Discipline correspondence

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY BUSINESS CASE TRUANCY REDUCTION PROGRAM The Little Rock School District is committed to a comprehensive desegregation plan which focuses on providing a learning environment that meets the academic, social and emotional needs of all students. It is further committed to ensuring that all students receive a quality education in a desegregated environment. Over the years, the District has begun to recognize a growing truancy problem which has an adverse effect on the student's academic achievement and emotional and social development, thereby frustrating the District's ability to carry out its educational mission in the community. To address this problem, the Little Rock School District has joined in a partnership with community leaders, youth servicing agencies and the Little Rock Police Department to develop and implement a truancy pick-up program that should have a significant impact on reducing truancy in the Little Rock School District. A. BACKGROUND In the spring of the 1992-93 school year. a group of concerned citizens composed of community leaders, youth servicing agency representatives and Little Rock School District officials formed a collaborative to explore an effective response to the alarming number of school aged children and youth who are truant from school on any given day. During school hours, school aged youngsters were being observed standing on street corners, shopping centers or roaming in neighborhoods. in malls and other The number of calls from concerned citizens. business proprietors and parents to District offices to report truant students had become more frequent and added to the growing concern. In response to the problem, the collaborative developed a proposal that would take advantage of permissive legislation (Act 867) passed by the Arkansas Legislature in 1989, which authorizes school districts to partner with the in local police department Using the provisions implementing a joint truancy reduction plan. the collaborative developed a truancy reduction of this Act, proposal called Project STAY (Support Truancy Alternatives for Youth) and presented it to the LRSD Board of Directors for their review and approval on October 28, 1993. B. PROBLEM DEFINITION In the 1992-93 school year. Little Rock School District elementary and absences. secondary students logged 227,414 (full day) unexcused School absences are excused only when a child is ill
when a family emergency exists, i.e., death in the family, seriousfamily member or other extenuating circumstances in the immediate family of the student exist, or if the student is participating in a school sponsored activity that has been approved in advance by an appropriate school district official. School absences that are not excused violate Act 292 passed by the Arkansas legislature in 1991. This act requires that "a child between the ages of five years and seventeen years, both inclusive, who has not been officially excluded from school must be in attendance . II The District also believes that it is necessary to require students to be punctual and in attendance for instructional purposes each school day. C. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES To address the truancy problem the Little Rock School District has attempted a number of strategies over the years. The District revised its attendance policy at the beginning of the 1989-90 school year providing for increased parental contacts, clearly defined court referral procedures and more strict consequences for unexcused school absences as a way to discourage school truancy. However, the problem continues and appears to be alternatives used have included court referrals worsening. Other and the establishment of a Truancy Review Committee. COURT REFERRALS The parents of students covered under the state compulsory school attendance laws (5 years through 17 inclusive) are referred by school administrators to the Little Rock Municipal Court. Parents/guardians who are found to be negligent in their responsibility to ensure the daily school attendance of their child/children may be fined up to $ 50.00 per day as provided for through Act 473 of 1989. This intervention's effectiveness is limited to those truancy cases in which the parent is clearly shown to be at fault for the child's non attendance. In those cases where the minor child refuses to attend school in spite of the parents efforts, the Municipal Court does not deem it appropriate to fine the parent. These cases have been referred to the Pulaski County Juvenile Court on a FINS (Families in Need of Services) petition. Because of the overwhelming number of serious juvenile cases the Pulaski County Juvenile Court has to deal with, truancy cases are a low priority and are not heard in a timely manner. Additionally, the fee structure for filing a FINS petition with the Court is also a barrier because many parents are financially unable to pay the filing fee. Unfortunately, very little support for truancy problems is available through the Juvenile Court.D. TRUANCY REVIEW COMMITTEE (TRO A Truancy Review Committee was established in the 1990-91 school year as an intervention in truancy cases for students enrolled in the four restructured supported by New Futures. junior high schools Families were referred to the TRC as an alternative to Municipal Court referral. However, because so few schools participate, its impact on the overall truancy problem in the District is marginal at best. The committee has not been activated for the 1993-94 school year. To do nothing further to address the issue of truancy in the LRSD would be perceived by the community at large as an abdication of the District's responsibility as an educational institution. Moreover, the District recognizes that a problem of this magnitude cannot be resolved by the LRSD without the support and involvement of the total community. RECOMMENDATIONS Through a collaborative planning process over the last six months involving church leaders, parents, school and city officials, youth service provider agencies and other concerned community citizens. a truancy reduction proposal was developed. Its goals are to: Reduce the truancy rate in the Little Rock School District. Identify non-enrolled school-age children/youth. Provide follow-up and support to truant stuaents to ensure regular school attendance. Increase communication between the school district and parents of truants. Promote broad-based community involvement in addressing school/community concerns. This proposal unites the Little Rock School District and the Little During school Rock Police Department in a unique partnership. hours. Little Rock patrol officers will stop and question schoolage children and youth who are observed in a public area to If the students cannot determine why they are not in school. provide documentation that their absence from school is legitimate reason, the patrolman will transport the student to a center designated by the Little Rock School District located at 4800 West 26th Street. Students will be processed by center staff and returned to their assigned school either by a parent/guardian for a All cases will be followed up by center or by LRSD personnel. staff to ensure that the issues that precipitated the truancy have been resolved. Our recommendation is cost-effective because of the fiscal and it provides a high visibility human support of the partners
strategy which has the support of parents, the business community and other community leaders
and it will present a consistentmessage to students and parents that school truancy will not be tolerated in the District. E. OBJECTIVE The objective of the Truancy Reduction Program is to reduce the truancy rate of LRSD students covered by the Arkansas Compulsory School Attendance Law (ages 5 through 17 years, inclusive). EVALUATION CRITERIA The LRSD will evaluate the ,program to determine its effectiveness by using the following criteria: decrease in truancy rate of targeted students when compared with 1992-93 attendance data
improved communication between parents and the school district as measured through parent contacts and structured feedback
increased support and involvement of the community in addressing school/community issues and concerns. F. IMPACT ANALYSIS It is expected that the implementation of a collaborative truancy intervention program will have a positive impact on both the school The community will be reassured of the District's and community. commitment to the education of all children. The success of this project will open the door for other collaborative opportunities between the District and community groups as they arise in the future. Desegregation Plan The education of all students in the LRSD is one of the cornerstones of the desegregation plan. Successful implementation of this program will support this commitment. Court Orders No negative impact is noted. Political Factors Failure to act aggressively to address the truancy problem would be perceived negatively by the community. Risks Inability to sustain funding for the program in future years may be an issue that will need addressing. Timing The truancy program is currently being implemented with excellent support from the Little Rock Police Department and other community partners. Failure to continue the programwould cause the District to loose valuable community support in resolving a problem that requires response. G. RESOURCE ANALYSIS united community a The District share of the costs for implementing this program through the end of the 1993-94 school year are projected to be $58,943 to cover personnel, transportation, utilities, equipment and supplies. Our community partners have pledged $63,840 to support the program financially and are also assisting in the recruitment and training of the volunteer staff. H. FORCE FIELD ANALYSIS The primary supporters of this project are church leaders, the Little Rock Police Department, youth servicing agencies. New Futures and other concerned citizens. These supporters recognize the need for a total community response to the education of all children and youth in the city of Little Rock. Detractors to the program may be parents or other citizens who have misinformation regarding the programs goals and a lack of understanding of the role to be played by the Little Rock Police Department. I. GENERAL IMPLEMENTATION PLAN The assistant superintendent for secondary schools and the director of pupil services have primary responsibility for program implementation and monitoring and to ensure that objectives are accomplished as outlined in the proposal. Monthly status and written quarterly reports will be presented to the Little Rock School District Board of Directors.NEW FUTURES FOR LITTLE ROCK YOUTH SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS IN THE LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT MAY, 1992 are We gelled 1 patrons and citizens do, that our The Board of New Futures for Little Rock Youth has become increasingly alarmed by the large number of students who suspended or e^melled from Little Rock schools each year, recognize, as all patrons and citizens do, that our schools must DG S3.f6 places in which, teaching^ and leaming" can occur. However, in reviewing the data available to us on suspended students, a profile of many students who are both socially and academically at great risk emerges. These students should be targeted for special academic and social interventions, not simply sent home to wander the streets or to watch television. By following the school career of these students for even one additional year, it is apparent that, without effective programming for these students, their problems frequently become worse. The students become increasingly unable to pass their courses, more likely to be absent, to be retained, and to eventually drop out of school. We, the Board of New Futures for Little Rock Youth, therefore, request a meeting with the Little Rock School District Board to discuss the following recommendations and to develop plan of action. a Recommendations
1) 2) 3) Carefullyreview the current Students Rights and Responsibilities Handbook in order to: a) b) limit the use of school exclusion to only those offenses which pose serious danger to the staff and students of a school ensure parents and students full due process rights to appeal any act of school exclusion regardless of the length. Institute effective training for principals, assistant principals, and teachers on alternative discipline techniques, on the psychological and developmental needs of youth at risk, and on methods for deescalating aggressive behaviors. Increase opportunities for teachers to learn new, more effective teaching strategies for actively engaging all students in the learning process.Suspensions and Expulsions Page two 4) 5) Review the current operation of in-school suspension programs to ensure they are being used as an alternative to school exclusion rather than as a way of excluding students from the classroom who would not have been suspended anyway, and to ensure effective progT-A-m-rm' ng and teaching occurs. Work closely with the businesses and service organizations in the community to expand the availability of mentoring and tutoring programs for all students in the bottom quartile on standardized tests. 6) Develop effective alternative educational programs for suspended or expelled students to enable them to continue their education. (Effective educational models have been developed throughout the nation which have proven successful in altering both the behavior and achievement of similar students. Often these programs are operated by the school district in partnership with youth serving agencies or local businesses.) 7) Implement in every school effective, on-going human relations training for both the students and faculty. 8) Encourage the faculty and staff of each school to develop innovative approaches to retaining and educating these students, including adopting a district policy which establishes a process for local schools to obtain waivers from any existing district policies which limit their ability to implement effective alternatives. The Board of New Futures for Little Rock Youth stands ready to assist the Little Rock School District in these effoirts. As a community, we cannot ignore the serious needs of these students. We must jointly develop effective ways to keep these students attending school, engaged in learning, and acquiring the social skills needed to succeed in life.NEW FUTURES FOR LITTLE ROCK YOUTH SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS FACT SHEET In 1989-90, more than 1600 junior and senior high students suspended were 199091, more than 2000 junior and senior high students suspended were The length of time out of school ranged from 3 days to year a full The number of students suspended is approximately the same as suspending the total student bodies of three junior high schools There are 47 offenses which may result in the suspension of junior and senior high students. suspensions for a full semester.) (44 Of which may result in Black students are suspended at twice the rate of white students. Students are suspended as early as kindergarten. stuaents are kindergarten. Each year for the past 3 years, more than 500 elementary age students have been suspended from school. Of the junior and senior high students suspended for 3-10 days in the 1989-90 school year: 1) One out of every four was over age for his/her grade level 2) s. 5% of them were expelled later in the same year 3) They were three times as likely as their non-suspended peers to be retained in their current grade 4) Almost 1 out of 12 dropped out of school before the ended year 5) 6) More than 500 of them were suspended more than once 60% of them failed one or more courses (twice the rate for those not suspended). If one examines these same students the following year, problems appear to have grown worse rather than better, end of the school year 1990-91: the By the 1) 1 out of 3 were over age for their grade (thrss times the rate of the non-suspended students)Suspensions and Expulsions Page two 2) More than half of them failed one or more courses (twice the rate for the non-suspended students) 3) 5. 40% of them were suspended again 4) 5% were expelled (seven times the rate of the suspended students) non- 5) 6) One out of 10 were retained in their-current grade (three times the rate for the non-suspended students) More than 1 out of 7 dropped out (twice the rate for the non-suspended students) Data on students receiving long-term suspensions (i.e. greater than 10 days) was not available. However, it is reasonable to assume the impact of a longer absence from school is likely to be even worse. A survey ac^inistered in 1990-91 indicated that of the students suspended in 198990 who took the survey: 1) Almost half were from poor families 2) One out of every six had a child 3) More than one out of three scored in the lowest quartile on standardized reading tests, 03--0T-93 11:12 301 324 2032 L R School Dlst 0I))I 121002 003 A Sam Johnson 23 Ivy Drive Little Rock, Ar. 72209 Hay 5, 1393 received Members of the Board Little Rock Public Schools MAY 7 idjJ SUPT'S OEFICt 810 W. Markaham Little Rock Ar. 72201 Dear Members of the Board
As per my telephone conversation with Ms. Dana DeVore of tnt Transportation Department on May 4, 1993 I am writing this bO notixy you or a situation which has occurred on the bus Dana DeVore roubS which leaves Henderson Junior High School and makes a stop at the corner of Greenway at Ardmore in the Meddowclifi Subdivision. on this route. My son, (Michael) Scott Johnson is a commuter A few weeks ago the driver of this bus, wnich is black, told all the white kids to "get your white asses to the back of the bus". She has also on occasion told these kids to "shut your damn mouths. She has si a case of discrimination and This is clearly know is against the law, Segregation, which I'm sure you treatment of my son function properly in any form or fas and I refuse to allow this "0 continue. If our school system is to 'dice and racism cannot be tolerated by your employees. Also on May 3, 198' permanent seats or
were loading the bu: .e kid bus. at Henoe.
his bus were assigned told Scott to get out of that seat. me afternoon as the kids r the trip home a kid ---- Scott replied that he couldn t because the seat had been assign to him by the driver. At this point this kid hesran tn ,.
racial remarks At this point this kid began to to Scott and made filthy references to the kid to sit down and leave him alone my wife. Scott told Then without warning this kid hit Scott in the face with his fist provoking Scott to defend himself. Apparent y both kids have been suspended from the bus for ten days. nave The next bay, May 4, 1993, this kid told Scott that he was really going to hurt him now and he better watch his back. a threat and must be treated seriously. tnreat I would like to know why this kid can make threats like this and This is remain at school. still I don't care what you have to do but I demand that my son's safety be provided for. The Little Rock Public Schools has allowed discriminated against by a bus driver, my son to be has failed to provide" Oo (it 93 11:13 301 324 2032 L R School Dlst ODM @003.-003 for, his s, afety,. and. ha. allowed threats cf b.^dil., made against him without doing anything about it. something had been done of bodily harm to be If weeks ago when the kids told illiams about the remarks made by this bus driver the other events most likely would never have happened. The Litbie Rock Public Schools has clearly been negligent in Mr. s. most likely would never have happened. carrying out it's responsibilities. I expect an immediate and thorough investigation of this mai.ter and request a report in writing of your findings and whii - - - -ac ti- v- e act' i on you pl an to tak* e so that I may determine if further action is warranted. It is my CG is warranted. expectation that this driver will be relieved of her duties as a bus driver for the Little Rock Public Schools. Thank you expedient response. for your cooperation as I will be awaiting your Sincerely, Sam Johnson (if-: V n/ufKfr JOHN W. WALKER RALPH WASHINGTON MARK BURNEITE AUSTIN PORTER, JR. JOHN W. WALKER, P.A. Attorney At Law 1723 Broadway Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 Telephone (501) 374-3758 FAX (501) 374-4187 December 16, 1993 Dr. Henry Williams Superintendent of Schools Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Dr. Williams: 'txm im DEG 1 7 1593 Guice cl 0
grogalicn ll< iHitoring I am appearing tonight along with Mr. Michael Booker on behalf of the students who were expelled or recommended for expulsion from Forest Heights Jr. High School on November 19, 1993._ All of them are class members and none of them were given notice and other I, therefore, intend to guarantees provided by your handbook. . . _ present this matter to Judge Wright at the earliest possible opportunity. My presence and participation at and in the proceeding tonight is not to be considered requirements of due process guaranteed by your own rules. ----------1 a waiver of the I am again asking that you administratively reinstate these children and all others who have been denied due process either this year or in the past if they are class members. Thank you for bringing these matters to the attention of the Board and for your own consideration of them. Very truly yours, W. IMZa Walker JWW:lp. cc: Ms. Ann Brown Jerry Malone, Esq. Chris Heller, Esq. P.S. Rogers, your acting secretary, just called to give us the names of some witnesses at the purported hearing Ms. tonights I do not consider that either strict or substantial compliance with the requirement that this information be provided in a timely fashion at least twenty four hours before the hearing.I
- h (J/' ,'Z.A?it> 'e- LRSD SUPPORT SERVICES Fax:1-501-324-2032 Jan 6 95 16:15 p. or-if *5 ? Confirm commitment and readiness Develop action plans 10. Action plans fe?' " ! i ic ii. I r I 1 I J r,l 'it h 7 5 'a / if Tw ii ^5.1 m Vl / 2? .' AUwSnl <i4 ?j- :TMi I b TO 1^ 'SiVJ. * V*. St gf B Conduct basic awareness session(s) Explore system capacity and design Prepare for planning Communicate about planning Collect vital signs data Build strategic planning team Conduct first planning session * 1. Beliefs 2. Mission 3. Parameters 4. Interna] Analysis 5. External Analysis 6. Competition 7. Critical Issues 8. Objectives 9. Strategies Communicate draft plan ( Ia. Build action teams 13C5?^ 'Tt A .M Conduct second planning session Achieve consensus action plans Affirm consensus strategic plan Prepare implement tation schedule (with supporting resource plan) Obtain board approval Develop capacity for implementation Communicate approved strategic plan Develop mutual expecta- - tions and system desigjy^ Systemize site involvement Validate plans and process continually Regular reviews Periodic updates 31'I ip i 1-^. O 1994 COtONlAl-CAMBRIDOE NUNAGEMENT GROIT, I,S'j z^SHSTvT^ SB LRSD SUPPORT SERVICES Fax:1-501-324-2032 Jan 6 95 16:14 P.Ol January 6, 1S95 To: From: Ann Brown Office of Desegregation Monitoring Fax t 371-0100 Linda Young Little Rock School District 324-2112 This is to confirm the meeting on Wednesday, January 11th at 1:30 p.m. in your office with Dr. Williams, Leon Modeste and I regarding the Strategic Planning Process. Attached is a framework of the Strategic Planning Process for your review. Looking forward to our meeting on Wednesday. Thank You, dnda Young t Itan fl* - -O ADMIN. RJLDING Fax:1-501-324-2032 Oct 18 95 11:40 P. 02/02 LrrrtE Rock School District News Release October IS, 1995 For more Infomiation: Snellen Vann, 324-2020 Student DieclpHne Training u- Rock School District administrators will attend student dlsclpij
^ raining .se.ssions on Thursday. October 19, 1995. Laidlaw Transit will present the training sessions, entitled "Teaching Responsible .Thinking'tesed on author Edward Fords book, ''Discipline for Home and school". The sessions are being presented in conjunction with National School Bus Salcty Week (Octotjcr 16-20. 199.5). .'I Elementary schixil principals tvili attend a training session beginning at 9:30 a.m., and secondarj school administrators will IJarilclpate in a 1
30 p.m. presentation. Both di.scipline training sessions will Ite held at the tiansportatlon office at 5400 Murray Street. -I 1 I ' liH I J Media Note: LRSD School Board members have been Invited to attend the discipline training sessions. A special meeting situation exists if more than one board member attends. i 1 810 West Markham Street Little Rock. Arkansas ZaSOl (501) 324.2000 l,R:D admin. BuirirNG Fax:1-501-324 ?03'> Ppf' lz 96 11:59 P.02/03 LiTriE Rock School District I PRESS RELEASE SCHOOL. arre:sts decline April 12. For more information: Snellen V'ann, 324-2020 Sgt. Al Dawson, 376-4631' The number ol arrests in Little Rock public schools has dropped significantly this school year, according to figures released by the Little Rock Police Department fLRPD). Through March the number of misdemeanor arrests declined 32% compared to last school year. During the same period felony arrests dropped 33%, "The school resource officer program in our secondary schools has helped us Oenrendously?' said Dr. Henrv P Williams, Little Rock School District Superintendent. "We believe the resource officers help our students better understand their civic responsibilities. Dr. Williams also credits school principals, teachers, and school security stall lor iheii work with students. Numbers compiled by die LRPD show: Misdemeanor Arrests 1996 School Year 1995 School Year % Decrease 168 246 32% Felony .Arrests 1996 School Year 1995 School Year % Decrease 39 58 33% (morel 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, /Arkansas 78301 (501 8000 LP?D AD^IN. BUlDING Apr 12 56 12:00 P, 03/03 School ArresLs Page 2 of 2 The total number of calls for police assistance increased this year due to more stringent reporting requirements under Act 888. That legislation requires principals to contact police regarding all possible felonies and other violent criminal acts. During the 1990 school year there have been 903 calls tor police assistance, compared to 558 calls during the 1995 school year
mis reflects a 62sf
increase.1.'! 07 1 r .31 I.RSO COMAU\'IC.T1 ODA| 1^ 002/002 mUMMCl 1050! 324 202.) 3 A, Little Rock School District special Board Met ring For Immediate Release March 13, 1997 For more information' Suellea Vaau, 324-292(i I he L ittle Reck School District ( LRSD) Board of Directors will hold a special meeting this afternoon m corjtinction wth its regular agenda meeting. The special meeting will be held for student disciplinaiy actions. Tne meetings will beghi at 5:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the LRSD A.iministration Building, SIC West Markham. 810 West Markh-^m Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 {5011524-2000 Memo To: Ann From: Margie Subject: PCSSD Discipline Report Date: March 24, 1997 This report covers the first semester of the 1996-97 school year and provides data on the main discipline categories, three of which result in students being removed from the schools or the busses. The categories are: student suspensions, bus suspensions, expulsions, and assignments to Saturday School. With the exception of expulsions, the report contains data on the number of offenses and data on the number of students involved under each category. It is difficult to determine trouble spots from a discipline report that covers only one semester
however, I asked Melissa to check data from the same time period during the 1995-96 school year. These are our findings: Although black students received proportionately more discipline sanctions than white students, the situation is especially egregious when it comes to expulsions. While the percentages average at 54%(W) and 46%(B) in all other categories, black students represented 73% of the expulsions in 1995 (1 sem.), and 65% of the expulsions in 1996 (I** sem.). Adkins, Clinton, Harris, Jacksonville, Oak Grove, and Sylvan Hills elementary schools suspended several students during the first semesters (9 or more students)
however, only Harris and Jacksonville Elementary showed a high degree of disproportionality for both semesters. Robinson Elementarys data revealed high disproportionality, but too few students were involved to make a judgement. Over a 2 year period, most of the secondary schools had some disparity with the percentages of black students suspended, but, suspension numbers for Scott Alternative and Mills were especially noteworthy. Jacksonville HS, Oak Grove JH/SH, and Robinson SH had suspension rates that were more reflective of their student populations, for the two semesters examined. The most glaring problem in the secondary schools was the sheer number of students suspended. In the first semester of 1995 we had 1420 students walking the streets for 3 or more days, and in 1996 we had 1595 during that same time!Ann Page 2 March 24, 1997 Baker and College Station have excellent suspension records for both years - 0! The percentage of elementary children suspended from busses was equivalent to the number of secondary students suspended from the busses. Clinton was the only school to show disparate percentages for both semesters. Bayou Meto suspended a combined total of 36 students from the busses during the first two.semesters of each year. For the most part, elementary schools do no seem to use Saturday school as a discipline tool. Most of the elementary school data reflect no referrals to Saturday School. A couple of schools, Murrell Taylor and Pine Forrest, had few suspensions and few or no bus suspensions for both semesters. A few schools seemed to be trying to get it right by referring significantly more students to Saturday school than suspending them, but except for Baker, no school was consistent for both semesters. No elementary students were expelled during either of the semesters covered. Fuller JH, Oak Grove JH/SH, Jacksonville N., Sylvan Hills JH, Mills, and Jacksonville S., show disproportionate expulsion rates for both semesters covered. In any case, an average of 70 students were expelled during the first semester of the 1995 and 1996. The average number of black students expelled for the same time period was 48. 7 Overall, black females received a disproportionate number of discipline sanctions in all categories reported for both semesters covered. Baker has the best discipline record in the district: No students suspended from the school or busses in [the first semesters of] 1996 and one suspension 1995. No Saturday school assignments for either of the semesters covered. Perhaps a longitudinal study may be in order. In some cases, (Mills or Fuller JH for example) the students come from tough neighborhoods where settling disputes often involve violence. Children bring their neighborhood culture to school with them. In other cases, the problem may be poor classroom management, discipline policies that are unfair or unrealistic, or lack of a school-wide program to address problem solving or interpersonal relations skill training. I wouldnt mind doing a discipline report on the PCSSD that covers several years of data.Memo To: Ann From: Subject: Meeting with Dr. Roberts & Ms. Elson: Discipline - Hall HS Date: June 26, 1997 I met with Dr. Roberts and Jo Evelyn Elson to discuss the parameters of the assessment of discipline practices at Hall HS. From the outset. Dr. Roberts made it clear that he did not want an in-depth assessment, such as a longitudinal study, nor did he want a wide-range investigation where we interviewed school personnel or patrons. I recommended that the data collected reflect the race and gender of the students and the referring teachers as well as teaching experience, grade level taught, reasons for referral, and where indicated, reasons referrals were overturned by the Hearing Officer. We agreed that if any discipline referrals or specific offenses seemed excessive, than further inquiry would be necessary. In addition, I pointed out to the both of them that they had archival data in their building-level bi-racial reports. I suggested that they examine several of the reports to determine if any problems with discipline or other related areas had been noted. Those reports would serve as the voices of the parents. They both liked that suggestion. Dr. Roberts indicated that he did not want too much of an ODM presence because of the moratorium on monitoring
however, because the district-wide bi-racial committee had become involved in the main discipline issue (the terroristic threatening case), and were planning on taking some kind of legal action, he wanted to be able to testify that ODM had helped with the inquiry. We batted around several names to serve on the inquiry team. They were still mulling over names when I left.7 Office of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)376.6200 Fax (501) 371-0100 July 9, 1997 Air. John W. Walker 1723 Broadway Little Rock, AR 72206 BY FAX Dear John: Thank you for sending me the Monitoring Report of Hall High School of the Little Rock School District, prepared by Mrs. Carolyn Cooley on behalf of the Joshua Intervenors. I have also received copies of letters you sent to Don Roberts in which you raised concerns about matters at Hall High. .As you are aware, the current moratorium has suspended ODMs monitoring activities in the LRSD, but it has not halted my contact with Dr. Robens. Don and I have discussed the events at Hall High, and I have offered him my assistance in assessing the situation at the school. He has asked my office to help develop a procedure that will enable the district to review and evaluate the discipline practices at Hail. I have assigned my associate, Margie Powell, to participate in designing the review process. Margie has met with Don and is presently working with the districts Director of Pupil Services, Jo Evelyn Elston, to develop the procedure which the district itself will implement. It is my hope that, by assisting in this manner, we will help the LRSD strengthen its own resolve and resources for problem prevention as well as problem resolution. Sincerely yours, CF Ann S. Brown co
Don RobertsOffice of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 376-6200 Fax (501) 371-0100 Memo To: Les Gamine From: Ann Bro Subject: Upcoming ODM Monitoring in the LRSD Date: February 4, 1999 I want you to know that my associate, Margie Powell, will be undertaking a monitoring project in the LRSD over the next few weeks. Margie will be reviewing district records to determine the types of disciplinary sanctions used in the LRSD and the rates at which black and white students are disciplined in the district's schools. I believe that Margie has already spoken to Dr. Linda Watson and Jo Evelyn Elston about her monitoring project. Margie explained that our report will be similar to that which we published last year on discipline in the Pulaski County Special School District and one we will soon publish on the North Little Rock School District. As is our routine, we will share our findings with the district before we publish our report. If you have any questions, please dont hesitate to call me or Margie. As always, we appreciate your cooperation.03/03/1999 16:33 501-324-2023 LRSD COMMUNICATIONS PAGE 01/01 For Immediate Release March 3, 1999 SOURCE/CONTACT: Suellen Vann Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 324-2020 (501) 324-2023 (fax) MEDIA alert: What: Announcement regarding LRSD student discipline report for the first semester. When: Thursday, March 4, 1999 /O'-3 0 Where: Media Center Pulaski Heights Junior High 401 North Pine Who: Dr. Les Gamine, LRSD Superintendent
Pulaski Heights principal Nancy Rousseau, teachers and students also will be available to answer questions. 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 sevann@lrscladm.lrsd.kl2.ar.us For Immediate Release March 4,1999 For more information
Suellen Vann, 324-2020 School Discipline Improves in Little Rock The number of student disciplinary actions fell significantly in Little Rock public schools during the first semester of this school year. At a news conference this morning Little Rock School District Superintendent Les Gamine attributed the improvement in student behavior to efforts by parents, teachers and principals and to alternative educational programs implemented during the past year. Our classroom teachers identify children who are not able to learn in the regular classroom, and we assign these children to our high-tech alternative programs, Dr. Gamine explained. Many of these students are extremely bright and are capable of working with specialized software to learn the required course work at their own pace. Gamine announced that the total number of suspensions and expulsions during the first semester of the 1998-99 year was 2,344, compared to 2,706 last year, which represents a 13.4% decline. All of the 2,344 disciplinary actions were suspensions, except for one expulsion. Last year 78 students had been expelled by midyear. This years lone expulsion involved a student with a firearm at a bus stop in the community, not on a school campus. About 5% of discipline problems occur on buses and at bus stops. The disciplinary action comparison for the first semester of this year and last year is as follows: 1997-98 1998-99 Change Suspensions 2,628 2,343 -10.8% Expulsions 78 1 -98.7% (more) Page 2 of 2 School Discipline The improvement in disciplinary actions was greater for African-American students than for white students. Suspensions and expulsions of African-American students dropped by more than 15%. Gamine pointed out that the 2,344 disciplinary sanctions were levied on 1,712 students, some of whom received multiple sanctions. Those students represent less than 7% of the districts student body. Gamine expressed concern that students who miss class work while they are suspended frequently become discouraged because they fall behind the academic pace of their peers. Many of these children eventually drop out of school. Gamine added that the new programs have accomplished dual objectives. We have succeeded in keeping these children enrolled in school and working toward graduation, while allowing our regular classroom JJ teachers to teach those students who can learn and maintain appropriate behavior in class. Gamine said. Were pleased with this start weve made in improving discipline and the learning climate in our schools, but we still have much to do, Gamine added. We will continue to work with parents, teachers, principals and our community partners and to improve our instructional program which we feel will better engage students. The district monitors student discipline as one component of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan which addresses school discipline and academic achievement. Jt LI tl ~r n f r tr tr ftTO: FROM
SUBJECT
LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT 810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS 72201 July 30,1999 John Walker, P.A., Attorney at Law Joshua Intervenors Dr. Linda Watson, Assistant Superintendent Student Discipline 1998/99 Disciplinary Management Report (Semesters) As per your request, you will find a copy of the First Semester Disciplinary Management Report attached. A copy of the Second Semester Report will be forwarded to you as soon as it is completed within the next two weeks. Please feel free to contact my office at 324-2169 if additional information is needed. AttachmentRECbVi LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT AUG 8 1999 I ^rHCE OF MONITORJfiQ 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201____________ Phone: (501)324-2170 E-mail: lwatson@ alc.lrsd.kl2.ar.us LINDA WATSON, Ed. D ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT _________STUDENT DISCIPLINE Fax: (501) 324-0536 July 30, 1999 Ms. Margie Powell Office of Desegregation & Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Powell: The information you requested from our office is enclosed. These reports (dated from 92/93 through 98/99 school year) reflect the actual number of students sanctioned by race and gender for each year. Please do not hesitate to contact Student Hearing if additional information is needed. Sincerely, Linda Watson, Ed.D Assistant Superintendent Enclosure f/ / 9 I I e 'P'' / 0 J *5 received Recidivism Report - Black/White AUG 8 1999 Tear
93 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once OmCECF DESEGREGATION MONfraW LEVEL SCHOOL BM BF WM WF OM OF Total Senior High CENTRAL 58 39 14 3 2 0 116 FAIR 98 62 34 17 0 0 211 HALL 96 32 45 12 3 0 188 MCCLELLA 69 22 14 1 0 0 106 METRO 24 3 4 2 0 0 33 PARKVIEW 22 4 10 1 0 1 38 Junior High CLOVR JR 72 44 22 7 DUNBAR 105 69 29 11 FORST HT 116 77 17 11 HENDERSN 131 75 10 2 MABEL JR 72 50 16 7 MANN M/S 52 29 23 3 PULHTJ 113 41 24 4 SOUTHWST 123 47 26 10 Elementary BALE 1 0 2 0 BASELINE 4 0 0 0 BOOKER 18 5 3 1 BRADY 8 0 0 0 CARVER 3 5 1 0 CHICOT 6 1 6 0 CLOVR EL 5 0 3 0 DODD 11 4 8 1 FAIR PRK 8 4 1 0 FORST PK 10 3 1 0 FULBRIGH 2 1 0 1 GARLAND 7 1 0 0 GEYER SP 6 5 0 0 Senior High 692 0 0 145 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 Junior High 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 215 221 219 145 108 182 207 1442 3 5 27 8 9 13 8 24 13 14 4 9 11 Wednesday, July 28,1999 Page 1 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 93 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF OM OF Total Elementary GIBBS 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 ISH 7 0 0 0 0 0 7 JEFFRSN 2 0 2 0 0 0 4 MABEL EL 4 4 6 0 0 0 14 MCDERMOT 8 4 , 3 0 0 0 15 MEADCLIF 17 22 2 2 1 0 0 MITCHELL 4 1 2 0 0 0 7 OTTER OR 6 1 0 0 0 0 7 PUL HT E 19 27 5 3 0 0 0 RIGHTSEL 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 ROCKFELR 19 30 8 2 1 0 0 ROMINE 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 STEPHENS 9 2 0 0 0 0 11 TERRY 8 1 0 0 0 0 9 WAKEFIEL 6 1 0 0 0 0 7 WASHNGTN 8 1 0 0 0 0 9 WATSON 18 26 WEST HIL 10 18 4 4 3 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 WILSON 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 WOODRUFF 3 2 3 0 0 0 8 Elementary 378 Wednesday, July 28,1999 Grand Total 2512 Page 2 of 2RECEIVED Recidivism Report - Black/White AUG 8 1999 Year: 94 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONUDfllNG LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF OM OF Total Senior High CENTRAL 70 50 23 6 0 0 149 FAIR 80 37 29 9 2 0 157 HALL 93 45 29 16 1 1 185 MCCLELLA 79 24 6 3 0 0 112 METRO 18 11 3 4 0 0 36 PARKVIEW 33 13 20 5 0 1 72 Junior High CLOVR JR 93 51 21 6 DUNBAR 96 67 28 12 FORST HT 112 67 23 10 HENDERSN 113 64 10 2 MABEL JR 101 58 18 7 MANN M/S 61 51 17 11 PUL HT J 81 43 26 5 Elementary SOUTHWST BALE BASELINE BOOKER BRADY CHICOT CLOVR EL DODD FAIR PRK FORST PK FRANKLIN FUL8RIGH GARLAND GEYER SP Wednesday, July 28,1999 120 46 23 8 1 3 16 3 7 2 2 17 5 9 0 10 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 1 2 2 1 2 4 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 2 3 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 Senior High 711 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 Junior High 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 172 205 213 189 184 140 155 199 1457 2 3 21 4 13 2 6 22 11 10 2 14 3 Page 1 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: S'* Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF OM OF Total Elementary GIBBS 2 1 0 0 0 0 3 JEFFRSN 3 0 1 0 1 0 5 M L KING 12 14 1 1 0 0 0 MABEL EL 5 4 4 0 0 0 13 MCDERMOT 5 1 0 0 0 0 6 MEADCLIF 7 2 4 1 0 0 14 MITCHELL 2 12 PUL HT E 10 18 9 6 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 RIGHTSEL 4 1 0 0 0 0 5 ROCKFELR 8 5 2 1 0 0 16 ROMINE 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 STEPHENS 6 0 0 1 0 0 7 TERRY 5 0 0 0 1 0 6 WAKEFIEL 12 15 0 2 1 0 0 WASHNGTN 4 1 0 0 0 0 5 WATSON 13 18 3 2 0 0 0 WEST HIL 5 3 1 0 0 0 9 WILLIAMS 4 0 1 0 0 0 5 WILSON 0 3 0 0 0 0 3 Elementary 288 Wednesday, July 28,1999 Grand Total 2456 Page 2 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 95 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BF WM WF Senior High CENTRAL 100 35 16 4 FAIR 75 33 7 6 HALL 108 17 24 5 MCCLELLA 94 26 8 4 METRO 8 10 4 1 PARKVIEW 27 14 26 7 Junior High CLOVR JR 105 48 27 3 DUNBAR 119 70 26 15 FORST HT 109 63 21 11 HENDERSN 123 86 24 10 MABEL JR 82 42 18 10 MANN M/S 53 48 23 9 PUL HT J 90 35 30 8 SOUTHWST 124 83 26 15 Elementary BALE 5 3 0 0 BASELINE 3 1 0 0 BOOKER 8 1 4 1 BRADY 14 5 2 3 CARVER 7 0 1 0 CHICOT 20 4 3 3 DODD 7 1 2 0 FAIR PRK 21 3 3 1 FORST PK 8 1 1 0 FRANKLIN 33 6 0 1 FULBRIGH 4 2 2 0 GARLAND 11 2 0 0 GEYER SP 2 1 0 0 Wednesday, July 28,1999 RECEIVED AUG 8 1999 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION M0NIT0R1K8 OM OF Total 1 0 156 0 2 2 0 0 Senior High 0 1 0 0 1 2 1 2 Junior High 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 121 156 134 23 74 664 183 231 204 243 153 135 165 251 1565 8 4 14 24 9 30 10 28 10 40 8 13 3 Page 1 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 95 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF OM OF Total Elementary GIBBS 12 7 3 2 0 0 0 JEFFRSN 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 M L KING 3 1 2 0 0 0 11 MABEL EL 26 40 6 5 2 0 1 MCDERMOT 3 1 0 0 0 0 4 3 2 MEADCLIF 10 18 MITCHELL 26 36 2 1 0 8 1 1 0 0 OTTER CR 0 0 4 0 0 0 4 PUL HT E 15 19 RIGHTSEL 17 21 ROCKFELR 16 24 3 3 5 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 ROMINE 5 1 0 0 0 1 7 TERRY 12 14 0 1 0 1 0 WAKEFIEL 7 2 2 1 0 0 12 WASHNGTN 13 16 WATSON 14 20 WEST HIL 12 17 1 1 2 2 3 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 WILSON 0 0 0 0 4 0 4 WOODRUFF 0 2 1 1 0 0 4 Elementary 485 Wednesday, July 28, 1999 Grand Total 2714 Page 2 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 96 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF Senior High CENTRAL 145 72 37 16 FAIR 118 61 26 10 HALL 85 36 20 9 MCCLELLA 122 52 11 5 METRO 25 14 3 0 PARKVIEW 31 13 8 6 Junior High CLOVR JR 129 91 17 12 DUNBAR 113 48 32 13 FORST HT 151 52 19 5 HENDERSN 112 80 36 5 MABEL JR 98 66 25 11 MANN M/S 60 38 29 2 PUL HT J 91 32 18 6 SOUTHWST 159 83 22 16 Elementary BADGETT 7 0 1 0 BALE 20 5 0 0 BASELINE 11 5 4 0 BOOKER 25 5 6 1 BRADY 17 2 1 0 CARVER 9 0 0 0 CHICOT 38 13 6 4 CLOVR EL 2 0 0 0 DODD 3 2 1 0 FAIR PRK 15 12 1 1 FORST PK 10 13 3 2 FRANKLIN 45 16 4 2 FULBRIGH 26 3 7 1 Wednesday, July 28,1999 FECE!VED AUG 8 1999 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING OM OF Total 0 0 270 0 3 1 0 0 Senior High 3 4 3 1 0 1 0 2 Junior High 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 215 154 192 42 58 931 254 212 230 234 200 130 147 282 1689 8 25 21 37 20 9 62 2 6 29 29 68 42 Page 1 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 96 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BF WM WF OM OF Total Elementary GARLAND 26 35 GEYER SP 11 21 6 5 1 2 2 0 0 3 0 0 GIBBS 8 4 5 1 0 0 18 JEFFRSN 3 4 0 0 0 0 7 ML KING 9 2 8 0 0 0 19 MABEL EL 23 37 9 3 2 0 0 MCDERMOT 1 4 0 0 0 0 5 MEADCLIF 21 31 MITCHELL 17 21 6 4 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 OTTER CR 0 0 0 0 3 1 4 PUL HT E 36 10 55 RIGHTSEL 12 ROCKFELR 12 ROMINE 12 TERRY 21 10 37 7 4 6 1 1 1 1 0 0 . 0 8 0 1 2 1 0 6 1 2 2 1 0 4 1 1 0 WAKEFIEL 0 0 0 5 0 4 1 WASHNGTN 20 40 WATSON 60 14 78 WEST HIL 12 18 6 4 8 2 2 4 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 WILLIAMS 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 WILSON 7 2 1 0 0 0 10 WOODRUFF 8 2 2 1 0 0 13 Elementary 849 Wednesday, July 2S, 1999 Grand Total 3469 Page 2 of 2RECEIVED Recidivism Report - Black/White AUG 8 1999 Year: 97 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITQRIMQ LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF OM OF Total Senior High CENTRAL 142 76 34 9 2 0 263 FAIR 68 39 15 10 0 1 133 HALL 80 41 12 10 3 0 146 MCCLELLA 102 43 11 4 1 0 161 METRO 17 5 2 0 0 0 24 PARKVIEW 31 11 34 11 3 2 92 Junior High CLOVR JR 177 95 9 9 DUNBAR 120 57 43 13 FORST HT 166 80 34 19 HENDERSN 143 68 19 19 MABEL JR 93 51 26 8 MANN M/S 65 38 28 6 PUL HT J 93 30 14 6 SOUTHWST 114 57 10 11 Elementary BADGETT 8 2 1 1 BALE 18 7 5 2 BASELINE 24 6 4 0 BOOKER 27 2 4 2 BRADY 13 3 1 1 CARVER 26 3 8 0 CHICOT 60 17 7 3 CLOVR EL 10 0 2 0 DODD 18 0 4 0 FAIR PRK 19 2 5 2 FORST PK 10 9 2 0 FRANKLIN 25 6 3 1 FULBRIGH 29 11 1 1 Senior High 819 3 8 4 3 1 2 0 0 Junior High 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 296 241 303 252 179 140 143 193 1747 12 33 35 35 20 37 93 12 22 28 21 36 42 Tuesday, July 27,1999 Page 1 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 9^ Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BF WM WF OM OF Total Elementary GARLAND 3 2 1 0 0 0 6 GEYER SP 12 24 8 2 1 1 0 GIBBS 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 JEFFRSN 2 1 1 0 0 0 4 4 M L KING 21 39 MABEL EL 34 17 64 MCDERMOT 19 28 MEADCLIF 21 28 6 9 3 5 0 4 0 0 3 3 1 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 MITCHELL 3 1 0 0 0 0 4 OTTER CR 4 1 0 0 0 0 5 PUL HT E 34 18 58 RIGHTSEL 10 16 ROCKFELR 20 38 5 0 0 1 5 5 0 9 0 3 1 1 0 0 ROMINE 8 2 5 0 0 0 15 TERRY 14 28 7 6 . 0 1 0 WAKEFIEL 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 WASHNGTN 29 10 46 WATSON 22 31 WEST HIL 29 36 5 0 1 0 5 2 1 1 0 4 3 0 0 0 WILLIAMS 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 WILSON 3 2 0 0 0 0 5 WOODRUFF 14 5 1 0 0 0 20 Elementary 925 Tuesday, July 27,1999 Grand Total 3491 Page 2 of 2a RECESVED Recidivism Report - Black/White AUG 8 1999 Year: 98 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF OM OF Total Senior High ALT LEARN 34 13 5 1 3 0 56 CENTRAL 127 60 28 14 0 0 229 FAIR 90 50 4 4 1 0 149 HALL 115 41 17 8 7 0 188 MCCLELLA 118 42 8 6 4 3 181 METRO 13 3 1 1 0 0 18 PARKVIEW 30 17 22 10 3 0 82 Junior High ALT LEARN 0 2 0 0 CLOVR JR 171 95 10 8 DUNBAR 111 57 38 21 FORST HT 133 66 32 14 HENDERSN 179 67 20 8 MABEL JR 92 65 18 9 MANN M/S 73 34 19 10 PUL HT J 79 40 11 4 SOUTHWST 121 69 19 10 Elementary BADGETT 4 4 0 0 BALE 10 6 2 0 BASELINE 32 12 4 0 BOOKER 25 3 5 0 BRADY 21 6 2 3 CARVER 27 4 5 0 CHICOT 56 13 13 3 DODD 11 4 5 0 FAIR PRK 10 13 1 0 FORST PK 18 10 2 1 FRANKLIN 29 5 3 2 Senior High 903 0 0 2 9 8 4 3 1 3 2 3 Junior High 0 0 0 1 2 1 2 0 1 0 0 6 2 1 1 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 299 237 250 278 186 142 136 223 1753 8 18 48 34 34 37 88 21 25 31 39 Tuesday, July 27, 1999 Page 1 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 9 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BF WM WF OM OF Total Elementary FULBRIGH 20 10 36 3 3 0 0 GARLAND 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 GEYER SP 7 7 2 1 0 0 17 GIBBS 1 7 2 0 0 0 10 JEFFRSN 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 M L KING 18 39 MABEL EL 34 12 13 65 8 8 5 4 0 0 1 1 MCDERMOT 7 6 2 1 0 0 16 MEADCLIF 19 25 4 1 1 0 0 MITCHELL 8 5 1 0 0 0 14 OTTER CR 11 14 PUL HT E 32 16 51 RIGHTSEL 12 15 ROCKFELR 18 34 2 3 6 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 1 1 0 ROMINE 8 1 6 1 0 0 16 TERRY 23 35 WAKEFIEL 23 11 34 WASHNGTN 21 36 WATSON 61 15 86 WEST HIL 15 28 5 5 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 7 0 2 0 3 3 2 2 8 5 0 0 0 WILLIAMS 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 WILSON 35 11 46 0 0 0 0 WOODRUFF 9 1 3 0 0 0 13 Elementary 1018 Tuesday, July 27, 1999 Grand Total 3674 Page 2 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 99 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BF WM WF OM Senior High ACC LEARN 0 2 0 0 0 AGENCIES 19 1 3 2 0 ALT LEARN 15 1 3 1 0 CENTRAL 81 40 30 7 1 FAIR 55 39 7 5 1 HALL 95 54 15 9 9 MCCLELLA 103 52 5 5 1 METRO 16 8 1 0 1 PARKVIEW 37 21 26 32 1 Junior High ALT LEARN 69 18 9 1 CLOVR JR 145 65 10 4 DUNBAR 87 40 26 9 FORST HT 141 86 47 17 HENDERSN 118 58 9 6 MABEL JR 87 55 20 13 MANN M/S 54 32 24 10 PULHTJ 109 46 17 4 SOUTHWST 77 47 15 8 Elementary BADGETT 5 2 1 0 BALE 10 3 3 0 BASELINE 19 4 1 0 BOOKER 21 5 8 1 BRADY 9 2 1 1 CARVER 11 2 1 1 CHICOT 60 18 10 2 CLOVR EL 1 0 0 0 DODD 6 2 5 2 Tuesday, July 27,1999 RECEIVED AUG 8 1999 OFFICE Of DESEGREGATION MONITOflIKS OF Total 1 0 0 0 2 2 3 0 0 3 25 20 159 109 184 169 26 117 Senior High 812 1 0 98 5 2 6 2 3 2 2 5 Junior High 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 3 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 230 166 300 194 178 123 178 153 1620 8 16 25 36 14 15 91 1 15 Page 1 of 2Recidivism Report - Black/White Year: 99 Quarter: 1 Quarter: 4 Counts Each Student Once LEVEL SCHOOL BM BE WM WF OM OF Total Elementary FAIR PRK 16 24 6 1 0 1 0 FORST PK 0 3 4 0 0 0 7 FRANKLIN 38 52 FULBRIGH 11 16 8 3 2 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 GARLAND 0 2 4 0 0 0 6 GEYER SP 15 13 29 GIBBS 14 22 JEFFRSN 11 25 M L KING 21 12 39 MABEL EL 19 13 44 MCDERMOT 21 10 35 MEADCLIF 14 22 2 9 3 9 5 0 6 3 3 2 1 0 2 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 MITCHELL 7 1 0 0 0 0 8 OTTER CR 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 PUL HT E 22 14 40 RIGHTSEL 11 18 6 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 ROCKFELR 11 3 4 3 0 0 1 ROMINE 7 1 2 0 1 0 11 TERRY 20 31 6 4 1 0 0 WAKEFIEL 8 1 6 1 0 0 0 WASHNGTN 13 3 4 4 0 2 0 WATSON 9 2 7 0 0 0 0 WEST HIL 17 32 9 5 1 0 0 WILLIAMS 10 2 7 1 0 0 0 WILSON 46 13 63 2 0 0 2 WOODRUFF 7 0 7 0 0 0 0 Elementary 805 Tuesday, July 27,1999 Grand Total 3237 Page 2 of 2'v I Little Rock School District OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT RECBVS0 May 2, 2000 MAY A 2U00 Uff sGt Of OfSEGflEGATJOM MONnWB Ann Brown, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham - Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Brown: We announced at the April 27' Regular Board Meeting that we are seeing continuing improvement in several critical indicators. During the third quarter, student behavior continued to improve in the schools. Our third quarter discipline report indicates a 21 % decrease in the number of suspensions from the same period last year. The number is significantly lower with only 1,255 suspensions during the quarter. More students are staying in school as evidenced by the decline in the number of dropouts. This years third quarter dropouts are 67% below last year. There were 150 dropouts during the third quarter in 1998-99, while there are only 50 dropouts during the third quarter this year. We might be able to attribute some of this fantastic progress to more participation by the community and especially parents within our schools. Volunteer hours increased 8% this year, from 237,336 volunteer hours to last year to 255,937 for 1999-2000. And now for the best news! We had already started a trend the previous year with expulsions and suspensions and that trend is continuing. We are encouraging students to take more challenging courses in order to prepare for college...and careers. Enrollment in Advanced Placement courses by African- American students has risen by 48% from 471 during the 1997-1998 school year to this year's 691. Total student enrollment in Advanced Placement courses increased 25% since the 1997-98 school year, from 1,435 to 1,791 this year. We waited to share this trend because we wanted to be sure of the success rate was accurate and that class drops had not occurred in any great numbers from initial enrollment. These are positive trends that bode well for the District and the future increased student achievement for all students. I thought you would be pleased with the continuing progress of the Little Rock School District. Sincerely, Leslieiy. Carnine Superintendent of Schools cc: Chris Heller 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2012s JOHN W. WALKER RALPH WASHINGTON MARK BURNETTE SHAWN CHILDS John W. Walker, P.A. Attorney At Law ' 1723 Broadway Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 Telephone (501) 374-3758 FAX (501) 374-4187 RECEIVED NOV - 9 ZOIB OfRCEOF Via Facsimile November 8, 200.0 Dr. Leslie Carnine Superintendent of Schools Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 Re: Compliance Issues - Cloverdale Dear Dr. Carnine: This is to bring to your attention another issue relating to the Districts compliance with its revised desegregation obligations. You are aware that Mr. Walker and I have previously complained that black students are disparately disciplined. In addition, we have complained that white students, particularly white females, are given more favored treatment, i.e., they are seldom disciplined, not disciplined at all and are given more favored treatment regarding the issuance of discipline. I am, therefore, raising the issue of compliance with respect to Section 2, paragraphs 2.1. LRSD shall in good faith exercise its best efforts to ... to remedy the effects of past discrimination ... to ensure that no person is discriminated against on the basis of race ... and paragraph 2.5.1 LRSD shall ... all students are disciplined in a fair and equitable manner with respect to the discipline of students at Cloverdale Middle School Academy. You and the administration may take the position that this is another isolated incident, however, if proper investigations are conducted of all your schools including the review of disciplinary referral records, I am convinced that you will find that white students, particularly white females, receive favored treatment with respect to the issue of discipline as compared to black students who are disparately disciplined. We, therefore, request that Mr. James Washington, Ombudsman and/or your designee including Dr. Linda Watson investigate the complaint that we have received that at least one white female student at Cloverdale Middle School Academy was not appropriately disciplined after admitting that she referred to a black classroom teacher as a stupid bitch. May I suggest that they review the referral records at Cloverdale for now to determine validity of this particular allegation and determine also whether there has been equity regarding the discipline of black and white students since the beginning of the school year for similar offenses. I would also suggest that they compare several other offenses of black and white students to determine whether they received similar treatment. Mr. Washington and/or Dr. Watson may give me a call in order for me to provide additional information including the name of the white female student at Cloverdale who received the favored treatment. Thank you for your cooperation. Sincerely/^ Joy C. Springs 0 / Joy C. Spring >5' '' On Behalf of Joshua JCS/ cc: Mr. James Washington Dr. Linda Watson Mr. Junious BabbsC^ JOHN V/. WALKER RALPH WASHINGTON MARK BURNETTE SHAWN CHILDS John W. Walker, P.A. Attorney At Law 1723 Broadway Dttle Rock, Arkansas 72206 Telephone (501) 374-3758 FAX (501) 374-4187 ^ECEfVEo n - 9 2300 Via Facsimile November 8, 2000 GF Dr. Leslie Carnine Superintendent of Schools Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Dr. Carnine: Please be advised that on behalf of the Joshua Intervenors, this office continues to monitor the Districts good faith efforts to comply with the revised desegregation plan and provide equal educational opportunities to all children, particularly to the black students in the District. I believe that the District is obliged to consult and share with Joshua its adoption, development and implementation of new programs which may enhance and/or adversely affect its desegregation efforts. We understand that the District is implementing a new program, CICs - Continued Instruction Centers and/or short term suspension centers. This program appears to be at least one major change in the way that discipline is being handled in your District and we are not fully informed of its intentions. I have a general understanding of the services being provided by the center, however, I would like to have more information about the program. By copy of this letter to Dr. Linda Watson, Assistant Superintendent for Student Discipline and Hearings, I am requesting that she assist you in providing the following information: 1) a copy of the notice inviting Joshua to panicipate in the development of the centers: 2) a copy of the program design and services
3) a copy of the rules and regulations governing the centers
4) a listing including the addresses of the centers and criteria used for the location of the centers
5) the date of implementation of the centers
6) a copy of the notice to parents advising them of these centers
and 6) any reports that have been developed which reflect the success of the CICs to date. 1 have received several complaints from parents that the centers are not accessibility to their children. In addition, it does not appear to be fair for students to have access to the centers and have their discipline records cleared and for other students who do not have access to maintain their discipline records. Where is the fairness or equity?By copy of this letter to Mr. James Washington, Ombudsman, he may contact this office in order that 1 may share the names of the parent complainants with him for investigation. Thank you for your cooperation Sincerely, I t ^y C. Springer '4)11 Behalf of Joshua Intervenors JCS/ cc: Dr. Linda Watson Mr. James Washington Mr. Junious Babbs JOHN W. WALKER, P.A. Attorney At Law 1723 Broadway Lnru: Rock, Arkansas 72206 Telephone (601) 374-3768 FAX (501) 374-4187 JOHN W. WALKER SHAWN CHILDS OF COUNSEL ROBERT McHUNKC PA. DONNA J. McHenry 8210 Hkndesson Roao Lrrrw Rock, akkambsb 72210 Phone: (601)372-3426 Fax (601) 372-8428 Email: mdiBaryd^wbelijiet Via Fax: 376-2147 October II, 2001 Mr, Clay Fendley Friday, Eldredge & Clark 400 W, Capitol, Suite 2200 Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Dear Mr. Fendley: After writing to inform you that I represented Ms. Nona Whitaker and would attend the conference that was set for Monday, you called to inform me that there would be no conference and that the matter would be deferred until today. I accepted your representation in good faith. It now appears that you misrepresented the facts to me. lam informed that a conference did take place between Principal Munns, Ms. WTiitalcer and Ms. Clementine Kelley of the CTA and that disciplinaiy letter was given to Ms. Whitaker. I believe that Ms. Munns acted in bad faith in proceedmg with the conference after your representation that no action would occur in my a " ----- aiiti /uux icprchcniauon mat no action would occur m my ^sence I imagine Ms. Munns would say that it wasnt necessary for me to be present because Ms. Kelley was there. She is wrong but that should not matter. In view of the fact that this misrepresentation occurred, I am requesting that the warning given to Ms. Whitaker be rescinded. am also requesting that I be allowed to interview in your presence, but separately, each person who was a witness to the event or events which gave rise to Ms. Munns charges. I am also request!^that neither you nor Ms. Munns seek to further taint their testimony regarding the events. This incident is very important as you will recall because we have raised the issue of retaliation by the district in the court proceeding and because your word is supposed to count for something. I am also informing you that I have received today the discipline management report for last year. Alarmingly, Hall High School suspended approximately 30% of its student enrollment semester, a number which was increased during the second semester. More titan tk t students suspended were Black boys which raises my concern that more than half of _ appear to be suspended at one time or another at Hall. In reviewing the Discipline sanctions By Reason Code, virtually all of the children, far too many in number in the first place. t0< TT 100 wdid dtn aainyri ISTft^lZTQSPage Two October 11, 2001 suspended during the first semester for refusing to follow directives were Black as were those suspmded for repeat violations, whatever that means. During the second semester, that number was increased by some 65%. Moreover, when we combine categories 050, 062, 105, it appears that almost half of the second semester suspensions deal with suspensions for failure to obtain pennission or follow direction. This suggests that something is not working at Hall and that an inquiry needs to be made as to why children are disciplined for this, or why they are not following directions in the first place. I note that at Central there were only four category 105 suspensions in tire first semester and none for categories 050 and 062 in the first semester and that there were only eight in those categories during the second semester. The question is again raised as to why Central numbers are token for those offenses but at Hall thej' are so overwhelming. I believe that some of the staff members at Hall are trigger happj in suspending children for almost any reason when their authority is challenged. I am informing you that 1 intend to visit Hall and assist in the representation of a CT A member who is being recommended for discipline by the school principal this afternoon at 3:00 p.m. You are already informed that I will appear at Ms. Munns school at 4:00 p.m. with Ms. Kelley. I expect to be both places or to have my office represented at both places at the appointed times. Si ely, JoJ W, Walker JWW.-Ip cc: _ Ms. Ann Marshall Dr. Ken James Principal Munns Principal Smith Principal Howard Ms. Clementine Kelley te< tt 130 wdid flyi d3
noi'i isttfizrasDate: To: Fax: Re: Sender: JOHN W, WALKER, P.A. A//ornej al Law 1723 Broadway Little Rock, Arkan.sa.^ 72206 Telephone (501) 374-3758 Fax (501) 374-4187 FAX TRANSMISSION COVER SHEET October//, 2001 NTs. Ann Marshall 371-0100 John W. Walker, Esq. YOU SHOULD RECEIVE [_____(including cover sheet)] PAGE(S). INCLUDING THIS COVER SHEET. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE ALL THE PAGES, PLEASE CALL <(501) 374-37S8> The infbnnation contained in this facsimile message is attorney privileged and confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received tills communication in error, please immediate noiily us by telephone, and' return the original message to us at the above address via the U.S. Postal Ser\-ice. Thank you. X0< XT 130 TQd 121 udid fitn d3>-noii iLS X0S^^ECHVED NOV - 7 2001 Office OF JOHN W. WALKER SHAWN CHILDS John W. Walker, P.A. Attorney At Law 1723 Broadway Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 Telephone (501) 374-3758 PAX (501) 374-4187 Via Facsimile - 324-2260 November 6, 2001 OF COUNSEL ROBERT McHenry PA DONNA J. McHenry 8210 Henderson Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72210 Phone: (501) 372-3425 Fax (501) 372-3428 Email: mcheiiryd^wbell.net Mr. James Washington Office of the Ombudsman Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72202 Dear Mr. Washington: I am writing to request that jjou investigate the complaint of Ms. Avis Thames that her son, D.J., was disparately disciplined by the coach, Mr. Randy Rutherford, at J. A. Fair High School. D.J. was a member of the football team at Fair. It appears that Ms. Thames basic claim is that Coach Rutherford failed to utilize the Board approved discipline procedures for alleged misbehavior by a student. These procedures allow a parent to appeal the decision of the teacher or the assistant principal, in this case the coach, to the building level administrator (the principal). It is my understanding that the principal (Ms. Norman) overruled Coach Rutherfords disciphne decision, yet Coach Rutherford ignored Ms. Normans decision to overturn his decision. Subsequently, Coach Rutherford followed through with his recommended discipline contrary to Ms. Normans decision. These actions, we believe, are in violation of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan. I call your attention to Sections 2.1, 2.5, 2.5.1 and 2.6 of the Plan. Furthermore, this incident raises a red flag regarding whether coaches believe that they ....................... are obliged to adhere District disciphne policies and procedures during their time with students. Mr. Babbs, this appears to be an area for your shop to monitor at other District schools to ensure compliance with the aforementioned plan commitments By copy of this letter to Dr. James, Mr. Babbs, Dr. Lacey, Dr. Watson and Mr. Johnson, this is to advise that Joshua shares the concerns of Ms. Thames regarding disparate disciphne and Coach Rutherfords failure to adhere to District discipline procedures. After you have had an opportunity to speak with Ms. Thames, she may have some additional concerns. At this time, it is my understanding that the aforementioned items are her major concerns. I would suggest obtaining a copy of Ms. Thames letter to Dr. James along with a copy of D.J.s letter. Finally, we are requesting that you provide to this office a report of your findings including the letter from Ms. Thames to Dr. James and D.J.s letter regarding this incident in order that we may determine whether to invoke Section 8 of the Plan. Iorder that we may determine whether to invoke Section 8 of the Plan. Thank you for your attention to this request. incerely. w izJoy C. Springer On Behalf of Joshua JCS/ cc: Ms. Avis Thames Dr. Kenneth James Mr. Junious Babbs Dr. Marian Lacey Dr. Linda Watson Mr. Johnny Johnson Ms. Ann Marshall . I
This project was supported in part by a Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives project grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and Council on Library and Information Resoources.