LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT
810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
July 22, 2021 5:30 PM
I. Welcome and Greetings II. Celebrations
III. Public Comments IV. District Reports
A. Certified Personnel Policy Committee Report B. Classified Personnel Policy Committee Report V. Special Services Report
A. Division of Special Programs Report VI. Consent Items (Action)
A. Donations of Property B. Minutes - June 2021 C. Personnel Changes VII. Student Registration
A. Legal Transfer Requests (Action) B. Virtual Academy Registration VIII. Educational Services
A. COVID-19 Sick Leave/Vaccination Incentive and Ready for Learning Update
IX. Human Resources
A. Resolution on COVID-19 Vaccination Incentive and COVID-19 Leave (Action)
B. Comprehensive Compensation Proposal - For Informational Purposes Only
X. Finance & Support Services
A. June 2021 Board Financial Report (Preliminary)
B. Bond Refunding & Extension of Debt Service Mills (Action) XI. Board Policy and Regulations
A. Section 6—School, Home and Community Relations (First Reading)
B. LRSD Adoption of Revisions to Section 5—Curriculum and Instruction (First Reading)
XII. Closing Remarks Adjournment
Little Rock School District Division of Special Programs
Board of Directors Presentation July 22, 2021 Cassandra Steele, Director
Special Programs – Staff
Supervisors:
Elementary
Dr. Sophia Williams
Kelly Simmons
Secondary
Dr. Melinda Smith Deborah Papineau
Coordinators:
Janice Lehmann
-504, Alt Agencies, JJC, JDC
Carla Lester
SPS, Residential facilities, private schoolsJennifer Fisk - OT/PT
Thelma Jasper
Early Childhood Sped
Amanda Blair
Behavior Specialist
Support Staff
Kimberly Hampton – Curriculum Intern Brenda Smith – Curriculum Resource &
Instruction
Joyce Jacobs – Office Mgr.
/Bookkeeper
Shenetta Terrell – Data Specialist Rosalind Perry – Medicaid Specialist Regina Johnson – Records Specialist LyRayna Waddy – File Clerk
Shirley Gilmore – ECSE Secretary
Alicia Delaney – ECSE Secretary
Special Programs –
The mission of the Division of Special Programs is to assure that all students with unique educational challenges/disabilities will attain academic, social, and emotional growth through a stimulating, challenging curricula in
partnership with families, school, and community.
The mission statements encompass the full educational opportunity for students with disabilities as mandated by federal and state legislation.
They include the expectation that students with special needs will participate in the regular program as much as it is profitable for them, and that
professional support and resources will be available to help these students and the school's staff.
The mission is accomplished by the provision of child find activities,
evaluation, services, and a full continuum of programs and related services for students with disabilities.
Special Programs – Our Numbers
3,163
Speech Impair
ed
SLD Other Healt
h Imp
Autis m
Visu al Imp
Orth o Imp
Heari ng Imp
ED I D Traumatic Brain Injury
Deaf- Blind
Multipl e
1019 773 656 283 7 11 12 58 265 8 1 67
LR Southwest *328 Fulbright *112
LR Central 234 Don Roberts 98
Pinnacle View *162 Chicot Elem 97
JA Fair K-8 225 (E – 77, M – 148)
Otter Creek 82
Cloverdale *146 Washington 81
Mabelvale Middle 109
LRW *82 (20 agency)
Special Programs – Services & Supports
Full Continuum from Indirect/Consultant to Homebound
Related Services – Speech-Language Therapy (50, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy (16); School Psychology Specialist/ LPE (18); Behavior Specialist (1); Early Childhood Special Services.
Students are placed in zoned schools; next closest when at capacity (10 ideal)
Self-contained/CBI
Behavior/Social S/C Emotional Don Roberts(3)
McDermott (2)
Williams (1) JA Fair Middle (1)
JA Fair Elem (2)
Fulbright (2) Terry (1) Otter Creek (1)
Central (1) LR West (1)
Booker Magnet (2)
Chicot (2) Stephens (2) Meadowcliff (2)
Southwest (4) Carver Magnet (2)
Jefferson (2) Mab Elem (2) PHMS (1) Hall STEAM (1) M L King (1) Bale (2) Wakefield (1) MMMS (2) FHSA (1)
Brady (2) Washington (3)
CMMS (2) Pinnacle View (2)
DESE Monitoring & Updates
A State Board requested Monitoring of Special Programs (Compliance) occurred in 2019:
Findings – Manifestation Determination Reviews – more timely Timelines (Child Find) 98% - All Schools Review the Process
Transition – Post Secondary Goals- Summary of Performance
2020-21 Finance Audit
No findings
DESE Monitoring & Support
Special Auditor assigned by DESE
High number of students in restrictive settings (Resource)
Resource English and Math
Inclusion Science and Social Studies (more flexible model)
Co-Teaching
Robin Stripling “Inclusive Practices” August 5
th(90 participants)
Second Wednesday – ongoing PD (General and Sped teachers)
Curriculum Support – Resources “Tool-Kit” for teachers (PLCs)
Cycle 7 - Data on Discipline
Comprehensive Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CCEIS)
School Year # of Infractions School Year # of Infractions
2019-2020 10,527 2020-2021 3,908 Actions 9,229 Actions 3,078
After PD reduction of over 7,000 actions
CCEIS Actions
LAB Classes in 5 targeted schools:
Central High
Southwest High
Mabelvale Middle
Cloverdale Middle
Stephens Elementary
LAB classes are specifically designed to teach appropriate behavior and social-
emotional skills. Evidenced- based program “Positive Action”. It is on students 504 plans or IEPs and fully staffed with Certified teacher and Para; will utilize community support to meet the needs of all students.
Special Programs – Our Challenges
Sped Teacher shortage 14
vacancies (8) elementary level
Over-representation of Asian students with Autism
Support:
Professional Dev. For Gen Ed teachers on inclusion model
Curriculum Support staff
PD for Admins on Data Input
Retention – Self- Care for Sped Staff
Continue to advertise
Contact colleges & Univ. for grads
Advertising out of state
Student Services Summit- focus on restorative justice and Trauma informed care of students
More inclusive Models (Gen Ed)
LAB (Learning Appropriate Behavior)
Classes implement SES curriculum;
LAB teachers support push-in;
Summer Literacy and Math Enrichment
150 Elementary and Middle School students with disabilities
All settings
Related Services
Small groups
Para support
Water Play
T-Shirts
A Team Approach
For a school to help all students learn, it must build a collaborative culture in
which members take collective
responsibility for all students. The traditional mantra of “These are MY
students” gives way to “These are OUR
students, and we share the responsibility to ensure their learning.”
Marzano, Warrick, Rains and DuFour (2018)
Thank You!
Division of Special
Programs
LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT
810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
DATE: July 22, 2021 5:30:00 PM FROM: Mike Poore
Superintendent of Schools SUBJECT: Donations of Property
BACKGROUND:
The Little Rock School District receives donations from businesses and individuals on a regular basis. It is the policy of Little School District that donations are not formally accepted until they are approved by the Board of Directors.
RATIONALE:
District policy states that, in order to maintain the centralized fixed asset property accounting system, all property donation requests are forwarded to the Director of Procurement. The Procurement Department forwards the requests, along with the appropriate recommendations, to the Board of Directors for acceptance and approval. In order for proper recognition and appreciation to be conveyed to the donor, donor’s name and current mailing address should be included in the donation memo.
FUNDING:
None
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the attached donation requests be approved and accepted in accordance with the policies of the Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District.
PREPARED BY:
Darral Paradis, Director of Procurement
Board Meeting July 22. 2021
DONATIONS
SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT ITEM DONOR
Central High School Donation of $5,000 to LRCH Sunshine Fund
Dr. and Mrs. Keller Central High School Donation of $500 TO
LRCH
Arkansas Children’s Hospital
LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT
810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
DATE: July 22, 2021 5:30:00 PM FROM: Mike Poore
Superintendent of Schools
SUBJECT: Minutes for June 10 and June 24, 2021
RECOMMENDATION:
Administration submits the minutes for approval by the Board.
PREPARED BY:
Michael Hutchinson, Board Clerk
Minutes
Meeting of the Little Rock School District Board of Education Administrative Offices Board Room
June 10, 2021
Meeting commenced at 5:31 p.m.
In attendance: Mr. Michael Mason, Ms. Sandrekkia Morning, Ms. Evelyn Hemphill Callaway, Ms. Leigh Ann Wilson, Ms. Ali Noland, Ms. Vicki Hatter, Ms. Norma J. Johnson, Mr. Greg Adams, and Mr. Jeff Wood.
Absent: None
Also in attendance:
Mr. Michael Poore, Superintendent
Absent: Mr. Jeremy Owoh, Deputy Superintendent Special Meeting
I. Welcome and Targets for Meeting - Vicki Hatter, LRSD board president, opened the meeting.
She asked Ms. Noland to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Ms. Hatter then recognized Ms. Wilson, who was celebrating her birthday. Ms. Hatter asked for moment of expression from Mr. Adams.
His word was “resilience.” He said that resilience is like a river. Things happen in life, but a river keeps going and finds it way around obstacles, and cannot be stopped. Creativity is the word of the month, announced Ms. Hatter.
Ms. Hatter said that a motion was needed for the board to go into an executive session. Ms.
Wilson moved that the LRSD School Board modify the agenda to add an executive session. A second was made by Mr. Mason. The motion carried unanimously.
Ms. Callaway moved that the board go into executive session for the purpose of discussing a personnel staff issue. A second was made by Ms. Wilson. The motion passed unanimously.
The meeting ended at 5:40 p.m.
II. Executive Session – A motion was made to end executive session by Ms. Wilson and seconded by Ms. Johnson. The motion passed unanimously.
The meeting resumed at 5:54 p.m. Ms. Hatter noted that no action was taken during executive session.
Public Comments – Ms. Hatter stated that there were no public comments.
III. Academics
A. Math Textbook Adoption (Action)
Mr. Poore introduced the topic. Ms. Hope Worsham, executive director of curriculum and instruction, led the discussion with the Board. Remarks were made about the curriculum being parent friendly and the cost of the books was a concern. There was a mention of the teachers who did not vote on the current math book selection. Mr. Poore said that the District took great efforts to listen to all the input from the teachers. Ms. Noland encouraged the District to get feedback from those who are resigning to see how the District could better support our teachers.
A motion was made by Mr. Adams that the LRSD Board approve the math textbook adoption as presented by the Administration. A second was made by Ms. Johnson. Mr. Wood spoke against the motion and stated that he would not be voting for it. A vote was taken. The motion passed seven to two, with Mr. Wood and Ms. Callaway opposing the motion.
IV. Personnel
A. Personnel Recommendations (Action)
Mr. Poore stated that April, May and June are critical times to fill staff openings. He also said that one name was added for an assistant principal for Terry Elementary, who will be funded through ESSER funds.
A motion was made by Mr. Wood that the LRSD Board approve the personnel changes noted in the Board packet. A second was made by Ms. Wilson. A vote was taken. The motion passed unanimously.
V. Adjournment – Ms. Hatter stated that a motion was needed to adjourn the special meeting.
Ms. Wilson moved to adjourn the special meeting. The second was made by Ms. Johnson. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting ended at 6:35 p.m.
Agenda Meeting
I. Welcome and Targets for Meeting
Ms. Hatter started the agenda meeting. Mr. Poore said that there was a report on Community Schools.
II. Reports and Discussions A. Community Schools Report 1. Governance
2. Expansion
The report was presented by Dr. Jay Barth, Chief Education Officer for the City of Little Rock and Mr. Darian Smith, Executive Director of Elementary School Leadership. Dr. Barth stated that the Board would see two items, governance and expansion of community schools. Dr. Barth reviewed the practices they had seen in other community schools. Mr. Smith reviewed the Community School’s work thus far, including identifying 4 sites for the community school model, conducting a needs assessment at each campus, and hiring a site coordinator. He proposed the creation of a task force and told of the components of the task force.
Dr. Barth reported on the shared community school expansion. Currently there are four community schools. He discussed possible funding sources. Mr. Smith announced the two newly proposed schools, which are Mabelvale Elementary and Mabelvale Middle School.
Sustainability of the two proposed schools was the next topic discussed.
Ms. Hatter opened the floor for discussion. There was discussion about the input of the citizens in that area of the proposed schools, the community making comments before the board and the proposed community schools taskforce. It was asked that the MOU be posted on the LRSD website. There was lengthy discussion on the community having a strong voice in the process and listening to the community needs. Mr. Poore added that there was a needs assessment including multiple stakeholders, such as the students, staff, and parents at each campus.
Ms. Hatter proceeded to review the agenda.
II. Tentative Agenda- June 24, 2021 Regular Board Meeting A. Welcome and Greetings
B. District Celebrations C. Community Comments D. District Updates
1. Certified PPC L. Austin 2. Classified PPC J. Eason
3. School Board Calendar 2021-22
Mr. Poore said the staff has begun working on the monthly items for the Board to review.
E. Consent Agenda (Action) 1. Board Minutes
2. Personnel Recommendation 3. Lexia Contract
4. Community School Expansion
Mr. Poore stated that they would delete Community Expansion from the Consent Agenda. It was mentioned that the millage has been deleted and it was asked to be out back on the agenda. Ms. Hatter said that the June training would help give the board direction of how to proceed with the millage, and to develop a plan. Ms. Noland asked that the Board start making a plan and add the millage issue. The Board asked that dates be given to begin the process of strategic planning. Mr. Poore said that administration would build in dates for board work sessions. Mr. Adams asked that the board start talking about the process and place this strategic plan issue on the agenda. Ms. Hatter suggested a special meeting for this topic. She added that the superintendent and the board president recommend some dates and send them out to the board for possible meeting dates in.
F. Communications
1. Public Relations RFQ/RFP Process G. Finance
1. Financial Update H. Student Services
1. Second Reading of Student Handbook (Action) I. Policy
1. Policy 3.0 and 8.0- 2nd Reading
2. Personnel Policy Manual, Sections 4 & 5- 2nd Reading
Ms. Noland asked that the non-discrimination policy be revisited by the board. Mr. Mason asked about an update on the state releasing the District. Mr. Wood inquired about the board making a policy on board members participating virtually and board members voting in
abstention. The board discussed having a board governance meeting. Ms. Hatter said that governance will be presented in July.
Ms. Hatter said that the board place the remote meeting issue on the next meeting. Mr. Wood asked that a 30-minute session be scheduled to address the millage. Ms. Hatter asked that the board let the superintendent propose some dates for a special meeting to discuss the millage.
Mr. Mason restated his request for an update for the state control. Mr. Poore said that the state gave positive feedback. And, he added that the July meeting with the state board should be very positive.
J. Board Comments Adjournment
Mr. Wood made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Ms. Wilson made a second to the motion.
The motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
Minutes
Meeting of the Little Rock School District Board of Education Administrative Offices Board Room
June 24, 2021 Meeting commenced at 5:34 p.m.
In attendance: Mr. Michael Mason, Ms. Sandrekkia Morning, Ms. Evelyn Hemphill Callaway, Ms. Leigh Ann Wilson, Ms. Ali Noland, Ms. Vicki Hatter, Ms. Norma J. Johnson, Mr. Greg Adams and Mr. Jeff Wood
Absent: None
Also in attendance:
Mr. Michael Poore, Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Owoh, Deputy Superintendent
I. Welcome and Greetings – Ms. Hatter began the meeting. She asked Ms. Johnson to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Ms. Hatter announced that the word of the month is “creativity.”
She then asked Mr. Mason for words of inspiration. He read a poem entitled: “It Can’t Be Done.” Ms. Hatter said that this is the last meeting of the year and asked Board members to share their thoughts.
Ms. Hatter made a motion to add an executive session to the agenda to discuss new hires. Mr.
Poore asked that there be a motion to amend the agenda and a separate motion to go into executive session. Mr. Mason made a motion to amend the agenda to add executive session to the beginning of the agenda. The second came from Ms. Johnson. The vote was taken and passed unanimously. Mr. Wood made a motion to go in executive session. The second came from Ms. Morning. The motion passed unanimously. Executive session began at 5:52 p.m.
The meeting resumed at 6:42 p.m. Ms. Wilson made a motion to leave executive session and resume the regular meeting. A second came from Ms. Morning. The motion passed
unanimously. There was no action taken during the executive session.
A. Meeting Outline -
II. District Celebrations – Mr. Poore started the celebration highlighting Juneteenth. The District participated in that event and signed up students. He also announced that Yasmin Honorable won a $5,000 scholarship as a Juneteenth Scholarship recipient. He then recognized the Department of Education conference. Additionally, Cloverdale and Hall was recognized for Higher Reliability Schools (HRS) Certification. Mr. Poore highlighted the summer enrichment opportunities for SPED students. He also acknowledged that the District hosted a shot clinic and will hold future clinics at all middle schools. Mr. Poore celebrated Margo Bushmiaer as a
longtime LRSD Health Services Coordinator. He talked about the Blood Drive partnering with
the Arkansas Blood Institute at LR Central High School on July 6. He ended with the AR Department of Education exit interview and 98.3% said that the District provided essential standards for math and literacy. They also said that the District has systems in place to identify students needing dyslexia intervention, by 93.2% approval. He ended with gratitude to Hope Worsham and Dr. Jeremy Owoh, who are leaving the district. Mr. Poore, along with the Board, made a presentation to Ms. Worsham and Dr. Owoh.
III. Community Comments –There were four people those who requested to speak but did not log on. There were five written comments. Ms. Jaclyn Adams and Gayle Frasier sent in written comments. Both comments were in support of Community Schools. Valencia White sent in a comment about her support of Community Schools. The Tikai Harrison sent in comments about various general areas of the District. Terry Williams wrote about funding of the Community Schools. Those who wanted to speak included Ms. Betty Bennett, who was not on the Zoom. Mr. Colby Night spoke and asked questions about Washington Elementary and gave his suggestions. Mr. Malik Marshall spoke about Washington Elementary, as well. The last scheduled speaker was Gary Williams, who was not present on the Zoom.
Mr. Wood asked when the District will resume in person meetings. Mr. Poore said the Board should address that topic at the July meeting.
IV. District Updates
A. Certified Personnel Policy Committee Report – The report was given by Ms. LaKeitha Austin who thanked the Board for approving the pandemic pay. There will be PPC training for current and new representatives. The next PPC meeting is slated for July 12. PPC formed a committee for a certified sick leave bank proposal. She said that the PPC wants to know why the Personnel Procedural Manuel not called a Policy. Ms. Hatter state it is a personnel manual until the board votes to make it a policy.
B. Classified Personnel Policy Committee Report – Ms. Jordan Eason reported the Classified PPC is off contract and there was no June meeting and there will not be a July meeting. The
Classified PPC committee did discuss the sick leave bank proposal and like the idea. They will be proposing a sick leave policy soon.
C. School Board Calendar 2021-2022 (Potential Action) – Ms. Hatter stated that the board has a draft of the calendar before them. Mr. Poore stated that the calendar includes dates for
working sessions and he added some town hall meetings. Mr. Wood asked that the town hall meetings be spread out and not held all in one week. Mr. Poore explained that he tried to schedule the town hall meetings before the board’s August meeting so the board could have community input. A motion was made that the board adopt the board meeting calendar date including the July 8 agenda meeting by Ms. Noland and seconded by Ms. Wilson. There were discussions about having agenda meetings. The staff attorney stated that there must be notification of the public. A vote was taken and it passed unanimously.
V. Consent Agenda (Action)
A. Personnel Changes B. Board Minutes C. Donation of Property
A motion was made to approve the Consent Agenda items as follows: 1) Personnel changes – which includes adjustment made by Human Resources today, 2) The minutes from the April 22, May 13 and May 27 meetings and, 3) donation of property was made by Ms. Wilson and
seconded by Ms. Johnson. The motion passed unanimously.
VI. Community Schools (Action)
A. Community School Expansion -
Mr. Poore stated that the expansion would take place only if the District received the grant.
Ms. Hatter moved the LRSD School Board authorize the superintendent to move forward with the Community School model which will include: 1) the development of a task force, 2) a memorandum of understanding (MOU) detailing the responsibilities of all parties; and, 3) an evaluative tool that will accurately measure the impact of the Community Schools. A second was made by Ms. Noland. The motion carried unanimously.
Ms. Hatter moved that the LRSD School Board approve the expansion of Community Schools to include Mabelvale Elementary and Mabelvale Middle School as presented by the
Administration, if the grant is received and a comprehensive plan developed. A second was made by Mr. Mason. The motion passed eight to one, with Ms. Callaway opposing.
VII. Communications
A. Public Relations RFQ/RFP Process – Mr. Poore introduced the topic and Ms. Pam Smith, LRSD Director of Communication. Ms. Smith talked about the District hiring a communications
company to help run the millage campaign. The Administration supports a Request for a Proposal (RFP) process. Ms. Smith shared that a Request for a Quote (RFQ) we would have the requirements the District is seeking and the company would provide a quote based on meeting those requirements. Mr. Poore stated that the District is not allowed to market a millage campaign. It was asked if students could be used to develop the campaign, and be used as talent. Ms. Smith confirmed. Mr. Poore stated that the District will further discuss requesting an RFQ verses an RFP.
VIII. Finance & Support Services
A. May 2021 Board Financial Report
Mr. Kelsey Bailey presented the financial reports, including summary revenue status reports, summary expenditure status report and detailed statement of changes in fund balances. Mr.
Bailey discussed human capital, which is an intangible asset or quality not listed on a company’s balance sheet, he explained. Mr. Bailey reviewed the CFO Mantra and he ended with a slide on Exist Vs Thrive. He stated that the District has to decide whether we want to exist (survival mode) or thrive (flourish mode).
Mr. Adams moved that the board develop a plan, with public input, and bring a proposal for a debt extension to the voters and that the plan be brought to the board for final approval. There was a second by Mr. Mason and the motion was approved unanimously.
IX. Student Services
A. Student Handbook - Second Reading (Action) – Mr. Poore stated that this is the second reading. He asked the Board for questions. There were none.
Ms. Wilson made a motion was made the LRSD School Board approve the Student Handbook as amended for the 2021-2022 school year. A second was made by Ms. Johnson. The motion passed eight to zero. Mr. Wood was out of the room during the vote.
X. Board Policy and Regulations
A. Policy 1.6.1—Attending Board Meetings Remotely – Mr. Eric Walker, the LRSD staff attorney, Ms. Noland made a motion that the LRSD suspend the normal practice of two readings and vote the policy on attending board meetings remotely. A second was made by Mr. Wood. A vote was taken. The vote passed unanimously.
Mr. Walker read the policy pertaining to the board attending meetings remotely and explained it. He stated that this type policy was passed by other school districts.
Ms. Noland made a motion that the LRSD School Board approve Policy 1.6.1- Attending Board Meetings Remotely. A second was made by Ms. Wilson. A vote was taken and it passed unanimously.
B. LRSD Adoption of Revisions to Section 3—Licensed Personnel (Action) – Mr. Walker presented Section 3 and Section 8 together.
Ms. Wilson moved that the LRSD approve the revisions to Section 3 – Licensed Personnel. It was seconded by Mr. Mason. A vote was taken and it passed unanimously.
C. LRSD Adoption of Revisions to Section 8—Classified Personnel (Action)
Ms. Wilson moved that the LRSD School Board approve the revisions to Section 8 – Classified Personnel. It was seconded by Ms. Johnson. The motion passed unanimously.
D. Personnel Procedure Manual--Certified—Second Reading.
Ms. Noland moved that the LRSD School Board approve the sections 4 and 5 in the Personnel Procedure Manual – Certified as presented. A second was made Ms. Wilson. The motion passed.
Ms. Noland moved that the name of the entire document be changed from Personnel Procedure Manual - Certified to Personnel Procedure Policy - Certified. Ms. Wilson made a second. A vote was taken and it passed unanimously.
Procedure Sections (Action)
XI. Board Comments – Ms. Callaway asked the board to take a second look at section 1.14 and review it for revision, which is the policy of looking at how to set an agenda. Mr. Wood inquired about having a subcommittee to look into this. Ms. Hatter confirmed and added that there are two community board seats open. Mr. Poore will follow up on this. Ms. Callaway asked if she could forward written questions and then let the committee look at it. Ms. Hatter said that the superintendent will help select the three members.
Mr. Wood moved that the board set a three-member committee to establish specific agenda setting procedures. Ms. Noland seconded the motion. Mr. Adams questioned taking action on an item that was not on the agenda. Ms. Noland withdrew her second.
Ms. Morning asked if a resolution could be developed and brought to the board. Ms. Hatter said that she and the superintendent will discuss a resolution and report to the board in July.
Ms. Hatter asked for another second to Mr. Wood’s motion. There was none. The motion was dropped.
Ms. Morning suggested that the board ask the superintendent make Juneteenth a holiday.
Adjournment – A motion was made by Mr. Noland to adjourn. A second was made by Ms.
Morning. The meeting ended at 9:53 p.m.
LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT
810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
DATE: July 22, 2021 5:30:00 PM FROM: Mike Poore
Superintendent of Schools SUBJECT: Personnel Changes
RATIONALE:
To staff allocated positions within the District
FUNDING:
Operating Fund
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the following personnel changes be approved.
A.C.A. 6-17-1502 allows school districts that hire teachers who have taught for three years in another district in Arkansas to add one additional year of probationary status for those teachers. LRSD has done this routinely for decades because it allows the District to assess the teacher’s performance before they become non-probationary employees. It is therefore recommended that Arkansas teachers who have achieved non-probationary status and who are hired into the Little Rock School District will be provided one (1) additional year of probationary status. Teachers new to the District who have not completed three (3) successive years of employment will be probationary until the completion of three (3) successive years within the Little Rock School District.
Teachers employed with LRSD after the first student contact day of the school year are declared “Interim Teacher” and must reapply at the end of the school year.
PREPARED BY:
Robert Robinson, Executive Director of Human Resources
Personnel Changes Page 1
July 22, 2021
EFFECTIVE NAME POSITION/SCHOOL DATE
Section A - Resignations/Terminations Certified Employees
1. CALLEY, PAUL
REASON: RETIREMENT
DEAN OF STUDENTS/
SOUTHWEST HIGH
07-31-21
2. DANESHMANDI, KATHRYN REASON: RETIREMENT
SPECIAL EDUCATION/
CLOVERDALE MIDDLE
07-31-21
3. FREEMAN, CHANDA REASON: RESIGNATION
MATH/
FOREST HEIGHTS STEM
07-31-21
4. FRITTS, STEPHANIE REASON: RESIGNATION
ENGLISH/
SOUTHWEST HIGH
07-30-21
5. HALL, KIMBERLY REASON: RESIGNATION
KINDERGARTEN/
WILLIAMS MAGNET
07-19-21
6. HUNTER-WHITE, TACASATA REASON: RESIGNATION
DANCE/
J. A. FAIR PREPARATORY
07-29-21
7. JACKSON-TURNER, TABITHA REASON: RESIGNATION
ENGLISH/
SOUTHWEST HIGH
07-06-21
8. MCALLISTER, ANTANIA REASON: RESIGNATION
ELEMENTARY II/
WATSON ELEMENTARY
07-08-21
9. MCALLISTER, JOSHUA REASON: RESIGNATION
ART/
FULBRIGHT
07-31-21
10. MOXLEY, KATIE
REASON: RESIGNATION
KINDERGARTEN/
WILLIAMS MAGNET
07-09-21
11. PITCOCK, MADELINE REASON: RESIGNATION
KINDERGARTEN/
FOREST PARK ELEMENTARY
07-09-21
12. SAINE, ANGELA
REASON: RESIGNATION
ELEMENTARY MATH MULTI-SITE INSTRUCTIONAL FACILITATOR/
MATH
07-14-21
13. STEWARD, ERIC REASON: RESIGNATION
ENGLISH/
PULASKI HEIGHTS MIDDLE
07-14-21
14. WILLIAMS, JEREMY REASON: RESIGNATION
MATH/
J. A. FAIR PREPARATORY
07-07-21
15. WILLIAMSON, MICHAEL REASON: RESIGNATION
BAND DIRECTOR/
PULASKI HEIGHTS MIDDLE
07-15-21
Personnel Changes Page 2
July 22, 2021
EFFECTIVE NAME POSITION/SCHOOL DATE
16. WORTSMITH, KARYN REASON: RESIGNATION
ELEMENTARY GIFTED AND TALENTED/
MCDERMOTT ELEMENTARY
07-09-21
Section B - New Certified Employees
1. ACKLIN, CHEYENNE ELEMENTARY II/
WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
2. ADAMS, HOLLY ELEMENTARY III/
JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
3. BERNHARDT, PHILLIP SOCIAL STUDIES/COACH/
CENTRAL HIGH
07-19-21
4. BIRD, JUSTIN ELEMENTARY K/
M. L. KING ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
5. BRASWELL, KAMYRA ELEMENTARY III/
BALE ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
6. BUNTING, ERIC GEOMETRY/
PARKVIEW HIGH
08-05-21
7. BUTLER, ELIZABETH SPECIAL EDUCATION/
FOREST HEIGHTS STEM
08-05-21
8. CORBERLEY, CHRISTINA VIRTUAL SCH ELEMENTARY I/
TERRY
08-05-21
9. CUMMINS, SARA ELEMENTARY IV/
WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
10. DAVIS, SANDY ELEMENTARY READING/
FULBRIGHT
08-05-21
11. DILDAY, JENNIFER ELEMENTARY IV/
FULBRIGHT
08-05-21
12. GREEN, LESHA ELEMENTARY III/
BRADY ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
13. GREEN, SARAH ELEMENTARY III/
WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
14. GREGORY, JOSEPH ELEMENTARY PHYSICAL EDUCATION/
TERRY ELEMENTARY
07-19-21
Personnel Changes Page 3
July 22, 2021
EFFECTIVE NAME POSITION/SCHOOL DATE
15. GRICE, KATELYN ELEMENTARY II/
WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
16. HENDRICKSON, KYLE ELEMENTARY IV/
CARVER ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
17. HUDELSON, CHRISTIE ENGLISH/
SOUTHWEST HIGH
08-05-21
18. JACKSON, ANGELA MULTI-SITE SECONDARY MATH COACH/
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
08-02-21
19. JACKSON, MALLORY ELEMENTARY PHYSICAL EDUCATION/
ROBERTS ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
20. JAMES, STANLEY SOCIAL STUDIES/
PINNACLE VIEW MIDDLE
08-05-21
21. JENKINS, ALEXIS ELEMENTARY IV/
TERRY ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
22. JETTON, ANNA ELEMENTARY IV/
BALE ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
23. JONES, HOLDEN VOCAL MUSIC/
PINNACLE VIEW MIDDLE
08-05-21
24. KUHN, MACKENZIE SCIENCE/
J. A. FAIR PREPARATORY
08-05-21
25. LUCIUS, WILLIE ELEMENTARY V/
CHICOT ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
26. MARSHALL, MARTHA READING TEACHER/
HALL STEAM MAGNET
08-05-21
27. MARTIN, EMILY ELEMENTARY I/
FOREST HEIGHTS STEM
08-05-21
28. MCINTOSH, MICHAEL MATH/
CENTRAL HIGH
08-05-21
29. MOSBY, EDWINA ENGLISH/
SOUTHWEST HIGH
08-05-21
30. RICKS, ANJANETTE ELEMENTARY II/
MABELVALE ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
Personnel Changes Page 4
July 22, 2021
EFFECTIVE NAME POSITION/SCHOOL DATE
31. SIMON, KELLY VIRTUAL SCH KINDERGARTEN/
TERRY ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
32. SMITH, EMILY ELEMENTARY I/
M. L. KING ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
33. THORNTON, MONTY MATH/
HALL STEAM MAGNET
08-05-21
34. UTZ, JESSICA VOCAL MUSIC/
MABELVALE MIDDLE
08-05-21
35. WASHINGTON, BLAKE SOCIAL STUDIES/COACH/
CENTRAL HIGH
07-19-21
Section C - Certified Promotions/Contract Changes
1. ANDRADE, PERLA Transferred from ELEMENTARY IV – TCH925 (BASELINE) to INSTRUCTIONAL FACILITATOR – TCH950 (BASELINE)
2. JETT, AMY Transferred from ELEMENTARY IV – TCH925 (WAKEFIELD) to INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST – TCH950 (WAKEFIELD)
3. MARBURY, DEQUONCE Transferred from BEHAVIOR INTERVENTION SPECIALIST – TCH925 (ROMINE) to DEAN OF STUDENTS – TCH1025 - (J. A.
FAIR PREPARATORY)
4. SWIFT, AMANDA Transferred from ELEMENTARY READING – TCH925 (WESTERN HILLS) to MULTI-SITE ELEMENTARY LITERACY COACH – TCH950 - (CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION)
5. SWINTON-DAY, BRENDA Transferred from ELEMENTARY IV – TCH925 (DODD ELEMENTARY) to ELEMENTARY V/COACH – TCH950 (J. A.
FAIR PREPARATORY)
6. THOMPSON, JOY Transferred from LITERACY INSTRUCTIONAL FACILITATOR – TCH950 (PULASKI HEIGHTS MIDDLE) to LEAD SECONDARY LITERACY TEACHER – TCH1025 (LITERACY)
7. WILLIAMS, LULA Transferred from PRE-CALCULUS – TCH925 (SOUTHWEST) to MULTI-SITE SECONDARY MATH COACH – TCH950 (MATH)
8. YANCEY, KELSEY Transferred from MATH - TCH925 (PINNACLE VIEW) to PERSONAL FINANCE – TCH950 (PINNACLE VIEW)
Personnel Changes Page 5
July 22, 2021
EFFECTIVE NAME POSITION/SCHOOL DATE
Section D - Resignations/Terminations Non-Certified Employees
1. BARTON, BILLY
REASON: TERMINATION
TRADE SPECIALIST-PAINTER/
MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS
07-14-21
2. BUENO, LAURA
REASON: RESIGNATION
ASST HEAD CUSTODIAN/
ROBERTS ELEMENTARY
06-25-21
3. HOWARD, JESSICA REASON: RESIGNATION
INSTRUCTIONAL AIDE/
ROMINE ECC
07-09-21
4. LEAVY, KATRINA REASON: RESIGNATION
INSTRUCTIONAL TECH SPECIALIST/
STEPHENS
07-02-21
5. MARTINEZ, VICTOR REASON: RESIGNATION
PRE-K AIDE/
BOOKER ARTS MAGNET
07-13-21
6. VIRDEN, MARY
REASON: RESIGNATION
INSTRUCTIONAL AIDE/
WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY
07-12-21
Section E - New Non-Certified Employees
1. BURNSIDE, AMY ELEMENTARY NURSE/
BASELINE ELEMENTARY
08-05-21
2. CLAY, VICTORIA CHILD NUTRITION/
WAKEFIELD ELEMENTARY
08-03-21
3. GIESE, BIANCA ELEMENTARY NURSE/
WAKEFIELD ELEMENTARY
08-09-21
4. MILLER, BRITTANY NURSE/
MCDERMOTT ELEMENTARY
08-09-21
5. PORTER, SHEILA NURSE/
GEYER SPRINGS ECC
08-09-21
6. WADE, PAMELA NURSE/
WESTERN HILLS ELEMENTARY
08-09-21
Section F - Non-Certified Promotions/Contract Changes
1. ALLGOOD, NICOLE Transferred from CUSTODIAN (CUS925) - (CLOVERDALE) to CUSTODIAN (CUS12) - (MEADOWCLIFF)
Personnel Changes Page 6
July 22, 2021
EFFECTIVE NAME POSITION/SCHOOL DATE
2. CALAMESE, PATSY Transferred from NURSE – FTE (.60) (PINNACLE VIEW) to NURSE – FTE (1.00) (LR WEST HS)
3. DINWIDDIE, DEBORAH Transferred from ASSISTANT HEAD CUSTODIAN (CUS12) - (METROPOLITAN) to HEAD CUSTODIAN (CUS12) - (METROPOLITAN)
4. HAYES, KENNESHEIA Transferred from PARAPROFESSIONAL- INA925 (WATSON) to ELEMENTARY IV TEACHER – TCH925 (WATSON)
5. MCCOY, LISA Transferred from CHILD NUTRITION WORKER – (CHILD NUTRITION) to MANAGER TRAINEE – (CHILD NUTRITION)
6. MCFORLING, BILLY Transferred from CUSTODIAN (CUS12) - (METROPOLITAN) to ASSISTANT HEAD CUSTODIAN (CUS12) - (METROPOLITAN)
7. MCGUIRE, VICTOR Transferred from PARAPROFESSIONAL- INA925 (WATSON) to KINDERGARTEN TEACHER – TCH925 (WATSON)
8. VASQUEZ, DAISY Transferred from BI-LINGUAL AIDE (DODD) to MEDIA CLERK (J. A. FAIR PREPARATORY)
LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT
810 WEST MARKHAM STREET LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
DATE: July 22, 2021 5:30:00 PM FROM: Mike Poore
Superintendent of Schools SUBJECT: Legal Transfer Requests
BACKGROUND:
According to Section 4.4 of the Little Rock School District's Student Handbook: "The Little Rock School District shall review and accept or reject requests for transfers, both into and out of the district, on a case by case basis at the July and December regularly scheduled board meetings. The District may reject a nonresident’s application for admission if its acceptance would necessitate the addition of staff or
classrooms, exceed the capacity of a program, class, grade level, or school building, or cause the District to provide educational services not currently provided in the affected school. The District shall reject applications that would cause it to be out of compliance with applicable laws and regulations regarding desegregation."
RATIONALE:
In an effort to comply with AR Code Ann § 6-18-316.
FUNDING:
N/A
RECOMMENDATION:
It is the recommendation of the Little Rock School District Administration that we accept the enclosed student transfer petitions in accordance with Board policy. (In compliance with student privacy laws, petition applications will be provided to board members during the meeting.)
PREPARED BY:
Dr. Frederick Fields, Sr. Director of Student Services
4.4 STUDENT TRANSFERS
The Little Rock School District shall review and accept or reject requests for transfers, both into and out of the district, on a case by case basis at the July, August and December regularly scheduled board meetings.
Procedures:
1. Complete ADE Application
2. Submit by July, August and December 1
3. Review by Senior Director of Student Services 4. Submit to Board for consideration
5. Notify applicants and districts of board decision Legal References: A.C.A. § 6-18-316
A.C.A. § 6-18-317 A.C.A. § 6-18-318 A.C.A. § 6-18-510 A.C.A. § 6-15-504
A.C.A. § 9-28-113(b)(4) A.C.A. § 9-28-205
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Topic: Ignite Digital Academy Update
Short Summary:
Applications for the Digital Academy are increasing daily. Parents apply by completing an electronic form that is posted on the LRSD website. Applications are processed for acceptance as quickly as possible. Parents must complete the LRSD school registration in Gateway before their application for the Ignite Digital Academy can be processed. Parents are notified in writing from the leadership team of the virtual schools of their acceptance to Ignite.
The current enrollment/applicant numbers for Ignite Digital Academy are listed below:
K- 6th grades- Elementary Enrolled- 189
In process- 35
Kindergarten- 26, 1st grade- 23, 2nd grade-26, 3rd grade- 25, 4th grade- 35, 5th grade-30, 6th grade-28
7-12th Grades- Secondary Enrolled – 141
In process – 94
7th grade – 34, 8th grade – 35, 9th grade – 34, 10th grade – 42, 11th grade – 36, 12th grade – 51 Background:
LRSD created a Digital Academy plan and submitted to the Arkansas Department of Education for approval to meet two goals: 1) Provide a virtual option for those families who may not be comfortable returning to in-person instruction due to the continuation of the pandemic; and 2) Provide a school choice option for students that thrive in a virtual setting who would normally seek an alternative district or online provider. The Digital Academy plan was approved by ADE in early June.
The Digital Academy plan was posted, along with the FAQ and the application link in May to the district website, Parentlink phone calls were made to inform parents of this option, an article was written in our local newspaper, and Mrs. Heatherly and Mr. Poore have both completed interviews with news stations about Ignite. All posted information is updated to reflect current parameters (i.e. semester commitment and extended application deadline).
Recommendation:
Continued district support in recruiting additional virtual teachers to staff the Ignite Academy (K-12)
Release the details of the 21-22 Ready to Learn plan and emphasize the safety protocols that will be followed to keep students safe, specifically in the in-person setting.
Encourage parents to notify the Ignite Digital Principal (K-6) elementary Stephanie Franklin and (7-12) secondary Karen Heatherly if there is a change in their preferred learning environment after notice of acceptance to Ignite and the release of the Ready to Learn plan.
Action Steps to be taken:
Hire the following additional staff members to serve the growing number of students and staff.
2 K-6th Grade
Kindergarten- 1 (Reposted- no applicants) 1st Grade- 1 (Reposted- no applicants) 2nd Grade- 1 (Reposted- no applicants)
3rd Grade- 2 (One teacher was hired and has rescinded their acceptance. Reposted- no applicants)
4th Grade- 1 (Reposted- no applicants) 5th Grade- 1 (Reposted- no applicants) 6th Grade- 1 (Reposted- no applicants) Secretary/Registrar- 1 (In process of hiring) PE Teacher- (In the process of hiring) Music Teacher (In the process of hiring) Art Teacher (In the process of hiring) 7th – 12th Grade
Math – 1 (Posted – no qualified applicants)
English – 1 (Posted – 4 applicants, will interview next week) SPED – 1 (Posted 7/15)
CTE – 1 additional (Due to increase in numbers – not yet posted)
Freshman Seminar (One to cover Ignite and West due to increase in numbers – West’s Spanish teacher was going to cover in-person and digital Spanish and Freshman Seminar, but with increase in numbers this may not be possible.)
Key Points:
Applications for Ignite Digital Academy are increasing daily in tandem with the daily reported COVID numbers. Since July 13th, there have been an average of 43 applications submitted each day. Current secured staffing will not meet the demand of the currently accepted student enrollment for both the elementary and the secondary programs. Additional positions have been reposted; however, there are no applicants at this time.
Many parents have expressed concerns about masking and social distancing capabilities in the traditional school setting and are applying for the Digital Academy because they do not know what safety precautions will be followed in the in-person environment. Once the 21-22 Ready to Learn Plan has been shared with our stakeholders, it is possible that some parents that applied to the Academy may change their mind and want to remain in-person at their assigned school.
Fiscal Impact
Date submitted July 16, 2021
Submitted by Stephanie Franklin (K-6) & Karen Heatherly (7-12), Ignite Digital Academy Principals
ESSER funds are being used to meet staffing needs.
COVID-19 Sick Leave/ Vaccination Incentive and Ready for Learning Update
July 22, 2021
Purpose
●
To ask the Little Rock School District (LRSD) Board of Directors (BOD) for an
approval on the resolution for the COVID-19 Sick Leave and Vaccination Incentive.
●
To update the BOD on the current COVID-19 quarantines and positive cases within the LRSD.
●
To advise the BOD on the next steps of the Ready for Learning plan which will be submitted by August 12, 2021, for approval for the 2021-22 school year.
2
Resolution: Vaccination Incentive
● LRSD is encouraging all employees to receive the vaccine as quickly as possible.
● $300 incentive for all employees who show proof of vaccination
● Employee must provide written verification of receipt of COVID-19 vaccine.
● Deadline: October 1, 2021
3
Resolution: COVID-19 Sick Leave Qualifying Conditions:
●
Subject – federal, state, or local health department guidance
●
Advised by healthcare provider to self-quarantine due to COVID-19
●
Experiencing symptoms & seeking diagnosis
●
Caring for spouse, child, or parent who is quarantined or in isolation
●
Full-time employee – 4 hrs. to get vaccine & 8 hrs. to recover
4
COVID-19 Sick Leave
(cont.)●
Part-time – prorated amount of hours
●
Substitutes do not qualify
●
Expiration date: December 17, 2021; subject to an extension
●
Documentation required
●
Telework must be pre-arranged by the supervisor
5
COVID-19 Sick Leave
(cont.)6
LRSD Current Covid Cases: Quarantines & Isolations
7
LRSD Quarantine & Isolation Protocol
Collaboration with AR Dept. of Health (ADH) & AR Division of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE)
Isolation: If you have COVID-19 with or without symptoms you must isolate until:
● 10 days have passed from diagnosis date without symptoms or from when your symptoms first appeared
● You have not had a fever of 100.4° F or higher for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.
● Your symptoms, such as cough or shortness of breath, are improving.
8
Quarantine & Isolation Protocol
(cont.)Collaboration with AR Dept. of Health (ADH) & AR Division of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE)
Quarantine: Means staying home and away from others after you have been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19
● 14 days if symptomatic (return Day 15)
● 10 days without testing and if no symptoms have occurred (return Day 11)
● 7 days if a close contact tests negative and no symptoms occurred during the quarantine period (return Day 8)
9
LRSD (Key) Health & Safety Protocols
● Strongly encourage face coverings at all times (including athletic
& extra curricular activities)
● Promote social and physical distancing at all times
● Continue with General Disinfection Expectations
○ Facilities
○ Buses (requiring seating chart)
○ Classrooms (requiring seating chart)
○ Cafeterias
○ Signage
● Social Emotional Support Students & Staff
○ Access Mental Health Agencies
■ Students
■ Staff 10
