Natchitoches Parish School District

The regular meeting commenced with an invocation and pledge. Key discussions included congratulating a Nacka Central High School sophomore, Junao, for being selected as concert master of the Louisiana Music Educators Association Allstate Orchestra, marking the first time this century a Nacka Central student achieved this position. The board also discussed and approved an amendment to the 2026-2027 school calendar, adding a student virtual day on Monday, January 4th, 2026, to ease the transition back from Christmas break, while maintaining the originally scheduled professional development days at the beginning of the school year for fiscal reasons. Financial updates for January 2026 were presented for Federal Programs (Title I, Title II Part A, Title IV, Title V) and Early Childhood divisions, noting expenditures pacing appropriately and strategic allocation of remaining funds. The board also briefly considered, but did not move to approve, the 2027-2028 school calendar.

The committee meeting covered several administrative and operational topics. The Superintendent provided updates on recognitions for Black History Month and National School Counselor Week, and discussed the response to the recent ice storm, including efforts to secure waivers for instructional minutes missed and ensuring flexible arrangements for students impacted by power or water outages. A significant portion of the discussion involved the bus bid process, noting four bids were received and comparisons were being compiled based on daily route rates, with a recommendation expected next Tuesday. Old business included discussions on the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school year calendars. New business involved proposals to review and update the Education and Business Resumption Plan following potential natural disasters and a congratulatory note for a new bus liaison. The maintenance report detailed minimal damage from the ice storm, primarily limited to a few leaks at Martha and an exploded pump housing at Lake View due to lack of flowing water. A major concern discussed was the significant roofing issue at Fairview, where the cafeteria area requires full roof line replacement costing approximately $267,000, which necessitates formal bidding and may need to be scheduled for the next fiscal year to avoid disruption during school operation.

The meeting commenced following roll call establishing a quorum. Initial proceedings included a prayer, the pledge of allegiance, and a moment of silence to honor a departed employee and in observance of Veterans Day. The Superintendent provided updates, including the status of the bus RFP, data regarding bus route lengths, and the percentage of routes starting early, in response to prior board inquiries. The Superintendent also shared positive observations from recent Veterans Day programs held at various schools. A significant portion of the meeting involved a presentation by Mr. Roy Martin regarding substantial investments and modernization projects at the local plywood plant, amounting to approximately $48 million, focusing on new value-added products and improved efficiency, including installation of advanced defect-scanning technology. Mr. Martin also announced his transition away from the CEO role by the end of the year and his future role as Chief Investment Officer and Chairman of the Board. Furthermore, Mr. Martin committed $50,000 towards playground equipment for Nacadesh Parish schools and agreed to follow up on a request for new playground equipment at Nacasdih Junior High School, including specialized equipment for children with special needs. The meeting concluded with the approval of the consent agenda.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer, followed by a moment of silence for the recently departed Mrs. Shasta Daniels and Mr. Johnny Dupri. A quorum was established. The Superintendent provided updates on monitoring an incoming winter weather system, planning to issue timely closure notices. A significant portion of the meeting recognized Ms. Latanzia Beavers, an executive master teacher, for her selection to the prestigious Stanford University future of educators working group. Board members received recognition for their mandatory and advanced continuing education hours for 2025. The board elected Mr. Billy Benfield as the 2026 Board President and Ms. Teni Palmer as Vice President. The consent agenda was approved. Under informational reports, the December claims report (over $242,000) was reviewed. The superintendent requested permission to advertise for bids for food and milk, and to extend the paper and cleaning contract with Economical Janitorial to lock in current pricing. Open interviews were scheduled for January 28th to recruit substitute cafeteria technicians due to increased absenteeism. Discussions also touched upon the previous unsuccessful bidding for agriculture property and options for its future use, including transforming it into a wetland area.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming a quorum. The Superintendent's report highlighted the inaugural meeting of the Student Advisory Council, which provided student perspectives on various topics including physical plant, dress code, and student well-being and bullying concerns. The council's feedback was summarized positively. The Superintendent also recognized Khloe Kaufman, the district student of the year, for advancing to the regional student of the year poll. Updates were provided regarding the NCHS orchestra's invitation to perform at the Percy Granger Festival in Chicago's Symphony Hall in Spring 2027, which will be funded by participants and fundraisers. Other administrative items included discussions on scheduling an upcoming board retreat and the postponement of the audit presentation to the following week. An update was given regarding the confirmed dates (February 27th and 28th in New Orleans) for the first mediation session in an insurance case. The Superintendent also noted the upcoming Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observance and recognized January as Board Member Appreciation Month, commending the board for significant positive cultural and academic changes within the district. The Transportation report indicated a stable December with sufficient staffing, two new driver additions, and a focus on improving late student arrivals. Issues regarding temporary substitute coverage for driver absences were addressed.