Monroe City School Board of Education
2006 Tower Drive
Monroe, Louisiana 71201
MINUTES
The Monroe City School Board met in regular session, Monday February 15, 2022, at Monroe City School District Central Office, 2006 Tower Drive, Monroe, Louisiana 71201. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Dr. Stonewall Hunter, True Vine Baptist Church offered prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Agenda Item 1C – Roll Call
Present: Mr. Rick Saulsberry, Ms. Jennifer Haneline, Mr. Bill Willson, Ms. Betty Ward Cooper, Mrs. Sharon Greer Neal, and Mr. Brandon Johnson
Absent 1 – Mr. Daryll Berry
Action Item 1D – Adoption of the Agenda
On a motion by Mr. Willson and seconded by Ms. Haneline, the Board approve the agenda as printed. The motion carried on a unanimous vote.
Agenda Item 2A – Byron McCoy Information Only- A parent to speak on vaccine option for students
Mr. McCoy presented information on considering notifying parents of their rights. Mr. McCoy ask if the fact sheet, letter, and exemption form can be sent home to parents, if not, at least send the letter and exemption form. Mr. McCoy stated he can answer any questions if any and if the cost for the printing material is a concern, he will personally raise the money to take care of it. Mr. McCoy stated to take sending a voice message and email to parent(s) about statue 17:170 into consideration. He thanked everyone for their time.
Mr. Johnson informed Mr. McCoy; Monroe City School District has not mandated students to get the vaccine. He stated it is the parent(s) choice to get their child(ren) vaccinated.
Mr. McCoy stated Governor Edwards pushed the mandate statewide, therefore; it is not up to Monroe City Schools. He stated this is the reason he is asking to let the parents know about their right to opt out.
Superintendent Vidrine stated it is not the School System that is mandating the shot; its coming from for an example measles, polio, vaccines that are already in place in schools.
Mr. Johnson stated this was a presentation, not an action item on tonight. If the Board decides to move forward later with the presentation, then it will be added to the agenda as an action item. Mr. Johnson noted, Dr. Vidrine will contact Mr. McCoy to return if the item is added as an action item to the agenda.
Mr. Willson recommended for the record; he would like to bring this up for the next Board Meeting to make it an action item. He stated that he knows it is up to the President and Superintendent to put it on the agenda but that’s just his opinion.
Ms. Haneline ask Mr. McCoy if he was to come back, could he bring sources for his data.
Mr. Saulsberry stated he was unclear on what Dr. Vidrine was saying about the shots.
Dr. Vidrine responded, effective next school year, students 4, 5 years and up must have certain shots on their shot record to attend. He stated this is not coming from the School District, it’s the State Government. He stated the parent has the option to opt out as this has been in place.
Mr. Saulsberry asked if the forms that was given by Mr. McCoy opt out forms.
Mr. McCoy stated the forms came from Mrs. Jill. He stated the forms were used to opt out his daughter in college.
Ms. Haneline asked Superintendent Vidrine, what is the age for the vaccine.
Dr. Vidrine responded, age 5.
Mr. Willson stated he has done a lot of research in the area. He stated if it’s discussed in next Committee Meeting, he believes his findings will coincide with Mr. Mccoy’s.
Mrs. Cooper stated to Mr. McCoy, normally it would go through the committee, and they will vet and do a follow up. Mrs. Cooper stated that it is the job of the Board’s committees, to vet every agenda item and then decide if it needs to be brought to the full Board for consideration. Mrs. Cooper stated the board and proper Board committee will do their due diligence regarding his concern and request. The Policy Committee will meet before the next regular monthly meeting of the Board.
Agenda Item 2B – Cathy Agan, LSU Ag Center Update on Programs Offered
Cathy gave an update on what the Ag center is doing and show appreciation for the support that the Monroe City School Board provides. Mrs. Agan wanted to highlight specific programs that the center has for the system and benefiting the students at Monroe City Schools. The LSU Ag Center has programming in three (3) basic areas; Family Consumer Science, which she works, 4-H Youth Development, and Agriculture Natural Resources. In the Family Consumer Science Program, they offer Nutrition Education Program for both children and adults. She stated they are working on healthy community efforts to make changes in the community. In the consumer Science Program, Mrs. Agan works with snack Ed, which is a part of the Family Consumer Science Efforts that provides nutrition education for limited resources for children and adults. Mrs. Agan wanted to highlight that; they are working with J.S. Clark Magnet School as a Healthy Community School. The organization has applied for grant funding and received a Healthy Community Grant of $5,675 for support of the school and provide for kids to be more physically active and to make good choices when eating. She stated one project was done on the walking track at the playground which is now a silly walking track. They provided colorful signs that featured different animals with a challenge activity to do for students and recommended everyone to stop by to see it. The organization was able to provide with the grant, equipment such as two (2) balance beams, things to go in the gym, P.E. classes, and classroom when students are unable to go outside due to weather. The Ag Center worked with the science lab and were able to provide equipment for the school garden. A menu board was provided for the cafeteria so the students can see what is being served on that day. Nutrition classes are being held in the science lab for certain grade levels to take as their science class. Mrs. Agan spoke on Agriculture Natural Resources, which can provide support and advice for school gardens. She stated, if there are schools that are interested in starting a garden, already have a garden and/or have questions about gardening, the Agriculture Department is there to assist. Mrs. Agan presented information on 4-H Program and other programs that are in the schools. If a certain program is not in the schools, you can participate outside of school. The organization has workshops that are different special interest topics that are provided throughout the year and project clubs that students can be involved in. The main project club this year is the Photography Club lead by Mayor Mitchell of West Monroe. The biggest project is the Shooting Sports Project Club that teaches the proper way to use a firearm. The last project is Livestock for students that are interested. One of the big Education Program that has been on hold for a couple of years is the 4-H Camp. This Summer they will be offering 4-H Summer Camp to students fourth through sixth grade (4-6). Mrs. Agan open the floor for question.
Mrs. Cooper asked the age for participants in the Shooting Sports Club. Mrs. Agan responded the ages are 9-18 years old.
Ms. Haneline inquired about a resource program that Senator Katrina Jackson offered to lower income families about growing your own vegetables.
Mrs. Agan responded, she did not know, but she will reach out to her to find out.
Ms. Haneline thanked Mrs. Agan for all her hard work not only with the Monroe City Schools but throughout the Region.
Mrs. Cooper inquired about volunteers to help with the organization.
Mrs. Agan responded, they are always looking for volunteers for workshops, gardening, painting etc. Volunteers are needed with an upcoming Community Garden Event that will provide meals for the food bank and soup kitchens.
Ms. Haneline asked the location of the Community Event
Mrs. Agan responded, off Jackson Street.
Ms. Haneline stated the lot across the street from the old City Annex on Jackson.
Mrs. Agan stated this is a huge production that will support the Food Bank and Soup Kitchens.
Mrs. Cooper asked Mrs. Agan about their plans for the rural internet options.
Mrs. Agan stated sometimes the rural areas does not have the same opportunity that are here, and she believe they are looking for grants to support the rural internet options.
Public Comment: January 24, 2022, Board Minutes – Ms. Vickie Krutzer inquired about update and extension being filed on audit
Superintendent responded with the Financial Report
Financial Report 5B – Superintendent Vidrine (out of sequence)
Dr. Vidrine stated, The Monroe City School District has not received the information from the company that works with the retirement system on liabilities. This information is expected to be in by March 31, 2022.
Action Item 3 – Consent Agenda
On a motion by Mr. Willson and seconded by Mrs. Neal Greer, the Board approved January 24, 2022, board meeting minutes, Barkdull Faulk Elementary 4-H to travel to New Orleans, Wossman High School Band and Golden Girls to travel to Jefferson County High School, Carroll High School HOSA Club to travel to Baton Rouge, La, and permission to advertise for surplus sale.
Action Item 3F – Agenda (out of sequence)
On a motion by Mr. Wilson and seconded by Sharon Neal Greer, to address the high school press box later.
Mr. Johnson asked Superintendent Vidrine for communication purpose what funding will be used for the high school press box renovations
Superintendent Vidrine responded, funds were requested through Esser and received approval
Mr. Johnson asked if any extra approval needed
Dr. Vidrine responded, no
Mrs., Greer asked what’s the amount of the renovations for press box
Dr. Vidrine responded, estimated cost is 1.2 to 1.5 million for all high schools
On a motion by Mr. Willson seconded by Mrs. Greer to approve the three (3) high school press box renovations.
Agenda Item 4A – Adoption of Bond Resolution
Mikki Mathews and Bill Boles spoke on continuation on refinancing bonds. The district issued bonds in 2014, 2015, and 2016; in December 2020, under twenty Billion dollars $(20,000,000, 000) was refinanced for the total amount of bonds but did not consist of all outstanding bonds that were mentioned. Mrs. Mathews stated in this case, another amount was refinanced of the positive savings which is ten million eight hundred seventy-five thousand ($10,875,000). The specific bond that is being discussed now total cash savings is a little over four hundred fifty-three thousand dollars ($453,000). When you include this amount plus the other savings amount of issuance you will have saved one million three hundred fifty dollars. $1.35 million ($1,350,000).
Mr. Bill Boles stated that the savings are positive savings. Mr. Boles stated he and Mr. Bill Willson have been monitoring and discussing the bonds.
Mr. Johnson stated how much the board appreciate Mr. Boles and Mrs. Mathews.
Mr. Willson have been so instrumental with the process; he will allow him to speak and then the Board with any questions.
Mr. Willson noted when the covid pandemic hit, interest rates rise. He stated he reached out to Mrs. Mathews and Mandy Johnson who’s the financial advisor, about refinancing the bonds. Mr. Willson commended Mr. Boles, Mrs. Mathews, Mrs. Mandy Thompson and State treasurer, Mr. Schroder. He stated Mr. Schroder allowed them to fast track the approval of the bond issuance to get in the market as rates would drop and not lose the rates. In addition to that, when the legal paperwork was submitted, they were able to refinance all or part of the bonds. Roughly sixty percent (60%) of the initial refunding.
Mr. Johnson asked Superintendent how was the 10,000,000 going to be used.
Mr. Willson respond, this is money that has been issued previously on bond issuance; because rates had dropped, they were able to refinance the existing debts which created the savings.
Mr. Willson stated 2 ½ years ago bonds were paid off when he and Mrs. Krutzer was on the board when the bonds were initiated. They halted the taxes and over five million was given back to the citizens. Mr. Willson stated he is very proud of the School Board previous, past, and current.
Mr. Johnson thanked Mr. Boles and Mrs. Mathews for coming and saving the Monroe City School District money.
On a motion by Mr. Willson and seconded by Mrs. Haneline, the Board approved to the Adoption of Bond Resolution. The motion carried on a unanimous vote.
Agenda Item 5A – Report of Superintendent
- Professional Development Day for Teachers Friday, February 18, 2022
- Installment of new smart boards and training
- Between 35-40 regular substitutes daily and 54 new substitutes signed up pending background
- Restroom project at Wossman High School should be released in the next day or so; Carroll High and Carroll Jr, 15% have been completed and should be released soon. Construction on Neville Jr and Neville High School should begin on April 1, 2022
Ms. Haneline inquired about testing during this time. Dr Vidrine responded, it will be separated and worked around testing.
Mechanical Construction will begin in March.
Ms. Hanline asked Superintendent Vidrine to give an update on Jefferson and Martin Luther King Jr. Construction and ribbon cutting.
Dr. Vidrine responded, Jefferson is still being worked on.
Agenda Items 5C – Report of Board Members
Mr. Saulsberry thanked Mr. Johnson for allowing him to serve as Chair on the Facilities Committee. Mr. Saulsberry reported a Facilities Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 24, 2022, at 5:00pm and Task Force Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 23, 2022, at 5:00pm.
Ms. Haneline thanked Mr. Willson for his attentiveness and intellect on willing to address the bond issues and saving taxpayers money. Ms. Haneline stated how excited she is on how reading in early years is very important for future achievement. Ms. Haneline thanked Carmel Hill Fund for helping.
Mrs. Cooper reported on the Power Coalition Organization, that have been hosting listening sessions throughout the State. The Organization have been speaking with parents and childcare providers about access to childcare. She stated improvement is needed in this area and creating problems with parents. Mrs. Cooper invited everyone to attend a session on tomorrow with the Power Coalition at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Family Life Center for 12:00pm to 1:30pm.
Mr. Willson reported, two weeks ago he had the honor of representing the City of Monroe Chamber of Commerce and Monroe City school System on a legislative visit to Washington DC.
Mr. Willson commended Mayor Friday Ellis on his presentation. This was the largest group taken from Monroe. All five City Council men and women believe to be present. Numerous of the Mayor staff was present, Mr. Willson and Paul Hudson represented the Chamber of Commerce. They met with congress women from District 5, Julia Letlow, Senator Bill Cassidy, Senator John Kennedy. Mr. Willson state they were able to visit with House Minority, Steve Scalise his Chief of Staff as well as Congressman Mike Johnson Chief of Staff and Congressman Garret Graves. He stated that the City of Monroe and Chamber of Commerce find/ five project for funding 55 million funding for northeast la pacifically Monroe 1.2 trillion instructional package. La will receive the first share of 1.2 billion. Mr. Willson congratulated Neville High School Boys and Girls Soccer Team and Coaches for making State semi-finals.
Mrs. Greer wished everyone a Happy belated Valentine’s. Mrs. Greer acknowledge this is Black History month and read a quote from Fredrick Douglas. Mrs. Greer reported on her visit to Barkdull Faulk Elementary School where she volunteered to assist the teachers and students on last week. Mrs. Greer challenged the Board Members to volunteer in the classrooms.
Mr. Johnson stated his goal as President of the Board is to see the Board working in strength. He noted to the Board to have Committee Meetings and continue to make the Monroe City School District as strong as it can be. He stated Mr. Saulsberry has schedule a Facilities Committee Meeting for February 24, 2022, at 5:00pm and invited everyone to attend. Mr. Johnson thanked his Pastor, Dr. Stonewall Hunter, for offering Prayer and Pledge. Mr. Johnson congratulated Wossman High School Girls and Boys Basketball Team for being undefeated and making District Champs in 3A. He congratulated Neville High School on District Champs in 4A and wished the teams luck the rest of the season.
Agenda Item 8 – Future Meetings
Board Meetings – March 15, 2022, and April 19, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.
Action Item 9 – Recess/Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the board, on a motion by Mr. Willson and seconded by Ms. Haneline, the Board approved meeting to be adjourned at 6:55p.m.
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__ /Brandon Johnson/_____________ ______/Brent Vidrine/____________
Brandon Johnson Dr. Brent Vidrine
Board President Superintendent
Note: These minutes summarize the final decisions made by the Board at the referenced meeting. This meeting was also audio recorded and that recording is available for review by contacting the Board clerk at tonya.robinson@mcschools.net.
