The Monroe City School Board met in regular session on Tuesday, April 6, 2004, at the Monroe City School Board Media Center, 2009 Auburn Avenue, Monroe, Louisiana, 71201.  The meeting was called to order by the President.  Prayer was offered by Reverend Rodney McFarland.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.

Members Present:

Mr. Jessie L. Handy
Mr. Anthony "Tony" Cain
Reverend Rodney McFarland
Mrs. Brenda M. Shelling
Mrs. Stephanie S. Smith

Superintendent and Administrative Team:

Dr. George D. Cannon
Mrs. Derenda Flowers
Dr. LaVargne Gunn-Ford
Miss Maria  Maggio
Mrs. Edith Lowe-Douzart
Attorney L. Douglas Lawrence

Administrators, employees, parents, representatives from professional organizations, and the news media were in attendance.

Action Item 4:

Adoption of the Agenda:

On a motion by Mrs. Shelling that was seconded by Reverend McFarland, the Board adopted the agenda as printed. The motion carried on a unanimous vote of the members present.

Report Item 5:

The President's Report and Announcements:

The president thanked those in attendance and asked for their continued support.

Action Item 6:

Superintendent's Retirement:

On a motion by Mrs. Shelling that was seconded by Reverend McFarland, the Board approved the Superintendent's retirement, effective December 31, 2004. The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

Discussion/Action

Superintendent's Search:

On a motion by Mrs. Shelling that was seconded by Mrs. Smith, the Board will announce a request for proposals (RFP) and list the announcement for RFP in:

Professional Journals
National School Boards Association News Letter
Post on the Monroe School Board's Web Page
News Media.
The time line not to exceed 30 days. Mrs. Flowers will contact the NSBA in reference to RFP. The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

The Board will meet to discuss the procedure for a Superintendent Search at the Central Office in the Superintendent's Conference Room, Tuesday, April 20th at 4 p.m. Mrs. Pine is to notify Mrs. Dayton and Mr. Traweek of the meeting.

Mrs. Shelling gave a brief report of the NSBA Conference that was held in Orlando, Florida,  March 26-30, 2004. A full report will be given at the next board meeting.

Report Item 8:

The Superintendent's Report and Announcements:

Dr. Cannon briefed the Board on the Monroe City School System Reading First Application with the Louisiana State Department of Education. When funded, the System will receive two million dollars.

Other:

Ms. Lollie and the Board discussed the System's Sick Leave Policy.

Action Item 9:

Adjournment:

On a motion by Mr. Cain that was seconded by Mrs. Smith, the Board adjourned at 6:55 p.m. The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

Mr. Jessie L. Handy, President                                                             

George D. Cannon, Ed.D., Superintendent