DANIEL TYLER GOODEN / L’Observateur / June 17, 2000

LUTCHER – In an attempt to save the Elementary Foreign Language Program in St. James Parish, school board member Charles Nassar asked to table theitem and requested Superintendent Edward Cancienne take a look at a downsized or alternate solution.

The discontinuing of the program was recommended by the school system staff after CODAFIL funding specifically set aside for the program ceased.

The board members agreed with Nassar and voted unanimously to table the item.

Nassar later requested an investigation be made concerning complaints he had received of school computers being used for personal business.

Also, the board reviewed insurance proposals which would cover school equipment and property. Broussard, Bush & Hurt bid to handle theautomobile, general and umbrella liability. The coverage cost of the bidincreased by 18 percent to $111,712. The new bid totals $30,000 more thanthe previous contract.

Englade Boudreaux bid for the property coverage at $101,850, $60,000 more than the last coverage cost.

In another matter, parish Councilman James Mitchell approached the board to request the use of three school buses during the District 5 Summer Camp.

An additional bus was requested to be used during field trips. The boardpassed the resolution unanimously.

Also, the updating of personnel lists were passed. Donalda Abadie, Janet Lee,Trina Lowry, M. Joelle Narcisse, Betty Williams and Henry Woodland wereinvoluntarily transferred to other schools in the parish. The teachers hadbeen briefed already in a meeting with administration to discuss the transfers, said Millie Matherne, administrative director.

Two teachers, Sherie Chenier and Jenny Williamson, had received voluntary transfers after they were interviewed and approved by the principals.

Five teachers were hired effective Aug. 17: Kellie Jenkins, Lee Becnel,Christopher Nelson, Mitzi Savoie and Helen Zeringue.

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