The Webster Parish School Board (WPSB) convened for their regular meeting at the Harper Pathways to Excellence center on January 8, 2024, with all members present except Johnnye Kennon of District 10.
The meeting commenced with the presentation of the Employee of the Month award to Kerry Phillips, a teacher at North Webster High School. Detailed information on Mr. Phillips’ commendation will be featured in an upcoming Minden Press-Herald article.
A notable discussion unfolded when Mr. Terrell Mendenhall sought to address the board regarding an incident at North Webster High School. However, state law (Act 1) designates local superintendents and principals as the final authorities in personnel decisions. WPSB attorney John Guice reminded attendees that discussing easily identifiable individuals in a public forum is prohibited by this law. Mr. Mendenhall was advised to privately discuss the matter with Superintendent Rowland or Assistant Superintendent Washington. The board agreed to evaluate investigation procedures and ensure thorough examinations of incidents.
The board then deliberated and approved three trips for administrators and teachers to professional development conferences. The first trip, to the Innovative School Summit in New York City, faced scrutiny from Susan Addington of District 12. After discussions about the trip’s cost and benefits, it was approved with Addington abstaining. The subsequent two trips, both to NIET National Conferences in Dallas and Grapevine, Texas, were unanimously approved. These conferences address the new teacher evaluation system.
In the personnel report, Robin Tucker highlighted the upcoming recruitment event at Louisiana Tech, addressing the critical teacher shortage in the region.
Ursula Hullaby, the school liaison, shared community contributions, with the Junior Service League providing 137 new coats for students and the Salvation Army assisting 89 families, in addition to 45 families served by the district. Hullaby expressed gratitude for representing the district in helping families in need.
Superintendent Rowland concluded the meeting by reminding the board of the upcoming bond proposal. Rowland stated that he is well aware that the people of Springhill, Sarepta, Cotton Valley, and Shongaloo wonder why they don’t have the same facilities seen at other schools in the parish. “The public does not understand how that works,” said Rowland. “The citizens voted that in as either a bond issue or a maintenance tax. This is why this is very important: so we can address some of our shortcomings on the north end, facility-wise.”
The WPSB’s next meeting is scheduled for February 5, 2024. The public is welcome to attend.