Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts

The board discussed and approved revisions to the sexual harassment grievance policy, new faculty credentials, and amendments to the student handbook. Key actions included approving adjustments to the academic calendar and student activity fees, ratifying foundation reimbursements, and authorizing a contract for professional legal services. The board also received updates regarding leadership roles, the 2022-2023 budget, a favorable report from the board of ethics, and an executive director's report highlighting school achievements. An executive session was held to discuss pending litigation.

The board meeting addressed several administrative and financial items, including the ratification of faculty and staff reimbursements from the school foundation, the adoption of an annual funding formula for FY27, and the approval of the use of Educator Excellence Fund (EEF) monies for FY26 for summer programs, professional development, and facility repairs. Additionally, the board approved the FY26 budget and a 3% step increase for the faculty and staff salary schedule. Reports were provided regarding the Executive Director's search committee, student enrollment statistics, student affairs updates, and the launch of the LSMSA Foundation's fundraising campaign.

The board meeting covered several significant items, including the introduction of the new Northwestern State University President and new board members. Key approvals included new academic courses, changes to graduation requirements, a new social media policy, an honorary degree for Senator Donald Kelly, a revised sabbatical policy, a revised educational excellence fund budget, student activity fees for the 2025-2026 academic year, and a professional legal services contract. Additionally, the board ratified faculty and staff reimbursements, established an ad-hoc committee for the executive director's evaluation, and received updates regarding the Innovation Park project, student performance score sharing with home schools, and reports from the faculty, foundation, and administration.

The committee reviewed and approved the Stipend Distribution Plan for unclassified employees, which specifies award amounts of $2,000 for certificated faculty and $1,000 for support staff, plus additional differentiated stipends for teaching faculty based on years of service. It was also noted that the Executive Committee maintains the authority to act on behalf of the Board of Directors between quarterly meetings, with all actions subject to later ratification.

The Board meeting included the induction of a new member and the introduction of new faculty and staff. Key actions taken included the approval of revised appointments to the Executive Committee, ratification of faculty and staff reimbursements, and approval of the FY26 funding formula. The Board also approved the use of EEF funds for FY25, the FY25 budget, and a revised faculty and staff salary schedule. Additionally, the Board discussed and approved new policies regarding criminal history checks, a nondiscrimination policy revision, and a policy for handling controversial issues related to specific state acts. The Executive Director provided an update on onboarding procedures and construction projects, followed by reports from the faculty and the enrollment management division.