Betty Ward Cooper

The board recognized high school basketball teams for their championship achievements. Action was taken to approve a school security plan with an added priority for a key fob system. The board reviewed financial reports and discussed millage renewal propositions. Updates were provided regarding academic assessments, child nutrition services, custodial and warehouse operations, and transportation personnel. An executive session was held to discuss several pending legal cases, though no action was taken following the session.

The board honored the Neville High School Bengal Belle dance team for state and national achievements. Key actions included the approval of the 2026-2027 school calendar and the Hellas synthetic turf field replacement proposal. Discussions focused on the re-establishment of an ad hoc safety committee, ongoing district academic priorities and instructional coaching, child nutrition services, and maintenance training for HVAC conversions. The board reviewed security measures including open gate systems, state police inspections, and the development of a district winter weather response plan. Additionally, the board addressed transportation challenges regarding bus driver shortages and the status of an evaluated property lease, ultimately deciding not to proceed due to identified financial and legal risks.

The board approved several policy amendments, including regulations for artificial intelligence, surplus equipment sales, purchasing, and emergency management. The board authorized the purchase of property adjacent to the central office complex and approved an instructional contract package. The superintendent provided financial reports covering interest on investments, MFP funding, and ad valorem tax data, and presented academic, nutrition, facilities, and transportation updates, including responses to a recent winter storm. Board members recognized specific student achievements and staff efforts during the storm recovery period.

This document outlines the organization's mission to achieve excellence in teaching and learning, emphasizing high expectations for all students, parents, and staff within a safe, caring environment to develop productive citizens for a technological society. Its core beliefs highlight the value of children, equitable learning opportunities, student potential, responsible citizenship, comprehensive curriculum, vital partnerships, safe settings, and continuous professional development.

The meeting commenced with the adoption of the agenda. Key discussion points included a detailed 'Points of Pride' report on academic recognition, noting the district achieved a "B" letter grade for the first time and received commendations from the Louisiana Department of Education for top performance growth in Mastery Plus and math, especially for students with disabilities. Both Neville High School and Wossman High School were named 'Top Gains Honorees.' The board subsequently approved the extension of Superintendent Sam L. Moore, III's employment contract through December 31, 2028, and voted against requiring parents and staff to vote on a charter application. The board prioritized addressing school safety concerns identified in the formal facilities needs assessments. Financial reports detailed General Fund revenues for October 2025, including sales tax collections showing increases compared to the previous year. The audit is extended until March 31, 2026, due to a federal shutdown delaying compliance supplement auditors. Updates were provided on the transition to a cashless payment system, policy regarding AI, operational reports for Child Nutrition and Custodial Services, and transportation fleet review challenges, including issues with electric buses. The ROTC reported positive results from its inspection at Wossman High School.