PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST PARISH SCHOOL BOARD

RESERVE, LA – MEETING OF DECEMBER 8, 2022

 

 

The Chair called the meeting to order and read the following call:

 

HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE SCHOOL BOARD

Parish of St. John the Baptist

 

Dear Board Member:

 

Upon call of the President, the St. John the Baptist Parish School Board will meet in regular session at Lake Pontchartrain Elementary School, 3328 Highway 51, LaPlace, Louisiana, on Thursday, December 8, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.

           

An agenda for the meeting is attached.

 

Sincerely, s/Rebecca Johnson

Interim Superintendent/Secretary

 

ITEM 1.  CALL TO ORDER, INVOCATION, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 

The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and called for a moment of silence, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Mr. Sanders.

 

ITEM 2. ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS:

 

PRESENT:        Holden, Keller, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

ABSENT:          Burl, Jones

 

There were 9 members present and 2 members absent.

 

ITEM 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

 

ITEM 3a.  Public Comment.  Meeting of: November 10, 2022

Public Comment:  Alvin Scuioneaux

 

MOTION BY:     Triche

SECOND BY:   DeFrancesch

MOTION:  To approve the minutes from the meeting of: November 10, 2022

Roll Call:

8 Yeas – Keller, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Burl, Jones

1 Abstention - Holden

The motion carried.

 

Mr. Burl arrived at 6:07 p.m. and was recorded as present.

 

MOTION BY:     Wallace

SECOND BY:   Triche

MOTION:  To waive policy and amend the agenda, to address items #5a, 5b, 4b, 4c, and 4c at this time.

Roll Call:

10 Yeas – Holden, Keller, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

1 Absent – Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 4. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

 

ITEM 4b.  Dr. Juanita Hill – ESJH Football Team Recognition

 

The ESJH Football Team and Coaches were recognized for their accomplishments this year. The team went all the way to the State Quarter-Finalists. Coach Brandon Brown addressed the Board and audience, speaking briefly about how much adversity the team has dealt with this year.  The team recited their daily affirmation.

 

ITEM 4c.  Dr. Juanita Hill – Students of the Year Recognition

 

Dr. Hill announced the Students of the Year:

 

 

DISTRICT STUDENTS OF THE YEAR:

 

5th Grade – Chace Wordlaw – LES

8th Grade – Lizbeth Peto – LPE

12th Grade – Skylar Edwards – WSJH

 

ITEM 4d.  Dr. Curt Green – Teachers of the Year Recognition

 

Dr. Green announced the Teachers of the Year:

 

 

DISTRICT TEACHERS OF THE YEAR:

 

Elementary- Tariane Placide

Middle School – Kecia Frank

ITEM 5.  EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS BY THE BOARD OR STAFF

 

ITEM 5a.  Mr. Claude Hill – ACT Elite Recognition

 

Mr. Hill recognized the following students:

 

 

ITEM 5b.  Dr. Juanita Hill / Mrs. Shannon Smith-Magee – 2022 Accountability Presentation

 

Dr. Hill and Mrs. Smith-Magee presented the following information:

 

      

 

      

 

       

 

      

 

      

 

      

 

      

 

      

 

     

 

    

 

 

Dr. Keller left the meeting at 7:40 p.m.

 

ITEM 6.  PERSONNEL MATTERS.   

 

ITEM 6a.  Public Comment.   Dr. Curt Green – Request approval of Revised Job Description:  Special Education Program Coordinator (Personnel Committee Recommended Approval 11-28-22)

 

MOTION BY:     Sanders

SECOND BY:   Wallace

MOTION:  To approve Revised Job Description:  Special Education Program Coordinator

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

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ST. JOHN PARISH SCHOOL SYSTEM JOB DESCRIPTION

 

JOB TITLE:                                          SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM COORDINATOR

REPORTS TO/EVALUATED BY:           Director of Special Education TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:  12 Months (Externally Funded) SALARY RANGE:   Coordinator Salary Schedule

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES:          To develop and coordinator programs within the special education department in an effort to provide effective programs and services to students with disabilities as established in St. John Parish Schools in accordance with all state and federal guidelines.

 

For individuals with a disability, hiring decisions will be based only on the individual's ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.
 

 

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

 

1.         Coordinates staffing to include classes, teachers, paraeducators, age waivers, etc.

2.         Coordinates the development and implementation of programs for students with disabilities within the guidelines of IDEA and Louisiana Act 754 (exception of Speech Pathology).

3.         Supervises the record keeping required for the programs related to special education

4.         Monitors the programs within St. John Parish Schools in accordance with program guidelines and state and federal regulations.

5.         Prepares and disseminates correspondence and notices regarding program development.

6.         Provides in-service training to special education personnel and regular education personnel, as required for appropriate program development and implementation.

7.         Coordinates the preschool programs offered for students with disabilities.

8.         Serve as an Officially Designated Representative at IEP meetings as needed for programming.

9.         Coordinates the Adapted Physical Education program.

10.     Coordinates the community based training program.

11.     Represents the special education department for textbook adoptions.

12.     Represents the special education department on the pupil Progression Plan Committee.

13.     Represents the school system and/or Director of Special Education at parish, regional, state and/or national level meetings when requested.

14.     Works in professional harmony with staff members, administrators, teachers, parents, students, and the community.

15.     Establishes and promotes a positive relationship between the school system and community.

16.     Becomes familiar with and executes the educational philosophy, organizational structure, policies and procedures governing education as defined by the Administration and the School Board.

17.     Prepares a daily itinerary and weekly proposal of activities to be forwarded to the Director of Special Education and maintained on file.

18.     Follows rules and regulations of the St. John Parish School Board

19.     Coordinates Special Education homebound programs and coordinates the Interagency Transition Core Team serves as the transition coordinator including assists with development and implementation of transition planning.

20.     Notifies supervisor promptly in case of absence, and communicates in advance the date of return so that proper provisions can be made.

21.     Attends work regularly and arrives punctually.

22.     Works cooperatively in sharing knowledge, expertise and skills with others.

23.     Displays proper respect for superiors.

24.     Observes professional lines of communication at all times with individuals inside and outside of the school system.

25.     Maintains the confidentiality of school and student records.

26.     Assisted by his/her evaluator, collaboratively develops and implements a professional growth plan based on the district's Personnel Evaluation criteria.

27.     Serves as an acceptable role model for students; demonstrates personal and intellectual honesty and respects the rights of others.

28.     Makes use of constructive criticism and avoids the use of sarcasm, undue criticism, inappropriate language and behavior, and use of racial and/or ethnic slurs when dealing with others.

29.     Accepts other duties as may be assigned which are related to the scope of the job.

30.     Serves as the Transition Coordinator for St. John Parish Schools and assists with the development and implementation of transition plans.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

 

The Special Education Program Coordinator is required to: 1) work in an office type setting, climate controlled environment adhering to School Board energy policy; 2) sometimes works evenings, weekends and holidays as required by job responsibilities and supervisors; 3) often visits schools and attend meetings in various locations locally and outside of the parish; and 4) provide own transportation.

 

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

 

The Special Education Program Coordinator must: 1) be able to communicate in standard English both orally and in writing. This must be commensurate with the age and skill of the listener; 2) have the ability to accurately give and receive information via telecommunication system; and, 4) accurately compile and assess data, summarize information and provide written reports to supervisor.

 

EQUIPMENT USED

 

Normal equipment found in an educational administrative office, such as computers, typewriter, telephone, etc., utilize word processing program for report writing.

 

PHYSICAL INVOLVEMENT

 

Sitting is required most of each day. Must be able to operate office equipment. Standing, walking, reaching, bending, lifting 10 to 50 pounds is sometimes required. Mobility skills necessary to access a variety of work locations are required.

 

MENTAL INVOLVEMENT

 

The Special Education Program Coordinator must be able to: 1) understand and interpret written and oral verbal instructions; 2) work independently with minimal supervision; and, 3) comply with federal, state and parish regulations.

 

HUMAN RELATIONS INVOLVEMENT

 

The Special Education Program Coordinator must be able to: 1) work cooperatively with students, parents, and school personnel; 2) respond positively to supervision and accept suggestions for improvement; and, 3) use resourcefulness, tact and sensitivity in meeting and assisting persons who inquire about the special education department as well as work positively with other departments.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

 

The Special Education Coordinator must possess: 1) A valid Type A Louisiana Teaching Certificate; 2) three years of successful experience in a classroom of exceptional students; 3) a Master's Degree from a regionally accredited university; 4) certification in at least two areas of special education, one of which must be Mild/Moderate(Generic); 5) certification in one of the areas for evaluation coordinator as specified in Louisiana Bulletin 1508 or National Board certified as exceptional needs specialist and, 6) Certification in administration/supervision required.

 

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

 

1) Working knowledge of general education programs; 3) certification in Early Intervention or Non-Categorical Preschool; and, 4) certification in Severe/Profound (Generic).

 

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ITEM 6b.  Public Comment.  Dr. Curt Green – Request approval of Revised Policy:  JGCD – Administration of Medication (Executive Committee Recommended Approval 12-05-22)

 

MOTION BY:     Triche

SECOND BY:   Wallace

MOTION:  To approve Revised Policy:  JGCD – Administration of Medication

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

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JGCD:  ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION

 

 

 

 

Deleted from the policy

New changes to the policy

Moved to a section within the policy

 

It is the policy of the St. John the Baptist Parish School Board that the administration of medication to students at school shall meet the following conditions and limitations.  As used in this policy, the term medication shall include all prescription and non-prescription drugs. 

 

1.         WRITTEN ORDERS, APPROPRIATE CONTAINERS, LABELS, AND INFORMATION

 

            A.         Medication shall not be administered to any student without a completed Medication Order from a physician or dentist licensed to practice medicine in Louisiana or an adjacent state, or any other authorized prescriber authorized in the state of Louisiana to prescribe medication or devices, and a letter of request and authorization from the student's parent or guardian.  The following information shall be included:

 

                        1)         the student's name

                        2)         the name and signature of the physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber

                        3)         physician's/dentist's/other authorized prescriber's business address, office phone number, and emergency phone numbers

                        4)         student's relevant diagnosis

                        5)         name, amount of each school dose, time of school administration, route of medication, and reason for use of medication

                        6)         a written statement of the desired effects and the child specific potential adverse effects

 

            B.         Medication shall be provided to the school by the parent/legal guardian in the container that meets acceptable pharmaceutical standards and shall include the following information:

 

                        1)         name of pharmacy

                        2)         address and telephone number of pharmacy

                        3)         prescription number

                        4)         date dispensed

                        5)         name of student

                        6)         clear directions for use, including the route, frequency, and other as indicated

                        7)         drug name and strength

                        8)         last name and initial of pharmacist

                        9)         cautionary auxiliary labels, if applicable

                      10)          physician's/dentist's/other authorized prescriber's name

 

Labels of prepackaged medications, when dispensed, shall contain the following information in addition to the regular pharmacy label:

 

                        1)         drug name

                        2)         dosage form

                        3)         strength

                        4)         quantity

                        5)         name of manufacturer and/or distributor

                        6)         manufacturer's lot or batch number

 

 2.        ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION:  GENERAL PROVISIONS

 

            A.         Once trained, the school employee who administers medication may not decline to perform such service at the time indicated, unless exempted in writing by the MD or RN.

 

            B.         During the period when the medication is administered the person administering medication must be relieved of all other duties.  This requirement does not include the observation period required in 2.-F below.

 

            C.         Except in the case of a trained unlicensed diabetes care assistant administering diabetes medications (if applicable) or in life-threatening situations, trained unlicensed school personnel may not administer injectable medications.

 

            D.         All medications must be stored in a secured locked area or locked drawer with limited access except by authorized trained school personnel.

 

            E.         Only oral, inhalant, topical ointment for diaper rash, and emergency medications may be administered at school by unlicensed, but trained, school personnel.  Under special circumstances, other medications not mentioned above may be administered as necessary, as approved by the school nurse.

 

            F.         Each student must be observed by a school employee for a period of 45 minutes following the administration of medication.  This observation may occur during instruction time.

 

            G.         School medication orders shall be limited to medication which cannot be administered before or after school hours.

 

3.         PRINCIPAL

 

The principal shall designate at least two (2) employees to receive training and administer medications in each school.

 

 

4.         TEACHER

 

The classroom teacher who is not otherwise previously contractually required shall not be assigned to administer medications to students.  A teacher may request in writing to volunteer to administer medications to his/her own students. The administration of medications shall not be a condition of employment of teachers employed subsequent to July 1, 1994.  A regular education teacher who is assigned an exceptional child shall not be required to administer medications.

 

5.         SCHOOL NURSE

 

            A.         The school nurse, in collaboration with the principal, shall supervise the implementation of the school policies for the administration of medications in schools to ensure the safety, health and welfare of the students.

 

            B.         The school nurse shall be responsible for the training of non-medical personnel who have been designated by each principal to administer medications in each school.  The training must be at least six (6) hours and include but not be limited to the following provisions:

 

                        1)         Proper procedures for administration of medications including controlled substances

                        2)         Storage and disposal of medications

                        3)         Appropriate and correct record keeping

                        4)         Appropriate actions when unusual circumstances or medication reactions occur

                        5)         Appropriate use or resources

 

6.         PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN

 

            A.         The parent/legal guardian who wishes medication administered to his/her child shall provide the following:

 

                        1)         A letter of request and authorization that contains the following information:

 

                                    a.         the student's name;

                                    b.         clear instructions for school administration;

                                    c.         prescription number, if any;

                                    d.         current date;

                                    e.         student's relevant diagnosis;

                                    f.          name, amount of each school dose, time of school administration, route of medication, and reason for use of medication;

                                    g.         physician's/dentist's/other authorized prescriber's name;

                                    h.         the parent's/legal guardian's printed name and signature;

                                    i.          parent's/legal guardian's emergency phone number;

                                    j.          statement granting or withholding release of medical information;

 

                        2)         A written order for each medication to be given at school, including annual renewals at the beginning of the school year.  The new orders dated before July of that school year shall not be accepted.  No corrections shall be accepted on the physician's Medication Order form.  Alteration of this form in any way or falsification of the signature is grounds for prosecution.  Orders for multiple medications on the same form, an incomplete form, or a form with a physician's/dentist's/ other authorized prescriber's stamp shall not be accepted.  Faxed orders may be accepted; original orders must be received within five (5) business days.

 

                        3)         A prescription for all medications to be administered at school, including medications that might ordinarily be available over-the-counter.  Only the physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber or his/her staff may write on the Medication Order form.  This form must be signed by the physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber.

 

                        4)         A list of all medications that the student is currently receiving at home and school, if that listing is not a violation of confidentiality or contrary to the request of the parent/legal guardian or student.

 

                        5)         A list of names and telephone numbers of persons to be notified in case of medication emergency in addition to the parent/legal guardian and licensed physician/dentist/other authorized prescriber.

 

                        6)         Arrangements for the safe delivery of the medication to and from school in the properly labeled container as dispensed by the pharmacist; the medication must be delivered by a responsible adult.  The parent/ legal guardian will need to get two (2) containers for each prescription from the pharmacist in order that the parent/legal guardian, as well as the school, will have a properly labeled container.  If the medication is not properly labeled and does not match the physician's order exactly, it will not be given.

 

            B.         All aerosol medications shall be delivered to the school in pre-measured dosage.

 

            C.         Provide no more than a thirty-five (35) school day supply of medication in a properly labeled container to be kept at school.

 

            D.         The initial dose of a medication shall be administered by the student's parent/legal guardian outside the school jurisdiction with sufficient time for observation for adverse reactions.

 

            E.         The parent/legal guardian shall work with those personnel designated to administer medication as follows:

 

                        1)         Cooperate in counting the medication with the designated school personnel who receives it and sign the Drug Receipt form.

 

                        2)         Cooperate with school staff to provide for safe, appropriate administration of medications to students, such as positioning, and suggestions for liquids or foods to be given with the medication.

 

                        3)         Assist in the development of the emergency plan for each student.

 

                        4)         Comply with written and verbal communication regarding school policies.

 

                        5)         Grant permission for school nurse/physician/ dentist/other authorized prescriber consultation.

 

                        6)         Remove or give permission to destroy unused, contaminated, discontinued, or out-of-date medications according to the school guidelines.

 

7.         STUDENT SELF-MEDICATION

 

Only those medical conditions which require immediate access to medications to prevent a life threatening or potentially debilitating situation shall be considered for self-administration of medication.  Compliance with the school policy for a drug-free zone shall also be met if possible.

 

Asthma, Diabetes, or the Use of Auto-Injectable Epinephrine

 

Self-administration of medications by a student with asthma or diabetes or the use of auto-injectable epinephrine by a student at risk of anaphylaxis shall be permitted by the School Board, provided the student’s parent or other legal guardian provides the school in which the student is enrolled with the following documentation:

 

A.         Written authorization for the student to carry and self-administer such prescribed medications.

 

B.         Written certification from a licensed medical physician or other authorized prescriber that the student:

 

1)         has asthma, diabetes, or is at risk of having anaphylaxis

 

2)         has received instruction in the proper method of self-administration of the student’s prescribed medications to treat asthma, diabetes, or anaphylaxis

 

C.         A written treatment plan from the student’s licensed physician or authorized prescriber for managing asthma, diabetes, or anaphylactic episodes.  The treatment plan shall be signed by the student, the student’s parent or other legal guardian, and the student’s physician or other authorized prescriber.  The treatment plan shall contain the following information:

 

1)         The name, purpose, and prescribed dosage of the medications to be self-administered.

 

2)         The time or times the medications are to be regularly administered and under what additional special circumstances the medications are to be administered.

 

3)         The length of time for which the medications are prescribed.

 

D.         Any other documentation required by the School Board.

 

The required documentation shall be maintained in the office of the school nurse or other designated school official.

 

The School Board shall inform the parent or other legal guardian of the student in writing that the school and its employees shall incur no liability as a result of any injury sustained by the student from the self-administration of medications used to treat asthma, diabetes, or anaphylaxis.  The parent or other legal guardian of the student shall sign a statement acknowledging that the school shall incur no liability and that the parent or other legal guardian shall indemnify and hold harmless the school and its employees against any claims that may arise relating to the self-administration of medications used to treat asthma, diabetes, or anaphylaxis.

 

A student who has been granted permission to self-administer medication by the School Board shall be allowed to carry and store with the school nurse or other designated school official an inhaler, or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both insulin, at all times.

 

Permission for the self-administration of asthma or diabetes medications or use of auto-injectable epinephrine by a student shall be effective only for the school year in which permission is granted.  Permission for self-administration of asthma or diabetes medications or the use of auto-injectable epinephrine by a student shall be granted by the School Board each subsequent school year, provided all of the requirements of this part of the policy are fulfilled.

 

Upon obtaining permission to self-administer asthma or diabetes medication or to use auto-injectable epinephrine, a student shall be permitted to possess and self-administer such prescribed medication at any time while on school property or while attending a school sponsored activity.  A student who uses any medication permitted by this policy in a manner other than as prescribed shall be subject to disciplinary action; however, such disciplinary action shall not limit or restrict such student’s immediate access to such prescribed medication.

 

Auto-injectable epinephrine means a medical device for the immediate self-administration of epinephrine by a person at risk for anaphylaxis.

 

Glucagon means a hormone that raises the level of glucose in the blood. Glucagon, given by injection is used to treat severe hypoglycemia.

 

Inhaler means a medical device that delivers a metered dose of medication to alleviate the symptoms of asthma.

 

Insulin Pen means a pen-like device used to put insulin into the body.

 

Insulin Pump means a computerized device that is programmed to deliver small, steady, doses of insulin.

 

Other Permitted Medications

 

Self-administration of other medications by a student may be permitted by the School Board, provided that:

 

A.         Medication Order from the physician or authorized prescriber and from the student's parent or guardian shall be on file and communication with the prescriber has been established.

 

B.         The school nurse has evaluated the situation and deemed it to be safe and appropriate, and has developed a medical administration plan for general supervision.  The administration plan may include observation of the procedure, student health counseling and health instruction regarding the principles of self-care.

 

            C.         The principal and appropriate staff are informed that the student is self-administering the prescribed medication.

 

            D.         The medication is handled in a safe, appropriate manner.

 

            E.         The school principal and the school employed registered nurse determine a safe place for storing the medication.

 

The medication must be accessible if the student's health needs require it; this information is included in the medication administration plan.

            F.         Some medication should have a backup supply readily available.

 

            G.         The student records the medication administration and reports unusual circumstances (as a general rule the student must record all dates and times he/she is self-medicating during school hours.  The medication log shall be kept in the main office where the student shall record this information unless otherwise noted on the student's Individual Administration Plan).

 

            H.         The school employed registered nurse, and/or the designated employee monitors the student.

 

8.         Acceptable School Medications

 

School medication orders shall be limited to medication which cannot be administered before or after school hours.  Parents may come to school and administer medication to their children at any time during the school day.

 

Medications which may be considered as acceptable under this policy:

 

A.         Medication to modify behavior (e.g., Ritalin, when the sustained action form of this medication is not effective.)

 

B.         Severe allergic reactions ‑ must have specific written instructions from a physician.

 

C.         Anticonvulsive medication.

 

D.         Medication for asthma or diabetes.

 

E.         Medication given in extenuating circumstances.

 

F.         Non-prescription (over-the-counter) drugs will only be given if medical certification of extenuating circumstances and prescription is obtained.

 

G.         Antibiotics and other short‑term medications will not be given at school, unless so ordered by a physician, dentist, or authorized prescriber.

 

H.         The school nurse or trained school employee shall have the authority to administer auto-injectable epinephrine, as defined elsewhere in this policy, to a student who the school nurse or trained school employee believes is having an anaphylactic reaction, whether or not the student has a prescription for epinephrine.  At least one employee at each school shall receive training from a registered nurse or licensed medical physician in the administration of epinephrine.

 

I.          Other specific illnesses that require medication.

 

9.         DIABETES

 

Each student with diabetes who seeks care for his/her diabetes while at school or while participating in a school-related activity shall submit a diabetes management and treatment plan on an annual basis.  Such plan shall be developed by a physician licensed in Louisiana or adjacent state, or other authorized health care prescriber licensed in Louisiana who is selected by the parent or legal guardian to be responsible for such student’s diabetes treatment. School-related activities include, but are not limited to, extracurricular activities and sports.

 

A student’s diabetes management and treatment plan shall be kept on file in the school in which the student is enrolled and shall contain:

 

A.         An detailed evaluation of the student’s level of understanding of his/her condition and his/her ability to manage his/her diabetes.

 

B.         The diabetes-related healthcare services the student may receive or self-administer at school or during a school-related activity.

 

C.         A timetable, including dosage instructions, of any diabetes medications to be administered to the student or self-administered by the student.

 

D.         The signature of the student (if age appropriate), the student’s parent or legal guardian, and the physician or other authorized health care prescriber responsible for the student’s diabetes treatment.

 

The parent or legal guardian of a student with diabetes shall annually submit a copy of the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan to the principal or appropriately designated school personnel of the school where the student is enrolled.  The plan shall be reviewed by appropriate school personnel either prior to or within five (5) days after the beginning of each school year, or upon enrollment if the student enrolls after the beginning of the school year or as soon as practicable following the student being diagnosed with diabetes, or as warranted by changes in the student’s medical condition.

 

Upon receipt of the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan, the school nurse shall conduct a nursing assessment of the student’s condition and develop an Individualized Healthcare Plan (IHP).  The school nurse shall be given not less than five (5) school days to develop the IHP and shall implement the IHP within ten (10) school days of receipt of the diabetes treatment plan.  The school nurse must assess the stability of the student’s diabetes both at home and in the school setting prior to the development of the IHP for care in the school setting.

 

The parent or legal guardian shall be responsible for all care related to the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan until the IHP is developed, the parents or legal guardian have agreed to and signed the IHP, and the diabetes management and treatment plan is put into place by the school nurse.

 

The School Board may utilize an unlicensed diabetes care assistant to provide appropriate care to a diabetic student, or assist a student with self-care of his/her diabetes, in accordance with the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan, the student’s IHP, and regulations contained in Health and Safety, Bulletin 135.  An unlicensed diabetes care assistant is defined as a school employee who is not a healthcare professional, who is willing to complete training requirements established by BESE, and is determined competent by the school nurse to provide care and treatment to students with diabetes.  An unlicensed diabetes care assistant also means an employee of an entity that contracts with the school or school system to provide school nurses who are responsible for providing health care services required by law or the Department of Education.

 

In accordance with the student’s diabetes management and treatment plan, the student shall be permitted to self-manage his/her diabetes care as outlined in the student’s management and treatment plan.

 

With written permission of a student’s parent or legal guardian, a school may provide a school employee with responsibility for providing transportation for a student with diabetes, or supervising a student with diabetes with an off-campus activity.  An information sheet with pertinent information about the student’s condition and contact information in cases of emergency shall be provided the employee.

 

10.        CLASSROOM STORAGE AND ADMINISTRATION OF AUTO-INJECTABLE EPINEPHRINE BY TEACHERS

 

The School Board shall allow a supply of auto-injectable epinephrine, as defined above, to be maintained in a secure location in each classroom assigned to a student who is deemed by his/her physician to be at high risk for anaphylactic reaction and incapable of self-administration of auto-injectable epinephrine.

 

The student's parent or other legal guardian shall annually provide the school in which the student is enrolled with all of the following: 

 

A.            The supply of auto-injectable epinephrine to be kept in each classroom.

 

B.            Written authorization for the student to be administered the medication. 

 

C.            Written certification from the student's licensed medical physician or other authorized prescriber that the student is at high risk of having anaphylaxis and is not capable of self-administration of auto-injectable epinephrine. 

 

D.            A written treatment plan, as defined above from the student's licensed medical physician or other authorized prescriber for managing anaphylactic episodes.

 

The required documentation required shall be kept on file in the office of the school nurse or other designated school official.

 

The teacher in each classroom where auto-injectable epinephrine is stored shall be provided information regarding accessing and administering auto-injectable epinephrine, the signs and symptoms of anaphylactic reactions and specific information regarding condition, care, and treatment of the student assigned to the classroom who is at high risk of anaphylactic reaction.

 

The School Board shall inform the parent or other legal guardian of the student in writing that the school and its employees shall incur no liability as a result of any injury sustained by the student from the good faith administration of auto-injectable epinephrine. The parent or other legal guardian of the student shall sign a statement acknowledging that the school shall incur no liability and that the parent or other legal guardian shall indemnify and hold harmless the school and its employees against any claims that may arise relating to the good faith administration of auto-injectable epinephrine.

 

This information shall be included in the student handbook of each school and posted on each school’s website.  Such policy shall also be disclosed to any parent or other legal guardian who notifies the school in which the student is enrolled, in writing, that the student has a condition which puts him at risk of anaphylaxis.

 

11.        ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION ON FIELD TRIPS AND OTHER EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

 

If a student with an identified medical need is to attend a field trip or other school-sponsored activity, the parents shall be notified to ascertain if any medication must be administered on the field trip or school-sponsored activity away from school.   If so, the parent/legal guardian shall accompany the student to the activity to administer any medication.

 

If the parent/legal guardian cannot attend the field trip/activity with his/her child, the parent/legal guardian shall request in writing that the medication be administered on a pending field trip/activity by a non-School Board employee designated by the parent, or another trained person designated by the School Board.  Such request shall include supporting documentation as outlined in this policy.  The request shall state that the parent/legal guardian gives permission for the designee or another trained person to administer the medication. If the parent does not designate a non-School Board employee to attend the field trip/activity, once the proper documentation has been submitted, the School Board shall assign a trained School Board employee to accompany the student on the field trip or other school-sponsored activity.

12.        EXTENDED DAY CARE

 

In the event that a student attends extended day care and requires medication outside school hours (before or after school), medication orders that include the dosage(s), time(s), and medication(s), shall be obtained from the physician/dentist/ other authorized prescriber before any administration of medication may be administered by properly trained personnel.

 

13.        SUNSCREEN

 

In accordance with statutory provisions, sunscreen means a compound topically applied to prevent sunburn, and for the purpose of this policy shall not be considered medication. A student may possess and self-apply sunscreen at school, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored function or activity without parental consent or the authorization of a physician.

 

If a student is unable to self-apply sunscreen, a school employee may volunteer to apply the sunscreen to the student.   However, a school employee may apply sunscreen to a student only if his/her parent or legal guardian has provided written consent for this application.  Neither the School Board nor the school employee shall be held liable for any adverse reaction relating to the employee's application of the sunscreen or his/her cessation of such application.

 

14.        STUDENT CONFIDENTIALITY

 

All student information shall be kept confidential.  The parent/legal guardian shall be required to sign the Authorization for Release of Confidential Information form, so that health information can be shared between the School Board and health care providers, such as hospitals, physician, service agency, school nurse, and/or other health provider.

 

 

Revised:  October, 2001                                                 Revised:  July, 2022

Revised:  June, 2008

Revised:  October 15, 2009

Revised:  March 21, 2013

Revised:  October 17, 2013

Revised:  December, 2016

Revised:  September, 2017

 

 

Ref:      La. Rev. Stat. Ann. ''17:81, 17:436.1, 17:436.3; Louisiana Handbook for School Administrators, Bulletin 741, Louisiana Department of Education; Board minutes, 10-15-09, 3-21-13, 10-17-13.

 

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ITEM 6c.  Public Comment.  Dr. Curt Green –Request approval of New Policy:  JGFHA – Student Biometric Information (Executive Committee Recommended Approval 12-05-22)

 

MOTION BY:     Wallace

SECOND BY:   DeFrancesch

MOTION:  To approve New Policy:  JGFHA – Student Biometric Information

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

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JGFHA:  STUDENT BIOMETRIC INFORMATION

 

 

The St. John the Baptist Parish School Board shall authorize the utilization of biometric information in the identification of students, as well as to enhance student safety and security and protect against instances of fraud throughout the school district. Biometric information shall mean the noninvasive electronic measurement of any physical characteristics that are attributable to a single person, including fingerprint characteristics, eye characteristics, hand characteristics, vocal characteristics, facial characteristics, and any other physical characteristics used for the purpose of electronically identifying that person with a high degree of certainty.

 

Prior to the collection of any student biometric information, expressed written permission from the student's parent or legal guardian, or the student if eighteen (18) or older, shall be obtained and kept on file in the principal's office at the school the student attends.

 

A student's biometric information shall be treated as any other student record in terms of access and confidentiality, and shall not be disclosed to a third party without the written consent of the student's parent or legal guardian, or the student if eighteen (18) or older, unless the disclosure is required by court order.

 

In addition, the School Board shall delegate to the Superintendent the development, implementation, and maintenance of adequate regulations and procedural standards to protect student biometric information held and/or used in accordance with the policy. Such regulations and procedures shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

 

1.           The secure storage, transmission, and protection of all biometric information from unauthorized alteration, disclosure, or destruction.

 

2.           Restriction of access to student biometric information and processing to appropriate and authorized personnel.

 

3.            Proper encryption of student biometric information.

 

4.           Compliance of any collection of student biometric information with all applicable state and federal law and requirements, including the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

 

The use of student biometric information shall be discontinued after (1) the student graduates or withdraws from school, or (2) the School Board receives a written request to discontinue the use of biometric information from the from the student's parents or legal guardian or the student if eighteen (18) or older. All biometric information collected from a student shall be destroyed within thirty (30) days after use of such information is discontinued.

 

The failure to provide written consent for the collection of biometric information of students shall not be the basis for refusal or denial of any services otherwise available to the student.

 

 

New policy: November, 2010

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ITEM 6d.  Public Comment. Dr. Curt Green – Request approval of New Policy:  EBBB – School and Student Safety(Executive Committee Recommended Approval 12-05-22)

 

MOTION BY:     Wallace

SECOND BY:   Holden

MOTION:  To approve New Policy:  EBBB – School and Student Safety

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

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EBBB:  SCHOOL AND STUDENT SAFETY

 

The St. John the Baptist Parish School Board is committed to providing a safe environment for the students and employees of its schools.  The School Board shall take immediate action to address any potential threats of violence or terrorism to students and employees as required by the Louisiana School and Student Safety Act (La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§17:409.1-17:410).

 

The School Board shall develop, in consultation with local law enforcement agencies, age appropriate information regarding internet and cell phone safety and online content that is a potential threat to school safety.  The information shall include how to recognize and report potential threats to school safety posted on the internet, including but not limited to social media posts.  This information shall be distributed or explained to school personnel and students at the beginning of each school year, and posted on an easily accessible page of each school’s website, as well as the website of the School Board.  Such information shall include instruction on how to detect potential threats to school safety, visual examples of possible threats, and the process for reporting such threats.

 

DEFINITIONS

 

Student means any person registered or enrolled at a school.

 

School is as defined by La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §17:236 as an institution for the teaching of children, consisting of an adequate physical plant, whether owned or leased, instructional staff members, and students, and which operates a minimum session of not less than one hundred eighty (180) days.

 

Threat is credible and imminent means that the available facts, when viewed in light of surrounding circumstances, would cause a reasonable person to believe that the person communicating the threat actually intends to carry out the threat in the near future or has the apparent ability to carry out the threat in the near future.

 

Threat of violence means communication, whether oral, visual, or written, including but not limited to electronic mail, letters, notes, social media posts, text messages, blogs, or posts on any social networking website, of any intent to kill, maim, or cause great bodily harm to a student, teacher, principal, or school employee on school property or at any school function.

 

Threat of terrorism means communication, whether oral, visual, or written, including but not limited to electronic mail, letters, notes, social media posts, text messages, blogs, or posts on any social networking website, of any crime of violence that would reasonably cause any student, teacher, principal, or school employee to be in sustained fear for his safety, cause the evacuation of a building, or cause other serious disruption to the operation of a school.

 

MANDATORY REPORTING

 

Any administrator, teacher, counselor, bus operator, or other school employee, whether full-time or part-time, who learns of a threat of violence or threat of terrorism, whether through oral communication, written communication, or electronic communication, shall:

 

1.         Immediately report the threat to a local law enforcement agency if the threat is credible and imminent.

 

2.          Immediately report the threat to school administrators for further investigation, in compliance with this policy, if the threat is not credible and imminent.

 

No person shall have a cause of action against any person for any action taken or statement made in adherence with the requirement for reporting as provided herein.  However, the immunity from liability provided in this policy shall not apply to any action or statement if the action or statement was maliciously, willfully, and deliberately intended to cause harm to, harass, or otherwise deceive law enforcement or school officials.

 

Reporting Procedures

 

The Superintendent shall develop and maintain administrative procedures for reporting potential threats to school safety.  The reporting procedures, at a minimum, shall include:

 

1.         A standardized form to be used by students and school personnel to report potential threats which requests, at a minimum, the following information:

 

A.         Name of school, person, or group being threatened.

 

B.         Name of student, individual, or group threatening violence.

 

C.         Date and time the threat was made.

 

D.         Method by which the threat was made, including the social media outlet or website where the threat was posted, a screenshot or recording of the threat, if available, and any printed evidence of the threat.

 

2.         A process for allowing school personnel to assist students in completing the standardized form.

 

3.         A process for allowing reporting by an automated voice system.

 

4.         A process for allowing anonymous reporting and for safeguarding the identity of a person who reports a threat.

 

5.         For every threat reported, a school administrator shall record, on the form provided, the action taken by the school.

If information reported to a school is deemed a threat to school safety, the school shall present the form and evidence to local law enforcement agencies.  If the information poses an immediate threat, school administrators shall follow procedures provided in the school’s Crisis Management and Response Plan.

 

THREAT ASSESSMENT

 

When any threat of violence or terrorism has been reported to a school administrator, an investigation shall be made according to administrative procedures which shall include, at a minimum:

 

1.         Conducting an interview with the person reporting a threat, the person allegedly making a threat, and all witnesses, and;

 

2.         Securing any evidence, including but not limited to statements, writings, recordings, electronic messages, and photographs.

 

If the investigation results in evidence or information that raises a concern that a threat is credible and imminent, the threat shall be immediately reported to a local law enforcement agency for further investigation.

 

MANDATORY EVALUATION

 

If a law enforcement agency, based on its investigation as required by La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §17:409.4, determines that a student's threat is credible and imminent, it shall report it to the district attorney, who may file a petition no later than seven (7) days after receiving such report with the appropriate judicial district court for medical, psychological, and psychiatric examination.  Where the district attorney, in his/her discretion, decides not to file the petition or does not file such petition during the requisite period, the student who is the subject of a complaint and investigation shall be permitted to return to school.  The school shall permit a student who is the subject of a complaint and investigation to return to school if at any point prior to a hearing the threat is determined not to be credible after an investigation by the school administration, a law enforcement agency, or the district attorney or by order of the court after a hearing.

 

If the person who is reported to a local law enforcement agency is not a student, he or she shall not be permitted to be within five hundred feet (500’) of any school until he or she has undergone a formal medical or mental health evaluation and has been deemed by a health care professional not to be dangerous to himself/herself or others.

 

New policy:  September, 2019

 

Ref:      La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§17:236, 17:409.1, 17:409.2, 17:409.3, 17:409.4, 17:409.5, 17:410.

 

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ITEM 6e.  Public Comment.  Request approval of New Policy:  JGC – Student Health Services(Executive Committee Recommended Approval 12-05-22)

 

MOTION BY:     Wallace

SECOND BY:   Triche

MOTION:  To approve New Policy:  JGC – Student Health Services

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

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JGC:  STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES

 

 

 

 

Deleted from the policy

New changes to the policy

Moved to a section within the policy

 

HEALTH CARE CENTERS

 

In order to provide adequate health care and services to students, the St. John the Baptist Parish School Board may authorize the establishment of student health care centers in the schools of the parish.  Any health clinic established shall be supervised by a school nurse, who shall be licensed in accordance with state law.  Health care centers shall provide services which include, but are not limited to the following:  treatment of minor illness and injury, routine physical examinations, immunizations, referrals to alcohol and drug abuse prevention program counselors, and mental health services.  No student shall receive any type of service unless the required standardized school health forms as outlined in Louisiana Handbook for School Administrators Health and Safety, Bulletin 741 135 have been signed, returned to school, and have been filed in the clinic.

 

HEARING AND VISION SCREENING

 

The School Board, during the first semester of the school year, or within thirty (30) days after the admission of students entering school late in the session, shall test the sight, including color screening for all first grade students, and hearing of students according to the schedule outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics, except those students whose parents or guardians may object to such tests.  Students may also be tested upon referral or requests of teachers and/or parents.

 

A record of such examination shall be kept and the administrators shall be required to follow up on the deficiencies within sixty (60) days, and shall notify in writing the parent or tutor of every student found to have any defect of sight or hearing.

 

EDUCATIONAL SCREENING AND EVALUATION

 

Every student in grades kindergarten through third shall be screened, at least once, for the existence of impediments to a successful school experience.  No student shall be screened if his/her parent or guardian objects to such screening.  Such impediments shall include:

 

1.         dyslexia and related disorders;

2.         attention deficit disorder; and

3.         social and environmental factors that put a student "at risk."

 

Students in need of services and/or assistance shall have it provided to them.

 

The screenings shall be done directly by elementary school counselors, pupil appraisal personnel, teachers, or any other professional employees of the School Board who have been appropriately trained, all of whom shall operate as advocates for the students identified as needing services or assistance.  No screenings shall be done by persons who have not been trained to do such screenings.

 

The School Board shall ensure that educational screening activities, conducted by a committee at the school level, shall be completed before a student is referred for an individual evaluation through pupil appraisal services.

 

Students who are experiencing learning or adjustment difficulties in a regular program, but are not thought to be exceptional, may receive support services from pupil appraisal by a referral from a committee at the school level.

 

Testing for Dyslexia

 

Upon the request of a parent, student, school nurse, classroom teacher, or other school personnel who has reason to believe that a student has a need to be tested for dyslexia and related disorders, that student shall be referred to the school building level committee for additional testing.  The School Board shall provide remediation for students with dyslexia or related disorders in an appropriate education program.

 

For purposes of this policy, dyslexia shall be defined as difficulty with the alphabet, reading, reading comprehension, writing, and spelling in spite of adequate intelligence, exposure, and cultural opportunity an unexpected difficulty in reading for an individual who has the intelligence to be a much better reader, most commonly caused by a difficulty in phonological processing, which affects the ability of an individual to speak, read, and spell.  Phonological processing means the appreciation of the individual sounds of spoken and written language.

 

OTHER HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

 

The School Board acknowledges that only properly trained personnel shall make recommendations regarding certain health issues of students.

 

The School Board shall prohibit, in accordance with statutory provisions, any teacher employed by the School Board from recommending that a student be administered a psychotropic drug, specifying or identifying any specific mental health diagnosis for a student, or using a parent's or guardian's refusal to consent to the administration of a psychotropic drug to a student or to a psychiatric evaluation, screening, or examination of a student as grounds for prohibiting the student from attending any class or participating in any school-related activity or as the sole basis of accusations of child abuse or neglect against the parent or guardian.

 

The provisions of the above paragraph shall not be construed so as to prohibit any of the following:

 

1.         An employee of the School Board who is a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, physician, or an appropriately credentialed mental health professional or teacher from recommending that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner.

 

2.         A teacher or other certified employee of the School Board from suggesting a student be assessed or evaluated by qualified employees of the School Board who perform such function.

 

3.         A teacher assessing or evaluating any element of a student's academic readiness, performance, or achievement.

 

4.         Any employee of the School Board from discussing any aspect of a student's behavior or academic progress with the student's parent or guardian or any other employee of the School Board.

 

Definitions

 

Psychotropic drug shall mean a substance that is used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication and is intended to have an altering effect on perception, emotion, or behavior.

 

Teacher, for purposes of this section of the policy, shall mean any person employed by the School Board, who, as a condition of employment, is required to hold a valid teaching certificate issued by the Louisiana Department of Education and any person employed by the School Board as a substitute teacher.

 

SEIZURE TREATMENT AND TRAINING

 

The parent or guardian of a student with a seizure disorder may submit to the administration of the student's school a seizure management and treatment plan developed by the student's parent and treating physician for review and use by school employees with whom the student has regular interaction.  The plan shall include the following:

 

1.             The health care services the student may receive at school or while participating in a school activity.

 

2.             Evaluation of the student's ability to manage and understand his/her seizure disorder.

  

3.         Signatures from the student's parent or guardian and from the treating physician.

 

School nurses and such school employees and school bus operators who have regular interactions with a student for whom there is a seizure management and treatment plan shall be required to biennially successfully complete instruction provided by the Department of Education.

 

ADMINISTERING CATHETERS

 

The School Board shall not require any employee other than a registered nurse or a licensed medical physician to catheterize any student until all of the following conditions have been met:

 

            1.         A registered nurse or licensed medical physician, employed by the School Board, has assessed the health status of the specific child in his/her specific educational setting.  The registered nurse has determined that the procedure could be safely performed, the results are predictable and could be delegated to someone other than a registered nurse following documented training.

 

            2.         The registered nurse or licensed medical physician shall train at least two (2) employees to catheterize the specific child in his/her educational setting.  The employees shall be given not less than eight (8) hours of training in the area of catheterization of students.

 

            3.         Following the training provided for in #2, no catheterization may be performed unless prescribed in writing by a licensed medical physician.  The employee, other than the registered nurse or licensed medical physician, shall be required to complete, under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, a minimum of five (5) catheterizations.  Upon one hundred percent successful completion of these catheterizations, the registered nurse or licensed medical physician and the trainee shall sign a standard form indicating that the trainee has attained the prescribed level of competency.  A copy of this form shall be kept on file by the school system.

 

            4.         Individuals who are required to perform catheterizations and have been trained according to statutory provisions, may not decline to perform such service except as exempted by a licensed medical physician or a registered nurse.  The reasons for such exemption shall be documented and certified by the licensed medical physician or a registered nurse within seventy-two (72) hours.

 

            5.         Any employee shall have the right to request that another School Board employee be present while catheterizing the student, to serve as a witness to the procedure.  After making such a request, the employee shall not be required to catheterize a student without such a witness.

 

The provisions of this part of the policy shall be restricted to those students who have had intermittent catheterization prescribed as a treatment for urinary or neurologic dysfunction and not for continuous bladder drainage or to obtain urine specimens for diagnostic purposes.  No employee shall be requested to catheterize any student for continuous bladder drainage or to obtain urine specimens for diagnostic purposes.

 

 

PERFORMING NONCOMPLEX HEALTH PROCEDURES

 

The term noncomplex health procedure shall mean a task which is safely performed according to exact directions, with no need to alter the standard procedure, and which yields predictable results.  It shall include the following:

 

            1.         Modified activities of daily living which require special instruction such as toileting/diapering, bowel/bladder training, toilet training, oral/dental hygiene, lifting/positioning, and oral feeding.

 

            2.         Health maintenance procedures such as postural drainage, percussion, tracheostomy suctioning, gastrostomy feeding and monitoring of these procedures.

 

            3.         Screenings such as growth, vital signs, hearing, vision, and scoliosis.

 

The School Board shall not require any employee other than a registered nurse, licensed medical physician, an appropriate licensed health professional, or, in the case of tracheostomy suctioning procedure, any hired and trained unlicensed nursing personnel or unlicensed assistive personnel as defined by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, to perform noncomplex health procedures until all the following conditions have been met:

 

            1.         A registered nurse or a licensed medical physician and, when appropriate, another licensed health professional employed by the School Board, has assessed the health status of the specific child in his/her specific educational setting and has determined that, according to the legal standards of the respective licensed health professional performing such procedure, the procedure can be safely performed, the results are predictable, and the procedure can be delegated to someone other than a licensed health professional following documented training.

 

            2.         The registered nurse or the licensed medical physician and, when appropriate, another licensed health professional shall train, in his or her area of expertise, at least two (2) such employees to perform noncomplex health procedures on the specific child in his/her educational setting.  The employees shall be given not less than four (4) hours of training in the area of noncomplex health procedures.

 

            3.         Following the training provided for in #2, no noncomplex health procedure, except screenings and activities of daily living such as toileting/diapering, toilet training, oral/dental hygiene, oral feeding, lifting, and positioning may be performed unless prescribed in writing by a physician licensed to practice medicine in the state of Louisiana or an adjacent state.

 

                        The employee, other than the registered nurse, licensed medical physician, or appropriate licensed health professional shall be required to complete, under the direct supervision or coordination of a registered nurse, a minimum of three (3) satisfactory demonstrations.  Upon satisfactory completion of these noncomplex health procedures, the registered nurse, licensed medical physician, or appropriate licensed health professional and the trainee shall sign a standard form indicating that the trainee has attained the prescribed level of competency.  A copy of this form shall be kept on file by the school system.

 

            4.         Individuals who are required to perform noncomplex health procedures and have been trained according to the provisions of state law and this policy may not decline to perform such service at the time indicated except as exempted for reasons as noted by the licensed medical physician or registered nurse.  The reasons for such exemption shall be documented and certified by the licensed medical physician or a registered nurse within seventy-two (72) hours.

 

5.         An employee shall have the right to request that another School Board employee be present while he/she is performing noncomplex health procedures for a student, to serve as a witness to the procedure.  After making such a request, the employee shall not be required to perform noncomplex health procedures without such a witness.

 

6.         Employees who have volunteered to perform a tracheostomy suctioning procedure and who comply with the training and demonstration requirements outlined in #2 and #3 above may be allowed to perform such procedure on a child in an educational setting.

 

The School Board shall provide the necessary safety equipment, materials, and supplies to each employee who performs noncomplex health procedures.  Such safety equipment, materials, and supplies shall include but not be limited to gloves, anti-bacterial soaps and wipes, paper towels and masks.

 

For the purposes of this section of the policy, employee means any appropriate member of the education staff, and appropriate licensed health professional shall include a licensed practical nurse.

 

Revised:  December, 1995                                             Revised:  May, 2018

Revised:  December, 1997                                             Revised:  August, 2020

Revised:  August, 2003                                                  Revised:  July, 2022

Revised:  September, 2006

Revised:  June, 2008

Approved:  October 15, 2009

Revised:  May, 2013

Revised:  October 17, 2013

 

Ref:      La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§14:403, 17:170, 17:392.1, 17:435, 17:436, 17:436.2, 17:436.4, 17:2112, 40:31.3; Irving Independent School District v. Tatro, 104 S. Ct. 33371 (1984); Health and Safety, Bulletin 135, Louisiana Handbook for School Administrators, Bulletin 741, Louisiana Department of Education; Board minutes, 10-15-09, 10-17-13.

 

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ITEM 6f.  Public Comment.  Dr. Curt Green – Introduction of Revised Policy:  DJED – Bids and Quotations

 

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DJED:  BIDS AND QUOTATIONS

 

 

PUBLIC WORKS

 

The St. John the Baptist Parish School Board shall advertise and let by contract, except in cases of emergencies as provided below, all public work exceeding $250,000 or such sum as allowed by law, including labor, materials, equipment, and administrative overhead not to exceed fifteen percent (15%).  The contract shall be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder who has bid according to the contract, plans, and specifications advertised.  Public works which are estimated to cost less than the contract limit may be undertaken by the School Board with its own employees.

 

As an evidence of good faith of the bidder, the School Board shall require bidders for construction, improvement, repair, or other work to attach to the bid submitted, a bid bond, certified check, or cashier's check for not more than five percent (5%) of the contract work to be done.  The School Board may require a bid bond or certified or cashier's check of not more than five percent (5%) of the estimated price on bids taken for supplies and materials.

 

When any bid is accepted for construction or doing any public works, a written contract shall be entered into by the successful bidder and the School Board, and the successful bidder shall furnish a bond in an amount not less than one-half of the amount of the contract, for the faithful performance of his or her duties.

 

When using state or locally generated funds, under no circumstances shall there be a division or separation of any public work project into smaller projects, which division or separation would have the effect of avoiding the requirement that public work be advertised and let by contract to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with statutory provisions.

 

The School Board shall retain the option of requiring all bids that are let out for public works be submitted electronically.

 

MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES

 

All purchases of materials or supplies exceeding the sum of $20,000 60,000 to be paid out of public funds shall be advertised and let by contract to the lowest responsible bidder who has bid according to the specifications as advertised.  In addition, purchases of materials or supplies of at least $10,000 30,000, but not more than $20,000 60,000, shall be made by obtaining not less than three (3) written quotations.  Purchases of materials or supplies of at least $2,000, but not more than $10,000.00, shall be made by obtaining not less than three (3) telephone or facsimile documented quotations. A written confirmation of the accepted offer shall be obtained and made a part of the purchase file. The School Board may require a written contract or bond when purchasing the materials or supplies.  If quotations are received that are lower than the quote accepted, a notation shall be entered into the file as to the reasons for rejection of the lower quotes.

 

When using state or locally generated funds, purchases cannot be divided by departments or by a school if the effect is to evade the state's public bid law.  Purchases of commodities that are bought in small but recurring amounts through the year shall be bid on an annual basis.

 

The School Board shall retain the option of requiring all bids that are let out for materials and supplies be submitted electronically.

 

In lieu of formal bids, the School Board may use a reverse auction for the purchase of equipment, supplies, and other materials or consulting services, as outlined in policy DJE, Purchasing.

 

EMERGENCIES

 

In cases of an emergency or extreme emergency when time is not sufficient to advertise for bids for public works or purchase of materials, the School Board or designee is permitted by law to declare through resolution that a public emergency or extreme public emergency exists and extend a contract for more than the sums mentioned without going out to bid;. However, in such cases every effort shall be made by School Board personnel to secure competitive quotations.  The accepted quote shall be confirmed and documented in writing.  State law permits a person designated by the School Board to declare the existence of an extreme public emergency.  This designated person shall be the Superintendent and/or his/her designee.  Notices of an emergency or extreme emergency shall be published in the School Board’s official journal within ten (10) days of the emergency being certified by the School Board or designee.

 

An emergency is defined by La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §38:2211 as

 

“An unforeseen mischance bringing with it destruction or injury of life or property or the imminent threat of such destruction or injury or as the result of an order from any judicial body to take any immediate action which requires construction or repairs absent compliance with the formalities of this Part, where the mischance or court order will not admit of the delay incident to advertising as provided in this Part."

 

An extreme public emergency is defined by La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §38:2211 as

 

“A catastrophic event which causes the loss of ability to obtain a quorum of the members necessary to certify the emergency prior to making the expenditure to acquire materials or supplies or to make repairs necessary for the protection of life, property, or continued function of the public entity.”

 

 

BID ADVERTISEMENTS

 

All advertisements for bids for public works shall appear in the newspaper selected as the official journal for the School Board, except in emergencies as may be declared by the School Board.  Any advertisement for any contract for public works, when published, shall appear once a week for three (3) different weeks in a newspaper in the locality and the first advertisement shall appear at least twenty-five (25) days before the opening of bids.   Any advertisement for any contract or purchase of materials or supplies shall be published two (2) times in a newspaper in the locality, the first advertisement appearing at least fifteen (15) days prior to the opening of bids. 

 

In addition to newspaper advertisements, the School Board shall also publish advertisements and accept bids by electronic media in accordance with uniform standards promulgated by the state.  In any advertisement, the first publication shall not occur on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday.         

 

If the School Board issues or causes to be issued any addendum modifying plans and specifications within a period of seven (7) days prior to the advertised time for opening of bids, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and any other legal holidays, the School Board shall transmit a copy of the addendum to all prime bidders who have requested bid documents by one of the following methods:  (1) facsimile transmission; (2) e-mail; or (3) hand delivery.  The transmission shall be completed within twenty-four (24) hours of the issuance of the addendum.  In addition, a copy of the addendum shall be sent by regular mail.

 

The School Board shall not issue or cause to be issued any addendum modifying plans and specifications within a period of seventy-two (72) hours prior to the advertised time for the opening of bids, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and any other legal holidays; however, if the necessity arises to issue an addendum modifying plans and specifications within the seventy-two hour period prior to the advertised time for the opening of bids, then the opening of bids shall be extended at least seven (7) days, but not to exceed twenty-one (21) days, without the requirement of readvertising.  The addendum shall state the revised time and date for the opening of bids.

 

OPENING OF BIDS

 

All bids shall be opened in public in the presence of one or more witnesses, at the time and place designated in the invitation for bids.  Each bid, together with the name of the bidder, shall be recorded and open to public inspection.  However, the School Board shall not accept or take any bids including receiving any hand delivered bids, on days which are recognized as holidays by the United States Postal Service. 

 

BID AWARD

 

In order to protect the integrity of the competitive bidding process, the determination of responsiveness by the bidder must be made from the bid documents at the time of the bid opening.  Any deviation from or failure to supply information required by the bid documents, may result in the bid being rejected as non-responsive.

 

The Superintendent and/or other appropriate administrators shall review, summarize and report bids to the School Board with recommendations for bid award unless the School Board grants permission for staff to evaluate, award, and notify the School Board at a later date.

 

DISQUALIFICATION OF BIDDER FOR NON-RESPONSIBILITY

 

If the School Board proposes to disqualify any bidder for non-responsibility (the possibility that the bidder may not satisfactorily fulfill the contract being bid), the School Board shall:

 

1.         Give written notice of the proposed disqualification to such bidder, and include in the written notice all reasons for the proposed disqualification;

 

2.         Give such bidder, who is proposed to be disqualified, the opportunity to be heard at an informal hearing to be conducted not later than five (5) business days after the issuance of the notice of the proposed disqualification, at which such bidder is afforded the opportunity to refute the reasons for the disqualification; and

 

3.         Conduct the informal hearing prior to the award of the public work.

 

No award of the contract for the public work shall be made by the School Board prior to the expiration of at least five (5) working days following the date of issuance of the written ruling from the informal hearing.

 

EXCLUSION/REJECTION OF BIDS

 

The School Board, after the opening of bids, shall require each bidder or bidding entity to attest or submit an attestation that the sole proprietor, partner, incorporator, director, manager, officer, or other like individual who owns at least ten percent (10%) of the bidding entity, has not been convicted of, or has not entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest) to any of the crimes or equivalent federal crimes listed in La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §38:2227.

 

In awarding bids or contracts, the School Board shall be authorized to reject the lowest bid from a business in which any individual with ownership interest of five percent (5%) or more has been convicted of, pled guilty or nolo contendere to any a state felony crime or equivalent federal crime committed in the solicitation or execution of a contract or bid under the state laws governing public contracts; professional, personal, consulting, and social services procurement; or the Louisiana Procurement Code.

 

Any contract between the School Board and a person or entity entered into as a result of fraud, bribery, corruption, or other criminal acts, for which a final conviction has been obtained, shall be null and void.

 

Any person whose conviction causes the nullity of a contract shall be responsible for payment of all costs, attorney fees, and damages incurred in the rebidding of the contract.

 

 

Revised:  December, 1991                                             Revised:  October 15, 2009

Revised:  December, 1992                                             Revised:  December 3, 2009

Revised:  November, 1993                                             Revised:  November, 2010

Revised:  December, 1995                                             Revised:  November, 2011

Revised:  October, 1996                                     Revised:  August 7, 2014

Revised:  October, 1997                                     Revised:  May, 2017

Revised:  November, 1999                                             Revised:  August, 2020

Revised:  June, 2002                                         Revised:  October, 2021

Revised:  August, 2003                                      Revised:  May 12, 2022

Revised:  November, 2003                                            

Revised:  November, 2006

 

Ref:      2 CFR 200 (Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principals, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards), 48 CFR 2.101 (Definitions); La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§9:2716, 9:2717, 38:2181, 38:2182, 38:2211, 38:2212, 38:2212.1, 38:2212.9, 38:2214, 38:2218, 38:2227, 38:2241, 38:2251, 38:2271, 39:1551, 39:1552, 39:1553, 39:1554, 39:1554.1, 39:1556, 39:1557, 39:1558, 39:1597, 39:1710; Board minutes, 6-20-96, 8-15-02, 10-15-09, 12-3-09, 8-7-14, 5-12-22.

 

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ITEM 7.  BUSINESS & FINANCE. 

 

ITEM 7a.  Public Comment.  Ms. Jawanza Joseph – Request approval of the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire

 

MOTION BY:     Sanders

SECOND BY:   Holden

MOTION:  To approve the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 7b.  Public Comment.  Mrs. Janice Gauthier – Request approval to advertise for bids for football helmets (Land and Facilities Committee Recommended Approval 12-05-2022)

 

MOTION BY:     Wallace

SECOND BY:   DeFrancesch

MOTION:  To approve advertising for bids for football helmets

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 7c.  Public Comment.  Mrs. Janice Gauthier – Request approval to award Band Instrument Contract to lowest responsive bidder (Alamo Music Center/San Antonio, TX) (Land and Facilities Committee Recommended Approval 12-05-2022)

 

MOTION BY:     Triche

SECOND BY:   Wallace

MOTION:  To award the Band Instrument Contract to lowest responsive bidder (Alamo Music Center/San Antonio, TX)

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 7d.  Public Comment.  Ms. Jawanza Joseph – Request approval of Recommended Salary Schedule Changes (Finance Committee Recommended Approval 12-06-2022)

 

Public Comment:  Stacey Spies; Yevette Scioneaux

 

MOTION BY:     Triche

SECOND BY:   Schum

MOTION:  To approve the Salary Schedule Changes as recommended by the Finance Committee

 

Following discussion, there was a

 

SUBSTITUTE MOTION BY:       Burl

SECOND BY:   Sanders

MOTION:  To table.

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 8.  OLD BUSINESS

 

ITEM 8a.  Mrs. Nia Mitchell-Williams – Request approval of the School Board Meeting Calendar for 2023

 

MOTION BY:     Mitchell-Williams

SECOND BY:   DeFrancesch

MOTION:  To approve the School Board Meeting Calendar for 2023 as presented.

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

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ITEM 9. NEW BUSINESS.

 

ITEM 9a.   Public Comment.  Mrs. Rebecca Johnson - Request approval to amend the 2022-2023 School Year Calendar to include January 5-6, 2023 as additional Professional Development and Parent/Teacher Conference Days

 

Public Comment:  Alvin Scioneaux

 

MOTION BY:     Sanders

SECOND BY:   Schum

MOTION:  To approve the amended 2022-2023 School Year Calendar to include January 5-6, 2023 as additional Professional Development and Parent/Teacher Conference Days

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 9b.   Public Comment. Mr. Courtney Joiner/Mr. Bob Hammonds – Discussion and/or action as to whether applicant interviews should take place prior to selecting a Superintendent of Schools

 

Public Comment:  Shondrell Perrilloux; Alvin Scioneaux

 

MOTION BY:     Schum

SECOND BY:   Triche

MOTION:  To interview applicants before hiring a Superintendent of Schools.

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

ITEM 9c.   Public Comment.  Mr. Courtney Joiner/Mr. Bob Hammonds – * Discussion and/or action to select the applicants who will be interviewed for Superintendent of Schools position

 

Public Comment:  Yevette Scioneaux

 

MOTION BY:     Sanders

SECOND BY:   Triche

MOTION:  To interview both applicants:  Esrom Pitre and Rebecca Johnson

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 9d.   Public Comment. Mr. Courtney Joiner/Mr. Bob Hammonds – Discussion and/or action to select the date, time, and order of applicant interviews for Superintendent of Schools position.

 

Public Comment:  Yevette Scioneaux; Shondrell Perrilloux

 

The Board discussed dates and times of interviews.  The applicant names were drawn to determine the order of interviews, with Rebecca Johnson first and Esrom Pitre following.

 

MOTION BY:     Schum

SECOND BY:   Sanders

MOTION:  To interview applicants on Monday, December 12, 2022 beginning at 4:30 p.m. with Rebecca Johnson first and then Esrom Pitre following.

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 9e.   Public Comment. Mr. Courtney Joiner/Mr. Bob Hammonds – Discussion and/or action to approve the format of each interview for Superintendent of Schools position

 

MOTION BY:     DeFrancesch

SECOND BY:   Sanders

MOTION:  To allow Hammonds & Sills to provide questions at the time of the interviews and to approve the interview process as follows:  10 minutes opening statement by candidate; 5 questions will be asked by Board members (randomly selected); 10 minute closing statement by candidate.

Roll Call:

9 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Triche, Mitchell-Williams

2 Absent – Keller, Jones

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 9f.  Public Comment.  Mrs. Debra Schum – Update on Bus Maintenance

 

Mr. Ulysses Jarrow updated the board on the process of Preventive Maintenance.  He stated that his Department is currently creating 3 tiers for this and he has provided the mechanic with a schedule of preventive maintenance, along with a checklist for this.

 

ITEM 9g.   Public Comment. Mrs. Debra Schum – Update on Strategic Plan

 

Mrs. Johnson provided the following update:

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       

 

ITEM 9h.   Public Comment. Mrs. Debra Schum – Update on Timeline for Bond Projects

 

This information was discussed under the Superintendent’s Report.

 

Mr. Triche left the meeting at 9:45 p.m.

 

ITEM 9i.   Public Comment. Mr. Albert A. Burl, III – Discussion regarding the Board granting the Land and Facilities Committee authority of approval (up to a set dollar amount)

 

Mr. Burl stated that previously, the Board granted authority to the Land and Facilities Committee to approve change order @ ESJHS following Hurricane Isaac in an effort to expedite repairs.  The amounts were:  up to $25,000 the Superintendent had authority; $25,000-$75,000 the Land and Facilities had authority to approve.  Mr. Burl asked the Board to consider granting this authority once again, to expedite the contracts for the upcoming Bond projects. 

 

MOTION BY:    Wallace

SECOND BY:   DeFrancesch

MOTION:           To extend the meeting beyond 10:00 p.m.

Roll Call:

8 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Mitchell-Williams

3 Absent – Keller, Jones, Triche

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 9j.   Public Comment. Mr. Albert A. Burl, III – Financial Update

 

Public Comment:  Shondrell Perrilloux

 

MOTION BY:    Burl

SECOND BY:   Sanders

MOTION:           To table this item.

Roll Call:

8 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Mitchell-Williams

3 Absent – Keller, Jones, Triche

The motion carried.

 

ITEM 10.  ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

 

ITEM 11.  BOARD ITEMS OF INTEREST

 

Plaques were presented to the out-going Board members, along with comments.

 

ITEM 12.  ADJOURNMENT

 

The agenda having been completed, and there being no further business, there was a

 

MOTION BY:    Sanders

SECOND BY:   Johnson

MOTION:           Motion for adjournment.

Roll Call:

8 Yeas – Holden, Burl, Sanders, DeFrancesch, Johnson, Schum, Wallace, Mitchell-Williams

3 Absent – Keller, Jones, Triche

The motion carried.

 

The meeting adjourned at 10:17 p.m.

 

________________________________                                      ________________________________

Rebecca Johnson, Secretary                                                      Nia Mitchell, President