The Monroe City School Board met in regular session, Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. 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 Rev. Dale Farley. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.

Action Item 4 - Election of School Board Officers for 2008

President Dayton turned the Board meeting over to the Superintendent. Superintendent Dupree called for the election of officers for 2008.

It was moved by Mrs. Shelling and seconded by Rev. Handy to nominate Mrs. Dayton for president for 2008. Mrs. Dayton recused.

The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

President Dayton thanked the Board, Dr. Dupree, and everyone that has helped the Board this past year. She stated that each Board member brings a set of unique talents to the table, and as a body a consensus has been reached that has not been reached before.

It was moved by Rev. McFarland and seconded by Mr. Handy to nominate Mrs. Shelling for vice president. Mrs. Shelling recused.

The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

Mrs. Shelling thanked everyone for their support. She stated that last year was a very productive year in which the Board accomplished goals by working diligently together.

Item 5: Roll Call

Board Members Present
Mrs. Victoria "Vickie" Dayton
Mrs. Victoria "Vickie" Krutzer
Mr. James Mickey Traweek
Mr. Jessie Handy
Reverend Rodney McFarland, Sr.
Mrs. Stephanie Smith
Mrs. Brenda Shelling

Superintendent and Administrative Staff
Dr. James Dupree
Mrs. Derenda Flowers
Dr. Tammye Turpin
Mr. Bobby Williams
Mrs. Vickie Irwin
Mrs. Betty Carroll
Ms. Karla Bowlin
Teresa Foreman
Attorney L. Douglas Lawrence

Action Item 6: Adoption of the Consent Agenda

Superintendent Dupree asked that Agenda Item 9 (school calendar) be removed. The District needs to coordinate its calendar with Ouachita Parish.

Mrs. Smith requested that a discussion of the Superintendent's contract be added to the agenda.

President Dayton asked Attorney Lawrence where this should be added to the agenda.

Attorney Lawrence replied, "before the Board committee updates or as Human Resources Agenda Item 6:G."

Mr. Handy suggest that is added as an executive session.

President Dayton suggested that this item becomes 10:C which will be before the committee updates.

Mrs. Shelling suggested that it is moved to Item 11 and renumbered thereafter. Shelling asked to remove D:6 (resignation of Marcie Houston) from the human resources agenda and add it to the executive session as 15:B.

President Dayton requested that a resolution for No Child Left Behind be added to the agenda as 12:A.

Dr. Dupree asked if the contract discussion should be done in executive session.

Shelling stated that the contract is not a personnel item and should be done in the open.

Attorney Lawrence stated that it depends on rather or not character, competency, or fitness is discussed. If those items will be linked to the discussion then it must be moved to executive session, but if you will be discussing numbers, it must be done in open session.

Mrs. Shelling stated that we will be talking about contract issues not his evaluation.

Mr. Handy stated that he would like to go into executive session because he believes that the discussion is going to go further than what should be discussed openly. He said, "I am not on the Superintendent's Evaluation Committee and there is information that I don't have. There may be some questions that I want to ask that should not be asked in open session and that is why we should have this discussion in executive session."

In open session, you are limited as to what you can say. I would like to be able to say what I have to say and not worry about it being inappropriate. I think this is done to stall the process. I thought we could move through this quickly. Now it looks like it's going to take two or three more meetings to resolve this issue."

Mrs. Smith stated that her motion was for discussion and setting of timeless, not for discussion of what the superintendent is asking for.

Rev. McFarland stated that in order to move forward with this issue, some items must be discussed.

Mrs. Smith stated that we should have moved forward months ago.

Mrs. Shelling stated that the Board members don't have what they need to go into executive session tonight.

Attorney Lawrence stated that where each Board member individually stands will dictate where this will go tonight.

Mrs. Shelling stated that her motion will simplify this issue and says, "We are here to receive the information so that we will know what the superintendent wants. From there the Board will make their decision. I don't think the Board is ready to make a decision tonight. We want to receive the information and make the proper decision as a whole Board."

Rev. McFarland stated that it will be a waste of time to lay the cards on the table tonight and not know what the superintendent wants in his contract. He states that "In order to move on with this we need to put all the cards on the table and discuss the matter so that we can be prepared to vote."

President Dayton stated that the Board is ready to receive information but not take action tonight. They need to develop a process and make appropriate assessments.

Dr. Dupree stated that he thought the negation of the contract would be done in executive session.

Attorney Lawrence stated that he would not want the Board to end up in a position where they are negotiating with Dr. Dupree and compromise the negotiating ability by talking about certain issues in open session.

Mrs. Dayton stated that if the Board were to get into a discussion, they would depend on Attorney Lawrence to make sure they keep the discussion appropriate and not cross any lines.

Rev. McFarland stated the citizens of District 5 want to know what the superintendent wants in his contract. It is best that the Board discuss this matter openly so we can move forward on whatever the board wants. We should be able to discuss this issue because once we receive the information, it becomes public knowledge.

President Dayton stated that they are ready to move to the next step. All Board members should be gathering information and talking with their constituents so that they can make the best decision. The Board is well in advance of the stipulated date in the contract.

Superintendent Dupree stated that he would like to apologize to the public because he did not want his contract to become an issue. The District has other things that need to be taken care of.

It was moved by Mr. Traweek and seconded by Rev. McFarland, to remove Item D:6 from the human resources agenda and place it in executive session as 15:B, remove agenda item 9, add agenda item 11 - receipt of information regarding the superintendent's contract and to renumber accordingly, add 12:A - NCLB resolution and approve the following consent agenda items:
6:A - Adoption of the Agenda
6:B - Adoption of the Minutes - December 4, 2007
6:C - Adoption of the Minutes - December 17, 2007
6:D - Awarding of Bid: Schools Food Products
6:E - Awarding of Bid: Surplus Sale
6:F - Human Resources Agenda

Motion carried on unanimous vote.

Ms. Sandie Lollie questioned the consistency regarding personnel matters.

Agenda Item 7 - President's Reports and Announcements

President Dayton thanked everyone for their attendance and asked that all cell phones be turned off. She thanked Rev. Johnson, Rev. Farley, Rev. Mansfield and members of the Coalition for Quality Education for their attendance. President Dayton noted that in 2007, Dr. Dupree and his staff did an excellent job of controlling the budget which allowed the District to do things they hadn't been able to do in the past.

Agenda Item 8 - Action from the Superintendent

Agenda Item 8:A - 2006-2007 Audit Report

Mr. Francis Huffman presented the 2006-2007 audit report. The District has received an unqualified opinion on financial statements. This is the kind of report the District should be looking for each year as far as controlling expenditures and revenues. There has been an increase in general funds from a 4.7 million surplus to an 8.3 million surplus. The district has been in a deficit for many years and over the years it has turned around and now has a positive fund balance. No adjustments had to be made because the accounting department is doing a good job on timely bank reconciliations. There were two findings this year: 1.) accounting for capital leases and 2.) accounting for E-rate revenues.

Action Item 8:B - Appointment of Executive Director of Instructional Support Services

Dr. Dupree recommends the appointment of Dr. Tammye Turpin to the position of Executive Director of Instructional Support Services.

It was moved by Mr. Handy and seconded by Mr. Traweek to accept the superintendent's recommendation.

Rev. McFarland stated that he was concerned because the Board was not informed before the meeting about the appointments.

Mrs. Smith stated that her concern is the placement of someone in an administrative position and the superintendent doesn't know if he will have a position. He needs to know his position before he starts appointing permanent positions. She stated, "I would like to ask that the Board withdraw the motion and let this come after we let the superintendent know where he stands. Whoever is leading us should be able to appoint their own cabinet."

Mrs. Shelling stated that she agreed with Ms. Smith and said, "I do think we should let the superintendent know his position before we let him make appointments."

Mr. Handy stated that the Board should have acted on the superintendent's contract a long time ago.

The motion carried on a majority vote. Mrs. Smith opposed.

Dr. Turpin thanked the Board for their support.

Action Item 8: Appointment of Project Director for Safe Schools/Healthy Students Grant

Dr. Dupree recommends the appointment of Dr. Phedra Brantley as Project Director for Safe Schools/Healthy Students Grant.

It was moved by Mr. Handy and seconded by Mrs. Krutzer to accept the recommendation of the superintendent.

Board members voiced their concerns regarding the move of the principals in the middle of the school year. The Board also questioned the placement of Dr. Brantley when the grant ends.

Dr. Dupree stated that a timeline is in place for the transition of Dr. Brantley to the new position. She will work minimally on the grant but the majority of her time will be spent at Carver. After testing, the position of principal will be opened.

Rev. McFarland stated the he is not in favor of the recommendation. He states, "Carver is in my district and Dr. Brantley will be a great loss to the school. I don't understand why we are selecting a principal that is doing an outstanding job. It is nothing personal against Dr. Brantley but I will not support this move."

Dr. Dupree stated that when they received the grant they knew it would take a strong leader to direct the project. He says, "I understand the concerns, but when a person does well, they should be allowed to apply for and be awarded those positions. We have good people that are ready to step into the leadership role as principal."

President Dayton stated that when they have failing schools, a move forward shouldn't mean a move to Central Office. Principals should be able to stay at their school and have a satisfying career.

Mrs. Smith stated that it is unfair to say that Dr. Dupree is moving Dr. Brantley. She applied for the position on her own.

Dr. Turpin addressed the issue of transition. She stated that at this time she is serving as project director for this grant until a director is named.

It was moved by Mrs. Shelling and seconded by McFarland to table this issue.

Motion carried on a majority vote. Mr. Handy and Mrs. Krutzer opposed.

Action Agenda Item 9: 2008-2009 School Calendar

Deleted

Action Item 10:A - Central Office Salary Schedule

Dr. Dupree stated that several months ago a salary schedule was given to the Board regarding Central Office. Dr. Dupree says, "If you want us to go back and do more analysis or a comparative study, we need a directive from you to do so. At this point there is no space in the 07-08 budget to add salary increases for any Central Office personnel. We would have to build it into the 08-09 budget."

It was moved by Rev. McFarland and seconded by Mrs. Shelling not to accept item 10:A.

It was moved by Mr. Handy to amend the motion to approve the superintendent's recommendation to consider the Central Office salary schedule for the 08-09 budget.

Mr. Handy's motion died from a lack of a second.

Mrs. Krutzer stated that a study needs to be done by a committee.

Rev. McFarland withdrew his motion and Mrs. Shelling withdrew her second. It was moved by Rev. McFarland and seconded by Mrs. Shelling to receive item 10:A as information only.

The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

Action Item 10:B - Computer Operators Salary Schedule

Ms. Connie Williams, Ms. Lue Reed, and Ms. Sandy Moore addressed the board on the qualifications and salary schedule for computer operators.

Mrs. Shelling asked how this happened.

Dupree said a salary schedule was proposed for paraprofessionals based upon the highly qualified definition.

President Dayton stated that this is the reason why they should do a study of all salary schedules so that they can have a fair assessment of all areas.

Mr. Traweek asked Mrs. Flowers when paraprofessionals receive their raise.

Mrs. Flowers replied, "September."

Mrs. Shelling thanked Mr. Traweek for pushing this issue.

It was moved by Mrs. Shelling and seconded by Rev. McFarland to pay computer operators comparable to all employees who are highly qualified and pay them retroactive to when other employees became highly qualified.

The motion carried on a majority vote. Mr. Handy opposed.

Agenda Item 11: Superintendent's Contract Information

Mr. Tom Nicholson read a letter from the Coalition for Quality Education regarding the school system and accountability of the superintendent and the Board. (See addendum for letter)

Attorney Lawrence asked the Board if they had received the superintendent's notice which was forwarded to them via certified mail. Several Board members indicated that they had not received their letter. Lawrence stated, "The significance of the letter is that it is the fulfillment of a contract requirement that the superintendent advise the Board of the consequences of taking no action. His contract automatically extended by a period of one year beginning September 2008 though September 2009 based on the same terms that are in now in place if not action is taken. The contract also provides that the Board have until March 20, 2008 to make a decision relative to the extension or renewal of the contract. There are two other options: 1.) Say no to the contract renewal - in which case he will have the right to continue employment and you will have the expectation for him to continue until September 20th to fulfill the term of the four year contract or 2.)
You can renew the contract - in which case it will become a question of memorializing the specifics for renewal and extension. My recommendation is not to wait until March 20th if the decision is to renew or extend the contract. The steps to be taken from this point forward should be based on what the consensus of Board is. My suggestion is that you caucus to see what you expect in a contract renewal. I do have the specific terms that the superintendent has communicated to me and I am prepared to make that statement now."

Mr. Traweek asked Attorney Lawrence if these items are the same items Dr. Dupree asked for two months ago.

Attorney Lawrence replied no.

Mr. Traweek asked if it was more or less

Attorney Lawrence replied, "It is less."

Mr. Traweek asked for a comparison of what the original request was to what the current request is.

Rev. McFarland asked if they could ask questions.

Mr. Handy replied no. This is for information only.

Attorney Lawrence stated that the current request as of today is:

1.) Separation Agreement - If he is terminated for no cause then he has the right to continue to receive his full salary and benefits through the end date of his contract.

2.) An additional $250.00 a month to be paid toward life insurance premiums.

3.) Contribution of an amount equivalent to 4% of his annual salary at a base of $130,000 to be placed into a medial retirement account or to cover the cost of insurance premiums for health insurance benefits after he is no longer employed by the school district.

4.) Annual salary increase of $5,200 per year.

5.) To be recused from any repayment obligations or penalty for any annual annuity contribution that is made on the superintendent's behalf under his current contract. Lawrence stated that under the current contract, he would forfeit the annuity contributions that were made plus 8% if he were to leave voluntarily.

6.) Car allowance increase of $100.00 per month.

Mrs. Shelling asked what the initial request was.

Dr. Dupree stated that the initial request was a consideration.

Mrs. Smith stated that the initial request was pulled by the superintendent and that he didn't want that information disseminated. With that being the case they should not be discussing it now.

Lawrence stated that it is his opinion that it should not be received because it has not been accepted. Dr. Dupree has not asked the Board to accept the initial request. He is asking that the request that was just read be accepted.

Mrs. Shelling asked if it the initial request was made in a committee meeting.

Lawrence replied "yes."

Shelling stated that it is public knowledge if the request was made in a committee meeting.

Mr. Handy stated that it is a waste of time to ask for the previous request if it wasn't considered by the committee. He said that they should sit down and discuss some things with the superintendent and it should be done in closed session so they can come to some common ground. Hopefully this can be done at the next Board meeting.

Rev. McFarland stated that the base salary of $130,000 can not be used to calculate the pay increase because that is not his base salary.

Lawrence stated that the request is for $5,200 regardless of what the base salary is.

Mrs. Smith stated that when she made her motion it was agreed that they would not be in discussion or deliberation. They are to only receive the information. Mrs. Smith stated that the Board is out of order with the motion that was placed on the floor.

Mrs. Shelling asked Dr. Dupree if he is requesting any part of the sales tax.

Dr. Dupree replied "no."

Attorney Lawrence was asked by the Board to email the bottom line figures of what is being requested.

Action Item 12:A - Board Committee Updates - No Child Left Behind Resolution

Mrs. Shelling briefed the Board on a request from the National School Boards Association to all State School Boards to adopt a resolution for improvements to No Child Left Behind.

On a motion by Mrs. Krutzer that was seconded by Rev. McFarland, the Board adopted a resolution in support of H.R. 648 relative to the reauthorization of the Federal No Child Left Behind Law. Mrs. Shelling asked Mrs. Jacobs to post the notice of approval on NSBA's website.

The motion carried on a unanimous vote.
Agenda Item 13 - Superintendent's Announcements and Updates

Superintendent Dupree announced the following:

 The first meeting of the QZAB Committee will be Friday, January 18th at Central Office.
 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday is Monday, January 21st.
 Two Board work session are tentative scheduled for January 28th and 29th from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Mrs. Krutzer stated that the Board Retreat is scheduled for February 10th - 11th at Poverty Point.

Mr. Handy inquired about the 2008 Board committee members.

Mrs. Dayton stated that it is her suggestion that the committees remain the same for 2008-2009.

Mr. Handy stated that the issue of privatization of bus services keeps coming up. He further stated that he is totally against privatization but it would be the Board's final decision. He then asked Ms. Flowers to speak to the Board regarding this issue.

Mrs. Flowers stated that she has been asked by several Board members to have representatives come and make presentations. She has been in contact with two companies which will make presentations whenever the Board is ready to receive this information.

Agenda Item 14 - Public Input on Non-Agenda Items

Ms. Lollie voiced her displeasure with a document that was disseminated at a workshop for the Transportation Department.

Mr. Lonnie Hudson introduced himself as the new president of the Transportation Association and asked the Board for support of the transportation department.

Ms. Rene Austin presented to the Board a letter regarding issues with Mr. Vidrine and two teachers at Neville High School.

Action Item 15:A - Executive Session - Deborah Mahan vs. Monroe City School Board

Attorney Lawrence stated that if there aren't any questions regarding this issue, an executive session is not needed.

On a motion by Mr. Traweek that was seconded by Mrs. Smith, the Board voted not to go into executive session.

The motion carried on a majority vote. Mrs. Shelling recused.

Action Item 15:B - Executive Session (Human Resources issue)

To be taken out of sequence

Action Item 16 - Adoption of a Resolution - Trial by Jury (Deborah Mahan litigation)

On a motion by Mr. Traweek that was seconded by Mrs. Smith, the Board adopted a resolution authorizing legal counsel to proceed with a trial by jury in the Deborah Mahan vs. Monroe City School Board litigation {No. 03-2343}.

The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

Action Item 15:B - Executive Session (Human Resources issue)

Mrs. Marcie Houston indicated to the Board that she has waived the formalities of the open meeting law regarding advanced notice.

Mr. Traweek asked for a five minute break prior to convening in executive session.

On a motion by Rev. McFarland that was seconded by Mrs. Shelling the Board convened in executive session at 9:20 p.m. for an undetermined amount of time regarding the former position of Mrs. Marcie Houston and her job responsibilities at Madison James Foster Elementary School.

The Board reconvened in open session at 10:02 p.m.

Attorney Lawrence explained to Mrs. Houston that the Board did not take any action on accepting her resignation.

Mrs. Houston asked for a transfer from Madison James Foster.

Dr. Dupree stated that he will conduct a thorough investigation and make a recommendation to the Board.

Action Item 17 - Adjournment/Recess

On a motion by Mrs. Smith that was seconded by Mr. Handy, the meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.

The motion carried on a unanimous vote.

 

Mrs. Victoria Dayton, President                                                             
Dr. James A. Dupree, Superintendent