Evangeline Parish School Board Meeting

November 5, 2014

The Evangeline Parish School Board held its bi-monthly meeting tonight (Wednesday) in the Media Center.

The Board voted on a 2 year extension of Superintendent, Toni Hamlin’s contract.  8 voted for the extension and 3 were opposed.  Board Member, Wayne Dardeau, stated his opposition was not against Ms. Hamlin, because he believes she is doing a good job, it was because he would like all employees to get a raise, not just one person.  Board Member, Anthony Savoy mirrored Mr. Dardeau’s statement.  The extension passed.

Superintendent, Toni Hamlin, spoke regarding the School Report Cards.  She was very pleased to announce that the parish has gone from a “C” rating to a “B” rating for the 2013-2014 school year.  That is quite an accomplishment.  She wanted to thank the supervisory staff, the administration at the schools, the teachers and definitely the students.  The parish went from 77.6 to 88.7 (which is a B rating).  A copy of the report cards will be going out to parents.  She was proud to announce that Mamou Elementary went from a “C” rating to an “A” rating and that there has been a really strong strengthening in the graduation rate, especially at Ville Platte High School.

Board Member, Scott Limoges inquired as to what end of the year testing will be used this school year.  Ms. Hamlin said that she received notice that grades 3-8 will be a pencil and paper test, but that high school students will be online PARC assessments.  Technology is still being installed the schools.  Mamou is complete and installation is currently being done at Ville Platte High.  

Council to the Board, Bob Hammons, was in attendance at the meeting.  He was asked the status of the battle between Governor Bobby Jindal and Louisiana State Superintendent, John White regarding the Common Core program.  Mr. Hammons stated that “So, far…it looks like Mr. White is winning.”  He stated that was on a district level and the cases are on their way to the appellate court.

Board Member David Landreneau, who was defeated in his race on Tuesday by Michael Fontenot, thanked the Board, teachers, staff and supervisors for the 30 years of support.  He said this is the best staff this parish has ever had, with great principals and a great board.  Council members exchanged kind words with Mr. Landreneau as he stated “My wife is very happy with the results of the election.”