Louisiana Ethics Administration Program

P.O. Box 4368

Baton Rouge, LA 70821
Fred 0. Moore
642 N. Wilderness Road
Port Barre, LA 70577
September 17, 2014
Re: Possible Ethics Violation of Janet Dixon, President of Rapides Parish School Board
Dear Ethics Board Administrators:
I believe that Mrs. Janet Dixon, President of the Rap ides Parish School Board, has committed an ethics
violation relative to a prohibited transaction under llllC (1) and/or lllC (2) in that she received something
of value for a service substantially related to duties, responsibilities, programs, or operations of the agency of
the public servant and in which she participated and/or that she received something of economic value for
service rendered or to be rendered to someone seeking a contractual, business, or financial relationship with
the Rapides Parish School Board. Further, McPherson and Jacobson LLC, of which Mrs. Dixon is now an
employee, conducted operations and activities regulated by the Rapides Parish School Board and that firm has
or had substantial economic interest substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of her
official duties
SPECIFICS: In the summer of 2012, the Rapides Parish School Board began the process of selecting a new
superintendent . Traditionally, the board had appointed a committee of board members and community
leaders to develop the process for selecting the finalist candidates and conducting the interviews and
community forums. Initially, this process was again followed and an initial committee was formed. Mrs.
Dixon, then Vice-President of the board, convinced the board to appoint her as the chairman of the
committee. She then convinced the board to abandon the traditional process and to hire McPherson and
Jacobson LLC to oversee the process and to dismiss the committee.
Throughout the process, as the board minutes reflect, Mrs. Dixon's motions were instrumental in adopting
McPherson and Jacobson's recommendations, setting their fees for services, and insuring the firm got paid
what it invoiced the district for.
On April 25, 2013, the Rapides Parish School Board hired its new superintendent. Sometime shortly before or
after, McPherson and Jacobson LLC hired Mrs. Janet Dixon as a consultant on its Louisiana Team. McPherson
and Jacobson currently list her on its website as a consultant and her bio on the site indicates that she has
been an employee of the organization since 2013. As late as the end of July, 2013 and possibly later, Mrs.
Dixon was still making motions and voting for actions that economically beoefited her employer, McPherson
and Jacobson.
Chuut(b t.
(Notary Signature)
Linda C. Noland
10#44237
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
RAPIDES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Alexandria, Louisiana
August 21, 2012
The Rapides Parish School Board ofRapides Parish, Louisiana, met in special session at
5:30 o' clock p.m. on Tuesday, August 21, 2012, at the regular meeting place of said board in the Rapides
Parish School Board Office, 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets, in Alexandria, Louisiana.
President Wilton Barrios, Jr. called the meeting to order and on roll call the following
members were present:
Wilton Barrios, President
Janet Dixon, Vice President
Julie McConathy, Member
Darrell Rodriguez, Member
John Allen, Member
Keith Breazeale, Member
Steve Berry, Member
Stephen Chapman, Member
Pam Webb, Member
Dr. Gary L. Jones, secretary for the Board, was present for the meeting.
Assistant District Attorney Field Gremillion was present for the meeting.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mrs. Julie McConathy after which Mr. Steve Berry
led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
(COPY OF OFFICIAL CALL WAS MAILED TO EACH MEMBER OF THE RAPIDES PARISH
SCHOOL BOARD AND TO THE MEDIA AND POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE AT THE
MEETING PLACE OF SAID BOARD ON AUGUST 17, 2012)
Alexandria, Louisiana
August 17, 2012
1
Dear Sir/Madam:
By virtue of the authority vested in me by law and by reason of the fact that it is deemed necessary,
advisable, and to the public interest that the Rapides Parish School Board be called in special session;
now, therefore,
I, Wilton Barrios, Jr. , President, do hereby give notice that the said board will meet in special session at
its domicile at 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets in the City of Alexandria, Louisiana, at 5:30 p.m. on
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
for the purpose of considering, acting upon, deciding, and if deemed advisable, submitting the following
propositions, to wit:
1. Call to order
2. Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Adopt the adjusted tax millage rates(s) for 2012 year- Ms. Liz Domite
Pages 1-2
5. Set forth the adjusted millage rates(s) and roll forward to millage rates(s) not exceeding the
maximum authorized rates(s)- Ms. Liz Domite
Pages 3-4
6. Adopt other authorized millages or taxes - Ms. Liz Domite
Pages 5-6
7. Motion for the Rap ides Parish School Board to abolish the position of Director of
Technology - Mr. Wilton Barrios
8. Motion to discuss and take possible action on the hiring of a liaison from an independent
finn to assist in the Rapidcs Parish School Board's Superintendent Search - Mrs. Janet
Dixon
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, Witness my official signature and the seal of the Rap ides Parish School
Board this 1 i h day of August 2012.
ATTEST:
Is/ Gary L. Jones
Secretary
SEAL
Is/ Wilton Barrios
President
Public comment was solicited prior to the vote on items during this meeting.
2
A motion was made by Mrs. Julie McConathy and seconded by Mrs. Janet Dixon
to discuss and take possible action on the hiring of a liaison from an independent fim1 to assist in the
Rapides Parish School Board's Superintendent Search. (Item 8)
Discussion ensued.
A substitute motion was made by Dr. Stephen Chapman and seconded by Mr. Keith
Breazeale for Dr. Stephen Chapman and Mr. Steve Berry to work with Mrs. Janet Dixon, Personnel
Chair, to accomplish the same task and process of the Superintendent Search and meet the time line at no
charge to the Board.
Discussion ensued.
A second substitute motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John
Allen to take action on the hiring of the liaison of McPherson and Jacobson, pending final review by our
Board Attorney.
Discussion ensued.
On roll call the vote on the second substitute motion was as follows:
AYE: Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs . Dixon, Mr. Allen, Mr. Barrios
NAY: Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman
ABSENT: None
THE SECOND SUBSTITUTE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY MAJORITY VOTE.
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to adopt
the adjusted tax millage rates(s) for 2012 year. (Item 4)
AYE:
NAY:
ABSENT:
Discussion ensued.
On roll call the vote was as follows:
Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon, Mr. Berry,
Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mr. Barrios
None
None
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to set
forth the adjusted millage rates(s) and roll forward to millage rates(s) not exceeding the maximum
authorized rates(s) . (Item 5)
Discussion ensued.
3
AYE:
NAY:
ABSENT:
On roll call the vote was as follows:
Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon, Mr. Berry,
Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mr. Barrios
None
None
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman to
adopt other authorized millages or taxes. (Item 6)
AYE:
NAY:
ABSENT:
Discussion ensued.
On roll call the vote was as follows:
Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon, Mr. Berry,
Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mr. Barrios
None
None
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy for the
Rapides Parish School Board to abolish the position of Director of Technology. (Item 7)
Discussion ensued.
On roll call the vote was as follows:
AYE: Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon, Mr. Allen, Mr. Barrios
NAY: Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman
ABSENT: None
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY MAJORITY VOTE.
Pursuant to motion duly carried, the Rapides Parish School Board adjourned.
Is/ Wilton Barrios, Jr.
President
ATTEST:
Is/Gary L. Jones
Secretary
SEAL
4
McVhel"S()D & L.L.c.
Executive Recruitment & Development
7905l St., Suite 310 Omaha, Nebraska 68127 Phone: (402) 991-7031/(888) 375-iBH
Fax: (402) 991-7168 Email: mall@macnlake.com +Website: www.mamjake.com
SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH PROCESS
McPherson & Jacobson L.L.C. can assist the Rapides Parish Schools, Alexandria, Louisiana, in
securing a high quality superintendent. Following is an outline of services our consultants will provide in
conducting an administrative search. The school district may select any level of service they wish.
I. The Rapides Parish Schools and Consultants will mutually establish:
Time lines for the selection process and filling the vacancy
The desired characteristics for the successful candidate
Identify individuals or stakeholder groups for input into the selection
A schedule for interviewing the final candidates
ll. Tbe Consultants agree to provide the following services as selected by the organization.
Advertise Vacancy ($1,500)
McPherson & Jacobson will:
Develop an announcement of vacancy and advertise the position with the appropriate
media and professional organizations
> Develop a promotional brochure which will:
./ Describe the position and responsibilities
./ Describe the demographics of the community
./ Overview the school district and its outstanding features
./ List the selection criteria
./ Outline the timelines for the selection process
./ Outline application procedures
Post the vacancy on the McPherson & Jacobson website
Conduct Stakeholder Forums ($2,000/day)
McPherson & Jacobson will:
) Meet with groups identified by the board to provide input into selection process:
./ Meet with identified groups to solicit input around the following
questions:
o Tell us the good things about your community
o Tell us the good things about your school district
o What are the issues the incoming superintendent should be aware
of as he/she comes into the district/
o What characteristics the new superintendent should have to be
successful?
./ Prepare a written report to be presented to the board swnmarizing the
input from the groups
Solicit Stakeholder Input Via Online Survey (Sl,OOO)
McPherson & Jacobson will:
l> Create an online survey for those who are unable to attend the stakeholder forums.
The survey will contain the same four questions as listed above:
o Tell us the good things about your community
o Tell us the good things about your school district
o What are the issues the incoming superintendent should be aware of as
he/she comes into the district/
o What characteristics the new superintendent should have to be successful?
l> Post a link on the McPherson & Jacobson website for the survey
)> Provide the link to the survey to school district for their website and distribution
);> Include the input in the written survey presented to the board
Recruit Applicants ($500)
McPherson & Jacobson will :
> Develop an application form that reflects the identified criteria
)> Send out brochures and application forms to interested applicants
Screen Applicants
1-5 applicants
6-10 applicants
Over 10 applicants
McPherson & Jacobson will;
52,500
$2,000 (totaJ $4,500)
S300/appllcont
};;> Read and critique all completed files
)ll- Conduct preliminary reference checks on all applicants
};;> Evaluate each applicant against the identified criteria
Conduct complete reference and backgroWld checks on all top candidates
Present a summary of each top candidate
m. The expenses, beyond the contract with McPherson & Jacobson, will be:
In addition to the contract fees, McPherson & Jacobson will charge actual expenses for:
All expenses for advertising the vacancy
Copying costs for brochure and related materials
Postage costs
Telephone charges for reference checks and screening candidates
Travel and expenses of consultants for all trips to the organization
Estimated expenses:
I. Advertising Expenses--advertising expenses are dependent upon the media required by
Louisiana and those selected by the board. All costs will be presented to the district for their
approval prior to placing the advertisements
2. Travel EKpenses
3. Office Expenses
$ 1,850*
$ 1,100**
Includes travel, lodging & meals for all consultants (This expense includes three evenings of
stakeholder meetings. This amount may decrease or increase dependent upon the number of stakeholder
meetings the board chooses to have McPherson & Jacobson conduct.)
u Includes development and printing of Announcement of Vacancy, copying costs, long distance
telephone, and postage
NOTE: Interview expenses for the candidates are not included in the expenses listed above.
All materials developed in this search shall remain as property of the Rapides Parish Schools.
IV. McPherson & Jacobson will, during the term of this agreement, or any extension thereof, maintain
customary and appropriate policies of insurance insuring its operation and personnel against liability for
( 1) workers compensation (2) general liability (3) liability arising out of the use or operation of any motor
vehicles by company personnel; the company will furnish to the Board certificates of insurances verifying
the required coverages.
V. McPherson & Jacobson will, indemnify and hold hannless the Rap ides Parish School Board, its
employees, and officers from any liability including fees and expenses for investigation and defense of
any claims brought against the Board arising out of or caused by: (A) Claims for Workers Compensation
for injuries to any company personnel. (B) Claims for injuries to third parries or to employees or officers
or agents by the Board arising out of the negligent action of company personnel or the intentional acts by
company personnel.
-.X_ Advertise Vacancy ($1,500)
-.X_ Conduct Stakeholder Forums ($2,000/day)
_x_ Solicit Stakeholder Input Via Online Survey ($1,000)
_x_ Recruit Applicants ($500)
_L Screen Applicants
1-5 applicants
6-10 applicants
Over 10 applicants
$2,500
$2,000 {total $4,500)
$300/applicant
The fee and expenses for each phase will be invoiced at the completion of that phase.
In witness where of the parties have signed and entered into this agreement.
~ ~ ~
President, Board of Education Date
d ~ L
McPherson & Jacooson L.L.C. Date
November 9, 2012
Dear Sir/Madam:
By virtue of the authority vested in me by law and by reason of the fact that it is deemed necessary,
advisable, and to the public interest that the Rapides Parish School Board be called in special session;
now, therefore,
I, Wilton Barrios, President, do hereby give notice that the said board will meet in special session at its
domicile at 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets in the City of Alexandria, Louisiana, at 5:30 p.m. on
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
for the purpose of considering, acting upon, deciding, and if deemed advisable, submitting the following
propositions, to wit:
1. Call to order
2. Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll call
4. Motion to rescind the adoption of the reapportionment plan for the Rapides Parish School
Board of SB 2010 adopted at the November 5, 2012 Board Meeting - Mr. Wilton Barrios
5. Motion to consider adoption of a reapportionment plan for the Rapides Parish School
Board- Mr. Wilton Barrios
6. Motion to hear reports, consider recommendation, discuss and take action if deemed
advisable on all issues related to the RPSB Superintendent Search - Mr. Wilton Barrios
7. Motion for the RPSB to go into Executive Session for the purpose of considering
and accepting applications from McPherson and Jacobson relating to the Superintendent
Search -Mrs. Janet Dixon
8. Motion for the RPSB to discuss and to select ten (10) semi-finalists in Open Session -
Mr. Wilton Barrios
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, Witness my official signature and the seal of the Rapides Parish School
Board this 9
1
h day of November 2012.
ATTEST:
Is/Gerald Woodard
Interim Secretary
S E AL
Is/ Wilton Barrios
President
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
RAPIDES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Alexandria, Louisiana
November 13,2012
The Rapides Parish School Board of Rapides Parish, Louisiana, met in special session at
5:30 o'clock p.m. on Tuesday, November 13, 2012, at the regular meeting place of said board in the
Rapides Parish School Board Office, 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets, in Alexandria, Louisiana.
President Wilton Barrios, Jr. called the meeting to order and on roll call the following
members were present:
Wilton Barrios, President
Janet Dixon, Vice President
John Allen, Member
Steve Berry, Member
Keith Breazeale, Member
Julie McConathy, Member
Stephen Chapman, Member
Pam Webb, Member
Darrell Rodriguez, Member
Assistant District Attorney Field Gremillion was present for the meeting.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Keith Breazeale after which Mrs. Julie
McConathy led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
(COPY OF OFFICIAL CALL WAS MAILED TO EACH MEMBER OF THE RAPIDES PARISH
SCHOOL BOARD AND TO THE MEDIA AND POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE AT THE
MEETING PLACE OF SAID BOARD ON NOVEMBER 9, 2012)
Dear Sir/Madam:
Alexandria, Louisiana
November 9, 2012
By virtue of the authority vested in me by Jaw and by reason of the fact that it is deemed necessary,
advisable, and to the public interest that the Rapides Parish School Board be called in special session;
now, therefore,
I, Wilton Barrios, Jr. , President, do hereby give notice that the said board will meet in special session at
its domicile at 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets in the City of Alexandria, Louisiana, at 5:30 p.m. on
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
for the purpose of considering, acting upon, deciding, and if deemed advisable, submitting the following
propositions, to wit:
1 . Call to order
2. Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Motion to rescind the adoption of the reapportionment plan for the Rapides Parish School
Board of SB 20 I 0 adopted at the November 5, 2012 Board Meeting - Mr. Wilton Barrios
5. Motion to consider adoption of a reapportionment plan for the Rapides Parish School
Board- Mr. Wilton Barrios
6. Motion to hear reports, consider recommendation, discuss and take action if deemed
advisable on all issues related to the RPSB Superintendent Search- Mr. Wilton Barrios
7. Motion for the RPSB to go into Executive Session for the purpose of considering and
accepting applications from McPherson and Jacobson relating to the Superintendent
Search -Mrs. Janet Dixon
8. Motion for the RPSB to discuss and to select ten (10) semi-finalists in Open Session-
Mr. Wilton Barrios
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, Witness my official signature and the seal of the Rapides Parish School
Board this 9th day of November 2012.
ATTEST:
Is/Wilton Barrios
President
Is/Gerald Woodard
Interim Secretary
SEAL
Public comment was solicited prior to the vote on items during this meeting.
A motion was made by Dr. Stephen Chapman and seconded by Mrs. Pam Webb to
rescind the adoption of the reapportionment plan for the Rapides Parish School Board of SB 20 I 0
adopted at the November 5, 2012 Board Meeting. (Item 4)
Discussion ensued.
On roll call the vote was as follows:
AYE: Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios
NAY: Mr. Allen, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon
ABSENT: None
THE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY MAJORITY VOTE.
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to
consider adoption of a reapportionment plan for the Rap ides Parish School Board. (Item 5)
Discussion ensued.
A substitute motion was made by Mr. Wilton Barrios and seconded by Mrs. Pam Webb
to adopt option W-I on the Reapportionment Plan for the Rap ides Parish School Board.
Discussion ensued.
On roll call the vote on the substitute motion was as follows:
AYE: Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Breazeale, Mrs. Webb, Mr. Barrios
NAY: Mr. Allen, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon
ABSENT: None
THE SUBSTITUTE MOTION WAS ADOPTED BY MAJORITY VOTE.
2
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to hear
reports, consider recommendation, discuss and take action if deemed advisable on all issues related to the
RPSB Superintendent Search. (Item 6)
Mrs. Janet Dixon presented recommendations to the Board and discussion ensued.
A motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen to accept the
names of the committee members who will serve as the negotiating committee for the Superintendent
Search from the Rapides Parish School Board. All board members are welcome to attend the Executive
Session contract negotiations. (Item 6a)
President Wilton Barrios named Mr. Keith Breazeale, Mrs. Julie McConathy and
Mr. John Allen to serve as the negotiating committee and they accepted.
An amended motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen to
accept Mrs. Julie McConathy, Mr. Keith Breazeale and Mr. John Allen as committee members who will
serve as the negotiating committee for the Superintendent Search for the Rapides Parish School Board.
All board members are encouraged and welcome to attend the Executive Session contract negotiation.
Discussion ensued.
On motion by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen, the Board voted
unanimously to accept Mrs. Julie McConathy, Mr. Keith Breazeale and Mr. John Allen as committee
members who will serve as the negotiating committee for the Superintendent Search for the Rapides
Parish School Board. All board members are encouraged and welcome to attend the Executive Session
contract negotiation.
**********
A motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen to request the
Board Attorney to submit to the Rapides Parish School Board a template of a contract for the new
superintendent that conforms to Louisiana State Law. The Rapides Parish School Board is requesting the
template for approval on the December 4, 2012 Board meeting. (Item 6b)
Discussion ensued with Assistant District Attorney Field Gremillion regarding the
contract.
On motion by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen, the Board voted
unanimously to request the Board Attorney to submit to the Rap ides Parish School Board a template of a
contract for the new superintendent that conforms to Louisiana State Law. The Rapides Parish School
Board is requesting the template for approval on the December 4, 2012 Board meeting.
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy for the
RPSB to go into Executive Session for the purpose of considering and accepting applications from
McPherson and Jacobson relating to the Superintendent Search. (Item 7)
Discussion ensued and McPherson and Jacobson presented the waivers from the
applicants to Attorney Field Gremillion at this time.
AYE:
NAY:
ABSENT:
On roll call the vote was as follows:
Mr. Berry, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Allen, Mr. Breazeale, Mr. Rodriguez, Mrs. Webb,
Mrs. McConathy, Mrs. Dixon, Mr. Barrios
None
None
THE BOARD WENT INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION.
3
On motion by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Mr. Keith Breazeale, the Board voted
unanimously to reconvene in Open Session.
THE BOARD RECONVENED IN OPEN SESSION.
A motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman
for the RPSB to discuss and to select ten (I 0) semi-finalists in Open Session. (Item 8)
Discussion ensued.
A substitute motion was made by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Dr. Stephen
Chapman for the Rapides Parish School Board to extend the Superintendent Search until May 15, 2013.
Discussion ensued.
On motion by Mr. Steve Berry and seconded by Dr. Stephen Chapman, the Board voted
unanimously for the Rapides Parish School Board to extend the Superintendent Search until May 15,
2013.
Pursuant to motion duly carried, the Rapides Parish School Board adjourned.
ATTEST:
Is/Gerald Woodard
Interim Secretary
SEAL
Is/Wilton Barrios, Jr.
President
4
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
RAPIDES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
Alexandria, Louisiana
March 4, 2013
The Rapides Parish School Board ofRapides Parish, Louisiana, met in special session at
6:00 o'clock p.m. on Monday, March 4, 2013, at the regular meeting place of said board in the Rap ides
Parish School Board Office, 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets, in Alexandria, Louisiana.
President Stephen Chapman called the meeting to order and on roll call the following
members were present:
Stephen Chapman, President
Keith Breazeale, Vice President
John Allen, Member
Wilton Barrios, President
Steve Berry, Member
Janet Dixon, Member
Julie McConathy, Member
Darrell Rodriguez, Member
Pam Webb, Member
District Attorney James Downs was not present for the meeting.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Keith Breazeale after which Mr. Steve Berry led
in the recitation ofthe Pledge of Allegiance.
(COPY OF OFFICIAL CALL WAS MAILED TO EACH MEMBER OF THE RAPIDES PARISH
SCHOOL BOARD AND TO THE MEDIA AND POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE AT THE
MEETING PLACE OF SAID BOARD ON FEBRUARY 27, 2013)
Dear Sir/Madam:
Alexandria, Louisiana
February 27, 2013
By virtue of the authority vested in me by law and by reason of the fact that it is deemed necessary,
advisable, and to the public interest that the Rap ides Parish School Board be called in special session;
now, therefore,
I, Stephen Chapman, President, do hereby give notice that the said board will meet in special session at its
domicile at 619 Sixth and Beauregard Streets in the City of Alexandria, Louisiana, at 6:00p.m. on
Monday, March 4, 2013
for the purpose of considering, acting upon, deciding, and if deemed advisable, submitting the following
propositions, to wit:
I . Call to order
2. Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Motion to receive an update on Superintendent Search from the Personnel Committee
Chairperson- Mrs. Janet Dixon
a. Motion for the RPSB to adopt the guide used in 2003 to determine the
number of the Semi-Finalists for the superintendent search. The guide states:
Less than 20 qualified applicants- 5 and from 20-25 qualified applicants- 7
and 25 or more qualified applicants- I 0- Mrs. Janet Dixon
b. Motion to change the April 4, 2013 Special Board Meeting from "contract
negotiations" to "2nd Supplemental Interview" -Mrs. Janet Dixon
c. Motion to dissolve the "negotiating team" previously appointed based on the
2nd interview replacing the need to have a standing committee- Mrs. Janet
Dixon
d. Motion to provide to each candidate interviewed by the RPSB a copy of the
RPSB Superintendent contract- Mrs. Janet Dixon
e. Motion to add Tioga High School and Buckeye Elementary to the School
Tour Schedule for the superintendent search- Mrs. Janet Dixon
5. Motion to go into Executive Session to confer with a representative from McPherson and
Jacobson regarding the applications for Rapides Parish Superintendent of Schools, and to discuss
the qualifications of candidates as provided by R.S. 42: 17(A)(l)- Mrs. Janet Dixon
6. Motion for RPSB to reconvene in Open Session- Mrs. Janet Dixon
7. Motion for Dr. .Emily Weatherford to read into record the slate of candidates for the RPSB
Superintendent position- Mrs. Janet Dixon
8. Motion for the RPSB by vote, to reduce field of the number of candidates to 10 for interview and
consideration for the position of Rapides Parish School Superintendent- Mrs. Janet Dixon
9. Motion for Dr. Stephen Chapman to read into record the Top 10 candidates for the position of
RPSB Superintendent- Mrs. Janet Dixon
10. Motion for Mr. Gerald Woodard to randomly select by drawing the "order of interview"
for candidates- Mrs. Janet Dixon
11. Motion to adjourn- Mrs. Janet Dixon
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, Witness my official signature and the seal of the Rapides Parish School
Board this 27th day ofFebruary 2013.
ATTEST:
Is/Gerald Woodard
Interim Secretary
SEAL
Is/Stephen Chapman
President
Public comment was solicited prior to the vote on items during this meeting.
A motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. Keith Breazeale to
discuss items 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10.
Mrs. Janet Dixon informed the Board that the candidates had not been notified with the
twenty-four hour notice that is required by Jaw, therefore these items cannot be acted on at this meeting.
Discussion ensued.
A substitute motion was made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen to
defer items 5-l 0 to a Special Board meeting for Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at 6:00p.m.
2
Discussion ensued.
On the substitute motion made by Mrs. Janet Dixon and seconded by Mr. John Allen, the
Board voted unanimously to defer items 5-10 to a Special Board meeting for Wednesday, March 6, 2013
at 6:00p.m.
A motion was made by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy to
receive an update on Superintendent Search from the Personnel Committee Chairperson. (Item 4)
ensued.
a. Motion for the RPSB to adopt the guide used in 2003 to determine the
number of the Semi-Finalists for the superintendent search. The guide states:
Less than 20 qualified applicants- 5 and from 20-25 qualified applicants- 7
and 25 or more qualified applicants- I 0.
b. Motion to change the April4, 2013 Special Board Meeting from "contract
negotiations" to "2nd Supplemental Interview".
c. Motion to dissolve the "negotiating team" previously appointed based on the
2nd interview replacing the need to have a standing committee.
d. Motion to provide to each candidate interviewed by the RPSB a copy of the
RPSB Superintendent contract.
e. Motion to add Tioga High School and Buckeye Elementary to the School
Tour Schedule for the superintendent search.
Mrs. Janet Dixon presented information to the Board on item 4 a-e and discussion
On motion by Mr. Keith Breazeale and seconded by Mrs. Julie McConathy, the
Board voted unanimously to approve item 4 a-e.
Pursuant to motion duly carried, the Rapides Parish School Board adjourned.
ATTEST:
Is/Gerald Woodard
Interim Secretary
SEAL
Is/Stephen Chapman
President
3
PARISH SCHOOL BOARD .
. - - _... .
P;(kBOX
. - --,

March 5, 2013
Dear Sir/Madam:
By virtue of the authority vested in me by law and by reason of the fact that it is deemed necessary, advisable, and to the
public interest that the Rapides Parish School Board be called in special session; now, therefore,
I, Stephen Chapman, President, do hereby give notice that the said board will meet in special session at its domicile at 619
Sixth and Beauregard Streets in the City of Alexandria, Louisiana, at 6:00 p.m. on
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
for the purpose of considering, acting upon, deciding, and if deemed advisable, submitting the following propositions, to
wit:
1. Call to order
2. Invocation, Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll call
4. Motion to receive an update on Superintendent Search from the Personnel Committee
Chairperson- Mrs. Janet Dixon
5. Motion to go into Executive Session to confer with a representative from
McPherson and Jacobson regarding the applications for Rapides Parish Superintendent of
Schools, and to discuss the qualifications of candidates as provided by R.S. 42: 17(A)(1)-
Mrs. Janet Dixon
6. Motion for RPSB to reconvene in Open Session- Mrs. Janet Dixon
7. Motion for Dr. Emily Weatherford to read into record the slate of candidates for the RPSB
Superintendent position- Mrs. Janet Dixon
8. Motion for the RPSB by vote, to reduce the field of the number of candidates to 10 for
interview and consideration for the position of Rapides Parish School Superintendent -
Mrs. Janet Dixon
9. Motion for Dr. Stephen Chapman to read into record the Top 10 candidates for the position
ofRPSB Superintendent- Mrs. Janet Dixon
10. Motion for Mr. Gerald Woodard to randomly select by drawing the "order of interview" for
candidates - Mrs. Janet Dixon
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, Witness my official signature and the seal of the Rapides Parish School Board this 5
1
h day
of March 2013.
ATTEST:
Is/Gerald Woodard
Interim Secretary
SEAL
Is/Stephen Chapman
President
TO:
RAPIDES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
P. 0. Box 1230
Alexandria, Louisiana
JULY 10,2013
MEMBERS OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE
FROM: MR. STEVE BERRY, CHAIR
The Finance Committee of the Rapides Parish School Board will meet on Tuesday, July 16, 2013 at
5:10p.m. in the Board meeting room in the Rapides Parish School Board Office, 619 Sixth and
Beauregard Streets, Alexandria, Louisiana.
STANDING ITEMS
Finance Committee
July 16, 2013
1. Motion to approve personal services contracts, leases, and other such agreements;
authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in
connection with said contracts; and approve bills paid for the previous month - Ms. Liz Domite
2. Motion to approve/adopt any budget changes/amendments - Ms. Liz Domite
Pages 1-35
3. Motion to receive an update/report on grants, approve grants included therein, and authorize the
Superintendent to sign any and all documentation in connection therewith - Ms. Liz Domite
Page 36
NEW BUSINESS
4. Motion to hear a budget update from the Finance Department - Mr. Steve Berry
5. Motion to hear a quarterly report on Maintenance Funds- Ms. Liz Domite
6. Motion to authorize staff to publish notice and advertise the public hearing on the proposed
budget for 2013-2014- Ms. Liz Domite
7. Motion to ratify and confirm bid(s) received on Tuesday, July 23, 2013 at 2:00p.m. by the
Central Office Stafffor "Multipurpose Building for Pineville High" (Bid #12-37) and award
bid to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder contingent on low bidder meeting all LA
Public Bid Law and Contract Document Requirements and Specifications - Ms. Liz Domite
Source offunding District 52 Bonds
8. Motion to authorize the secretary to advertise for bids for "Ball Park Concession/Press Box for
Rapides High" (Bid #14-15) and authorize the Executive Committee and/or the Superintendent
and Central Office Staff to receive bids and a recommendation to be made to the Board - Ms.
Liz Domite
Source of funding Maintenance Amount $100,000.00
9. Motion to ratify and confirm bid(s) received on Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. by the
Central Office Staff and award to the lowest responsive/responsible bidder(s) for 2013-2014
school year and authorize staff to enter into purchase order contract(s) accordingly funded
by School Food Service Funds- Mrs. Erma Davis
"Cafeteria Meat Bid"- RPSB Bid No. FS15-13-14- Estimated Cost $324,781.50
"Cafeteria Frozen Food Bid"- RPSB No. FS20-13-14- Estimated Cost $878,300.29
"Cafeteria Processed Foods Bid"- RPSB No. FS25-13-14- Estimated Cost $1,254,149.05
10. Motion to approve Professional Services Contract with Discovery Education for professional
development and 22 days of training and to authorize the Superintendent or designee to sign any
required documents- Dr. Arthur M. Joffrion, Jr./Mrs. Rebecca Beck
Pages 37-41 Source of funding Rapides Foundation- STEM Grant Amount $55,000.00
11. Motion to approve Profes-sional Services Contract with the Center for Educational Leadership for
professional development and 33 days of instructional leadership training and to authorize the
Superintendent or designee to sign any required documents - Dr. Arthur M. Joffrion, Jr./
Mrs. Rebecca Beck
Pages 42-45 Source of funding STEM- Rapides Foundation or Believe and Succeed
(i{awarded) or a combination o{both
Amount $102,144.00
12. Motion to approve payment of advertising expenses to McPherson and Jacobson, LLC for
2"d round of Superintendent Search - Dr. Emily Weatherford
Pages 46-50 Source of funding General Fund Amount $3,465.84
Please make plans to attend this important meeting.
SB:LD:bw
"
"'" ,. I VJ'\111; ~ IV 1\rrl;l\1. II.L rlllfiii1U r-un r-U11
THE
WWW.THETOWNTALK.COM
A GANNETT COMPANY
Wednesday, August 22, 2012 1 Alexandria-Pineville, Louisiana
School board may hire liaison to assist superintendent search
By Leigh Guidry
lguidry@thetowntalk.com
(318) 467 6445
The Rapides Parish School
Board may hire a liaison from
an independent firm to assist in
the search for a replacement for
Superintendent Gary Jones.
A 5-4 vote at a special board
meeting Tuesday sent the mo-
tion to hire Loe Dunn, lead Loui-
siana consultant at McPherson &
Jacobson LLC, to the full board
meeting Sept. 4.
Board member Janet Dixon
led the charge to hire an outside
firm.
"The liaison piece is where we
are bottlenecking in our (search)
Board
Continued from A 1
and Berry would have
been honorable six to
eight weeks ago when we
started experiencing the
bottlenecks and pushback
in the superintendent
search," Dixon said. "It's
time for this board and
our community to turn
the page and hire a new
superintendent."
Both Chapman and
Berry were on the board
during the last superin-
tendent search, in which
an independent firm was
not hired. Board Presi-
dent Wilton Barrios said
process," Dixon said. She found
McPherson & Jacobson through
a referral from the Louisiana
State Bar Association.
online survey of the community
and recruiting and screening ap-
plicants.
Board members Stephen
Chapman and Steve Berry vol-
unteered to be liaisons and work
closely with Dixon to meet the
timeline already established by
the board.
Dixon presented a proposed
agreement with the firm to board
members. The agreement in-
cluded as duties advertising for
the position, organizing three
public forums, completing an "We're willing to work closely
the 2003 superintendent
search was a different
circumstance.
Dixon motioned that
the board hire Dunn with
McPherson & Jacobson
pending final review of
the agreement by legal
counsel.
McPherson & Jacob-
son is a consulting firm
in Omaha, Neb., with 70
consultants across the
country. Dunn is the lead
consultant in Louisiana
and lives in Morehouse
Parish.
She said she has been a
school board member for
20 years and knows the
importance of choosing
the right superintendent.
"This is the most im-
portant decision the board
will ever make," Dunn
said. "That's the reason
I'm here tonight."
Dixon asked for a vote
to send the item to the full
board.
"I just am frustrated
and feel as a board we
should be in a better posi-
tion than where
our search," Di
"It's time for u:
on."
Voting for
tion were Dh
rios, Darrell F
John Allen and
Conathy. Votin;
were Chapma1
Keith BreazealE
Webb.
with Mrs. Dixon to accomplish
the same tasks listed here at
no cost to the board," Chapman
said.
Dixon said she appreciated
the offer but that it was too late.
"The gesture from Chapman
See BOARD, Page A7
WWW.THETOWNTALK.COM Saturday, August 25,2012 A3
Panel ~ y lose role in superintendent search
By Leigh Guidry
lguidryOthetowntalk.com
(318) 487-6445
A committee of community
members could be relieved of
its duties now that the Rapides
Parish School Board hired an
independent search firm to help
find the district's next superin-
tendent.
The community interview
committee, appointed by school
board President Wilton Barrios
based on recommendations by
board members, was created to
aid in the search for a replace-
ment for Superintendent Gary
Jones.
Barrios charged the commit-
tee with surveying the public,
compiling questions to be used
in interviews with candidates
and organizing three public fo-
rums.
The Nebraska firm, McPher-
son & Jacobson LLC, was hired
by a S-4 vote by the school
board Tuesday. Two consul-
tants, including lead Louisiana
consultant Loe Dunn, will work
with the board as liaison in the
search process.
An agreement that awaits fi-
nal approval from legal counsel
assigns duties to the consultants
that overlap with duties charged
to the community interview
committee.
Like the committee, McPher-
son & Jacobson is expected to
solicit community input and
conduct public forums. The firm
also will advertise for the posi-
tion and recruit and screen ap-
plicants.
Board member Janet Dixon
said the community interview
committee's new role is some-
thing she and Barrios will have
to address.
"There's no reason to contin-
ue to pull (committee members)
from their schedules and their
lives if the duties are overlap-
ping," Dixon said.
She said committee members
could be relieved of their duties
if others are not assigned.
"It's the president's call, but
my recommendation is to have
no overlapping of duties," she
said.
Dixon led the charge for hir-
ing an independent firm. She
found McPherson & Jacobson
through a referral from the
Louisiana School Board Associ-
ation and brought an agreement
before the board Tuesday.
She said hiring the firm as
liaison would allow the board to
immediately get back on track
with its timeline to find a new
superintendent after much de-
lay.
But not everyone supports
the board's choice to hire
McPherson & Jacobson.
"I really do not see the need
for (an independent firm)," said
Susan Bates, who served as li-
aison in the 2002-2003 superin-
tendent search when Jones was
hired. "It's a waste of money."
The agreement Dixon pro-
vided Tuesday included a cost
breakdown. The consultants are
to be paid $1,500 to advertise
the vacancy and $1,000 to solicit
public input through an online
survey.
The board would pay them
$2,000 a day for conducting
three public forums, in which
the consultants will survey the
public about what they want in
the next superintendent. The fo-
rums are set for Sept. 6 at Tioga
High School, Sept. 13 at Peabody
Magnet High School and Sept.
20 at Glenmora High School.
Recruiting applicants will
bring the firm $500, but screen-
ing comes at a higher price. If
the agreement is approved by
counsel as presented, the board
will pay consultants $2,500 for
screening one to five applicants
plus $2,000 if the number reach-
es six to 10. Another $300 per
applicant would be added after
10. .
Total cost for 11 applicants
would be $13,300 if consultants
are paid $2,000 per day of the
forums only.
Board member Stephen
Chapman voted against hiring
the search firm Tuesday.
"We can do it in-house," Chap-
man said. "We did last time."
Chapman served as chair-
man of the search committee in
2002. He said the district has the
experience and the resources to
complete the search without an
outside firm.
McPherson & Jacobson LLC
Page 1 of 1
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CONTACT US
Mrs. Dixon joined McPherson & Jacobson in 2013. She has served as a board member for Rapids
Parish School District in Alexandria, LA since 2008. Janet has earned the Distinguished School
Board Member Recognition for two consecutive years.
Janet Dixon resides in Alexandria, Louisiana and is married to Herbert B. Dixon. They have 5
children. Janet is originally a native of Monroe, Louisiana where she received a Bachelors' Degree
in Psychology from University of Louisiana at Monroe, formerly Northeast Louisiana University.
In March 2012 Janet retired her management from UPS after 35 years with the company. Among
her accomplishments were being selected as Sales Manager of the year for three consecutive years
at UPS.
Janet is a member of Heart City Lions Club, serves on the Board of Directors for the Sickle Cell
Anemia Foundation and is an Executive Board member of the La. School Board Association.
Her favorite pastimes include: Fishing, Reading, Sewing, Traveling, Collecting Antiques and
Artifacts, and since 1999, Researching her family history.
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M.cPherson & Jac o bson, L.L.C.
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.PAYMENT FROM NONPUBLIC SOURCES
A summary of the prohibitions contained in Sections
ll llC(l) & 1111C(2)(d) of the Code of Governmental Ethi cs
Revised: Februar 2009
Louisiana Board of Ethics
P.O. Box 4368
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
Information Sheet #8
Section 1111 ofLouisiana's Code of Governmental Ethics prohibits a public servant from receiving any thing
of economic value from a source other than his governmental employer for the performance or any service which
is too closely related to his public duties or for any service which draws upon official information which is not a
part of the public record or if the person making the payment is a prohibited source. The purpose of this
information sheet is to outline some of these restrictions and to highlight some of the most common misconceptions
regarding 1111 of the Ethics Code.
llllC(l) RESTRICTIONS
A public servant is prohibited from receiving any thing of economic value for any service which:
1. Is substantially related to the duties and responsibilities, programs, or operations of the
agency of the public servant AND in which the public servant participated;
OR
2. Substantially draws upon official data or ideas of the agency which have not been made a
part of public information.
Example #1: If you are a Sheriff's Deputy who arrests and detains suspects, could
you work for a private detention facility located in your parish which sometimes houses
suspects when the parish prison is full?
Answer: No, because you participate in the arrest and detention of suspects who
could be housed in the private detention facility. It is the responsibility of the Sheriff's
Office to house the suspects it arrests and when the parish contracts this responsibility
out to the private facility, the private facility becomes a prohibited source of income to
you because the duties and responsibilities you would perform for the private facility
would be too closely related to what you are paid to do for the Sheriff's Office.
However, if we change the facts and the private detention center is located in another
parish, then you could work for the private facility because the suspects ~ o would be
housed there are out of your jurisdiction and you would not have participated in their
arrest and/or detention. Your duties and responsibilities at the private facility in a
different parish would not be substantially related to your duties and responsibilities at
the Sheriff's Office because it is located in a different jurisdiction.
1111C(2)(d) RESTRICTIONS
A public servant and a legal entity in which the public servant exercises control or owns in excess
of 25%, are prohibited from receiving any thing of economic value for services rendered or to be
rendered to or for the following persons (from persons whom the public servant is also prohibited
from receiving a gift):
1. Any person who has or is seeking to obtain a contractual, business or financial relationship
with the public servant's agency; OR
2. Any person who conducts operations or activities which are regulated by the public
employee's agency; OR
3. Any person who has a substantial economic interest which may be substantially affected
by the performance or nonperformance of the public employee's official job duties.
*NOTE: A "public servant" is an elected official or a public employee.
Example #2: You are an employee of the Department of Environmental Quality
whose official job duty is to visit alleged hazardous waste sites and determine if the
area is dangerous to the health of nearby residents. Could you work, on the weekend,
for the owner of the land you have to analyze?
Answer: No, because the landowner has a substantial economic interest in the
outcome of your survey. For example, he may have to pay expensive clean up costs
or his property value may fall depending on the results of your survey. This being the
case, the landowner would be a prohibited source of income for you.
Example #3: You are a member of a police jury. Could you o ~ k

f o r a private
company that is negotiating with the police jury to construct a new building to
house the offices for the police jury?
Answer: No. Because that private company is seeking a contractual
relationship with the police jury, it would be a prohibited source of income for you.
If the negotiations fail and the private company will not construct the new building,
then it would cease being a prohibited source of income for you. However, if
negotiations were to resume at a later date, the company would once again be a
prohibited source of income for you.
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS
Section 1111 C(1) of the Code evokes a couple of common misconceptions. For example, public servants often
believe that if the services to be rendered are to be provided after hours, then there can be no Ethics Code violation
in providing those services. This is not true. Providing the services after hours does not prevent a violation of the
Code from occurring. This restriction depends on the type of services you want to provide.
Another common misconception surrounding Section 1111 C(1) is that if the additional services are not services
you normally provide as a part of your job, then there can be no Ethics Code violation in providing those services.
This is also not true. This Section was specifically designed to cover situations where the additional services to
be provided are not identical to the services provided during work hours, but are so close or similar in nature to
Prohibited Sources Fact Sheet Page 2
what is done during normal business hours, that they could logically be viewed as either stemming from the work
hour services or as a direct consequence or necessity because of a public servant's work hour services.
Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code also evokes a few common misconceptions. For example, public servants
often believe that because they are actually providing the additional services and are being paid at a fair rate for
those services, there can be no Ethics Code violation in providing those services. This is not true. Just because you
are actually doing the work and are being paid a reasonable market rate for doing the work does not erase the fact
that the services are being rendered to a prohibited source. The Ethics Code views this situation as a conflict of
interest which cannot be resolved other than by avoiding the situation all together. You simply may not provide
compensated services to the groups of people earlier discussed in this fact sheet.
Another common misconception surrounding Section 1111 C(2)( d) is that as long as the services to be provided
are not related to the contract, business or financial relationship the person has with your public agency, then there
can be no Ethics Code violation in providing those services. This, as well, is not true. Section 1111C(2)(d) deals
with prohibited sources of income and once someone is a prohibited source because of one of the enumerated
relationships, then they are a prohibited source of income for you as long as that relationship lasts. Period. The
nature of the services you are to provide is irrelevant.
/
The Board encourages public servants to seek advice from the Board as to how the Jaw applies to their
specific situation(s) by writing and requesting an advisory opinion. Advisory opinions are not issued as to
past conduct, but can provide crucial advice on how to avoid problems in the future . If you wish to obtain
an advisory opinion, please send your request to the address provided at the beginning of this fact sheet. You
may also call our staffwhich is available to provide informal advice over the telephone at (225) 219-5600
or 1-800-842-6630. The Board has a web site located at: www.ethics.state.Ja.us
II This information sheet is only a summary of the financial disclosure provisions contained in 1111 of the Code of Governmental Ethics.
II If interpretations of this information sheet conflict with the provisions of the Code, the Code will control.
Prohibited Sources Fact Sheet Page 3