Claiborne Parish School District

The committee reviewed the annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The presentation resulted in an unmodified opinion on the financial statements with no significant deficiencies reported under Government Auditing Standards. Discussion also addressed a compliance issue regarding time certifications within the Child Nutrition Program, with the board implementing new written procedures and monitoring processes to ensure future adherence to federal requirements.

The Board approved the Haynesville lighting bid from Camus Electric for $174,200. The Superintendent presented a draft contract with an extension to the expiration date. Furthermore, the Board reviewed and approved the bid from Triad Builders of Ruston, Inc. in the amount of $784,000 for Haynesville auditorium renovations, including additional base amounts for specific building needs and potential funding sources.

The Executive and Finance Committees discussed several items for future consideration. The Superintendent proposed a potential revision to the pay scale, which included combining the superintendent's secretary and receptionist positions and increasing the salary for maintenance employees. Additionally, the Superintendent requested a review and extension of his contract by 1.5 years to ensure continuity as a new board commences its term in January 2027. The Business Manager reviewed banking accounts and recommended specific transfers between LAMP, FGB Checking, and FGB Money Market accounts, with a final decision pending at the next Regular Called Meeting. The committees also discussed the implementation of the Ten Commandments in classrooms following the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals decision, confirming that guidance would be provided to staff on handling student inquiries.

Key discussion points included the approval of cafeteria incentive pay for food service employees, conditional on employment as of January 5, 2026. The Board also approved the 2026-2027 district calendar, noting that Fall Break will now align with surrounding parishes. A significant financial action involved transferring the majority of LAMP funds to the First Guaranty Bank (FGB) Money Market account, leaving $1,000 in the account and $500,000 in checking before transferring the remainder to the Money Market account. The February 2026 financials were briefly discussed, and the Superintendent's Report noted upcoming events like Parent/Teacher Conferences and a tentative Special Called Meeting on March 26th to discuss lighting bids. The report also mentioned that Homer Elementary and Homer Jr. will receive new door decals and that FFA students are offering fire pits for a $300 donation.

The meeting included the recognition of a junior student for academic and athletic achievements, followed by the formal recognition of the Haynesville High School Football Team for winning the 2025 Division IV Non-Select State Football Championship, which involved reading a congratulatory resolution. Standing committee assignments for 2026 were also established. The Superintendent presented and received approval for the Student of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and Principal of the Year award recipients. Policy revisions pertaining to board meetings, recruitment, dismissal, and employee conduct, stemming from the 2025 Legislative Session, were approved. Permission was granted to bid for Haynesville auditorium renovations. The board briefly discussed January 2026 financials and interest rates, with further discussion planned for the Finance Committee in March. The Superintendent's report detailed personnel actions, including new hires, resignations, and retirements since the previous meeting, and provided updates on upcoming events and calendar review.