Finance staff reported a general fund balance of $20.9 million and District 1 M&O balance of $26 million; November sales-tax collections rose about 21% versus November 2024 and year-to-date sales tax is up about 11%, with staff noting local activity related to Meta construction as a factor.
The board authorized up to 40 OpenGate detection units and 21 advanced systems, with a not‑to‑exceed budget of $700,000 funded from the maintenance and operations capital improvement fund; staff said training and mid‑January installation are planned.
The Ouachita Parish School Board approved multiple procurement votes: replacement lights for the West Ouachita softball field, acceptance of band instrument bids totaling $668,223.77, rejected over‑budget track bids for re‑scoping, authorized re‑bids on two properties, approved transfer of an endeavor agreement to Magnolia Water Utility Company, and affirmed a student expulsion after executive session.
Ouachita Parish School Board heard a 2024–25 accountability report showing district performance gains, eight A schools, 20 schools with improved scores and 15 top‑gain honorees; staff warned simulated scores under a new state system will use a different scale and pledged supports for schools projected to fall.
The Ouachita Parish School Board approved a $2.377 million award to Mann's Construction for cafeteria renovations, accepted a $66,944.94 furniture bid for small-group intervention classrooms, and granted permission to bid multiple playground and roof projects and an online marketplace RFP.
Board member David Graves moved and the school board approved a motion to divide proceeds from future sales of East Side properties into three shares and West Side properties into four shares; the motion passed unanimously.
District staff presented a signed letter confirming that all 37 campuses reviewed and updated crisis-management plans in compliance with Act 3 34 23; the board voted to confirm receipt and authorized submission to the Louisiana Department of Education.
Board members debated holding the contractor to $576,000 in liquidated damages and instead voted to approve a proposed settlement; the board voted 5–2 to accept the settlement amount presented in executive session.
The Ouachita Parish School Board accepted a low construction bid for Stirlington High School additions, approved requests to put multiple projects and equipment purchases out for bid (including E‑rate technology procurement), granted a water‑line easement to the City of Monroe and approved the Louisiana compliance questionnaire.
