The transcript for this item was created using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and may contain some errors.
NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT BIRACIAL COMMITTEE BYLAWS The Biracial Committee was appointed by the North Little Rock Board of Education for the purpose of assisting in the desegregation of the North Little Rock Schools, to promote quality desegregated education, and to review and analyze information/data provided by the Assistant Superintendent of Desegregation. ARTICLE I Membership The membership is appointed by the Board of Education and consists of twenty-four (24) members. The membership shall consist of eight (8) educators chosen by their professional peers and are evenly balanced by race, fourteen (14) parent/patron members represented by two (2) individuals (one (1) white and one (1) black) from each of the seven (7) school zones (one must be a parent of a currently enrolled student at the time of appointment.), and two (2) minority members selected at large and shall be Native American, Asian American, or Hispanic American. ARTICLE II Terms of Membership Each member shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years and shall be eligible for reappointment. The term of membership shall begin on October 1 and end on September 30. Each member shall serve no more than two (2) consecutive terms. The initial terms of office shall be decided by lot (drawing) to determine tenure on the committee. One third (1/3) of the committee will serve a one (1) year terms, one third (1/3) a two (2) year term, and one third (1/3) a three (3) year term. These terms shall be retroactive to October 1, 1990. The District will publicize Committee vacancies and solicit members. Applications for vacancies will be accepted during July of each year. The Board of Education will be asked to approve nominations in September of each year. ARTICLE III Resignation Whenever a member is unable to complete his/her term of membership, the member shall submit a letter of resignation which shall be binding. If a verbal resignation is given, then a majority vote of the membership is needed to confirm the resignation and the member shall be notified by a letter from the Secretary and Chairperson of the committee's action. ARTICLE IV Removal from Membership A member who misses three (3) scheduled meetings will be subject to termination from membership, unless the membership is given reasons for the absence and the majority of the membership votes to retain the member. ARTICLE V Meetings The committee shall meet at least once per month. The time, date and place to be the consensus of the membership. Special meetings can be called by the Board of Education, the Superintendent of the North Little Rock Schools or his/her designee, and the Chairperson of the Committee. ARTICLE VI Quorum A quorum shall be ten (10) members. However, for the purpose of changes in the bylaws, revocation of membership and election of officers, the quorum shall be a simple majority of the current committee membership. A majority shall be fifty-one (51) percent of the quorum as defined above. ARTICLE VII Election of Officers The officers shall consist of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Secretary/Recorder. Election of officers shall be held at the September meeting. These officers will begin their duties at the October meeting. Their term of office shall be for one (1) year. A simple majority as defined in Article VI is sufficient for election. In the event an officer resigns or leaves the committee, the office shall be filled at the following meeting. ARTICLE VIII Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised The procedures set forth in Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised will govern all business of the Biracial Committee unless otherwise indicated in these Bylaws. ADOPTED: March 19, 1991 North Little Rock Bi-racial Committee Report Timelines and Monitoring Procedures: The North Little Rock Bi-racial Committees monitor the schools once each semester. The second monitoring report was received in ODM in June after the school year was ended and most principals were off contract. The schools were monitored in NLRSD in December and January. These dates were either near the end of the first semester or the beginning of the second semester. Elementa
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:y Schools Dates Amboy December 11, 1990 Argenta December 11, 1990 Belwood December 4, 1990 Boone Park November 28, 1990 Crestwood December 17, 1990 Glenview January 3, 1990 Indian Hills January 10, 1991 Lakewood January 29, 1991 Lynch Drive December 11, 1990 Meadow Park December 12
1990 North Heights January 8, 1991 Park Hill December 14, 1990 Pike View December 12, 1990 Pine November 29, 1990 Redwood December 13, 1990 Rose City December 11, 1990 Seventh Street January 9, 1991 Middle Schools Dates Lakewood December 3, 1990 Ridgeroad December 17, 1990 Rose City January 10, 1991 High Schools Dates North Little Rock January 11, 1991 These reports were given to members of the desegregation team, biracial committee, and members of the district's board of education on March 15, 1991 by the Superintendent for Desegregation, Mable Bynum. Each principal was then asked to provide written responses to Mrs. Bynum regarding concerns cited in the first semester biracial committee monitoring reports. These responses are included in NLRSD's Monitoring Report, Attachment VI-B. The written responses were provided to Mrs. Bynum between March 8 and March 15, 1991. A time lag of approximately three months existed between the monitoring visits and the responses sent. The twelve areas monitored by the bi-racial committees were: 1.0 Separation of Race/Gender 2.0 Curriculum 3.0 School/District Initiated Honors and Awards 4.0 Committees 5.0 Extracurricular Activities 6.0 Student Achievement/Assessment 7.0 Special Education 8.0 Gifted and Talented Education 9.0 Staff Development 10.0 Parental Involvement ll.O Student Discipline 12.0 Bu~lding Leadership/Management Problem Areas Some of the general problem areas pervasive throughout the district were being addressed at the district level according to Mrs. Bynum. The general areas identified in most of the schools in the district were: 1.0 Separation of Race/Gender The percentages of black and male staff members in most schools are not comparable to those of the student population. 6.0 Student Achievement/Assessment Academic achievement data is not provided in a format designed for easy interpretation by monitors. 9.0 Staff Development Staff development programs have not addressed the matter of equitable staffing. Although the district is aware of and expresses a commitment to correct the problems in the schools, there are no specific timelines, strategies or activities to indicate when these problems and will be corrected. The information gathered by the bi-racial committees is used by principals to ascertain their strengths and weaknesses as evidenced by their efforts to correct problems in the schools. In reviewing the reports, principals addressed each of the problems identified in their schools except separation of race/gender, student acheivement/assessment and some areas in staff development programs. Assistance would be provided by the district administrators in these areas according to Mrs. Bynum. The three month time lag contributes to the monitoring process becoming bogged down.This process can be streamlined by giving the principals copies of the report in three to four weeks and asking them to respond within 2 weeks or less unless there are extenuating circumstances. 22 .,,. "'C('C xrr r-. ,J- l,.... v .u. .i. U/.u~ r 11,n: 1..1 _ i '(. f !- n.lo- 0 f''
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i.L s a wac- '1able o a ) f 'Nort. te ry 19 89-S on.tr f l 'ii I'Ci t r: 19. 1 u es c.,f J t "'1 nd ( for t p - 0.::: NOV 1 9 1991 Office ol Desegrsga11Mono nitoiing MONITORINSGC HEDULEOS F ALL DISTRICTM ONITORINGGR OUPS INCLUDINGB I-RACIAL COMMITTEES See Attachment 13 Attachment 13 THIB NOJRTH 1LITT1LJIBR OCKP lIB1LliCO CH001L December ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 2700 POPLAR STREET NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT MONITORING SCHEDULE FIRST SEMESTER 1991-1992 (Dates are subject to change to accommodate monitors) 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 12 13 16 17 Crestwood Elem. - Lakewood Elem. - Seventh Street Elem. North Heights Elem. - Pike View Elem. Meadow Park - Park Hill Elem. - Boone Park Elem. Alternative Education Center - NLRHS-West Campus Rose City Elem. Ridgeroad Middle School - Glenview Elem. Central Elem. - NLRHS-East Campus Baring Cross Amboy Elem. - Belwood Elem. - Redwood Elem. Indian Hills Elem. - Lakewood Middle School Lynch Drive Elem. - Rose City Middle School P.O. BOX 687, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR 72115/0687 501/771-8000 EDUCATORS Cynthia Hampton Tom Hudson Attachment 13 NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT FIRST SEMESTER 1991-1992 MONITORING TEAMS NORTH LITTLE ROCK HIGH SCHOOL-WEST CAMPUS STUDENTS B Josh Clary W W Jenny Watson B PARENTS/ADDRESSES Kathryne Jordan-4604 E. Puckett 72117 B Bill Lowe-6605 Allwood 72118 W Connie Sisson-5613 Stella Dr. 72118 W Phyllis Stokes-5704 Sorenson,iC 72118 B NORTH LITTLE ROCK HIGH SCHOOL-EAST CAMPUS Anita Bell B Stacy Roberts B Clancy McDowell W J.T. Zakrzewksi W Jimmy Albright-3323 N.Cypress 72116 W Martine Bonds-2917 Justin Mathews72116W Wendal Furquan-49 Lakeside, LR 72204 B Christine Hickman-5013 N.Woodland72117B LAKEWOODM IDDLE SCHOOL Esther Beavers B Travis Lambright B Debbie Hardison W Jeremy Neel w Thomas Baskins-402 w. 22 72114 B Lee & Becky Davidson-IO Oak Tree Circle Stephanie RatliffW Erica Ross B Varnastine Hymes-1322 N.Poplar Mary Ruth Morgan-4830 Oaklawn Carol Warren-219 East 12th RIDGEROAD MIDDLE SCHOOL 72116 W 72114 B 72116 W 72114 B Debra Butler Joe King B Candice Kastel W Burnis J. Tate W Mary Branden-521 West "A" 72114 W B Jacquelyn Johnson-60 Cliffwood Cr72118B Hilton Taylor,Sr.-2502 s. Berkley72118B Frank Welch-509 Melanie 72118 W Gayle Calver Curtis Scott w B Laura Ralston W Marcia Scott B Eva Allen n ROSE CITY MIDDLE SCHOOL Chanda Anderson Eric Waldorf B Les Allen-5213 Lynch Drive W Pat Brewer-5207 s. Woodland Patsy Caldwell-302 Kay Street David Gober-222 Rhodes AMBOY ELEMENTARY Lorraine Harvey-#2 Elrod, LR David Holmes-1017 Nicole Lucy Horton-2208 Sasser Ct. Brenda Matthews-1403 W 9th BELWOOD ELEMENTARY 72117 72117 72117 72117 72209 72118 72118 72114. w B w B B w w B George Bryant-3901 Susan Circle 72118 B Terri Whittington W Autreana Battles B Deborah Whitehurst W Louene Lipsmeyer W Euleta Ware B Maria Bryant Karen Chappell B w Barbara Edmondson W Jackie Hampton B Edith McGough Valencia Power w B Rebecca Heathcock W Annie Morgan B Tina Jackson Norma Nelson w B Attachment 13 Jacquelyn Jones-605 W.Scenic,L23 Linda Little-412 W. 23rd Lavonda Squires-31 Theresa Dr. James Triplett-3516 Nixon Rd. BOONE PARK ELEMENTARY 72118 B 72114 B 72118 W 72118 W Robin Dudley-1505 Nannette 72114 W Michael Johnson-1104 Vestal 72114 B Vanessa Stewart-15 Lenora Lane,LR72207 B Lou Thomas-1810 W.Short 17th 72115 W CENTRAL ELEMENTARY Teresa Burns-1700 Olive 72114 B Letitia Martin-7907 Pinto Trail 72116 w Gerald Parker-5600 Browning Rd.LR72209 B James Parker-260 Plainview Larry Rich-2022 Romine Rd., LR Ebbie Rozzell-3907 Lakeview Rd. CRESTWOOD ELEMENTARY Jane Bell-4917 Hampton Regina Dobynes-16 Lakewood Drive Mike Hemphill-1610 Northwood Michael Walker-1300 Poplar GLENVIEW ELEMENTARY Angela Crain-5003 N. Woodland Sandra Davis-4201 Rodgers Carol Morris-143 Plainview Cr. Virginia Wortham-324 Belmont INDIAN HILLS ELEMENTARY 72116 w 72204 B 72116 w 72116 W 72116 B 72116 W 72115 B 72117 B 72117 B 7:
:116 W 72116 W Lyn Fortner-7505 Geronimo 72116 W Charles Germany-1709 Okmulgee Ct.72116 B Laverne Price-N.Beech,#78,Bldg.7 72114 B James Rhoades-1909 Osage 72116 W LAKEWOOD ELEMENTARY Kenneth Griffin-2408 Fairway Alice Hammonds-1113 Bannock, LR Betty Jacobs-3104 Martineau Danita Mays-4505 Randolph LYNCH DRIVE ELE~IBNTARY Myrtle Borders-6505 Farmstead Dan Floyd-405 Healy Carolyn Hunter-724 Graham 7 2116 W 72202 B 72116 W 72116 B 1211 7 \v 72117 W 72117 B Erma Jerrod Brenda Martin Deedra Bynum Liz Jorgenson Kim Grissom Shirley Kelly Janie Mcclinton Esther Watson Nancy Montgomery Arthur Robinson Doris Callahan nosie Coleman Ruth Chandler Jane Ploszay B w R w w B w B w B w B B w Attachment 13 Mary Jenkins-1116 Healy 72117 B MEADOW PARK ELEMENTARY Kathy Arman-412 Meadow Park 72117 w Joyce Brewer-319 Emily 72117 B Donald Hale-6505 Delhaven 72117 B Diane Lawrence-110 Marvin 72117 B Cindy Mathews-516 Pollock 72117 w Vickie Musgrove-4803 Lynch Dr. 72117 w NORTH HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY Sharon Dumas-4925 Longview 72118 B Raymond Jerrod-200 Wisteria Cr. 72118 B Charles Kumpe-5425 Chauvin Dr. 72118 w Jill Massa-490=7 Sycamore 72118 w Dorothy Taylor-609 Paula Dr. 72114 w Arthary Terry-1 Somerset 72116 B PARK HILL ELEMENTARY Nancy Martin-3420 Fiesta 72116 w Juuy McNeese-3407 Fiesta 72116 w Deborah Rhodes-408 W. 23rd 72114 B Arlene Stephenson-2736 John Ashley72114B PIKE VIEW ELEMENTARY Lilian Cooper-5804 Lamirado 72118 B Edna Keener-5800 Lamirado 72118 B Terri Nevins-5716 Locust 72116 w Pam Satterfield-5801 Locust 72116 w REDWOOD ELEMENTARY Sheila Arnold-2201 E. Washington Qui~zella Stacey-400 N.Palm,#101 Kim Dozier-#56 Hemlock Ct. Karen Kelley-3019 East 4th St. ROSE CITY ELEMENTARY Vickie Carroll-321 Cheryl Kathy Harris-709 Blossom Jo Evelyn Marshall-4617 Haywood Smith-3205 Gribble 72114 B 72114 B 72114 W 72114 W 72114 w 72117 w 72117 B Jonas 72114 D Rosemary Turner-3015 Arkansas Ave.72114B SEVENTH STREET ELEMENTARY Nathaniel Brown-8912 Landers Rd. 72117B Joe Jordan-814 Cedar 72114B Debra Rogers-16 Dove Creek Cr. 72116W I Nat Askew B John Kellar W Jo Ellen McPherson W Jeanne Dimond Schula Holley w B Attachment 13 Debra Rogers-16 Dove Creek Cr. 72116W Helen Stegall-600 Silverwood Trail72116W BARING CROSS SCHOOL Michelle Poole-1617 Chandler 72114W Dorothy Williams-2616 Lansbrook Ln72117B ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION CENTER Corey Nelson B Nick Taylor-#5 Spear Rd Chris Taylor W Verna Turner-246 Melrose Circle LeaAnn Upchurch-1301 W. 10th Shirley Wood-2501 Willshire 72117W 72114B 72114W 72118B NOV 1 9 1991 Ot:,ceo t Desegregiao n tAoniioring DISTRICTB I-RACIAL COMMITTEMEE ETINGS CHEDULE AND DISTRICTB I-RACIAL COMMITTEMEE MBERSHLIPI ST, INCLUDINGR ACEA NDA DDRESS SEE ATTACHME5N Ta nd 6 Attachment 5 and 6 COMMITTEEM EETINGS: 5:30 p.m. First Tu<>sday of c..?ch month September-June NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT DISTRICTWIDE BIRACIAL COMMITTEE Patrons: ZONE 1 Ms. Lori Pledger Ms. Belinda White ZONE 2 Ms. Artha Minton Mr. Dan Floyd ZONE Mr. Thomas Daskins Mrs. Michelle Poole ZONE Mr. Robert Johnson Rev. Arnette Dotson ZONE Mr. Charles Hunter Mr. Felix Thibault ZONE Mrs. Gayle Wing Race TERM EXPIRES W 94 B 94 B w D w w B B w w 94 92 94 92 93 93 92 92 Mrs. Sheryll Lipscomb B 93 94 ZONE 7 Rev. Rochester Rodgers D Mr. Pat Hunter w Teachers Opal Goldsby, Central D 94 94 93 Address 712 Annelle, 72117 1406 Pine, 72114 2611 E. 2nd, 72114 405 Healy, 72117 Telephone Uome-945-9617 Work-376-3629 Home-376-8144 Home-945-4312 Home-945-2912 Work-376-3629 402 W. 22nd, 72114 Work-374-6661 Home-753-4184 1619 Chandler, 72114 Home-376-4354 1912 Arrowhead, 72118 Work-224-6067 Home-758-7624 5908 Nicole Dr.,72118 Home 758-8967 1601 Osage, 72116 Work-370-2400 llome-834-2220 400 Latona Ln.,72118 Work-945-8612 Home-758-8317 2000 Black River 72116 Home-835-3616 5913 Elk River,72116 Work-374-3484 Home-835-0787 444 McCain Blvd,72116Work-758-9227 Home-758-1593 349 Goshen,72116 Work-753-1311 Home-753-8656 412 w. 21st, 72114 Work-374-6943 Ilomc-753-3261 Valencia Power, B 93 6408 Greenbank, 7 2118 Work-835-5622 Indian Hills Horne-758-5834 Susan Shaunfield w 92 1605 Wewoka, 72116 Work-771-8185 Amboy Horne-835-54 77 .Amanda Ware w 94 1 22 Whitewood, 72120 Work-835-5622 Indian Hills Horne-834-1216 Sue Bennett w 93 4512 Valley Drook work-771-8200 East Campus 72116 Horne-758-0328 Anita Cameron w 92 134 Sheridan, 72116 Work-771-8114 West Campus Horne-753-5466 Arlean Robertson B 93 803 w. 13th, 72114 Work-771-8200 East Campus Horne-375-2698 Ivory Young B 92 9509 Susanne Dr. Work-771-8200 East Campus 72209 Horne-562-8993 PATRONS: ZONE 1 Mr. Dan Floyd Ms. Belinda White ZONE2 Ms. Artha Minton Vacant ZONE3 Mr. Thomas Baskins Mrs. Michelle Poole ZONE4 Mr. Robert Johnson Rev. Arnette Dotson ZONE 5 Mr. Charles Hunter Mr. Felix Thibault ZONE6 RACE w B B B w B ll w Mrs. Gayle Wing W Mrs. Sheryll Lipscomb B ZONE 7 Rev. Rochester Rodgers B Mr. Pat Hunter AT LARGE Minority 1 Minority 2 TEACHERS Mrs. Opal Goldsby Mrs. Valencia Power w B B NORTHL ITTLER OCKS CHOODL ISTRICT DISTRICTWIDBEI RACIALC OMMITTEE TERME XPIRES 9/30/92 9/30/91 9/30/91 9/30/91 9/30/91 9/30/92 9/30/93 9/30/93 9/30/92 9/30/92 9/30/93 9/30/91 9/30/91 9/30/91 9/30/92 9/30/93 9/30/93 9/30/93 ADDRESS 405 Healy - 72117 1406 Pine - 72114 2611 E. 2nd - 72114 402 W. 22nd - 72114 1619 Chandler - 72114 1912 Arrowhead - 72118 5908 Nicole Dr. - 72118 1601 Osage - 72116 400 Latona Lane - 72118 2000 Black River - 72116 5913 Elk River - 72116 444 McCain Blvd. - 72116 349 Goshen - 72116 412 W. 21st - 72114 6408 Greenbank - 72118 TELEPHONE Home-945-2912 Work-376-3629 Home 376-8144 Home-945-4312 Work-374-6661 Home-753-4184 Home-376-4354 Work-224-6067 Home-758-7624 Home-758-8967 Work-370-2400 Home-834-2220 Work-945-8612 Home-758-8317 Home-835-3616 Work-374-3484 Home-835-0787 Work-758-9227 Home-758-1593 Work-7 53-1311 Home-853-8656 Work-374-6943 Home-753-3261 Work-835-5622 Home-758-5834 j AGE2 DISTRICTWIDBEIR ACIALC OMMITT(ETEE ACHER-S CONTINUED) rs. Susan Shaunfield w 9/30/92 1595 Wewoka-72116 Work-771-8185 Home-835-5477 rs. Amanda Ware w 9/30/91 122 Whitewood - 72120 Work-835-5622 Home-834-1216 rs. Sue Bennett w 9/30/93 4512 Valley Brook - 72116 Work-771-8200 Home-758-0328 s. Anita Cameron w 9/30/92 134 Sheridan - 72116 Work-771-8114 Home-753-5466 rs. Arlean Robertson B 9/30/93 803 W. 13th - 72114 Work-771-8200 Home-375-2698 r. Ivory Young B 9/30/92 9509 Susanne Dr. -72209 Work-771-8200 Home-562-8993 N (D)I ffiT. JBII LIITTILIE Iffi.@CmC
:I P1IJIBILCIIC CCJ B(I0 )(0)I L ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 2700 POPLAR STREET December 7, 1992 DEC 8 \9'12 O!tice of Oescgr1::gatiMo.v1r ntcring MEMO TO: Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor FROM: Mable W. Bynum, Assistant Superintendent-Desegregation Enclosed is a revised list of the North Little Rock School District Districtwide Biracial Committee. Please feel free to call if our office can be of further assistance. Happy Holidays! MWB:aw AN EQUAL OPPORT"C'. ITY EMPLOYER P. 0. BOX 687, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR 72115/0687 501/771 8000 NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT DISTRICTWIDE BIRACIAL COMMITTEE Patrons: ZONE 1 Ms. Lori Pledger Ms. Belinda White ZONE 2 Ms. Artha Minton Mr. Dan Floyd ZONE 3 Mr. Thomas Baskins Mrs. Michelle Poole ZONE 4 Mr. Robert Johnson Mrs. Caryn Duckery ZONE 5 Mr. Charles Ilunter Mr. Felix Thibault ZONE 6 Race TERM EXPIRES W 94 B 94 B w B w w B B w 94 95 94 95 93 95 95 Mrs. Gayle Wing W 93 Mrs. Sheryll Lipscomb B 94 ZONE 7 Rev. Rochester Rodgers B Mr. Pat Hunter w AT LARGE Mr. Antonio Franco H Minority 2 Mr. Michael Jeu 0 Teachers 94 94 95 95 Address 712 Annelle, 72117 1406 Pine, 72114 2611 E. 2nd, 72114 405 Healy, 72117 Telephone Home-945-9617 Work-376-3629 Home-376-8144 Home-945-43]2 Home-945-2912 Work-376-3629 402 W. 22nd, 72114 Work-374-6661 Home-753-4184 1619 Chandler, 72114 Home-376-4354 1912 Arrowhead, 72118 Work-224-6067 Home-758-7624 1700 Arrowhead Rd. Home-758-6875 Apt. A, 72118 1601 Osage, 72116 Work-370-2400 Home-834-2220 400 Latona Ln.,72118 Work-945-8612 Home-758-8317 2000 Black River Home-835-3616 72116 5913 Elk River,72116 Work-374-3484 Home-835-0787- 444 McCain Blvd,72116Work-758-9227 Home-758-1593 349 Goshen,72116 Work-753-1311 Home-753-8656 4919 Parker, 72118 Home-771-0405 #5 55th Terrace, 72118 Home-753-0590 Work-375-6759 Tammy Collier, w 95 2505 Ozark, 72116 Work-835-5622 Indian Hills Home-835-5510 Opal Goldsby, Central B 93 412 w. 21st, 72114 Work-374-6943 Home-753-3261 Valencia Walker, B 93 801 So. Rodney ParharnWork-835-5622 Indian Hills Rd. L.R. 72205 Home-228-0017 Amanda Ware w 94 122 Whitewood, 72120 Work-835-5622 Indian Hills Home-834-1216 Sue Bennett w 93 4512 Valley Brook Work-771-8200 East Campus 72116 Home-758-0328 Anita Cameron w 95 134 Sheridan, 72116 Work-771-8114 West Campus Home-753-5466 Arlean Robertson B 93 803 w. 13th, 72114 Work-771-8200 East Campus Home-375-2698 Ivory Young B 95 9509 Susanne Dr. Work-771-8200 East Campus 72209 Home-562-8993 Vacancy NOV 9 t9n Patrons: ZONE 1 Ms. Lori Pledger Ms. Belinda White ZONE 2 Ms. Artha Minton Mr. Dan Floyd ZONE 3 Mr. Thomas Baskins Mrs. Michelle Poole ZONE 4 Mr. Robert Johnson Mrs. Caryn Duckery ZONE 5 Mr. Charles Hunter Mr. Felix Thibault ZONE 6 Mrs. Gayle Wing NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT DISTRICTWIDE BIRACIAL COMMITTEE Race TERM EXPIRES W 94 B 94 B w B w w B B w w 94 95 94 95 93 95 95 95 Address 712 Annelle, 72117 1406 Pine, 72114 2611 E. 2nd, 72114 405 Healy, 72117 Telephone Home-945-9617 Work-376-3629 Home-376-8144 Home-945-4312 Home-945-2912 Work-376-3629 402 W. 22nd, 72114 Work-374-6661 Home-753-4184 1619 Chandler, 72114 Home-376-4354 1912 Arrowhead, 72118 Work-224-6067 Home-758-7624 1700 Arrowhead Rd. Home-758-6875 Apt. A, 72118 1601 Osage, 72116 Work-370-2400 Home-834-2220 400 Latona Ln.,72118 Work-945-8612 Home-758-8317 2000 Black River 72116 Home-835-3616 Mrs. Sheryll Lipscomb B 93 94 5913 Elk River,72116 Work-374-3484 Home-835-0787 ZONE 7 Rev. Rochester Rodgers B Mr. Pat Hunter AT LARGE Mr. Antonio Franco Minority 2 Teachers Tammy Collier, Indian Hills w H w 94 94 95 95 - 444 McCain Blvd,72116Work-758-9227 Horne-758-1593 349 Goshen,72116 Work-753-1311 Home-753-8656 4919 Parker, 72118 Home-771-0405 2505 Ozark, 72116 Work-835-5622 Horne-835-5510 Opal Goldsby, Central B 93 412 w. 21st, 72114 Work-374-6943 Home-753-3261 Valencia Walker, B 93 801 So. Rodney ParhamWork-835-5622 Indian Hills Rd. L.R. 72205 Home-228-0017 Amanda Ware w 94 122 Whitewood, 72120 Work-835-5622 Indian Hills Home-834-1216 Sue Bennett w 93 4512 Valley Brook Work-771-8200 East Campus 72116 Home-758-0328 Anita Cameron w 95 134 Sheridan, 72116 Work-771-8114 West Campus Home-753-5466 Arlean Robertson B 93 803 w. 13th, 72114 Work-771-8200 East Campus Home-375-2698 Ivory Young B 95 9509 Susanne Dr. Work-771-8200 East Campus 72209 Home-562-8993 Vacancy Meeting dates of the Pulaski County Special School District's Biracial Planning and Steering Committee for 1991-92. September 19, 1991 Administrative Offices October 17, 1991 Administrative Offices November 14, 1991 Administrative Offices December 19, 1991 Administrative Offices January 16, 1991 Administrative Offices February 20, 1991 Administrative Offices March 19, 1991 Administrative Offices April 16, 1991 Administrative Offices May 21, 1991 Administrative Offices OCT 1 5 1993 NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT Officeo f Desocregantl Momlcilng DISTRICTWIDE BIRACIAL COMMITTEE Patrons: ZONE 1 Mrs. Pat Brewer Mrs. Jackie Gregg ZONE 2 Ms. Artha Minton Mr. Dan Floyd ZONE 3 Mr. Thomas Baskins Mrs. Nichelle Poole ZONE 4 Mr. Robert Johnson Mrs. Caryn Duckery ZONE 5 Mr. Charles Hunter Mr. Felix Thibault ZONE 6 Race B w B w B w w B B w Mrs. Gayle Wing W Mrs. Sheryll Lipscomb B ZONE 7 Rev. Rochester Rodgers B Mr. Pat Hunter w AT LARGE Mr. Antonio Franco H Mr. Michael Jeu 0 Teachers 'l'ERM EXPIRES 96 96 94 95 94 95 96 95 95 95 96 94 94 94 95 95 1993-94 Address 5207 S. Woodland 72117 108 Park Pl.,72117 2611 E. 2nd, 72114 405 Healy, 72117 4 0 2 W. 22nd , 7 21 J 4 1511 Gum, 72114 October, 1993 Telephone llome-945-9617 Work-682-1948 Home-945-0961 Home-945-4312 Home-945-2912 Work-376-3629 Work-374-6661 Home-753-4184 Home-376-4354 1912 Arrowhead, 72118 Work-224-6067 Home-758-7624 1700 Arrowhead Rd. Home-758-6875 Apt. A, 7 2118 1601 Osage, 72116 Work-370-2400 Home-8 34-22 20 400 Latona Ln.,72118 Work-945-8612 Home-758-8317 2000 Black River Home-835-3616 72116 5913 Elk River,72116 Work-374-3484 IIome-835-0787 444 McCain Blvd,72116Work-758-9227 Home-758-1593 349 Goshen,72116 Work-753-1311 Home-753-8656 4919 Parker, 72118 Horne-771-0405 1101 Winnebago 72116 Horne-771-4040 Tammy Collier, w 95 2505 Ozark, 72116 Work-835-5622 Indian Hills Home-835-5510 To be announced later B 96 Valencia Walker I3 96 801 So. RoclJwy P<1 rh,1m\VL'rk-8J s-~ L, .::.:: Indian Hills Rd. L.R. 72205 Home-228-0017 l\manda Ware w 94 122 Whitewood, 72120 Work-835-5622 Indian Hills Home-834-1216 To be announced later w 96 Anita Cameron w 95 134 Sheridan, 72116 Work-771-8114 West Campus Home-753-5466 Arlean Robertson B 96 803 w. 13th, 72114 Work-771-8200 East Campus Home-375-2698 To be announced later B 96 TO: FROM: DATE: RE: OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING 201 EAST MARKHAM, SUITE 510 HER IT AGE WEST BUILDING LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS 72201 Mable Bynum Horace Smith and Connie Hickman April 20, 1992 Request for Districtwide Biracial Committee information In order to better understand the functioning and effectively monitor the performance of the Districtwide Biracial Committee, we will require the following information. The request is organized according to the categories identified in the monitoring guide you received. We realize that this is a very busy time of year, and it is not our intention to burden you further. However, we would like for the following information to be submitted to our office by April 29, 1992. We will call you on April 22, 1992 to answer any questions you may have regarding this request. Thank you for your cooperation. Recruitment Committee job descriptions List of individuals involved in the member recruitment process Written description of the recruitment process Connnittee Composition Current membership roster with information on race, gender, geographic area, address, home and work phone numbers Schedule of committee meetings * Biracial committee meeting agenda, minutes/ attendance record Written yearly goals and objectives, policies and procedures Organizational chart Orientation and Training Copy of the orientation packet provided for new committee members Agenda for orientation session * Schedule of orientation/ trainings including time, location, and number of members attending * Descriptions of training provided for the committee (goals/ objectives, agendas, handouts, presenters, evaluations) Monitoring Process Monitoring instrument Schedule of monitoring (review reports) Flowchart describing the process by which the committee receives, assimilates, and reports along with corrective action identified and taken by the district Reporting Process Schedule of reporting periods * School Biracial Committee Reports and principals' responses * Semester Monitoring Reports Support and Recognition List of resources provided to the committee List of methods of appreciation and schedule of recognition events for committee members * Indicates information which should be submitted as generated. Office of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor November 16, 1992 Robert Johnson, Biracial Committee Chair 1912 Arrowhead North Little Rock, AR 72118 Dear Robert: 201 East Markham, Suite 51 0 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 376-6200 Fax {501) 371-0100 I am happy to share the enclosed 1991-92 Monitoring Report on the Biracial Committees with you and your fellow Biracial Committee members. The Office of Desegregation Monitoring (ODM) filed this report with the District Court today and also furnished copies to the three Pulaski County school districts. My associates and I sincerely thank you and your committee colleagues for having helped make this report possible. Your cooperation in talking with us, sharing materials, and answering our questionnaire were all invaluable as we gathered the information we needed. We hope you'll find that our assessment of the Biracial Committees, and their relationship to the districts and the desegregation process, is both comprehensive and accurate. We also hope that it provides some useful insights and suggestions. Any comments you and your committee may have about this report will be most welcome, and I would be pleased to hear from you. Your job as biracial committee members is a very important part of meeting the enormous challenges facing our school districts. Thank you for all the ways you are working to improve the lives of our children. a:yyours, Ann S. Brown .. - Attachment I - 011 NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on March 19, 1991 The North Little Rock Biracial Committee met on March 19, 1991 at 5:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administration Building. The following committee members were in attendance: Dan Floyd, Artha Minton, Thomas Baskins, Michelle Poole, Robert Johnson, Arnette Dodson, Charles Hunter, Felix Thibault, Gayle Wing, Sheryll Lipscomb, Rev. Rochester Rodgers, Valencia Power, Sue Bennett, and Anita Cameron. The following school district administrators were introduced by Mable Bynum: Gene Jones, Dana Chadwick, Jim Dyer, Greg Daniels, and Esther Crawford. Danny Shameer from the Arkansas Democrat was also present. The meeting was called to order by the Chairperson, Charles Hunter. Sue Bennett was named recorder for the meeting. Copies of the agenda, the proposed Biracial Committee Bylaws, and the STORM Team Guidelines, were given to those present. Copies of the First Semester Monitoring 1990-91, and the Minutes of the District Desegregation Team Meeting on March 11, 1991 had been mailed to members earlier, but were available to anyone who did not have a copy. The new members, Michelle Poole from Zone 3 and Arnette Dodson from Zone 4, were introduced to the committee. The first item for discussion was a report on the STORM (Success Through Outstanding Role Models) program. Mr. Paul Scott, coordinator for the program, reported the program is a role model program for selected black male students in the third through the sixth grade teamed with high school role models. The program is similar to the Ambassadors of Life Program and will center on providing positive experiences. The program is to be implemented in the Spring of 1990-91. Ms. Cameron stated that there are presently seventeen black male high school students who have been trained and accepted to participate. Mrs. Bynum stated that the students have been chosen from three elementary schools (Argenta, Pine, and Rose City) with plans to expand in the future. There are thirteen more mentors waiting for orientation and training. The elementary counselors have reported the students are excited about receiving their mentors. The plan for the program is for each high school student to meet one-to-one with a mentor at least once a month. Mr. Hunter asked what they would do and when would they start meeting. At this point, Ms. Cameron introduced four STORM members: Everett Smith, Clifton Jackson, Marc Thompson, and Rodney Sisk. They responded with "play basketball, picnics, studying, etc." The plans are to begin next week. Mr. Johnson asked the students what motivated their participation. The responses were: "It makes me feel good, the encouragement of Ms. Cameron, remembering looking up to older students when in elementary, etc." Mr. Baskin remarked -that since he works with r Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Inc., the desire to help means a lot. Those present gave the young students a hand and asked how to express appreciation at the end of the year. Ms. Cameron said, "food works". Mr. Thibault asked if the program would be evaluated. Mrs. Bynum said, "yes, at intervals." Mr. Hunter asked the students to remember "what you do is important, keep giving back." The second item for discussion was the Even Start Program Grant. Mrs. Bynum asked Jim Dyer to explain to the committee the rationale of the grant. Mr. Dyer, as Chapter I Coordinator, explained that a meeting was to be held immediately following the Biracial Committee Meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to procure financial assistance to eligible local educational agencies for the federal share of the cost of providing family-centered education projects to help parents become full partners in the education of their children. The idea is to train non-reading parents with children age one to seven to reach their full potential by coordination with other agencies. The agencies are: Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA), Baptist Memorial Resource Center, Department of Human Services, Literacy Action of Central Arkansas, Laman Library, Family Advocacy Network, Adult Education Centers, Head Start, local churches, and civic organizations. Participants will reside in the attendance zones of the five areas being targeted: Dixie addition, Eastgate Terrace, Hemlock Courts, Shorter Gardens, and Silver City Courts. Mr. Dyer elaborated that in a needs assessment across the District, forty-four percent of the students in Chapter I schools are functioning below the 50th percentile on the Metropolitan Achievement Test (MAT6) in the area of Total Reading. Eighty percent of the kindergarten students given the Boehrn-R Test of Basic Concepts in the fall of 1990 scored below the 50th percentile. He said the application is due March 29, 1991 and that he had recently been in Baton Rouge receiving instructions for the grant. The total funding for Arkansas is $262,000 and we are asking for four year funding. Mr. Hunter then asked for a report concerning the corporal punishment committee. Mrs. Bynum stated the committee to develop long-term strategies is now meeting and is composed of four parents, four educators and four administrators. Members represent elementary and high school. They are charged with developing some plans for correcting student behavior and alternatives to corporal punishment. The committee will finalize its reports early enough to have new information included in 1991-92 student handbook. The committee then proceeded to discuss the committee bylaws. Mr. Hunter reminded the committee of the changes in Article II, Article V, Article VI, and Article VII. There was a brief discussion and Felix Thibault made a motion that the revised edition of the bylaws be adopted and Anita Cameron seconded. There was a unanimous acceptance by verbal "ayes". Article II (Terms of Membership) states that initial term of office shall be decided by lot to determine tenure. One-third will serve one year, one-third two years, and one-third three years. Once bylaws were adopted, Mrs. Bynum asked each member to draw a slip of paper (marked with the number one, two, or three). Mr. Thibault asked the chairman to draw for him since he had to leave. The committee agreed. The membership terms of each committee member was drawn as follows: ONE YEAR TERM TWO YEAR TERM Dan Floyd Michelle Poole Zone 2 Charles Hunter Belinda White Artha Minton Vacant Spot for Thomas Baskins Sheryll Lipscomb Rochester Rodgers Amanda Ware Pat Hunter Felix Thibault Susan Shaunfield Anita Cameron Ivory Young Minority #1 (See Bylaws) THREE YEAR TERM Robert Johnson Arnette Dodson Gayle Wing Opal Goldsby Valencia Power Sue Bennett Arlean Robertson Minority #2 (See Bylaws) There was a brief discussion regarding the terms. In case of a vacancy, the new member would have the same term as the person who left. The one year term ends in September, 1991. The final discussion of the committee was related to the school monitoring reports. Mr. Hunter asked if the members had gone over their reports. Ms. Cameron mentioned the need for black teachers was referred to several times in the reports. Mrs. Bynum said she believed the best answer would be to "grow your own". Mr. Chadwick stated that the legislature is now considering men in teaching as a minority and that a financial incentive would help recruitment. Ms. Cameron said a scholarship from the District would help those students considering teaching and would demonstrate commitment on the part of the North Little Rock School District. Mrs. Bynum stated that the District would look into the possibility of a teaching scholarship. She said she would like other discussion from the committee concerning this. Mr. Baskins noted that some reports, especially the North Little Rock High School-East Campus's, referred to purchases by teachers and asked that the District keep such personal expenditures at a minimum. Mrs. Bynum referred the committee to the packet of "Responses from Principals", and explained the importance of reading those whenever concerns were studied. She also mentioned that some teachers referred to "ideal" supplies instead of "adequate". Ms. Bennett also spoke about the impact of reorganization transfers and the time needed to put all things, including supplies, in place. Mr. Johnson asked if any new views or insights were produced by the visits. Mrs. Bynum said the visits were very useful and that they would be used more as continued visits are made. Issues, she said, will be raised to the principals and concerns would be brought to the front. Mr. Johnson asked if parents on the teams were helpful. Mrs. Bynum said yes and next time the team monitors would visit different schools, thereby proving a different view. Mr. Hunter suggested that the discussion of the last item be continued at the next meeting. Perhaps, at that time more time could be devoted to the Biracial Monitoring Team visits. The time for the next meeting was designated as being April 9, 1991 at 5:30 p.m., in the Board Room. Valencia Power will be the recorder at that meeting. As a parting comment, Mr. Hunter stated on this night there was a committee meeting to discuss the feasibility of a north of the river school district and south of the river school district. lie said he expected to hear more of this in the future. The meeting was adjourned. THIE NOJRTH LIT1I'LJER OCK PUIBLKCS CHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 2700 POPLAR STREET August 2, 1991 MEMO TO: Members of District Biracial Committee FROM: Mable W. Bynum, Asst. Superintendent for Desegregation SUBJECT: Postponement of August Meeting As you are aware, the Committee scheduled its next meeting for Tuesday, August 6. After consulting a majority of the committee members, Mr. Smith, Chairman Charles Hunter and I decided to postpone that meeting. Desegregation related activities have been limited and without much impact so far this summer. Consequently, a meeting at this time would be very short, therefore, we decided to provide written updated information with the understanding that a meeting will be called if necessary prior to the scheduled September third meeting. If you have questions about this update, need clarification or want to share information/ideas, please call me. YOUR INPUT IS ALWAYS WELCOMED! Desegregation Plan Hearings Upon review of an earlier ruling, Judge Webber-Wright absolved the District of any responsibility for incorporating aspects of the revised December, 1989 plan. However, the modified Settlement Agreement has not been approved. The three school districts and the Joshua Intervenors have appealed Judge Webber- Wright's decision and a September fourth appellate court hearing is scheduled. Summer School Summer programs have been successfully completed with exception of the six Pre-Kindergarten programs $Cheduled to end August 9, and a two week program for a limited number of incoming seventh grade students considered to be most at risk of failure. That program will begin Monday, August 5, at all middle school campuses. Alternative Learning Center Plans are being completed for the Alternative Education Center at Argenta School with an August 26 opening anticipated. A six member advisory committee will meet soon to review implementation P.O. BOX 687, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR 72115/0687 501/771-8000 plans. Charles Hunter and Pat Hunter of the Biracial Committee have been a::
k.ed to serve on that committee. Pine Building Use The District is presently accepting proposals from parties interested in leasing the building and operating an educational/community program on the site. Proposals are being accepted through August 14 with the School Board expected to make a leasing decision at the August 27 meeting. Operation Stay in School The School Board approved Mr. Smith's request to enter into an agreement with the North Little Rock Police Department to participate in "Operation Stay In School." This program is designed to curb truancy in the.District. Stu~er.ts observed off school property during school hours will be requested to provide verifiable proof of an excused absence. If a student is unable to provide such proof, he/she will be detained at the Alternative Education Center un ti 1 returned to school or home. 'rhis program was developed during the 1989 legislative session. Drug Policy Being Prepared The School Board also approved Mr. Smith's request to pursue the development cf a policy mandating drug testing for all per~onnel assigned to drive vehicles owned or leased by the District. Copies of policies from other school districts and companies have been reviewed by personnel and the Board will be requested to take action on a pre-tmployment drug screening policy at a special meeting called for August 6. Staffing Most vacancies have been filled. As we approach the school we are anticipating more vacancies to occur. very few black applicants for certified positions. contracted a few, but our numbers are certainly not you know of possible candidates, I encourage you to the Personnel Office as soon as possible. opening of We have seen We huve exciting. If refer them to NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on 9/3/91 The North Little Rock Biracial Committee met on September 3, 1991, nt 5:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administration Building. The following committee members were in attendance: Mr. Charles Hunter - Chairperson, Mr. Dan Floyd, Mr. Thomas Baskins, Mrs. Michelle Poole, Mr. Robert Johnson, Mrs. Gayle Wing, Mrs. Opal Goldsby, Mrs. Valencia Power, Miss Anita Cameron, Mrs. Susan Shaunfield, and Mrs. Sue Bennett. Administrative staff attending: Mr. James Smith, Mrs. Mable Bynum, Mr. Bobby Acklin, Mr. Gene Jones, Mr. Jim Morris, Mr. Dana Chadwick, and Mr. Greg Daniels. Anita Cameron was appointed recorder for the meeti11g. The conwittee heard updates from the following divisions: Instruction - Mr. Jones updated the computer lab status -- there are now 28 station labs in each elementary school. Wiring at all facilities should be completed by the end of the month. He added that Belwood and Crestwood are implementing an experimental program that links classroom instruction with computer-assisted instruction. (Computers are placed in the classrooms rather than in a separate lab.) On early childhood projects, he stated that the District had been awarded a $106,000 grant from "A Better Chance." The HIPPY program will be expanded to include Doone Park and Central. A pre-school center for thirty-sjx 3-4 year olds is being implemented at Central. Priority placement will be given to (1) children of high school students, (2) children who cannot be serviced by HIPPY, artd (3) handicapped children. A $152,000 "Even Start" grant has been received to provide adult education programs, part-time nursin9 care/immunizatio11, and additional para-professionals to work with housing project residf~nts. The Alternative School, housed in the old Argenta building, is providing services in a number of areas - (1) Student Assignment Classes (SAC) from both high school campuses, (2) Special Education classes, (3) Behavioral classes, (4) instruction for poorly to non-functional secondary students. The Child Study Center will work with the Alternative School popula t.ion, prov idiug therapeutic counseling. Plans are bein9 explored to work with Shorter College to provide college credit classes for Alternative School students. Mr. Jones further stated that over one thousand students wPre served through a variety of summer programs. Mr. Baskins asked how the administration felt with some of the charges made in the Joshua report. He wondered if there was any validity to the statement involving the sensitivity of the Principal at the West Campus regdrding suspensions. Mr. Acklin responded to the question by assuring Mr. Baskins that he had personally reviewed the suspensions and that we should see the actions happening and look at preventive measures. Ile also felt the monitoring team would find thE:re was nothir.g racial in the discipline referrals. The committee discussed other items mentioned by the Joshua Committee. One detail mentioned was the lack of knowledge about a multicultural curriculum. Mrs. Bynum explained there was a difference in phrasing. She said we used the term "multicultural infusement." Mrs. Bynum said she would check with Mr. Jones ior the next meeting for a report on the infusion of this information. Mrs. Valencia Power mentioned it would seem difficult to do a thorough job in the two hours the team visited. Mr. Ilunter then asked if we should let them know what we are doiny. Mr. Smith said we will respond to the School Board, to this committee, and everywhere we have an opportunity. Mr. Smith said he believed that is what they expect. Mr. Morris said monitoring is a new process to all of us and we feel a need to respond to all questions. We are learniny together. 'l'he committee then moved to the ncY.t item on the agenda. Bynum told the committee that we need a member from Zone was a discussion of the location of the zone. She asked recommendations from the committee. Mrs. 1. There for Mr. Hunter asked if anyone would consider being a reccrder for the next year instead of rotating among educators. He said it is difficult to find a volunteer each month. Mrs. Bennett said she would serve as recorder if Mr. Hunter would consider another term as chairperson. Mrs. Bynum, serving as moderator, then asked the committee to consider making nomination::
for a new committee chairperson. Mr. Baski11s nominated Mr. Uunter. The nomination was closed. All members voled for Mr. Hunter to continue as chsirperson. Mr. Hunter resumed control of the meeting. Mr. Baskins then nominated Mrs. Gayle Wing for Vice-Chairperson. The nomination was closed. All members voted wjth a show cf hands for Gayle Wing as Vice-Chairperson. The committee agreed to meet on October 1, at 5:30 p.m., at the Alternative School facility (previously known as Argenta Elementary School). Meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. aw 'fHE NOJR'fH LIITilLE !ROCK Plffi~~1C SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 2700 POPLAR 3TREET NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the District Desegregation Team Meeting on 9/25/91 The North Little Rock School District Desegregation team met on September 25, 1991, at 2:00 p.m., in the Conference Room of the Administration Building. The following members attended the meeting: Mrs. Mable Bynum, Mr. James Smith, Mr. Bobby Acklin, Mr. Donald Watkins, Mr. Gene Jones, Ms. Scharmel Bolling, and Mr. Greg Daniels. Mrs. Bynum opened the meeting by stating that she had invited Mrs. Ann Brown and her staff from the Office of Desegregation Monitoring. Mrs. Bynum introduced Mrs. Brown, and she in turn asked her staff to introduce themselves and explain their areas of responsibilities. Mr. Horace Smith introduced himself. He had previously worked with the Equity Assistance Center with the State Department of Education. He explained that his areas of responsibility with the Desegregation Monitoring Office would be as follows: Secondary Education, Staffing, Staff Development, Student Activities and Achievement. These areas entail the following: staff development, multicultural curriculum and infusion, secondary curriculum, instructional practices - secondary, library and media services, athletics and extracurricular activities, staff recruitment, hiring and distribution, student progress, achievement disparity, racial isolation/grouping of students, computer assisted instruction, new course offerings, bi-racial committees and incentive schools. Miss Connie Hickman was next to introduce herself. Miss Hickman had just recently passed the bar exam. She explained her areas of responsibility as follows: Community Involvement, Legal Information, District Policies. These areas entail the following: special programs (e.g. Asset), student recruitment, school volunteer programs, school/community partnership programs, New Futures, public relations, parent education, PTA/parent involvement programs, community resources, legal obligations and issues, policies and procedures, due process for staff and students and incentive schools. Mrs. Margie Powell introduced herself. Mrs. Powell described her duties as follows: Special Programs and Student Support Services. These areas entail the following: discipline, expulsions, and suspensions, dropout prevention/statistics, dropout prevention/ P.O. BOX 687, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR 72115/0687 501/771-8000 ,, statistics, attendance, safety and security, extended day and year programs, compensatory/remedial programs, guidance and counseling, special education, gifted education, alternative programs, evaluation/testing/test scores, federal programs, vocational education and incentive schools. Mrs. Melissa Guldin introduced hersel~ and described her duties as follows: Early Childhood, Elemelltary Education, Student Assignments, School Categories. These areas entail the following: HIPPY and city-wide ECE programs, early childhood and four year old programs, daycare programs, elementary curriculum, instructional practices - elementary, magnet interdistrict, and area schools, incentive schools, facilities 2nd capacities, new school construction and expar,sion, desegregaticn t:ransfers, m-to-m transfers, student assignment processes, school racial bal&nce and transportation services. Mr. Bob Morgan introduced himself as a part time employee with the office. He described his responsibilities as: Finance and Computers, which include settlement monies, financial accountability, computer tracking of students and academic progress and data processing. Mrs. Brown complimented her team and stressed that her staff were given responsibility of the duties as assigned. She stated that each of her staff were available to be called upon at any time for assistance to the three districts. She said that the monitoring of her office would not be a process of trying to catch a district ir. failure to be in compliance with the Court Order, but to work with the districts to make sure that the provisions were being implerr,ented and timelines were being met. She said that Judge Webber-Wright placed emphasis on the implementation of early childhood programs, middle school programs, racial balance and incentive programs. Mrs. Brown further stated that in the monitoring of our schcols, they did not want the school personnel to feel uncomfortable in anyway. She said that she and her staff would be visiting with the principals in the schools, and that her office would report back to us after each monitoring visit and observatic.,n. Mrs. Bynum asked Mrs. Brown if we would be made aware of their schedule in visiting the schools. Mrs. Brown assured us that we would have a schedule. She also said she and her staff wanted to correlate their monitoring with the ether groups that would also be monitoring. She said that emphasis would be placed on ider.tifying priority areas. She stated that they have determir
ed three areas that they will be requesting information on from us, and a blanket request for information needed. She stressed that although they were appointed to serve the court, they want to work as partners with the districts to assure that the very best education was available for all students. Mrs. Brown stressed that the monitoring visits from her office would be on an informal basis. They would be auditing the provisions of the plan from a legal aspect. Mr. Smith expressed his confidence in the capabilities of our District's administrators and assured Mrs. Brown that our group would cooperate and work with her staff in anyway requested. Miss Hickman asked by what means we had come up with the present monitoring forms we were using. Mrs. Bynum responded that all three of the Distiicts had worked together in trying to produce a workable set of forms and that some revisions would be made from last year's forms. Mrs. Brown stressed the need to get away from so much data and point out what was working best. Nr. Jones questioned to what extent would the Early Childhood Education programs be monitored. Mrs. Brown responded that it was reasonable to agree that early childhood program would greatly impact on disparity in education, and these programs would be one of the priorities. Mr. Morgan said that one of their main goals would be to see a reduction in disparities. Mr. Jones inquired as to whether the Office of Desegregation Monitoring would be concentrating only on the provisions of the court approved plan or including programs, activities beyond the plan. Mrs. Brown responded that in her opinion there would be some portions of one District's program ~lans which would be beneficial for other districts, and that she did not see things in isolation. Miss Hickrnann explained that the staff was currently reviewing all plans to establish base-line requirements in order to better determine what to specifically monitor. Mrs. Bynum stated that the North Little Rock School District officials would have concrns over parameters used after the baseline was established since the plan provisions were already court approved. Mrs. Bynum reminded the Office of Desegregation Monitoring staff of their scheduled visit with other district administrutors on Monday, September 30, 1991. Meeting was adjourned at 3:00 p.m. NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on October 1, 1991 The North Little Rock Districtwide Biracial Committee met October 1, 1991, at 5:30 p.m. at the Alternative School (formerly Argenta Elementary). Roll call was taken, and the following members were present: Thomas Baskins, Sue Bennett, Anita Cameron, Dan Floyd, Charles Hunter, Pat Hunter, Robert Johnson, Sheryll Lipscomb, Artha Minton, Michelle Poole, Valencia Power, Arlean Robertson, Rochester Rodgers, Felix Thibault, Belinda White, Gayle Wing, and Ivory Young. Charles Hunter called the meeting to order and then introduced our special guest, Dr. Steve Phaup. He introduced the administrators and Democrat reporter, Danny Shameer. Dr. Phaup stated that the ninth grade drop out rate in North Little Rock is as high as 33 percent by the time that class graduates. It is hoped that the Alternative School will reduce the drop-out rate and offer the students that come an opportunity to be successful. It is further stated that students who are expelled, suspended, and/or put on homebound can now benefit from the curriculum of the Alternative School. Presently, there are 42 students enrolled. The Alternative School is an option for students who otherwise cannot adjust to a regular school environment. Nancy Moore explained the alternative program and stressed that she hoped the student's needs will be met as individuals. The school has 19 people on its staff, seven of whom are male. The center's programs include: 1. Two elementary-level alternative classrooms for academically capable students who cannot succeed in a regular classroom environment. 2. Two special education classrooms, one for elementarylevel children and the other for secondary-level children. 3. The Child Study Center, where psychologists work with students. The psychologists are based at the center, but also go to the city's other schools. In addition, the center will have a drug counselor who works in other schools. 4. North Little Rock High School's student assignment class, a three or four day in-school suspension program. 5. A drop-off point for truants found by the North Little Rock Police Department. 6. An Alternative School on the first floor for seventh through twelfth grade. 7. Saturday School, a four-hour suspension program for non-violent students who break school rules during the week. During the tour, Mrs. Moore stated that
"The Alternative School is not for bad children, but for round pegs that don't fit into square holes." After the tour, the committee went to the cafeteria for refreshments and a discussion of the tour. Mr. Baskins commented that Mrs. Moore shows a positive attitude that this should help the school succeed. He commended her for that attitude. Mrs. Robertson stated she thought a positive attitude would keep more order in our schools. Dr. Phaup added the program was modeled after a program in Jonesboro, but has been expanded and adapted to our needs. He said that program seemed to be off to a good start. Mr. Smith discussed the fact that too many of our students were ending up on the streets. He said our goal here in North Little Rock is to have a place for every student. Mrs. Moore added, she hoped the Alternative School would be a haven for students having pain. Miss Cameron questioned if there would be a place for the large n~mber of pregnant girls that are in schools today. Dr. Phaup responded that we will be as flexible as we need to be to meet the needs of that particular group. After the discussion of the Alternative School, Mr. Hunter brought up the vacant slot for a Zone 1 patron. He said there are slots for other minorities. He asked for help from the committee to find likely candidates. Mrs. Bynum thanked the committee and patrons for giving of their time and efforts. She also discussed the National Committee for School Desegregation Conference to be held October 31 and November 1, at the Little Rock Hilton. She encouraged all members of the committee to attend. Mrs. Bynum also stated that the district would be able to pay the fees for a group of North Little Rock School District Representatives. The next meeting was set for November 5, at 5:30 p.rn. The meeting was then adjourned. Respectfully submitted, Sue Bennett Recorder aw NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on December 3, 1991 The North Little Rock Districtwide Biracial Committee met December 3, 1991, at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the Administrative Building. Roll call was taken, and the following members were present: Sue Bennett, Charles Hunter, Pat Hunter, Robert Johnson, Opal Goldsby, Lori Pledger, Valencia Power, Felix Thibault, Gayle Wing, and Ivory Young. Mable Bynum, Jim Morris, Bobby Acklin, Dana Chadwick, Esther Crawford and James Smith were present from the administrative office. Charles Hunter called the meeting to order and asked for Mrs. Bynum to give an update. Mrs. Bynum stated that monitoring began with three schools today. She said some of our committee members are involved in that process, (e.g., Mr. Baskins is a member of a team, and he will share his experiences at the next meeting). She also mentioned Dan Floyd is on the Lynch Drive team and Michele Poole with Baring Cross. School monitoring will go through December 17th. A discussion centered around the role of the Equity Committee and its changing role in assessing strengths and areas of concern. The committee can be used to give feedback to the principal and to function as a sounding board. Some improvements in this year's monitoring include involving the principals more actively. Mrs. Bynum said, "We learn as we go." Mrs. Bynum also apprised the committee of the Joshua Group's report. She said the group informed the administrative office they had written their primary reports. When they are received, the results will come to this committee. There was some discussion of the lack of interviews with the team after their visit. Mr. Hunter asked if the Joshua Group plans to do this very often. Mr. Thibault was concerned that the visits may be disruptive and asked if the Joshua Group notified the school before a visit. Mr. Smith told us the schools are informed. Mr. Smith gave an update on the court actions. He stated the unofficial word is that we will be back in court on December 16." Mr. Thibault expressed frustration that lots of money, which could be used for educating students, is going to attorneys. He asked if there was any hope of getting the school district out of court. Pat Hunter suggested some school systems were able to get out of the courts and perhaps we could find out how they achieved this end. Mr. Smith replied that the ability to get out of court depends on the court. The Eight Circuit Court does not see fit to release us. As a result, we will seek help from this committee on where to make cuts in our budget. Mr. Smith said we will need feedback from this committee. He also stated, "We will continue to do the things we told the court we would do
however, the players as well as the expectations of the court continue to change
it is like a moving target." Mrs. Wing asked for an update on the STORM team. She mentioned that STORM started as a program for young black males to help other young black males and she wondered if it had been expanded to include white girls. Mrs. Bynum said there are thirty-two high school students assigned and they are going out to the elementary schools this week. She said STORM started in three schools and has grown to seven. She also mentioned the program has grown to capacity without hiring a full-time coordinator and there are no funds for additional staff. Mr. Johnson stated, "There is potential to make a real difference here." He asked if there are grants or funding available from other sources. Mrs. Goldsby asked if a mini-grant might be useful. Mr. Johnson wondered if there were graduate students wanting to work on a project with the schools. Mrs. Bennett asked how the Community Service Committee (a committee studying the feasibility of requiring some community service before graduation from high school) was proceeding. She said if the program is adopted
perhaps, the STORM team and similar projects could be considered community service. Mr. Chadwick stated the next meeting is in January, and at that time the Community Service Committee is going to discuss developing a pilot program involving community service. The plan is to utilize students from the East Campus. Mr. Johnson thinks community service is a great idea. He watched a young girl develop sensitivity and maturity after working with the United Cerebral Palsy last summer. The final discussion involved the Resource Police Officers on campus. Mr. Smith told us he had heard only positive comments. Mr. Hunter asked if it would be possible for us to invite Officer White (resource officer from the East Campus) to our next meeting. Mr. Smith said they usually come to extracurricular activities such as ball games and they probably wouldn't mind coming to our meeting. Now the city is working on a grant for an officer in the elementary schools. After deciding there were no further concerns, the committee decided to meet in the Board Room on January 7, 1992, at 5:30 p.m. for the next meeting. In the event of snow, the meeting will be cancelled. Respectfully submitted, ~~~ Sue Bennett Recorder NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on November 5, 1991 The North Little Rock Biracial Committee met on November 5, 1991, at 5:30 p.m. in the media center of Central Elementary School. The following committee members were in attendance: Arlean Robertson, Ivory Young, Opal Goldsby, Arnette Dotson, Lori Pledger, Susan Shaunfield, Gayle Wine, Thomas Baskins, Michele Poole, Valencia Power, Dan Floyd, Felix Thibault and Robert Johnson. The administrative staff members present were James Smith, Jim Morris, Dana Chadwick and Mable Bynum. Anita Cameron was ill and unable to attend. Jake Sandlin from the DemocratGazette represented the media. Mr. Hunter had sent word he would be late, so Gayle Wing opened the meeting. Mrs. Wing asked for an update on the District news. Mrs. Bynum stated she had talked with Mable Mitchell about our search for a patron from zone one. She said she was pleased to have a new member who had consented to represent that zone, and she introduced the new member, Lori Pledger. Then the committee introduced themselves to Lori. Mrs. Bynum gave the committee some background on the establishment of Central as an elementary school. She informed them it was created from the merger of Argenta and Pine Elementary Schools. She also introduced the Principal of Central Elementary, Kaye Lowe. Mr. Smith, The Superintendent of the North Little Rock School District, thanked the committee for their input and help on planning the joining of the two schools. Mrs. Goldsby commented that she thought the plan had been successful, and as a teacher on the site, she said she was enjoying the school. She also commented that there were fewer discipline problems. Mr. Smith stated he believed part of the reason for the improvement of discipline was the workshops given called "Discipline with Dignity." The premise it is based on (Respect, Responsibility, and Love) seems to work. The next item on the agenda was a tour of the building. The tour, led by the principal, proceeded through several classrooms and the gym with a stop in the room for three/four year old students. Mrs. Lowe explained the program which serves children whose parents are now attending our high school and other high risk children. Next, the group moved to the computer lab. Letitia Martin, Instructional Computer Coordinator, and Cedric Black, Instructional Aide, were introduced to the entourage. Mrs. Martin explained that every day each student has time on the computer that is programmed for different levels so that all students may work on their own grade levels. Each committee member was given time to experiment and see a demonstration of the programs previously explained. After each person had some time with the program, Mrs. Martin answered questions from the group. The committee returned to the media center for comments and a discussion of the next meeting place and agenda. The comments were favorable and positive for extending the computer program. Mrs. Bynum reported that school-based desegregation teams had been names and would be trained soon. She also mentioned the Joshua Interveners site visits with resulting report would be completed soon, and the committee will be informed of the results when they arrive. Mr. Smith suggested we look at Ridgeroad Middle those who have not seen the recent renovations. check the calendar for meeting at Ridgeroad and there are no conflicts, the committee will meet Middle School on December 3, 1991, at 5:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sue Bennett, Recorder aw School next for Mrs. Bynum will let us know. If at Ridgeroad NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting The North Little Rock Biracial Committee met on January 7, 1992, at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the Administrative Office. The following committee members were in attendance: Thomas Baskins, Sue Bennett, Anita Cameron, Dan Floyd, Charles Hunter, Pat Hunter, Robert Johnson, Sheryll Lipscomb, Michelle Poole, Valencia Power, Susan Shaunfield, Felix Thibault, and Ivory Young. The administrative staff present were Mable Bynum, Dana Chadwick, Esther Crawford, Jim Morris, and James Smith. Jake Sandlin from the Democrat-Gazette represented the media. Garry Canady and Frank White were in attendance as guest speakers. Mr. Hunter opened the meeting with the introduction of Officers Canady and White. He explained that Garry and Frank are North Little Rock patrol officers assigned to the two North Little Rock High School campuses. Officer Canady works at the West Campus and Officer White works at the East Campus. (In August 1991, following City Council approval, the North Little Rock School District became the first in Arkansas to implement the Police Officers Resource Program being used nationally.) Mr. Hunter asked about their job and how it is going. Frank White said, "Things are going well". He said he began the year not wearing a uniform to ease into a teaching and public relation role. He said, "I zeroed in on developing a rapport with the students and I am now beginning to see the results." Teachers were notified of different areas available for presentations. There have been 87 total presentations since the beginning of school. In addition, there have been 45 counseling sessions. Officer Canady explained that his approach is somewhat different. He has been working with students missing school and said there has been a drop in the number of students not attending. Garry said one of the services he provides is in helping the special education students get ready for their drivers' tests. He helps them study, takes them to take the test, and gives them the test. Twenty-five of twenty-nine have passed the test. Robert Johnson asked the officers if the students are confiding in them. Garry said yes, they do come by and talk. Garry said he has worked with the SADD group to procure a vehicle. The vehicle was placed on display for posters, etc. Charles Hunter asked the officers if there is a way to help them. Frank White said, "There is a meeting of ssociation of Resource Officers. It could be new ideas to expand the program. The pport for the officers' attendance would be quested information concerning the students' recent fight at the East Campus. Officer White nts were supportive and concerned, and some Nanted a description of the fight. There was ~he crime rate in North Little Rock and in the discubsion reflected optimism that fighting in down. Officer Canady felt that the Resource ., and the curfew might be having an effect. 2xpressed their approval of the officers' work ~pplause. Mr. Hunter asked if there were other . Bynum mentioned the next court date is he also said, "There will be a staff -gram concerning prejudice reduction _ixty people will be trained and then these in all secondary staff members." Mr. Floyd lt it is not good to be part of a monitoring Jwn school. He felt someone personally - be objective. Mrs. Bynum agreed but stated a staff member might be aware of a problem be addressed otherwise. Ms. Cameron suggested ~ea feedback for the Officer Resource Program J directly to the students. Mr. James Smith ,meron also asked for an update of the 1001 at the next meeting. Mr. Hunter closed by ~ meet again at 5:30 in the Board Room J2. However, if there is not an agenda, the ill be in March. 0 NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Mee~ing on July 7, 1992 The North Little Rock Districtwide Biracial Committee m~t on July 7, 1992, at 5:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Central Office. The following corumictee members were present: Robert Johnson, Anita Cdltleron, Amanda wart, Pat Hunttr, Lori Pledger, Charles Hunter, Susan Shaunfield, Michelle Poole, Felix Thibault and Ivury Young. Jim Morris, Esther Crawford, Mable Bynum, and Dana Chadwick were also pLesent from the Central Office Staff. Charles Hunter opened the meeting with a discussion of the spring monitoring report. He asked for comments and questions regarding the report. A synopsis by Mable Bynum revealed that all schvols were in compliance with the student assignment plan and that the concerns from monitoring committees generally dealt with the ~ame weaknesses found during previous monitoring periods. She also stated that specific concerns from each building were directed to the proptr departments. Mr. Johnson comrnetted that discipline reports show the numbe of "weapon related infrdctions" and "gang related activities" were down. Possibilities for this were discussed including the Saturday Schoel alternative and the presence and effecciveness of the police officers in the High Schools. Felix Thibault questioued the frequency of monitoring schools twice each year. Mrs. Bynum related thac there is improvement in many cases from one monitoring periud tu the next and tha~ is important to note. Mr. Hunter concluded that even though the process is slow, it is reas~uLing tu know that we (the district) are duing something about it. Mrs. Bynum updated progress in the court hearings relating that the "Incentive Schools" were undergving municvriug reports at this time dnd as more informatiun was known, it would be reported. Dana Chadwick reported thac the new Mdth/Science Specialty High School has uot revealed entrance requirements as this is a planning year for the school. Mrs. Bynum gave each member copies of the North Little Rock Desegregation Plan and the Inttrdistrict Pldn which has been accepted as presented to the courts. Members were asked to read the plan~ for familiarity and they will be explained in detail at an early fall Biracial meeting. The last order of busintss on the agenda conce..cned filling the vacancies that will open from thuse members who served a two year term. Cha..clel::> Huntt:!r encouraged members to consider extending their ttrms and continue to serve on the Biracial Committee. Mrs. Bynum will cvntact these members to find out their intentious. She will also pc,11 committee members who hdve nut dttended meeting~ un a regular basis. Additionally, there are two slc,ts that could be filled by other minuritits. The Hispanic/American populatiun is incr~asing in our Di~trict every year, particularly in the elementary grades. District personl!tl and Biracial Committee members will try tu identify possible committee members from other minority groups. Members present voted to meet again September 1, 1992. SS:aw North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on September 1, 1992 The North Little Rock Districtwide Biracial Committee met on September 1, 1992, at 5:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administration Building. The following committee members were present: Charles Hunter, Dan Floyd, Robert Johnson, Sheryl Lipscomb, Anita Cameron, Ivory Young, Artha Minton, Thomas Baskins, Pat Hunter, Arlean Robertson and Michelle Poole. The following administrative staff were pr~sent: James Smith, Mable Bynum, Dana Chadwick, Bobby Acklin, Jim Morris, Gene Jones, Esther Crawford and Greg Daniels. Chairman Charles Hunter called the meeting to order and opened discussion of the quarterly Status Report mailed to members for study prior to the meeting. Mr. Baskins questioned the need for such a lengthy report and Mrs. Bynum replied that it was court ordered. Mrs. Bynum also informed the committee that our request, from a previous meeting, for yearly monitoring reports rather than semester monitoring reports will be referred to the Desegregation Monitor's office and that she will wait for a response. Copies of the North Little Rock School District and Interdistrict Desegregation Plans were distributed to members not in attendance at the July meeting. Robert Johnson asked Gene Jones if a follow-up plan for students served by HIPPY and other pre-school programs had been devised. Mr. Jones responded that a coding system for permanent record information was being studied but had not been implemented. Mr. Johnson suggested that some system for checking the influence of these programs on student behavior should also be considered. He also suggested that the follow up could be used to channel funding into the programs proven most effective. Chairman Hunter requested that Mr. Jones provide the committee with an update on programs. Mr. Jones noted an expansion in the 3-4 year program and stated that 375 children were being serviced through HIPPY, Even Start and Arkansas Better Chance programs. Mr. Jones said that many students being serviced through the PALS Lab at the West Campus were testing above the highest level. He added that Prejudice Reduction Training sessions had been held for all transportation and food service workers and had been met with positive results. The Alternative School program has been expanded to include a class for special education students previously served through homebound services and a class for K-1 students with severe behavioral problems. He added that initial district enrollment figures reflect an increase of 100 students from 1991-92, even though kindergarten enrollment dropped by four students from the previous year. Mr. Hunter asked if the Cooperative Discipline program model had been presented to the staff? Mr. Jones responded that materials had been purchased and presented to building administrators during a two-day training session. These trained administrators then presented the information to their staffs during building level pre-school sessions. Mrs. Bynum asked Mr. Jones to explain the addition of a social worker to the support staff. He stated that Bobbie Riggins had been assigned to deal with pregnant girls and student mothers. Her duties include assisting the students in obtaining services provided by the Department of Human Services and assisting those who had dropped out in returning to school. Anita Cameron had positive comments about the initial phase of the program at the West Campus. Mr. Baskins asked Mr. Smith if the teacher dispute was likely to be settled soon and Mrs. Bynum asked to delay response on the issue until later in the meeting. Mrs. Bynum reported that District student handbooks had been received and revised by the Discipline Committee. She provided committee members with copies of each organizational level handbook. Mr. Acklin stated that he and Mr. Haynie, Transportation Director, were still "working the bugs out" of the student transportation assignments. Jim Morris was asked to address personnel concerns. He stated that there were no vacancies and that all but two of the employees affected by the RIF Policy had been reinstated or had been employed elsewhere. On the minority hiring problem, Mr. Morris stated that there were two new minority elementary teachers hired. Mrs. Bynum added that a gifted/talented teacher position and choral music teacher position had been filled by minorities. In reference to Mr. Baskins question concerning the teacher dispute, Mr. Smith reported that today had been the deadline for submitting stipulations and that negotiations were continuing in other areas. Mr. Baskins asked if a strike was likely. Mr. Smith said he hoped not but couldn't say. Mr. Smith then handed out a list of suggested expenditures (see attached) if the refinancing of bonds is approved at the September 15 election. Anita Cameron asked about publicity efforts on this issue. Mr. Smith responded that he had discussed it with various PTA groups and had provided information to the North Little Rock Times. Mrs. Bynum noted that some of the recommended expenditures were a direct result cf monitoring reports. Mr. Smith noted that transportation problems discussed earlier were a direct result of busses that needed to be replaced and noted that one of the suggested expenditures was for new busses. Mr. Johnson asked if the district had explored the possibility of natural gas/propane busses. Mr. Floyd stated that, due to increased costs for these fuels, a real savings would not be realized. Mr. Hunter advised the committee that committee member, Robert Johnson, was seeking a school board position in the September 15 election and wished him good luck. Mr. Hunter announced that the next meeting would be held on the first Tuesday in October at 5:30 p.m. The meeting adjourned. AC:aw I RECEiVED NOV 9 19'2 omce of Dasegreg~\iMJno nitor~,g NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on October 6, 1992 The North Little Rock Biracial Committee met on October 6, 1992, at 5:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administration Building. The following committee members were in attendance: Thomas Baskins, Sue Bennett, Anita Cameron, Caryn Duckery, Pat Hunter, Robert Johnson, Michelle Poole, Valencia Walker, Rev. Rochester Rodgers, Antonio Franco, Amanda Ware, Gayle Wing and Felix Thibault. The following administrative staff were in attendance: Mable Bynum, Dana Chadwick, Jim Morris, Greg Daniels and Bobby Acklin. The meeting was called to order by Vice President, Gayle Wing. Mable Bynum introduced and welcomed the two new members, Caryn Duckery and Antonio Franco. Mrs. Bynum also expressed the committee and school district's appreciation to Robert Johnson for his dedication to the district in running for the School Board. Mr. Johnson said he enjoyed the opportunity to say some things. He talked about having viewed an AETN broadcast about a program named MICRO being implemented in an elementary school with low standardized test scores. He said the school was organized like a micro community with banks, legislature, etc. Robert said he hoped we could investigate the organization of a program similar to this one. After a discussion of this school program, Mrs. Wing informed the committee that this was the time for new officers to be elected. The committee discussed the re-election of Charles Hunter for President. Mrs. Bynum told the committee that Mr. Hunter had called to apologize for not being able to attend, but he wanted it known that he thought other people should share the chairmanship. Anita Cameron nominated Robert Johnson for President. Felix Thibault seconded the motion and all voted in favor. Mr. Thibault then nominated Thomas Baskins for Vice President. Valencia Walker seconded and all voted in favor. Pat Hunter was nominated recording Secretary by Amanda Ware and seconded by Anita Cameron. All voted in favor. Following the election of officers, the 1992-93 enrollment data with a break down of racial composition of schools was furnished to each member. The data excluded kindergarten enrollment. Mrs. Bynum explained to the committee that our court plan says that each spring we must revisit enrollment within two points of compliance at each school. Our 1992-93 approved percent range for black enrollment is 37.9% - 63.1% for elementary and 35.9% - 59.8% for secondary. There was a discussion of our overall enrollment figures and 1992-93 enrollment numbers were compared with 1991-92. They are as noted below: Elementary Secondary District 1991-92 5083 (49.4% black) 4181 (43.9% black) 9264 (46.9% black) 1992-93 5116 (50.3% black) 4135 (45.8% black) 9251 (48.3% black) Mrs. Bynum furnished information regarding 1992-93 certified staffing percentages by race and gender as of October 1, 1992. Mr. Morris mentioned that eight of the thirteen teachers RIFed were recalled. Three of five not recalled were black. Mr. Johnson asked about recruiting black elementary counselors. Mr. Morris said that counselors must teach first so recruiting is done for teachers and then counselors are promoted from within. Mr. Chadwick told the group we can recruit from six counselor educator programs around the state. He related to the committee there had been a tri-district reception to encourage interested teachers to become counselors. He also mentioned there were several counselors around 40 years old who would be retiring about the same time and there would be a need to do some recruiting for several positions about the same time. Amanda Ware asked if she could talk about the Joshua Intervenor's visit. She said some of the teachers were upset about the monitoring. She said the teachers were concerned about the interruption of class time and there was some berating of the teachers. Mrs. Bynum mentioned that the District's Desegregation team had met with the intervenors and she had hoped that all would follow a procedure that would be more productive than in the past. The committee seemed to agree there appeared to be a lack of adequate inservice on monitoring that was causing the. problem. Mr. Thibault asked if the committee should put forth a letter requesting that the monitors develop and adhere to guidelines for more appropriate monitoring procedures? Mr. Johnson suggested the proper course of action would be to approach Mr. Smith and come to an agreement with him before taking any other action. He promised to report back to the committee on this matter. The committee agreed to adjourn until November 10, 1992. Mrs. Bynum will check to see if the Parent Center Annex would be available for the next meeting. SB:aw OCT 1 5 \993 NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT Ollice of DesegregatioMn onitoring North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on September 7, 1993 The North Little Rock School District Biracial Committee met on September 7, 1993, at 5:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administrative Building. The following members were present: Anita Cameron, Tammy Collier, Caryn Duckery, Dan Floyd, Antonio Franco, Charles Hunter, Pat Hunter, Robert Johnson, Arlean Robertson-Ford, Felix Thibault, and Valencia Walker. The administration was represented by the following: Bobby Acklin, Mable Bynum, Dana Chadwick, Esther Crawford, Greg Daniels, Gene Jones, James Smith, and Donald Watkins. Chairman Robert Johnson called the meeting to order by welcoming the members back to the first meeting of the new school year. He announced that several members were unable to attend because of prior commitments. Chairman Johnson stated that he had planned a brainstorming session for this meeting to come up with items and information to focus on during the year. He continued by saying that during last years' meetings the committee had looked at different sections of the Desegregation Plan. He asked the committee what would be their response if they were asked by a patron, parent, or by Judge Webber-Wright, to explain where the North Little Rock School District was in compliance with implementing the required mandated plan, if they would be able to do so in an effective manner? After a brief discussion, it was concluded that most members were well informed. Chairman Johnson stressed the importance that the members primary responsibility was to be well informed about the plan and continue a monitoring process, in order to give advice and recommendations for improvement to the Administrators and the Board of Education. Using an easel and pad, Robert suggested that they make a list of items for study and focus during the regularly scheduled meetings. Felix Thibault suggested that the issue of academic achievement disparity should be a priority. Greg Daniels spoke to the development of a data base for longitudinal study of student achievement. He continued by stating that he had already begun a data base information for the pre-school students where the students can be evaluated as they come up through the system so that we can look at how effectively the different programs are working. Mr. Smith addressed the fact that so many patrons, parents, and the courts are not totally aware of how very low the test scores are for some students when they enter school. Mr. Jones commented that they are often in the 25 percentile. Mr. Smith said that in evaluating our progress of student achievement, Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on Sept.ember 7, 1993 page 2 the factorof where the students were at the beginning should weigh heavily in measuring our success. Anita Cameron stated that many of the disparity reduction and remedial actions we have taken are at the early levels, and we have an immense need to take action at the secondary level to help students meet graduation requirements and retention of these students. She stressed that many of the students end up as drop-outs. A brief discussion followed with it being pointed out that teachers can in many cases identify these students at the elementary level, and some students are promoted without acquiring the necessary skills and grades to acquire enough credits for graduation, thus when they reach the ninth, tenth, or eleventh grades they become disillusioned and end up dropping from school. Arlean Robertson-Ford suggested that vocational programs started at the seventh grade level through the twelfth grade level would enable some students to obtain enough skills in some area to give incentive to complete graduation. Anita Cameron suggested that this could include some type of apprenticeship program. Robert Johnson spoke to the issue of students' perception of themselves and the black/white issue addressed at the previous meeting in June. He stressed the impact of the students' own self-esteem. Arlene Robertson-Ford addressed the issue. She pointed out that the lack of self-esteem in students could be helped by teachers, if they would take the time to identify these students that come from homes where they receive very little motivation or encouragement. These students need that extra attention given to them at the school site to boost their self concept. Robert Johnson asked if the district's teachers understood the Desegregation Plan? Anita Cameron responded that she thought the teachers understood the plan, but felt there was a lack of buying into the plan in their personal commitment and responsibility to the plan on the part of some teachers. The plan has been made available in each building and principals were directed to speak to their building staff concerning the Desegregation Plan during pre-school inservice sessions and at regular staff meetings. Valencia Walker stated that she felt that students need to be taught to like school and see the importance of education and the impact it will have on them in the future, before we can see a vast difference in test scores. She pointed out that many of our students' parents did not complete school, and they do not really see that it will make a difference in their own lives. She also gave examples where students were recognized for some particular achievement at school and because other students made light of it, the students were reluctant to come to the front of the room to accept the recognition and award. Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on September 7, 1993 page 3 Arlean Robertson-Ford and Charles Hunter spoke to the issue of educating the parents. Mrs. Robertson-Ford related information from the Teachers of Tomorrow Academy materials that stressed that students should be rewarded for mistakes because it is alright to make mistakes, and adults also make mistakes. Her point being that if a student is trying to contribute to a class and he/she says something that is not necessarily correct, commend the student for his/her contribution. She also stressed that teachers should never give up trying to educate the parents if need be, because a continued effort would get results in many cases. Charles Hunter stressed the importance of educating the parents and public on the Desegregation Plan, because all they appear to know is what they read in the paper and see on the television. They really do not know exactly what the plan consists of, or the many programs offered by the North Little Rock School District. He suggested articles on programs and activities within the district. He said that he thought we had a great deal to offer the students of our area. Mrs. Bynum said she would discuss this matter with Karen Colford, the district's Communications Coordinator. Mr. Smith pointed out that the Desegregation Plan was written by the district and Judge Webber-Wright keeps telling us in court that it is our plan, and her role is to see that it is carried out. Anita Cameron spoke to the issue that the plan was written to help our educational program and the students, and that people should not see the district's programs and activities as efforts simply designed to"get out of court." She stressed we are doing what needs to be done, and that we still had remaining needs. Felix Thibault spoke to his concern that many things that go before the court should be settled at the administrative level and not in the court. Robert Johnson pointed out that the district has made efforts to address concerns from monitoring groups or those from ODM in just such an effort to demonstrate good faith effort at plan compliance. Arlean Robertson-Ford suggested a group from the committee meet and put together a package of information concerning the Desegregation Plan, and let members of the Biracial Committee take it to each school, when the schools have Open House, PTA meetings, or parent sessions to meet with parents for a few minutes to explain the plan and what the district is trying to do. In summary the items and concerns identified are as follows: (1) Evaluate Programs Designed to Reduce Disparity (2) Dropout Rate/Graduation Rate (3) Look Into Apprenticeship Programs (4) Student Perceptions/Self Esteem Minutes of Districtwide Biracial Meeting on September 7, 1993 page 4 (5) Teacher Expectations of Students (6) Students See Relevance of Education/Like School (7) Continue to Educate Parents (8) Educate the Public (9) Presentations at Open House Robert Johnson asked that members choose several of the concerns that they were particularly interested in and meet in small groups at their convenience. He suggested that the groups could meet for discussion at 4:30 p.m. on October 5, 1993, prior to the regularly scheduled meeting at 5:30 p.m. Anita Cameron questioned how they should prioritize. Robert suggested that they would prioritize by commitments. Members then selected the concerns they would like to work on, and the concerns were grouped in sections of three. Mrs. Bynum related that members of the administration would be more than willing to be involved and assist in anyway they could. Robert asked that the individual groups contact Mrs. Bynum as to time and place they would meet, and if they wanted the assistance of any certain administrator to request that Mrs. Bynum handle that for them. Mr. Smith thanked the members for their dedication and services in participating in the committee stating that he appreciated them greatly, for they provided a great service to the district and community. He spoke to the issue of the millage increase vote and urged their support to help pass the millage on September 21, 1993. He pointed out that if we didn't get the increase we could eventually be forced to merge with the Little Rock and Pulaski County Districts and an automatic eight mills increase would be enforced. He stressed that the district was asking for the increase so that we could stay a separate entity and make our own decisions, instead of letting some one else make decisions for us. He furnished copies of "Facts About the North Little Rock School Millage." (See Attachment 1.) The district is asking for a 3.0 mills increase for the North Little Rock School District, which would still be 4.6 mills less than Little Rock or Pulaski County Special School Districts. Mr. Smith stressed the need to have funds available to replace the desegregation funds currently being received from the settlement agreement, which will end after the 1995-96 school year. He spoke to the district's Project Link. The district has purchased two vans to provide transportation for parents and students, when it is necessary for a parent to come to school for a conference or a student to leave the campus. He said that many parents did not have transportation, and the administration thought that this might help eliminate some suspensions. The committee agreed that this was a commendable undertaking. Valencia Walker related that she had heard a secondary teacher Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on September 7, 1993 page 5 complain that secondary students often failed to pick up their final report cards because they did not have transportation. She asked if possibly the Project Link van could be used to deliver report cards? A brief discussion followed concerning the cost involved and whether it would be less expensive to mail the report cards. Mr. Jones commented that the schools mail the report cards if a student will leave a stamped, addressed envelope in the office. It was agreed that consideration would be given to mailing these report cards if not cost prohibitive. The next item considered was the election of a Chairperson for the 1993-94 school year. Felix Thibault moved that Robert Johnson continue as Chairperson if he was willing to do so. The motion was seconded by Charles Hunter. Mrs. Bynum called for a vote. YEAS: Anita Cameron, Tammy Collier, Caryn Duckery, Dan Floyd, Antonio Franco, Charles Hunter, Pat Hunter, Arlean Robertson-Ford, Robert Johnson, Felix Thibault, Valencia Walker NAYS: None Charles Hunter moved that other officers would be elected at the October meeting. The motion was seconded by Anita Cameron. Mrs. Bynum called for a vote. YEAS: Anita Cameron, Tammy Collier, Carny Duckery, Dan Floyd. Antonio Franco, Charles Hunter, Pat Hunter, Arlean Robertson-Ford, Robert Johnson, Felix Thibault, Valencia Walker NAYS: None Robert Johnson suggested that individual groups might want to get together after the meeting adjourned to discuss a time and place convenient for the groups to meet. The next meeting was set for October 5, 1993, at 5:30 p.m., to meet at the Administration Building and be transported in the Project Link vans or other district vehicles to Lynch Drive Elementary School and Rose City Elementary Alternative Center. Minutes of the Districtwide Biracial Meeting on September 7, 1993 page 6 Meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, tlv4i:w~, ATTACHM1E NT JFA<CT~ about the North Little Rock School Millage Election Day : Tuesday, September 21, 1993 Current millage rates in local districts: Little Rock School District millage rate Pulaski County Special School District mi11age rate ~9.~:g~1:.R~J.t:S9D1iio.so.it ri..~~.~::
:::::D::::
::::::m!43.9 43.9 t::tii'.M
Jt: The North Little Rock School District is asking North Little Rock citizens for an increase in the mill levy on real and personal property. The current millage rate is 36.3. The School District is proposing a rate of 39.3 mills, an increase of 3.0 mills. 1.0 mill needed for capital outlay: continued removal of asbestos from buildings work toward compliance with Americans With Disabilities Act repair of parking lots and driveways roof replacements and building repairs equipment 2.0 mills needed to: provide required step increases for all eligible employees. (Certified and Classified) replace revenue that would have been produced from assessments that have been removed due to recent legislation and court opinions (includes household personal property, car dealer inventories, and manufacturer inventories). replace loss of property assessments to Pulaski County Special School District. This millage increase will cost approximately $60.00 more per year for the homeowner with property valued at $100,000. When voters pass the 3.0 mills, the millage for North Little Rock schools will still be 4.6 mills less than our neighbors in LRSD and PCSSD. Future millage increases may be necessary in order for the District to continue to provide our children with the same opportunities as LRSD and PCSSD. NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on July 13, 1993 The North Little Rock School District Desegregation team met on Tuesday, July 13, 1993, at 2:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administration Building. The following members attended the meeting: Mable Bynum-Chairperson, Mr. James Smith, Mr. Bobby Acklin, Mr. Jerry Massey, Mr. Jim Morris, Mr. Donald Watkins and Karen Colford. Avis Wooldridge acted as reporter for the meeting. Mrs. Bynum opened the meeting by thanking the members for changing their schedules in order to meet. She stated that the team needed to discuss some of the things that had come up in court recently and emphasized that we should begin to prepare for an audit of our plan. She re-emphasized the responsibility of the team to monitor our plan and the effectiveness of the programs implemented and progress made in meeting all requirements. Mrs. Bynum stated that business cases was also an item addressed in court by Judge Webber-Wright. She continued a discussion with Mr. Watkins clarifying that business cases had been required of the other districts so that they could justify activities and programs related to in the budget especially as it relates to the requirements of the desegregation plan and the use of desegregation money. Mrs. Bynum emphasized a critical need of justification of inclusion or exclusion of an activity or program. A brief discussion followed concerning the Order of Judge Webber-Wright that both Little Rock and Pulaski County School Districts revise their budgets. Mr. Smith commented on the possibility of the other two districts depleting their desegregation money prior to the seven years it would be allotted. He stressed the importance that we do not want this to happen in the North Little Rock School District. A lengthy discussion followed concerning funding of different programs and activities with Mr. Watkins explaining the specifics of which programs and activities are funded with desegregation money and funding supplied from other sources. Mr. Watkins commented that Bob Morgan from the Office of Desegregation Monitoring had met with him to study our budgeting procedure and was pleased with the way it was presented. Mrs. Bynum reminded the team that the fourth quarterly status update information was due. She went through the list pointing Minutes of Desegregation Team Meeting July 13, 1993 page 2 out specific information required of each administrator in this report. Mr. Acklin questioned if a discipline analysis should be included in the fourth quarter report. Mrs. Bynum responded that the discipline analysis would be presented to the Board of Education at the July meeting, and then included in the fourth quarterly court update. Mrs. Bynum reported that she and Mr. Smith had met with Attorney, Steve Jones, and in discussing the status reports agreed that perhaps, the team would be wise to take additional time to talk about and study the information submitted by each administrator when a quarterly report was due, thus ensure that each administrator would have a better understanding of each other's progress. She also suggested that we could have a synopsis of what is reported. Mr. Acklin brought up the next item for discussion. He reported that the principal at North Little Rock High School-East Campus had requested a cut off of M-to-M transfers to that building, because we were at full capacity at this time. Discussion followed with team members agreeing that if records show we were at full capacity, then we would have to cut off M-to-M transfers into that building, at least until after school starts and we can get an accurate student count. If enrollment allows for openings, we can then accept new M-to-M transfers at that location. Mrs. Bynum asked Mr. Acklin how we get figures on M-to-M transfer students who perhaps will not be returning to North Little Rock School District next year? Mr. Acklin responded that we get copies of withdrawal forms on students and this information is passed on to the principals as they are processed. Mr. Morris stated that the desegregation plan orders a cooperative working relationship within the three districts. He related an incident that happened recently in Personnel which shows that the North Little Rock School District is striving to meet this requirement. We had hired a black female applicant for an elementary position and she had signed a commitment, but later asked to be released to go to work for the Little Rock School District, and we have released her. The next item discussed was plans to move the Elementary Alternative School program to the Rose City Elementary School building vacated by combining Rose City with Lynch Drive Elementary School. The high cost of portable buildings that had to be used and energy inefficiency were some of the reasoning in combining the two schools. Discussion continued concerning the use of the building by fifty or sixty students as compared to 250 Minutes of Desegregation Team Meeting July 13, 1993 page 3 to 260 students. Mr. Smith pointed out that with the removal of the portable buildings, the school was left with a large playground which the elementary students did not have now at the Alternative School building. It was agreed that by using five or six of the rooms in the Rose City Elementary School building would be much more acceptable for the elementary students assigned to the Alternative program. It was agreed that the cafeteria was adequate to accommodate this small group of students. Mr. Smith pointed out that Margie Powell from the Office of Desegregation Monitoring had endorsed this use of the building in a conversation with Gene Jones. He also stated that our attorney was advising the Joshua Intervenors of these plans, and a meeting is scheduled with Biracial Committee members to inform them of the plan and to get their input on this move. The request to move this program will be presented to the School Board at the July meeting. Mrs. Bynum stated that Mr. Jones and Mr. Hawkins, Alternative Education Center's Principal, should look at the ODM's monitoring report of the Alternative School and make sure that all concerns in the report were addressed. She stressed that an assessment of both facilities should be made prior to the move. Mr. Acklin brought up a discussion of students who try to avoid attendance at the Alternative School after being assigned. He stated that he had received a doctor's note stating that a student assigned to the school was not able to be bussed. He continued by saying that after further investigation, the note was written for another child. He stressed that some of the excuses are legitimate, but they had to be scrutinized closely. He continued by asking the other team members if they heard grumbling about these assignments to be aware that we want to encourage their attendance to the Alternative School if they have been assigned there. Mr. Smith led the next item of discussion concerning the district's need of extra transportation in order to help parents get more involved with their children's education. He stated that he was considering buying an additional bus or two and hiring one or two paraprofessionals to transport parents to and from school for conferencing when needed. A brief discussion followed concerning the issue of many of the parents of our students not having transportation and in many cases do not have a telephone at their residence. Mr. Acklin pointed out that his office could use the help of a paraprofessional in a bus to check an address when his office is unable to reach a parent by telephone. Team members agreed there was a need for this service if the district could afford to implement the plan. Mr. Smith said that he would have the Purchasing Office to ask for bids on vehicles, and he would keep the team members informed of progress in this area. Minutes of Desegregation Team Meeting July 13, 1993 page 4 Mrs. Bynum stated plans to make the district's Desegregation Plan available to all certified personnel by the beginning of the 1993-94 school year. Plans to furnish copies of the Introduction and Overview sections of the Interdistrict Plan are now in the working. The entire Interdistrict Plan will be available for study in school offices and media centers. Mrs. Bynum stated a need to schedule dates for a plan review with our principals, as well as discussion of other legal issues, prior to the beginning of the new school year. She mentioned due process, sexual harassment, conflict resolution and ADA as examples of issues to be discussed. Mrs. Bynum inquired if the team members would like to set a different date and time to meet on a monthly basis. After a short discussion, it was agreed to schedule the meetings at the same time on the second Monday of each month at 1:30 p.m. She said that the Biracial Committee would also have to decide at the September meeting if they would use the same regular meeting date and time. Mrs. Bynum urged team members to submit names of parents living in Zone 1, who would be willing to serve on the Biracial Committee. Meeting was adjourned at 3:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, {)~J~ Avis Wooldridge NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on 8/30/93 The North Little Rock School District Desegregation team met on Monday, August 30, 1993, at 1:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administration Building. The following members attended the meeting: Mrs. Mable Bynum-Chairperson, Mr. James Smith, Mr. Bobby Acklin, Mr. Jim Dyer, Mr. Gene Jones, Mr. Jerry Massey, Mr. Jim Morris, Mr. Donald Watkins, and Mrs. Karen Colford. Avis Wooldridge acted as recorder for the meeting. Mrs. Bynum opened the meeting by stressing that the fourth quarterly status reports should be submitted as soon as possible. She questioned members as to progress toward completion. Administrators reported that reports were complete or nearing completion. Mrs. Bynum furnished copies of forms showing each administrators' area of responsibility along with which quarterly report that the information should be included. (See Attachment 1.) The team members took a short time to study the information to see that information was available to submit with the fourth quarterly report. Mrs. Bynum addressed the need of audit reports. She stated that she and Mr. Smith had spoken to Attorney Steve Jones on this matter and it was decided that our attorney would meet with the team to look at the items we need to pull for assessment. Mr. Smith spoke to the importance of this assessment, in order for us to look at just what we have accomplished, and what we must concentrate on during the next few years to fully meet the mandated plan. Mrs. Bynum furnished copies of a form used by the Little Rock School District for implementation status to audit their progress of the Desegregation Plan. She suggested that we could develop a similar form which each administrator could use to assess his/her areas of responsibility. Mr. Jones commented that this would be a tremendous job. Mrs. Bynum stressed that each item addressed in the plan should be listed and assessed. Mr. Dyer spoke to the testing required of kindergarten students as addressed in the plan. He said that this was only one of the items called for in the plan and we must check to make sure the testing was being done in the schools and teachers using the scores for diagnostic purposes. Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on 8/30/93 page 2 Mrs. Bynum pointed out that the plan calls for kindergarten programs to be established at each of the elementary schools with 100 percent attendance by all eligible students. She stated that the District had accomplished this requirement, and also had implemented several pre-school programs which were proving successful. Mrs. Bynum said that she would check with Attorney Jones and set a convenient time for him to meet with us. She stressed that he would require documentation to cover each issue addressed. She suggested that each administrator read through the plan once again and make a list of his/her areas of responsibility making sure that each area was assessed. Mr. Daniels asked if it would be beneficial to have information in the data base file kept as a historical progress report on each item. After a brief discussion, it was decided that a committee of three or four persons from the team be appointed to study this idea and develop a form for such information that could be kept in the data base file, which could be updated periodically, giving us immediate access to progress thus far in each area. Mrs. Bynum, Mr. Daniels, Mr. Dyer, and Ms. Wooldridge agreed to serve on this committee. Mr. Jones asked if this would be used as the quarterly status update? Mrs. Bynum responded that this would not replace the quarterly status update reports, but would be kept as an annual update of progress covered each quarter for an annual assessment. Mr. Acklin informed the team members of some of the problems encountered this year with the student assignment plan. He related a complaint by a parent that her child was one of seven white students in a third grade classroom at Central Elementary School. After checking the enrollment of third grade classes at Central Elementary, it was found that we have only seven white students in each of the three third grade classes at that school. We further checked third grade enrollment in several other of our elementary schools and found they show the same pattern, but it was obvious that careful thought had been given in the placement of the students by race and gender, and the district had no control over the enrollment of a particular grade. Mrs. Bynum spoke to the issue by stating that the only solution to a situation like this would have all of a particular grade at one school. She pointed out that we were experiencing a reverse of the situation experienced 20 years ago, when white students outnumbered black students. Mr. Smith commented that the problem was prevalent in both third and fourth grades. Mrs. Bynum said that she had talked with Attorney Jones about the student assignment situation and it was his opinion that the district was implementing the student Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on 8/30/93 page 3 assignment plan as it was mandated, and we did not have a solution that would be financially feasible for the district. Mr. Smith addressed the issue of white parents pulling students out to go to private schools, which compounds our problem. A lengthy discussion followed concerning racial breakdown of the district with Mr. Smith pointing out that we were about 52 percent black at the present time. It was noted that all enrollment information was tentative before the October 1 official data. Mr. Massey pointed out that this was the reason that the Little Rock School District had established the incentive schools. Mr. Massey continued by stating that he did not know at what percentage the District would want to look for some options to prevent white flight. Mr. Smith asked Mr. Morris when would we look at student/ teacher shifts in elementary schools? Mr. Morris responded that he had made arrangements with Ms. Crawford to take care of it by mid-week. Mr. Smith cautioned that we should not let too much time elapse in order to avoid a student from getting too attached to a teacher. Mr. Dyer commented that there would also have to be a few modifications in the Chapter I staff after the numbers are analyzed. Mrs. Bynum asked if we should continue to follow the student assignment plan as it is now written? It was agreed that we would continue to adhere to the plan at the present time and wait to see what happens to the student population before going back to court to ask for modifications. Mr. Daniels stated that the plan calls for a straight alphabetic listing that we use for bussing, but asked if a straight alphabetic transfer by grades would be more effective in movement? It was agreed that by doing this we would be splitting students in the same family. Mr. Acklin said that we moved from a stand by list in the past. He said a better option might be to deal with each individual student as they enroll to avoid overcrowding in any one school or split classes. Mr. Smith stated that we needed to look at the entire student assignment process. He pointed out that when we first started a block of black students from each school was bussed for their entire elementary career. He continued by saying that occurred when the racial count was 80/20, but now that we are 50/50, maybe we should take a closer look at the whole process. He mentioned complaints from Park Hill regarding white students being bussed every other year. After further discussion, it was decided that we would immediately begin to study the matter and make recommended changes before the end of the year. Mr. Daniels commented that the fact of having so many small schools complicates the issue. Mrs. Bynum furnished copies of the recommendations from the Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on-8/30/93 page 4 Joshua Intervenors monitoring reports. (See Attachment 2.) She commented that they had made broad recommendations and asked members to take the time to study these recommendations. Mrs. Bynum said the Board of Education would be furnished copies and individual school copies would be sent to each school's principal to study. A lengthy discussion followed with particular errors in the reports being pointed out. Mrs. Bynum pointed out that we need to a member of the School Board to attend our Desegregation team meetings. It was agreed that we would wait until a new President of the Board of Education was elected and let that person decide which of the Board Members would serve on the team. Mrs. Bynum reminded the team members that the Biracial Committee was scheduled to meet on September 7, at 5:30 p.rn., in the Board Room. She urged their attendance and suggestions of items for discussion during the regularly scheduled Biracial Committee meetings during the school year. Mr. Smith suggested that the committee should be informed of the Project Link and that we should schedule one meeting at Lynch Drive Elementary to show them the additions and renovation that has been done on the building. Mrs. Bynum suggested that they also need to see the Elementary Alternative School that has been established at the Rose City site, since the committee was adamant about the need of quality alternative center in that area. Mr. Massey asked if there had been any monitoring visits reported at the Rose City facility? Mr. Smith responded that personnel from the Office of Desegregation Monitoring had been to the Lynch Drive Elementary School, and they had probably gone to look at the Rose City facility the same day. Mrs. Bynum stressed that we need to look at the concerns that ODM had shown in their report of the Alternative Education Center and make sure these concerns were corrected. She suggested we do the same at the Rose City location. Mr. Acklin addressed enrollment of students without a birth certificate. He said there were many students corning in without birth certificates or any school records. He said that he had let some enroll without a birth certificate and the counselors were upset with him. He said that Attorney Jones had agreed that we were obligated to take them in school if they lived within our school district. Mr. Smith stated that we could accept one of six different items: birth certificate, passport, baptismal certificate, statement of date of birth by a County Recorder, a parent's affidavit Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on 8/30/93 page 5 of date and place of birth, and shot records. Discussion continued concerning homeless students that are housed in church operated facilities. Mr. Smith stressed the importance of health records in order to protect the other students. Mr. Smith continued by saying that we must be sensitive to the students' needs, but we must obtain health records. Mr. Smith suggested that we follow up on screening any of these students before we go ahead and enroll the students. Mr. Jones reported that Sanford Tollette from Pfeifer Camp had called and asked if he could submit an alternative grant application through the North Little Rock School District to the State Department of Education. Mr. Jones said that he was working on an application for our district, and he understood that only one application from each district would be allowed. Mr. Smith responded that we would let Pfeifer Camp apply through our district only if more than one application would be considered, but the grant application for our district would have to take priority if only one application was allowed. Mr. Jones spoke to the information released by the State Department of Education concerning grant money from the government for the K-3 initiative program. He stated that our district was entitled to receive $148,960. under this program. He continued by pointing out that the district had already implemented the K-3 summer school program this summer using Chapter I funds, thus enabling us reimbursement of the funds used for the K-3 summer program. This funding will not be received until the later part of the year. A brief discussion followed concerning funding for reading recovery teachers. Mr. Jones reported on a problem with Chapter I. He asked Mr. Dyer to address the issue. Mr. Dyer stated that we had intended to do more of the whole class instruction in computer labs during the 1993-94 school year, but after we understood we had oral approval, and Mr. Dyer met with the principals to inform them of expansion, the State Department informed us that they were not sure about the program because the programs evaluation at Amboy and North Heights had not proven successful last year. He continued by reporting that he had met with Arlin Jones and Bob Kerr from the State Department of Education earlier today,and it was decided that they would allow implementation in four other elementary schools in the district during the 1993-94 school year. The schools identified were Lynch Drive, Boone Park, Central, and Park Hill. A lengthy discussion followed concerning factors surrounding the lack of effectiveness of the programs at Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on 8/30/93 page 6 Amboy and North Heights. Failure of teachers to become actively and enthusiastically involved with the program was discussed. Teachers must be with the students in the labs and they are able to work only with the Chapter I students. Discussion followed concerning how the schools were selected for participation in the program. Mr. Dyer explained that this program was tied to other programs in the schools, such as the H.O.T.S. program. Mr. Jones spoke to a new program sponsored by the Adult Literacy Commission. He stated that Ms. Jann Pharo represented us at a meeting recently and they want the district to implement a Toyota Family Literary program. Headstart will fund the classroom for three and four year old children and Adult Education will fund the adult parent in classes three days per week, with the parent serving as a volunteer at the school and working on the required credits for GED graduation. Mr. Jones stated that we would allot two rooms at the Rose City Alternative site for implementation of this program. A short discussion of the pre-school program followed. It was pointed out that we had not expanded the program this year, but preference was given to needy children and children of our own students. Mrs. Bynum reported on the Teachers of Tomorrow Academy. She stated an enrollment of 22 students thus far. Darlene Little from our district has been appointed teacher for the academy in view of the resignation of Michael Nellums, who previously had been appointed for the position. Meeting was adjourned at 3:00 p.m. NORTH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT North Little Rock, Arkansas Minutes of District Desegregation Team Meeting on 9/13/93 The North Little Rock School District Desegregation Team met on Monday, September 13, 1993, at 1:30 p.m., in the Board Room of the Administration Building. The following members attended the meeting: Mrs. Mable Bynum-Chairperson, Mr. James Smith, Mr. Jim Dyer, Mr. Gene Jones, Mr. Jerry Massey, Mr. Jim Morris, Mr. Donald Watkins, and Mrs. Karen Colford. Avis Wooldridge acted as recorder for the meeting. Mrs. Bynum opened the meeting by furnishing copies of the Joshua Monitoring Reports. After a thorough perusal of the reports, a lengthy discussion followed. Mrs. Bynum pointed out many things the Joshua Intervenors have failed to consider, some of these being that the North Little Rock School District is in compliance with their mandated plan and that our district had gone beyond what we said we would do in many areas. For example, the district had said that we would furnish transportation for students to attend extracurricular activities if the state would provide extra funding for transportation. Although the state failed to provide the extra funding, the district has taken it upon itself to provide this extra transportation. The implementation of the two Alternative Schools was also pointed out as ways the district has advanced beyond what we had said we would do. Our new program, Project Link, recently implemented, was also discussed. Many items in the monitoring reports addressed in error were called to the attention by various members. Mrs. Bynum stated that each principal was furnish
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