In addition to calendar and superintendent actions, the Natchitoches Parish School Board addressed a wide range of financial, facilities, and policy matters during its Jan. 20 meeting, including acceptance of the annual audit, approval of a construction bid, discussion of historic facility preservation, and a failed vote on board travel.
The board voted to accept the district’s audit report, noting that it was completed and presented significantly earlier than in past years. Board members said previous audits were often received more than a year after the reporting period, while the current audit was delivered within approximately six months. District leaders attributed the improved timeline in part to federal compliance guidance becoming available in early December.
Board members also acknowledged staffing shortages within the finance department and commended staff for managing a large workload despite limited personnel. The board noted that some audit findings were influenced by those staffing challenges and said corrective actions are expected.
The board approved a construction bid for the Marthaville Elementary and Junior High baseball facility, awarding the project to Rhodes Properties and Development at a cost of $396,000. Board members noted a significant discrepancy between bids submitted. The motion passed by roll-call vote, with one member abstaining.
Later in the meeting, the board heard a presentation proposing the creation of a legacy room or historical space at the former Natchitoches Junior High campus. The proposal outlined a vision for preserving the school’s history through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programming aligned with Louisiana history standards. Supporters emphasized the importance of honoring the school’s role in the Black community and preventing the loss of historical materials.
The idea mirrors discussions held during the Jan. 13 committee meeting, where board members and administrators acknowledged both the cultural significance of closed school facilities and the challenges associated with funding, insurance, and long-term maintenance. No formal action was taken, though board members expressed interest in further exploration.
The board also considered whether to send members to a national school board conference. Discussion centered on budget constraints, recent financial pressures, and the estimated cost per attendee. After a roll-call vote resulted in a tie, the motion failed.
Additional updates referenced during the meeting included ongoing transportation contract evaluations, with proposals from four vendors under review and a recommendation expected later in February, as well as reminders regarding upcoming evaluations, contracts, and district events.
