relocation and date of community nfotmaton maatmo to: a) paranta Aatudenta: b) community groupa and churchea
c) madia (preaa ralaaaa)_________________________________________________ 9. Deliver fhera, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and date of the mformation meeting______________________________________________________ 10. Cofiduct community information meatinga by__________________________________ 11 Notify finance peraon to includa thia aa a budget reduction atratagy________________ 12. File motion with the U. S. Federal Court to relocate students at Fair Park School 13. Develop tetter to parents and students with announcement and reassignment._______ 14. Inventory building_________________________________________________________ 15. Design plan for new attendance zones in southwest____________________________ 16. Mail letter to parents and students with announcement and assignment____________ 17. Remove materials and equipment from school_________________________________ 18. Reroute transportation of students _________________________________________ 19. Secure building 20. Reassign staff _______________________________________ 21. Send final assignment notices Date 2/10/95 2/10/95 205 2/22/95 2iaiK> ZIZI96 4/19/95 5/30/95 6/1/95 6/15/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 8/1/95 Peraon Mayo Modaeta Mayo Mayo WWiare Wtliaro Wtlltams Mayo ' Neal Mayo Mayo Eaton Chaatham Eaton Hurtay Mayo IJ Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 12 Copy of map of Little Rock with Far Park Elementary and other schoolsA ,~1----- I _ rLittle T lefterson School A Jci t
lbUil ouiluul leTS^< School ti W rest Pa V\ \ ' \ \ District .Forest Park School j|Williams Magnet SchoolSj^ A halpHigh'^chooP Swit \ I T r sis Hi*' Si /l/K ^Cf^OOL 7 School r High School! < t \ ~l __J f~ 1 jj et HSIC __J. _ EH3 B I- 630 .v \ \ \ \ \ \ T I I I I I I. V i 1 Orth iclool^){sU tr(l\ District- \ X \ \ \ 'Jr A \\ \ > \ \ I \ \ \ * A \ VrW^ ~ " - ^ulastoVle^ghts School FranKiin Incentive A X ------1 [SJ-j-Pu aski Heights AA \ chooP - 1, L: Woodruff School rrri Schoolr ^ts pl fephe OPf r phens T School 2 I t 7LRSD Adm king InterdistrictS^ool' aiieW^Wol' 1 i 11 Sfwr-.'M i^bs Magnet Sc J-1 Dunbar Junior High School I t ll'T I I H I 1 I n.i 1 iTT-t-t-t1-J Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 13 Attachment B Copy of pages from 1994-95 Budget relating to the cost of Fair Park Elementary SchoolMM Little Rock School District Department Budget UnH Func 0b| - Description Actual 92/3 FTE 92/M Budgat sayM Aaual n/M FTE 3/M Budgal MM FTE M/W 0023 FAIR PARK ELEMENTARY___________________ ________1105 FOUR YEAR OLD PROGRAM________ 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED_______ 0 i 20 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_________ 0240 INSURANCE___ ______________0380 FOOD SERVICES______________ ______________0410 SUPPLIES___________________ ______________04 i 6 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 0540 EQUIPMENT-PERSONAL PROPER 0548 EQUIPMENT - SUPPLY CENTER 1105 FOUR YEAR OLD PROGRAM 1110 KINDERGARTEN_________________ 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED ______0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE________________ ______0410 SUPPLIES_________________ 0412 JLOCAL SUPPLIES SP TRACKIN 0416 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 1110 KINDERGARTEN 1120 ELEMENTARY_____________________ oi l 0 REGULAR CERTIFICATED____ ______0120 REGULAR NON-CERTIFicATED _____ 0210__SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_________ ______0240 INSURANCE__________________ ______0326 REPAIRS-EQUIPMENT__________ ______0342 POSTAGE____________________ _____ 0360 PRINTING a BINDING-INTERN ______04 i 0 SUPPLIES___________ ______04 i 6 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER _____ 0421__TEXTBOOKS - LOCAL SOURCES ______0540 EQUIPMENT-PERSONAL PROPER 0548 EQUIPMENT-SUPPLY CENTER 1120 ELEMENTARY 1124 ELEMENTARY MUSIC________ 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE Dale: 8/ 5/94 Page: 71 Prog
BUD002 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 61,466.31 4,703.86 3,081.67 256.47 0.00 0.00 69,530.31 406,546.70 35,167.90 33,793.04 25,237,13 2.64 262.92 ____109.00 606.15 3,560.75 239.27 1,347.06 469.90 507,401.66 0.00 0.00 0.00 3.00 3.00 12.00 5.00 17.00 0.00 10,411.00 687.75 1,000.68 0.00 1,977.93 0.00 3,600.00 0.00 17,677.36 68,212.00 4,864.25 2,624.26 ___212^2 412.00 45.32 76,370.05 421,628.06 3^567.28 35,039.40 23,663.51 515.00 257.50 257.50 1,414.77 1,701.66 257,50 0.00 519,074.70 15,256.00 1,167.00 592.00 0.00 9,907.00 745.02 997.20 2,572.05 2,049.00 209.03 ___245.13 910.07 10,444.70 68,212.00 5,166.06 2,229.66 436.66 0.00 0.00 76,066.42 398,583.85 23,946.96 31,403.34 17,076.75 4.05 163.68 302.80 ____906.46 3,246.62 0.00 0.00 476,111.48 17,233.50 1,310.32 505.96 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 13.50 4.00 17.50 0.50 24.089.00 20.066 00 3.190.73 3.315.00 5.400.00 3,233.00 0.00 3,600 00 0.00 62,893.73 69.014.00 4.967.06 2.210.00 200.00 200.00 44.00 76,655.06 352.097.00 26,721.70 31,300.44 17,127.50 300.00 100.00 96.50 1,200.00 i.7daoo 257.50 500.00 200 00 433,600.64 17.635.00 1.274 34 552.50 1.00 2.00 3.00 2 00 2.00 10 50 3.00 13.50 0 50UnH Furrc Obj DaacrlpHon 1124 ELEMENTARY MUSIC 1195 ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAM ______0120 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED ______02 i 0 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_______ ______0240 INSURANCE_________ 1195 ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAM 1220 RESOURCE ROOM__________ ______0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED ______0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE 1220 RESOURCE ROOM Little Rock School District Department Budget Actual 92/93 0.00 FTE 92/93 Budget 93/94 I 17,O15.o6~J Actual 3/M FTE 3/M 19,117.78 I 0,50 I Budoat 94/W 19,461.84 J FTE 94/95 0.50 ] 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 1.00 10,411.00 796 44 1,292.04 12,500.38 6,246.71 456.12 600.11 7,302.94 1.00 1.00 6,246 60 451.39 663.00 7,360.99 0.60 0 60 ___14,392.56 1,101.13 765.59 16,259.28 1.50 1.50 14228.00 1,085.78 653.15 16,064.03 30,452.00 2,046.64 1,117.88 33,616.52 0.50 0.50 25,004.00 1,606.84 1,105.00 27,915.84 1 00 1.00 1 seo ACADEMIC PROGRESS GRANTS ______0117 STIPENDS____________________ ______0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX ' 0331 PUPIL TRANSPORTATION_______ ______0380 FOOD SERVICES______________ 0410 SUPPLIES 0540 EQUIPMENT-PERSONAL PROPER 1580 ACADEMIC PROGRESS GRANTS 1910_Glf=TED AND TALENTED ______0ilO REGULAR CERTIFICATED 0210_^OCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE 1910 GIFTED AND TALENTED 2120 GUIDANCE SERVICES_______ 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED ______0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX 0240 INSURANCE 2120 GUIDANCE SERVICES 2134 NURSING SERVICES _______0120_REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED ______0210 _ SOCI^ SECURITY TAX________ 0240 INSURANCE 2134 NURSING SERVICES Dale: 8/5/94 72 Prog: BUD002 4,703.31 751.69 040.37 20.00 2,585.83 1,079.24 10,089.44 18,044.54 1,380.55 645.79 20,270.88 71900 2^43.88 1^618.67 30,281.53 15,144.45 1,158.26 1,273.28 17,575.99 0.50 0.50 0 60 0.60 0.40 0.40 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 3,222.67 4,428.44 7,651.11 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 18.438.00 1^314.83 ___665.41 20,418.24 14,162.00 1,000.00 648.44 15,820.34 14,803.67 1^3061 1,089.98 17,033.26 11,043.69 644.81 358 46 12,246.88 25,657.47 1,^61 033.42 28,095.50 10,950.49 637.68 700.94 12,489.09 0.60 0.50 0.60 0.60 0.40 0.40 18,436 00 1,332.37 552.50 20,322.67 32.056.00 2,316.57 1,105.00 35,479.57 15,432.65 1,115.19 331.50 16,879 34 0 50 0.50 1 00 1.00 030 0 30Unit Fuik Obj - Description 2222 SCHOOL LIBRARY SERVICES _______0110 REGUL^R CERTIFICATED____ 0 i 20 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED ______02 i O SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_______ ______0240_INSURANCE ______0410 SUPPLIES _________ 016 SUPPLIES SUPPLY CENTER 2222 SCHOOL LIBRARY SERVICES 2410 OFFICE OF THE f^INCIPAL 0110 REGULAR CERTIFICATED ______0120 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED _______0124 CLERICAL OVERTIME________ 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX_______ ______0240 INSURANCE ______0410_SUPPLIES____________ 04lie SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 2410 OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL 2542 UPKEEP OF BUILDINGS 0120 REGULAR NON-CERTIFICATED 0124 CLERICAL OVERTIME 0210 SOCIAL SECURITY TAX _______0230 PUBLIC EMPLOYEES RETIREME 0240JNSURA2JCE_ ______0321__UTILITY SERVICES-NATURAL ______0322 UTILITY SERvicES ELECTRIC Disutility serwater/sewage/ 2542 UPKEEP OF BUILDINGS 2590 OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES BU __ 0418 SUPPLIES - SUPPLY CENTER 2590 OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES BU 0023 FAIR PARK ELEMENTARY Date: 8/ 5/94 Page: 7J Prog: nUD002 Little Rock School District Department Budget Actual 02/93 FTE 02/93 Budget 03/94 Actual 03/94 FTE 03/94 Budget >4/98 FTE >4/05 40,513.28 12,269.00 ____4^037.91 2,990.07 2,090.80 ______180.95 62,081.99 44,209.33 16,998 68 0.00 4,682.36 3,010.54 24.95 0.00 68,925.86 25,945.41 0.00 1,964.69 698.30 1,866.60 ^304.62 28,873.70 2,327.05 G9.022.77 1.017.68 1,917.66' 873,357.37 1.00 1.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 3.00 31.00 41,729.11 8,698.61 2>04.26 2J32.79 176.65 257.50 56,399.12 47,375.24 16,059.30 0.00 4,621.13 2,566.65 176.85 257.60 71,056.67 21,574.11 0.00 1,660.80 394.30 1,202.79 5,500.00 43,500.00 2,000.00 75,832.00 2,000.00 2,666760 018,182.05 41,720.11 12,983.00 4,022.20 2,175.10 2,048.39 164.18 63,141.96 46,125.49 31,731.99 135.62 5,968.42 3.138.92 0.00 0.00 87.096.34 15,432.68 780.21 1,240.28 187.46 1,064.62 8,606.37 3^247.41 1,662 45 66,241.35 ^305.62 2,305.62 910,017.81 1.00 1.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 30.00 41.720.11 5,372.40 3,40365 1,547.00 1,141.00 1,141.00 54,334.16 47,631.00 17,194.65 000 4.684.49 2,210.00 180 00 260 00 72,161.04 22,962.97 0.00 1,660.80 0.00 2,210.00 6,000 00 37,000.00 2,500 00 75,353.77 2,000.00 2.000.00 004.418.87 1.00 0.40 1.40 1 00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 27 80Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 14 A possible scenario for relocating students 't Fair Park School Relocation Business Case 75 ^Possibl^cenariofoT^airJParf^Relocati^ 1. 2. 3. One four-year-old class must be relocated intact or a plan modification must be submitted to eliminate this class. Reassign the one hundred and thirty-two students (85 black and 47 non-black) who are not living in Fair Park's attendance zone back to their area school. Fair Park will lose thirty sixth graders to jr. high school (25 blacks and 5 non-blacks) thereby leaving a total of one hundred and twenty-one students (99 blacks cind 22 4. non-blacks) to reassign. Encourage twenty-two non-black students to apply to magnet schools, interdistrict schools. or 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Reassign 22 non-black students to Brady. Offer 99 black students seats in Incentive Schools. Encourage M-to-M transfers. Reassign zone blocks 511, 512, 513, and 554 to McDermott McDermott current capacity is 494 however, in past years it has been higher in to warrant an assistant principal. Effect of Racial Balance on receiving schools: 3 a) b) Magnet and Interdistrict school's racial balance will remain the same. Brady's racial makeup will improve. Brady is currently 64% black and 32.2% non-black. The new balance will be 62.2% black and 37.8% non-black. c) McDermott racial balance will shift to 69.3 black if all former Fair Park black students transfer to McDermott. *5 Student assignment must assign black students on a matching basis with non-black students to maintain the current racial balance within the altected magnet schools./ Little Rock School District MEMORANDUM EXHIBIT To: From: Dr. Henry P. Williams, Superintendent Russ Mayo, Associate Superintendent hi Date: Subject: June 29, 1995 Closing of Fair Park School Updated Timeline (Revised since 6/21/95 memo) 1. 2. 3. Develop a list of key people in the community who should be contacted immediately Design possible scenarios for new attendance zones_________________________ Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval 4. Notify patrons at February registration of the possibility that the school will close.____________ 5. Compile list and mailing labels of all students living in the Fair Park School attendance zone and 1/13/95 1/30/95 1/26/95 2/6/95 2/1/95 Modeste Mayo Williams Mayo Mayo 6. those scheduled to attend the school. Sort the lists by
a) those who attend Fair Park School but live outside of the attendance zone b) those who attend Fair Park School but live in the attendance zone
and, c) those who do not attend Fair Park School but live in the attendance zone. Develop notice of relocation and date of community information meeting to send to: 1/26/95 a) b) c) d) parents & students
community groups and churches
media (press release) for door-to-door delivery in the neighborhood 7. Conduct informational meeting with the principal, faculty, and staff about the process 8. Mail notice of possible relocation and date of community information meeting to: 1/30/95 1/26/95 9. a) parents & students
b) community groups and churches
c) media (press release)___________________________________________________ Deliver fliers, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and date of the information meeting 10. Conduct community information meetings______________________________________________ 11. Notify finance person to include this as a budget reduction strategy_________________________ 12. Finalize a specific plan for new attendance zones_______________________________________ 13. Business Case presented to the LRSD Board of Directors for approval_______________________ 14. File motion with the 0. S. Federal Court to relocate students at Fair Park School__________ 15. Determine date for Student Assignment personnel to go to school and offer guidance to patrons about choices for their students.__________________________________________________ 16. Develop letter to parents and students with announcement of closing and choices asking for a response by a deadline. Deadline must be after student assignment guidance meeting._____ 17. Develop flyer to parents and students with announcement of closing and date of guidance meeting at school to help patrons with choices._____________________________________________ 18. Receive court approval^ 19. Mail letter of relocation and date of guidance meeting to patrons___________________________ 20. Deliver fliers, door-to-door, announcing the relocation and date of the guidance meeting________ 21. Inventory building_________________________________________________________________ 22. Conduct patron guidance and infonnation meeting no later than____________________________ 23. Mail letters to parents and students with announcement and notifying them of new assignment 24. Remove materials and equipment from school__________________________________________ 25. Reroute transportation of students___________________________________________________ 26. Secure building__________________________________________________________________ 27. Reassign staff___________________________________________________________________ 28. Send final assignment notices to patrons and students 1/26/95 1/31/95 3/3/95 6/20/95 6/22/95 6/30Z95 6/26/95 6/26/95 6/26/95 7/7/95 7/10/95 7/10/95 7/14/95 7/20/95 7/21/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 7/31/95 8/3/95 C: Superintendents Cabinet EXHIBIT Mayo Modeste Mayo Mayo Mayo Williams Mayo Williams Williams Mayo Mayo Mayo Williams Mayo Mayo Neal Mayo Mayo Eaton Cheatham Eaton Hurtey Mayo I Remaining timeline is based on Court approval. U IlMtkUMK'X January 7, 1995 LRSD Area Elementary Schools Explanation of Rating Sheet for Facilities Study The criteria shown across the top of the chart are defined as follows: Desegregation Criteria Under Cap Low Cap Enroll Deci Bal Out Recfut Diffie Per Pupil $ AZ Isolat co I VP X lU TTrw*MSIW The extent to which this school is under its published capacity - "1 = 85%-94% of capacity, "5 = 75%-84%, and "10" = below 75%_____________________________________________________________________________________'----- The extent to which this school is under the average capacity for the district - The average capacity for a LRSD Area Elementary School is 425 students. Therefore, a rating is necessary only for schools with capacities below 425. A rating of 1" = less than 50 below, "5" = 51-100 below, and "10 more than 100 below the average.__________________ The severity of the rate of decline in enrollment for a school - A drop of 1%-2.99% = 1", 3%-4.99% = 5", and 5% or more of last years October 1 enrollment received a 10".____________________________________________________ The extent to which the school is out of racial balance according to current guidelines and past trends indicate that it will continue - Ten percent or more beyond guidelines should receive a 10._________________________________________ The level of difficulty in recruiting to this school to achieve racial balance______________________________________ The extent to which per pupil expenditures exceeds the average of the district in this school - Under $2,550 = "1", $2,551 to $2,899 = "5", and $2,900 to $4,100 = 10".________________________________________________________ The extent to which the school's attendance zone is isolated because it is too small and cannot draw more students without taking them from other zones. To some extent, this is a measure of the size of the attendance zone for the school and the geographic location of the building. The average size attendance zone is 353. Facilities Criteria Bldg Config Reno Need Oper Costs The extent to which the age and design of the building negatively impacts program, costs, and modern standards - Supports Program = "1, Minor Shortfalls = 5", and Major Shortfalls = *10.________________________________ The extent to which the building needs renovation to meet current codes - $100,000-$200,000 = "1', $200,001 to $500,000 = 5", and above $500,000 = 10".__________________________________________________ The extent to which the per capita cost of maintaining this school is greater than similar schools - At or below average = 1 Between 10% & 25% above average = "5", Above 25% = 10' Upgrad Costs wiSs The cost of upgrading the building to support the academic program - Below $500,000 = "1", $500.000-$1,000,000 = "5". and Above $1,000,000 = 10_______________________________________________________________________January 7, 1995 LRSD Area Elementary Schools Rating Sheet for Facilities Study A rating is given in a column only if the criteria named at the top of the column has a negative influence on the desegregation plan, on the building itself, or on the budget. If so, then a rating of 1, 5, or 10 is given according to the extent of the negative impact. Therefore, schools with the highest total should gel serious consideration for closing An explanation of each criteria is included. Bale Under Low School Cap Cap -i-, :<r lr >4 ilQi IgrTi Uit-xrxy 1 = Minimal 5 a Considerable Desegregation Criteria Enroll Ded Bal Out X'i-KzxSgTfv-.^^rK-: Recrut Dif^ Per AZ 10 = Extreme Facilities Criteria Pupil $ tS? !f>K tihnin-r Isolat Bkfg ConTig W
*wVx- Reno Need Oper Costs Upgrad Costs* Total 'lx'I'W.*.*. iBaWSr< Brady Chicot Cloverdale Dodd Forest Park Fulbright Gayer Springs Jefferson Mabelvale McDermott Meadowcliff Otter Creek Pulaski Heights Terry Wakefield Watson Western Hills Wilson (w'iijieiiiW SJixixcr, ___ 5TJi?fOrxi2Jc" 10 10 10 (I* ?ii Si 1 K xy. -ilQbs in-i(u.x*x6x.x Tejragi. 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 XO( XX'ft.X-XXwGfi.-ii?/ --------- SpOpi ill ysffstJt ifiitHirrnniaiM K{ WsSHijSigsj JsSS? *jPWkPii 10 'tpjw, a>trAKsxt, 10 10 !***
Mu'-' M agiaj 10 10 10 10 sj :*nwz .Kiow:^.' xiiSx* asbUtt SB 10 B 10 10 95 56 62 20 35 30 24 85 28 17 39 31 30 24 19 33 13 38 25 28 22 63 r/ "7 5 1 1 5 1 1 1 1 5 1 1 litieSitfej
ifcPii"K
Bewwjeai *^'^''.*15#^ i^f} 5 2 SsSSSaB^fei* *5S^SSS 1 l^h?ifJM-XJ .jwuiitlj 1 1 5 5 i T S 53 *!^Sr* * jFloi MiFj^>l
M 1 5 5 1 1 1 5 5 1 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 1 5 1 5 1 Vi^iyff- laiftiniftr^i akaBOfSa '.Bo 5 5 5 a ji**^^?**^ 5 5 5 1 5 5 5 MAJl.tM. JT 5^
?S?S y^y*-~ieyifc> 1 5 5 5 5 5 1 1 1 1 5 5 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 5 1 5 fjF 5*<.-!:'?3r 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 1 9 1 5 1 1 1 5 1 1 1 1 1 5 5 1 5 30^ > 5 ubix iu 1 1 1 1 1 1 r/ ' This is a factor only if renovation is ever done. wraiIN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF ARKANSAS WESTERN DIVISION LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT PLAINTIFF VS. NO. LR-C-82-866 PULASKI COUNTY SPECIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 1, ET AL REC I? IVES! . DEFENDANTS MRS. LORENE JOSHUA, ET AL KATHERINE KNIGHT, ET AL .1111 3 1995 INTERVENORS INTERVENORS Office of Desegre. a' son Mon:icfing MEMORANDUM BRIEF IN SUPPORT OF LRSDS MOTION FOR MODIFICATION OF DESEGREGATION PLAN It The Plaintiff, Little Rock School District ("LRSD" or District"), for its Memorandum Brief in Support of its Motion for Modification of Desegregation Plan, submits the following: In the Court-approved LRSD desegregation plan. the LRSD indicated that it would operate twenty-three (23) area schools. various incentive schools, magnet schools and inter-district schools on the elementary school level. The LRSD has in fact operated the area schools as envisioned in the plan through and including the 1994-95 school year. As this Court has continued to monitor LRSD's implementation of the plan. the District has regularly updated this Court of its financial condition. In fact. at the Court's request, the District has provided this Court, from time-to-time, projections of its budget status for five-year diinaVpcssdXmodiOcaiKMi.brf -1-intervals. Those projections have included various scenarios of anticipated budget deficits with no millage increase/no cuts, no millage increase/cuts and millage increase/cuts. It is primarily in the last scenario that the District projects its ability to continue program operations while submitting balanced budgets in accordance with Arkansas state law. As a part of its review of the District's financial condition, this Court has consistently encouraged the District to pursue those budget reduction strategies which will yield recurring benefits. Namely, this Court has expressed concern over the use of revenue generating measures which are one-time in nature whereas the District's primary expenditures are recurring in nature. Accordingly, this Court has requested the District to determine the availability of strategies which yield recurring benefits. As this Court is well aware, the District has now embarked upon a program, planning and budget process whereby it makes an inventory of its programs, conducts program evaluations, conducts an analysis of the needs of the District as it relates to the District's goals and mission and, thereby, develops programs tied to the achievement of its goals and mission. The program planning and budgeting process is driven by the District's project management tool which tasks out the various components of the process to insure that the products to be produced from each sub-process will be available for the District's use in budget development. The project management tool for fiscal diani\pcssd\fnodiricaiion.brf -2-year 1996 was primarily implemented during the 1994-95 school year for the development of the District's budget for the 1995-96 school year. Among the many sub-processes identified in that tool to lead to the 1995-96 budget was a sub-process for school closings. As indicated by the business cases and time lines attached to the motion filed herewith, the District used processes and procedures which revealed a sufficient change of circumstances to warrant the requested modification of the desegregation plan. As reflected by the respective business cases, each school's enrollment as of October 1, 1994, was significantly below the available capacity. Further, even if each school was filled to capacity, the capacity of each school is significantly below the District-wide average for elementary area schools. As such, each school would not operate efficiently when compared to average sized area schools. The enrollment at each school has declined since 198 9 and continued enrollment declines are expected at both schools. One of the most severe consequences of such enrollment declines is the continued increase in per pupil expenditures at each school. For instance, the per pupil cost at Badgett Elementary School has increased to $4,021.87 during the 1994-95 school year, the highest of any area elementary school. Likewise the per pupil cost at Fair Park Elementary School as increased. In fact, operational costs for these two buildings have increased such to cause these schools d iana\pcssd\rTxxt ificat ton. brf -3-to become two of the most expensive schools to operate annually within the District. It is also significant to note that both of the buildings where each of these schools is housed are in need of renovation and upgrading. The cost to accomplish the necessary renovations and upgrades at each school is estimated to exceed $1,000,000 each. This is considerably more than the average cost which would be necessary to renovate and upgrade the other buildings in the District. Taking these changed circumstances into consideration, along with the fact that the District's total building capacity and total enrollment reflects many vacant seats, the number of vacant seats in the District has now become significant. Although, various factors may be considered as one searches for the cause of the increase in the number of vacant seats. it is important to recognize that the District has been extremely successful in its efforts to encourage its black students to take advantage of educational opportunities available in the Pulaski County Special School District through the interdistrict school program. As a consequence of these and other facts, the LRSD now has more school buildings and school seats available than needed to serve the students currently in the District and those reasonably anticipated to enroll in the District in the near future. Given the fact that financing the operational costs of a school is a major expense, it was only reasonable for the District diana\pcsjd\modiftcmon.l>rf -4-to give serious consideration to possible closing of schools as a budget reduction strategy which would yield recurring savings from year-to-year. In fact, it is estimatedthat the District could save approximately $523,000 during the 1995-96 school year by closing Badgett Elementary School and approximately $637,000 during the 1995-96 school year by closing Fair Park Elementary School. In light of these considerations, as well as the budget projections reflected in the LRSD's 1995-96 proposed budget filed with this Court on or about March 14, 1995, this District has attempted to comply with the mandates of this Court through recognizing the changed circumstances and the opportunity those circumstances present to allow the District to achieve significant savings without negatively impacting the quality educational programs available in the District. In recognition of previous filings made herein, the District would refer this Court to its Brief in Support of Motion for Modification of Desegregation Plan filed herein on April 20, 1994, requesting that Washington Elementary School be recognized as the second required interdistrict school. In that brief, the District provided this Court with significant factual information regarding the demographics of the LRSD and the changes which have occurred in those demographics since the plans were agreed upon by the parties. That information is incorporated herein by reference as if set out herein word-for-word. The District also incorporates the argument portion of that brief wherein the law of modification of consent diana\pcssd\rTK>diftcaiKMi.brf -5-decrees is discussed and analyzed, the effect of changed circumstances, the demographics of the District and the importance of the financial constraints under which the District continues to operate. In light of the foregoing factors and circumstances, the board of directors considered the strategy of closing schools as a budget reduction measure. When initially reviewed by the board on April 12, 1995, the board only consisted of six voting members due to the recent death of board member 0. G. Jacovelli. At that time, the board was evenly divided on the issue, and the matter failed 3-3. Subsequent to that meeting, the vacancy on the board was filled by the selection of Ms. Stephanie Johnson to represent Zone 7 on the board of directors. Further, through continued discussions and review during the various budget work sessions held by the board of directors, the board continued to consider the various budget reduction strategies available to it--among those being school. closings. Finally, on Thursday, June 22, 1995, the board revisited the issue of school closings as it continued its budgetary process and voted to close both Badgett Elementary School and Fair Park Elementary School beginning with the 1995-96 school year. This action was reported to this Court during the budget hearings held on Friday, June 23, 1995. In light of the changed circumstances as discussed herein including. but not limited to, declining enrollment. increased operational costs, increased vacant seats district-wide and severe financial constraints, it is hereby submitted that the diana\pcud\modirica(ion.brf -6-circumstances warrant the requested plan modification. Accordingly, this Court is hereby requested to grant the motion to modify desegregation plan filed herewith and permit the District to close Badgett Elementary School and Fair Park Elementary School beginning with the 1995-96 school year. Respectfully submitted, FRIDAY, ELDREDGE & CLARK Attorneys at Law 2000 First Commercial Building 400 West Capitol Little Rock, Arkansas (501) 72201-3493 duni\pcud\(nodiricatton.brf 376-2011 ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT Jerry L. Malone Bar No. I. D. 85096 -7-CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I, Jerry L. Malone, do hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Memorandum Brief in Support of LRSD's Motion for Modification of Desegregation Plan has been served by U. S. Mail, postage prepaid, except as otherwise indicated, on the 7 day of rJc/A^X. , 1995, upon the following: Mr. John W. Walker JOHN W. WALKER, P.A. Attorneys at Law 1723 Broadway Little Rock, AR 72206 Mr. Samuel M. Jones, III WRIGHT, LINDSEY & JENNINGS Attorneys at Law 2200 Worthen Bank Building 200 West Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 Mr. Stephen W. Jones JACK, LYON & JONES, P.A. Attorneys at Law 3400 Capitol Towers Capitol & Broadway Streets Little Rock, AR 72201 Mr. Richard W. Roachell ROACHELL & STREETT Attorneys at Law First Federal Plaza, Suite 504 401 West Capitol Avenue Little Rock, AR 72201 Mrs. Ann Brown (Hand-delivered as per Order by the Court) Attorney at Law Heritage West Building, Suite 520 201 East Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 Jerry L. Malone diini\pcssd\jnodirication.brf -8-HERSCHEL M. FRIDAY II 922-I394I ROBERT 7, light. P a. WILLIAM H. SUTTON. P.A. W. MOORE M. elSEMA.N. JR.. P.A. BELL. P.A. FRIDAY, ELDREDGE & CLARK A PARTNERSHIP OF INDIVIDUALS ANO PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS ATTORNEYS AT LAW X6VIN A. CRASS. *.A. WILLIAM A. WAOO6LL. CUYO *TA8' rURNER* 9 J R . a A jwr,., C. SCMOLS. P.A. JAMES A. 3UTTRY. A. FREOEflICX S. URSERY. P.A. H. r. LARZELERE. P.A. OSCAR . OAVIS. JR.. P.A. JAMES C. CLARK. JR.. P A THOMAS P. LEGGETT. P.A. JOHN OeWEY WATSON. P.A. PAUL 3. 3ENHAM III. P.A. LARRY W. 3URKS. A. A. WYCKLIFF NISBET. JR.. P a. JAMES EOWARO HARRIS. P.A. J. PHILLIP MALCOM. P.A. JAMES M. SIMPSON. P.A. MEREDITH P. CATLETT. P.A. JAMES M. SAXTON. P.A. J. SHEPHERD RUSSELL III. P.A. DONALD H. 3ACON. P A. WILLIAM THOMAS BAXTER. P.A. WALTER A. PAULSON II. P.A. BARRY S. COPLIN. ? A. RICHARD 0. TAYLOR. P.A. JOSEPH 9. HURST. JR.. P.A. ELIZABETH ROBBEN MURRAY. P a CHRISTOPHER HELLER. P.A. LAURA HENSLEY SMITH. P.A. ROBERT S. SHAFER. P A. WILLIAM M. GRIFFIN III. P.A. THOMAS N. ROSE. P.A. MICHAEL 3. MOORE. P A. OIANE 5. MACKEY. P.A. WALTER M. EBEL HI. P.A. 2000 FIRST COMMERCIAL BUILDING 400 WEST CAPITOL LITTLE flOCX. ARKANSAS 72201-3493 TELEPHONE 501-376-201 1 Pax no. SOl-376-2147 August 1, 1995 RECEn/^O AUG I 1995 Calvin j. mall. p.a. SCOTT J. LANCASTER. P a JERRY L. MALONE. P.A. M. GAYLE CORLEY, p a ROBERT 3. BEACH. jR.. p 4, J. LEE aROWN. P.A. JAMES C. BAKER. JR. P a H. CHARLES GSCHWENO jR Pa HARRY A. LIGHT. P.a SCOTT M. TUCKER. P a JOHN CLAYTON RANDOLPH ? a GUY ALTON WADE. P a PRICE C. Gardner, p a J. MICHAEL PICKENS TONIA P. JONES OAVIO D. WILSON JEFFREY M. MOORE ANDREW T. TURNER DAVID M. GRAF CARLA G. SPAINHOUR JOHN C. FENDLEY.jR. ALLISON GRAVES JONANN C. ROOSEVELT R. CHRISTOPHER LAWSON GREGORY 0. TAYLOR TONY L. WILCOX FRAN C. HICKMAN BETTY J. DEMORY Mr. John W. Wal.ker JOHN W. WALiiCiR., P.A. Attorneys at Law 1723 Broadway Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 Mr. Sam Jones WRIGHT, LINDSEY i JENNINGS Attorneys at Law 2200 Worthen Bank Building 200 West Capitol Avenue Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Mr. Stephen W. Jones JACK, LYON & JONES, P.A. 3400 Capitol Towers Capitol Sc Broadway Streets Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Re: Gentlemen and Mrs. Brown: Offics of Desegregaiion Moriiicring Mrs . Ann Brown Attorney at Law ileritage West Building,. 201 East Markham Street ittle Rock, Arkansas Mr. Richard Roachell ROACHELL Sc STREETT Attorneys at Law First Federal Plaza, COUNtlL WILLIAM J. SMITH WILLIAM A. ELOREOCE. JR.. P.A. 3.3. CLARK WILLIAM L. TERRY. P.A, WILLIAM L. PATTON. JR.. P A. wRiTSR-s oiaecr .'*o. (SOI) 370-1553 Suite 520 72201 401 West Capitol Avenue Little Rock, Arkansas LRSD V. PCSSD, et al Suite 504 72201 Since early spring the Little Roc.k School District has been following the Desegregation various plan modifications Plan approval. it will Amendment submit Process regarding :o the Court to tor We have received responses from the North Little Rock School District and the Pulaski County Special School District. Neither has any objections to the modifications as proposed nor any concerns have been resolved. dianixpcudVaitorney. Il4Gentlemen and Mrs. Grown August 1, Page 2 1995 Richard Roachell is checking with his clients whether the Knight intervenors will raise any object: I have received no response from Richard. to determine ton. To data. been requested to review and consider the prooosed and provide his response for our Likewise, Mr. Walker das modifications consideration and negotiation. I now write to update each oi you regarding the status of the proposed modifications. Enclosed please find the latest update on Desegregation Plan Modifications. As noted in the cover racari the rications. L> Memorandum : 'om Dr. Russ Mayo, or not presented to the parties several items were e consideration. the enctosec material represents the proposed modif currently exist. ther withdrawn Accordingly, zations as thev These modifications will now be oresented to the LRSD Soard of Directors for its consideration and action. If approvec, approval. they will be filed with the Court tor s review and Included herewith are: 1. 2 . 3 . 4 . A list of modifications now being considered
A graphic of the modification process
Desegregation Plan Modification Draft A Guidelines
and. !py of the plan modifications as they currently stand. Thank each of you for your kind attention to and consideration of this matter. Sinc^ely Jerry u. Mauone LRSD Attorney DICTATED 3UT NOT READ JLM/dtw Enclosures cc (letter only)
Dr. Ms. Dr. Henry P. Williams Linda Pondexter Russ Mayo UiamxocudUuarney.l(4Little Rock School District MEMORANDUM To: Dr. Henry P. Williams, Superintendent From: Russ Mayo, Associate Superintendent Date: July 13, 1995 Subject: Update on Desegregation Plan Modifications OlSice >'.1 1 \995 ot Oesegtss'-i'-' ,D onAoting a The next step in our Desegregation Plan Modification Process requires your approval and recommendation of our proposed modifications to the Board of Directors. I am recommending the attached plan modifications for your consideration. We have heard no objections from the parties except the item noted below from the Magnet Review Committee. Below are changes since the modifications were first submitted to the parties: 1. McClellan Community School and Four-Year-Old Program modifications were withdrawn. McClellan was a reduction which does not require a plan change. School Closings modifications were never submitted because of the original vote of the Board
and, 2. At the request of the Magnet Review Committee, I have removed the reference to geographic preference in the original Student Assignments modification. Included here are: 1. 2. 3. 4. A list of the modifications now being considered
A graphic of the modification process
Desegregation Plan Modification Draft Guidelines
and, A copy of the plan modifications as they currently stand. If the you and the Board approve, these modifications will be filed for consideration by the Court. C: Chris Heller, LRSD Attorney Jerry Malone, LRSD Attorney UIH CnTTDICLittle Rock School District Desegregation Plan Modifications July 13, 1995 Budget Related Result 1. Staffing - Incentive Schools 2. Academic Progress Incentive Grants 3. Focused Activities Others 1. LRSD Biracial Committee 2. Student Assignments 3. Parent Coimcil - Incentive Schools 4. Parent Involvement/Community Linkages 5. Spanish - Incentive Schools 6. Recruitment of Private School Students 7. Incentive Schools Parent Recruitment LRSD Office of Desegregation Reduce Reduce Reduce Change Change 4 to 2 mon. visits Change Delete Change ChangeStudents Desegregation Plan Amendment Process WHO? HOW? WHY? Patrons Teachers Administrators Committees f 1. Initial Evaluation 2. Share with the LRSD Board of Directors Little Rock School District Propose Change (in writing) Failure of Deseg. Process Changes in Law Better Methods Discovered Demographic Changes Changing Circumstances Office of Desegregation (LRSD) If approved 3. When appropriate: Surveys & Public Meetings held Informal Consultation with Parties I Submit to Court (Share with Parties) ) 4. Final Recommendation to Superintendent 5. Superintendent Recommends to Board If the Court approves, the plan shall be amended noting the amendment & approved date. R. MayoLittle Rock School District Desegregation Plan Modification Draft Guidelines 1. Identify all references in the plan relating to the modification that is to be done
2. For each topic to be modified, retype word-for-word those sections relating to the particular topic as follows: a) Clearly reference the section and page from the plan at the beginning
b) Leave all words in place you want deleted but show them with a strike out line through them
c) New wording must be shown as italicized in the appropriate place
d) Summarize (one sentence) significant changes briefly in [brackets] at the end of certain paragraphs or sections. These bracketed summaries will remain in the final revision with the amendment date. Use a month and year approximately 6 months into the future for the amendment date. This date will be changed to the date of final approval by the court. The bracketed comments will serve as a reminder in future years of the additions, modifications, or deletions that are made to the plan
e) Page numbers of the retyped modification must appear at the top right of each retyped page as Modification Page 1, for example. These numbers refer only to the pages of the modification. They are in no way related to page numbers in the plan. Plan page numbers are referred to at the beginning of each new retyped section
f) If your word processing software will do it, line number each line or every other line down the left side of the page for reference purposes
and, g) Add footnotes where you think appropriate. Once this is done, submit it to the LRSD Office of Desegregation for review. If you have questions at anytime, please call Russ Mayo (2408).LRSD Plan Modification Proposal Staffing - Incentive Schools February, 1995- 2 LUD Desegregation Plan Modification Page 1 (cftiw on ___ o L Oooofrototien Fl on and on Ftfo 172 of tHo (itoot tndoiod copy of tho Plan.) 4 universities to assist with teaching activities and extracurricular 8 activities
assistance from social agencies to intervene if students need assistance in health and/or personal need situations. 10 12 14 16 B. College/Post Graduation Rwareaess - A mentoring program will be established which will provide interactive time for students to work with appropriate role models to enhance an awareness of skills necessary for successful entry into the world of work. The program will also serve to heighten student expectations with regard to their own abilities and potential to attend college and to graduate. Parents will also receive this information so that they may be aware of the options which are open to their children. 18 C. 20 22 tudy Skills - Counselors and teachers will be responsible for working with students to enhance test taking skills, listening skills and study skills. Practice will be provided for students in test taking, i.e., bubble sheets will be used on some class tests and a variety of question types will be used by teachers. e. 24 D. /ighborhood Meetings - Meetings with parents will not always be held at the schools. 26 Other Beetingss, for SBall groups of parents, will be scheduled at couaunity locations such as churches and sose hoses if 28 invited by parents. 30 These less formal meetings out of the school environment may more productive and can help forge a school/neighborhood partnership. It is suggested that local ministers be considered as part of the school partnership and community. be 34 Individual ind Group Counseling - Individual and group counseloing as well as peer facilitators will be employed at the school to assist students as they attempt to work through concerns and the normal issues which arise 36 as student growth and development takes place, taught conflict resolutions. Students will also be 38 F. 40 Incentive/Reeognition Programs - Incentive/recognition programs will be developed by students, staff and patrons at each school. Ideas awards 42 (suggestions) presented in teh subcommittee meeting included
programs, recognition days, good citizen clubs, free tickets to community and athletic events, tangible rewards such as a book of the student's 44 choice for academic growth and the like. 46 48 50 G. ^llness Program - A wellness program will be in place at each building with availability of a full time nurse. Students will be screened for physical health and will also receive information on topics like self- esteem, nutrition, drug prevention and awareness and first aid. Presentations will likewise be made to parents on similar topics for their information on a continuing education basis. 52 H. 54 58 Camp Pfeifer - Students in need of additional academic assistance will have access to programs such as that currently in place at Camp Pfeifer, whereby, they spend some time in residence at a program away from the school and the home which provides counseling, intensive academic support and time management skills. Parent involvement is an inherent part of this program in assisting them to work with students on homework and academics. 60 622 LRSD Desegregation Plan Instructional Aides Modification Modification Page 2 (Mfltn* on 14 af Nay 1, 1992 Court Ordar.) 6 20 students, If the district should choose to reduce class size to a aaxinuD 8 of 20 students in every kindergarten through sixth grade classroom in an entire incentive school, the Ceept the school will el lew that eeheel te have sufficient twa instructional aides fer e^ery <hres K- < slasspessie to implement apeeifie 10 functions, fnrfa Ilia Pam fpm, fiffr-rny grtrf ini*tcr rufruj
rijnjJ tmialanee~n9-iie9igmiteti-by-tfte-pnneipitl-antl/9e-the~eiiuar9om-ieeKhei. In any case, an appropriate 12 number of supervision aides will be provided at each incentive school, regardless of whether- there is ene the number of instructional aides per olassreem 14 optin thei sshoels whieh eleet te have- we sepe then >0 ehilSpew yg k 6 16 elaaapeem
twe inatpuetiewal aides pep-evpy three K-6 elaaapeema per building. Information presented at the hearings indicated that over half of all incentive school classroons presently have acre than 20 students. The Court 18 is sensitive to the tremendous disruption that changing schools causes for children and their parents. In adjusting to reduced class size for the 1992-93 20 school year, the Court will not require that students currently enrolled in the Incentive Schools be transferred mandatorily to some other school. Children 22 attending an incentive school during the 1991-92 school year may remain at that school until they move on to junior high or voluntarily transfer to another 24 school. No new student shall be enrolled in an incentive school if that student's enrollment would cause the ordered class size limits to be exceeded. 26 However, the Court is willing to permit an exception if the new student's enrollment would improve racial balance. 28 Academic Program - Given the importance of parental involvement, the Court does not approve a change that would remove the requirement for the district to develop a parent component model.. 2 LRSD Desegregation Plan Incentive School Staffing Modification Modification Page 3 4 (((irw on Rtf* 190 of l*S0 Ootefrofot ion Flan and Faga 186 of the I at Mt indaatd copy of tht Flan.) Section Three: Incentive School Staffing 8 The selection and support of quality staff sembers will be critical 10 factors in the success of Incentive Schools. Carefully planned staff-selection criteria and procedures will provide the quality personnel capable 12 of successfully attaining the goals and implementing the programs and curriculuB of these schools. Ongoing staff devalopaent for Incentive Schools 14 must prepare the staffs to attain the standards of excellence they will uphold for achieving student success and fulfillment of potential. 16 Itaffinq 18 I. Little Kock School District (LKSD) Incentive schools Staffing Coa*ittee 20 - A committee will be established to assess staffing needs for Incentive Schools, to set criteria for staffing, to recruit quality staff members, and 22 to determine procedures for staffing. The committee would be composed of teachers, parents, supervisors, principals, other administrators, and Joshua 24 Intervenors. 26 II. Staffing Moods Xssessnent - The needs and interests of student populations in the Incentive Schools will be considered before staff selections are made. 28 Factors to be considered before adding new staff include the following: 32 34 Number of students per grade level Race and gender Academic achievement needs and interests Disciplinary needs Social interaction needs Health needs 36 Program goals and curriculum of the Incentive Schools will also be examined. The LRSD Incentive Schools Staffing Committee will then utilize the student 38 data, goals, and curriculum to identify staffing needs for the Incentive Schools. 40 The following full-time positions except music, art, physical education, and social worker are 42 recommended for each school but are not all inclusive of positions which may be identified during the needs assessment process. 44 46 48 52 54 Classroom teachers Counselor Media specialist Music Art P.E. Social Worker Permanently assigned substitute teacher (for each Incentive School) Reading (remediation) Math (remediation)2 LRSD Desegregation Plan Incentive School Staffing Modification Modification Page 4 (tn* on * 1W of L<0 D**fret*tlan Rian and 186 of th* lotott ind*i*d capy of th* Olon. > 10 12 14 Computer lab attendant Resource Speech Specialist for alternative classrooa Media Clerk Instructional aides (ewe per elesspsea) {Une 11 * one per classroom deleft} Prograa specialist Principal Assistant Principal Non-certified supervision aides 6 8 16 Note: 18 Music teachers, art teachers, and physical education teachers will be assigned in accordance with the practice of providing a two (2) thirty (30) minute periods per week of preparation time for each regula classroom teacher. 20 22 Social Workers will be assigned based on student enrollment and the need to provide sodal services to students at the Incentive Schools. B III. Staff Beeruitaaat - The LRSD will implement ongoing nationwide recruitment etrategies with special emphasis on recruiting qualified minority staff 26 members. Current recruitment files will be maintained on an ongoing basis. A pool of prospective staff members also will be drawn from promising student 28 teachers and participants in the Master Teacher Program (as mentioned in the Staff Development Section, Item F). 30 IV. 32 A) Staff Salactioa The LRSD Incentive Schools Staffing Committee will develop criteria for principal and staff selection. " ' 34 vacant. All positions in each school will be declared Principals shall be selected first for each school so that they may be involved in staff selection and collection and review of student data. 36 Selection criteria will include, but not be limited, the following: 38 40 42 44 Race and gener Successful teaching and/or administrative experience with at-risk youth Record of commitment to quality desegregated education Strong recommendations from a variety of sources (i.e., colleagues, principals, college professors, and other administrators) B) The LRSD Incentive Schools Staffing Committee will work with the Human Resources Department to develop job descriptions and special contracts outlining program and contractual requirements. C) The Human Resources Department will advertise the positions. 48 50LRSD Plan Modification Proposal Focused Activities and Academic Progress Incentive Grants February, 1995LRSD Plan Modification School Operations Focused Activities!Academic Progress Incentive Grant Modification Page I (c|im OB F(e It of LMSO Dce|rc|ilion Ph* * on P*|e 11 of ihc hlctt iadcwd eof^ of the phn) SCHOOL OPERATIONS FOCUSED ACnVITIES/lND ACADEMIC PROGRESS INCENTIVE GRANT Each elementary area school shall have a fundamentally sound and strong basic education program. It shall also have the option of developing focused activities (which may center around a theme) after appropriate community and parental involvement All focused activities must promote the desegregation objectives ordered by the court and will be implemented through the appropriate goals identified in School Operations (LRSD pp. 28-47). The elementaiy area schools (non-incentive and non-interdistrict) will receive an annual allocation for implementing the focused activities for the school year. The purpose of the focused activities shall be threefold: (1) to promote the school as a "community of learning" among parents, staff, and students, (2) to provide enrichment opportunities at the building level
and (3) to ensure equitable opportunities for participation in the elementary area schools. I. Elementary areas of Collaboration The Little Rock School District and the Pulaski County Special School District agree that the implementation of focused activities (LRSD) and specialty programs (PCSSD) in the districts elementary schools could be a collaborative effort (1) in enriching each districts elementary curriculum and (2) in achieving greater racial balance through voluntary interdistrict and intradistrict transfers. Considering the first point, the PCSSD wants the specialty programs initially in a limited number of its elementary schools, whereas the LRSD plans to implement only focused activities in all of its elementary area schools. In relations to the second point of collaboration, the two districts agree to accept that only magnet, incentive, and interdistrict schools in Little Rock School District will have specialty themes, and the two districts agree to develop procedures whereby specialty themes will not be unnecessarily duplicated within the two districts. Also, the tvo districts will collaboratively publicize the specialty programs and encourage majority to minority transfers between theModification Page 2 two districts. Once a final decision is made regarding the implementation of specialty programs, additional areas of collaboration between PCSSD and LRSD will be explored. Also, at any time in the future that the North Little Rock School District decides to implement q>ccialty programs, PCSSD and LRSD agree to address any possible areas of collaboration with NLRSD. IL Overview The Little Rock School District will establish an Academic Progress Incentive Grant Program, the goals of which will be to (1) improve the education of all students and (2) reduce the disparity in achievement among students of different racial, socioeconomic, and gender groups. III. Expected Outcomes The following goals will be achieved by the Little Rock School District Each non-magnet and non-incentive elementary school will provide focused activities for the total school population including attention to gender, race, and socioeconomic issues. Each school will be recognized as a community of learning in which all students, staff members, and parents are totally involved and supportive. The focused activities of each non-magnet and nonincentive elementary school will be integrated into the core curriculum or reflected in the schools environment and day-to-day activities. All elementary area school students will participate in ongoing, meaningful enrichment activities that complement and extend the core curricular activities. All elementary area schools will be viewed by the community as providing equitable and excellent educational programs. Academic Progress Incentive Grants In response to n request for proposals (RFP), the To expend the funds, teachers. building administrators, and patrons of individual elemental area schoolswill develofs nouModification Page 3 yrepeb wriwwig apifw utilize the goals identified in School Operations (LRSD pp. 2847) to develop a plana for increasing achievement and decreasing disparity. A grant AMFitiwg Inservice will be offered by the District to assist schools in developing strategies that will facilitate the integration of these goals into appropriate goals of School Operations. Bagiaaiag with tha 1S>9O 91 tahoal yaart aneh aahoai will ba able to apply for-a total af aver a thaaa year pariodi Thia aaiawat win ba-iaaaed to the aahaals ia iaarewaats of taStOOO aaah yaart aad the aawyaoar of Biade will be parwitted. The aaatiaaatiaa of the Aoadewie Progress Inoeative Grant Program will be reviewed ot the end of the 1992 93 aahoal year.. Beginning with the 1995-96 school year, each elementary area school will be eligible to receive funding (at a rate of $20 per student) to implement the goals of Focused Activities and Academic Progress Incentive Grants by using the goals in School Operations to establish a basis of developing an action plan. Magnet and incentive schools will not be eligible for these grants. The focused activities of each area school will be integrated into school operations and the core curriculum as well as reflected in the schools environment and day-to-day activities. The academic performance of area school students will indicate achievement gained partially as a result of enrichment experiences provided by the core program and enrichment activities. Area school studentswill participate in ongoing, meaningful enrichment activities that complement and extend the core curricular activities. All area schools will be viewed by the community as providing equitable and excellent educational programs. Allowable Activities Elementary zrez schools may receive funds to identify and implement strategies based on promising practices to enhance student achievement and reduce the disparities in academic achievement among groups formed on the basis of race, gender, and economic status.Modification Page 4 Teachers, b
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