Seretta Smith

The board discussed organizational changes for the upcoming school year, specifically focusing on the realignment of leadership roles within the central office cabinet and the reassignment of staff to strategic positions. Key topics included the removal of barriers to student instruction, the restructuring of athletic and safety oversight, and the modification of budgeting and accountability roles. Board members also reviewed a proposed agenda featuring items on personnel, capital projects, millage rates, and property agreements, while implementing new procedural changes for the consent agenda.

The board discussed and approved revisions to policies concerning school board meeting procedures and agenda preparation and dissemination. Key changes included clarifications on public participation during consent agenda items and the elimination of the executive committee meeting to streamline board operations and agenda setting by the superintendent and board president.

The board meeting included the recognition of the Student Leader of the Month from JS Clark Academy, who shared her academic experiences and contributions to her school community. Following this, the board participated in an invocation and the pledge of allegiance, and proceeded to conduct a roll call.

The committee meeting focused on updates regarding 2025-2026 school year priority areas, including land acquisition for a new career center, cafeteria and auditorium enhancements at Walnut Hill, facility upgrades at JS Clark, and construction progress at Donnie Bickham Middle School. Discussions also covered roadway modification plans for the Donnie Bickham campus to improve traffic flow and the transition of early childhood education programs from 81st Street to the Atkins campus, which will include the addition of ADA-compliant ramps.

The Caddo Parish Public Schools School Choice Plan provides equitable solutions for students by offering various choice opportunities, including K-5 elementary, middle, and high school options, as well as specialized magnet programs. The plan details the application process, eligibility criteria, communication protocols, and transportation provisions, ensuring support for parents through a dedicated School Choice Liaison. It also addresses considerations for equity in magnet school admissions and outlines a specific timeline for the 2025-2026 school choice cycle.