Kevin Barney

The ad hoc committee for expulsion appeals discussed the renewal of property insurance, highlighting the successful outcome of the SOV work which allowed for favorable insurance terms despite a total insured value increase of 104 million. The committee also discussed the auto physical damage insurance renewal for vehicles and addressed the Ochsner digital medicine contract renewal, noting its benefits in managing employee health conditions and generating cost savings.

The board meeting included recognition of National Merit Scholar semi-finalists and an educator of the year. The agenda featured a consent agenda covering project completions, bid authorizations for gym and stadium turf, and internal infrastructure upgrades. The board reviewed an expulsion appeal, adjusted retiree rates for the Medicare Advantage plan, approved a future school session calendar, and adopted a policy regarding video cameras in special education classrooms. The superintendent provided a report highlighting the district's positive rankings on niche.com.

The board retreat focused on financial security, health and insurance plan design, and the renewal of voluntary benefit programs. Discussions included an evaluation of Humana dental and vision plans, the analysis of claims experience and loss ratios, and the potential impact of switching carriers. The board reviewed proposals for maintaining current plans versus introducing dual-choice options for employees, including a preventative-focused dental plan. Additionally, the board discussed eligibility requirements for insurance coverage and concluded with a recommendation to continue with Humana for future dental and vision services.

The Risk Management and Benefits Committee met to discuss the selection of a new pharmacy analytics firm. Key discussion topics included the role of an independent pharmacy analytics firm in evaluating pharmacy benefit manager contracts, ensuring contract compliance, and identifying cost savings. The committee reviewed presentations from four firms and recommended Payer Ally for a one-year contract, emphasizing their focus on client communication and providing strategic insights to lower pharmacy costs and improve member outcomes. The committee also established a plan for quarterly meetings to review performance data.

The board meeting included the adoption of a proclamation for National School Counseling Week and a resolution for Louisiana School Board Recognition Month. Additionally, the meeting featured a presentation on the results of the United Way campaign, which raised over $117,000, and a recognition ceremony for various student achievements in music and other programs.