Tonya Smith

The meeting featured the recognition of the Student Leader of the Month and several students for their achievements in the Willis Knighton Health Occupations Partnership, including the presentation of scholarships. Additionally, the board held a memorial service to honor the lives and memories of several Caddo Parish students who passed away during the year.

The board conducted a budget work session focusing on special revenue funds, capital projects, and debt service funds for the upcoming fiscal year. Key topics included the allocation of funds from educational excellence and federal programs, a review of capital projects such as HVAC and safety upgrades, and discussions regarding employee compensation, including a proposed across-the-board pay raise and the need for a tiered salary structure. Public comments raised concerns regarding transparency, staffing shortages in instructional roles, and the need for an independent compensation study.

The committee held a discussion regarding contract procurement and local vendor participation. Key topics included a review of the Louisiana public bid law, defining the limitations and requirements for state-funded versus federally funded projects, the threshold for competitive bidding, and the definition of a responsible bidder. The discussion also addressed the process for handling substitutions after a bid is awarded and the importance of clear communication regarding procurement policies.

The board conducted a budget work session for the upcoming fiscal year. Key topics included a detailed overview of the budget process, the proposed 6% across-the-board salary increase for all employees, and a 2.5% increase in coaching stipends. Financial projections for the general fund were discussed, noting a balanced budget. Additionally, the potential financial impact of proposed state-level mandate changes was addressed, and a proposal for a one-time employee stipend from surplus funds was introduced for further consideration at a future meeting.

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.