Carmen Brabham

This document outlines the strategic direction for Ready Start Tangipahoa Early Childhood Community Network. The plan aims to pave the way for early learners from cradle to Kindergarten by teaching children in high-quality, birth-5 classrooms to prepare them for independent, productive lives. Key strategic goals include implementing high-quality curriculum, increasing overall instructional quality, expanding access and enrollment for birth-three children, enhancing parent accessibility and involvement, and decreasing adverse child behaviors.

This document outlines the goals for Ready Start Tangipahoa, focusing on preparing young children for independent, productive lives through quality birth-5 classrooms. Key goals include implementing a Tier I, research-based curriculum, providing professional development and in-class coaching for teachers, increasing the number of available early childhood seats, decreasing adverse behaviors through interpersonal skills curriculum, and providing resources for parents regarding early childhood programs.

The meeting initiated with a roll call vote and the pledge of allegiance. Key discussion points centered on current projects, specifically updates on phase two projects, including electrical emergencies at Ameat, Chespro, and Kentwood locations, noting long lead times for some equipment. A significant portion of the discussion involved athletic track projects for Sumner, Punchula, and Hammond High Schools. The need for complete rework (asphalt rebuild and PU layers) for Hammond High was established, contrasting with resurfacing options for the others. There was extensive debate regarding the necessity of adding curbing and rebuilding asphalt versus simple resurfacing, focusing on long-term performance, warranty, and overall cost implications, which reached approximately $2.4 million for all three tracks. The board acknowledged the need to gather further information and secure court approval for expenditures exceeding $125,000.

The Tangipahoa Parish School System Strategic Plan is a collaborative effort designed to establish a unified set of objectives, ensuring a shared purpose and preventing misalignment. Its mission is to provide every student a high-quality education and pathway to success, envisioning an innovative environment where each student is career-ready. The plan outlines six key priorities: Excellence in Teaching and Learning, a positive and supportive Culture of Excellence and Inclusiveness, a system of Talent Management, Resource Allocation, a commitment to Shared Values, and Transparent Decision Making. The overall aim is to foster student proficiency, personalized learning, and career readiness while promoting a positive school culture, effective talent management, responsible resource allocation, and collaborative decision-making among stakeholders.

The meeting commenced with a roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key discussion points included the approval of the minutes from the February 24th, 2026 meeting. An academic update highlighted that the district was selected as one of eight innovative school districts to present at the Nashville Model Schools Conference in June, focusing on their learning community model. The board also considered and adopted a proclamation designating March as Music in Our Schools Month, emphasizing the importance of music education. General updates covered the recent award awards program and the upcoming recognition for students and teachers who could not attend due to scheduling conflicts at the next board meeting. Board members shared commendations regarding the success and organization of the recent awards event and parade. Furthermore, a moment of reflection was shared regarding the passing of a former student and athlete, Devonte Lee. Information was also shared regarding the Louisiana Strawberry Preserves nonprofit award program honoring community advocates, specifically mentioning former staff member Amber Gardner and Denise Fletcher.