Bridget Demonica

The board met to address litigation matters, specifically motions to accept recommendations of counsel regarding the cases Jeffrey Drain versus Livingston Parish School Board and Kimberly Cedal versus Livingston Parish School Board. Both motions were carried. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

The committee reviewed and adopted the 2026 final operating budget for the school district. Key topics included a breakdown of revenue and expenditures for the general fund, second sales tax, 7-mill maintenance, sinking fund, construction fund, and federal/state programs. The discussion also addressed a proposal to reduce the frequency of budget presentations to the board if changes are within legal guidelines to streamline the administrative process.

The committee meeting focused on several operational and administrative renewals. Key agenda items included the renewal of school resource officer cooperative endeavor agreements with the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office and the City of Denham Springs, as well as the renewal of security detail and crossing guard programs with the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office. Additionally, the committee approved the renewal of excess workers' compensation insurance, disaster management insurance, and a three-year excess crime insurance policy. Finally, the committee discussed and approved updates to the 2026-2027 personnel evaluation plan to align job titles and responsibilities more accurately with current roles.

The board meeting included the recognition of a student for the Yes, I Can award. Agenda items addressed included the approval for the purchase of property on Palmetto Street in Walker, authorization to advertise for bids for a new school board at Live Oak High School, and the selection of the Livingston Parish News as the official journal for the 2026-2027 school year. The board also approved performance-based contracts for several administrative positions. Additionally, the superintendent provided updates regarding upcoming staff training, the status of an executive order, and upcoming scheduled meetings for budget and athletic insurance renewals.

The board meeting involved an interview process for the superintendent position. Key discussion topics included the candidate's professional vision for the school system, strategies for increasing student achievement through data-driven instruction, methods to strengthen community relations including the use of internship and apprenticeship programs, approaches to classroom discipline and management, and plans for teacher recruitment and retention, specifically highlighting the Reach University program for current employees.