Orleans Parish School Board

The Board discussed and approved several policy amendments, including revisions to policies regarding the naming of facilities, chartering authority, oversight and evaluation of charter schools, personnel leaves and absences, and resignation procedures. A policy regarding the dismissal of employees failed to be approved. The Board also discussed and approved an amendment to the probation policy, which included adding a limitation on the duration of introductory periods. Additionally, the Superintendent recognized two students selected as delegates to the 2026 America's Youth AI Festival.

The committee reviewed the monthly financial update, including an analysis of general fund revenues and expenditures. Discussions included the proposed 2026-2027 budget, strategic plan alignments, and corrective action status regarding audit findings. Several action items were approved for recommendation to the full board, including budget amendments, a decision to defer funding for outstanding judgments and settlements, lease renewals, professional auditing service contracts, and occupational therapy service contracts.

The meeting focused on several key operational and financial topics. Discussions included capital project and facility updates, specifically regarding ongoing repairs, renovations, and construction phases for various school sites. The committee reviewed hurricane season preparedness, including training requirements for school staff and communication protocols with emergency services. Additionally, the committee evaluated the surplus property strategy, addressing the challenges of managing vacant properties, their associated maintenance costs, security risks, and potential options for future use such as sales, leasing, or redevelopment.

The board held a public hearing for the 2026-2027 fiscal year budget presentation. The discussion covered strategic alignment, expenditure highlights, revenue sources including local property taxes and state foundation program dollars, and the categorization of funds into general and special revenue accounts. Additionally, the presentation addressed budget efficiencies, the onboarding of a direct-run school, support for diverse learners, and the mental health initiatives for students and staff.

The meeting featured a school support update, which included details on spending increases, placements of education graduates, high-cost supplement phase two awards, and preparations for future support objectives. The committee also received a progress report for the Lee Chase School, highlighting academic performance in math and reading, student attendance trends, family engagement initiatives, teacher recognition, and student awards. Additionally, members discussed summer school programs and factors contributing to chronic absenteeism.