At its Feb. 10 meeting the Natchitoches Parish School Board approved a resolution designating the superintendent as the district’s ITEP representative, approved a cooperative endeavor agreement for the former Goldeneye school property, authorized re‑advertising an agricultural lease, accepted an E‑Rate Category 2 vendor recommendation, named a junior high building in honor of Charles 'Chuck' Harrington, and voted to enter executive session on pending litigation.
After extended public and board discussion about service problems and cost, the Natchitoches Parish School Board voted to award the 2026–27 student transportation contract to EchoRide, while directing stronger contract language, a district liaison and quarterly accountability meetings to monitor performance.
The Natchitoches Parish School Board approved the 2026–27 calendar with a substitute motion adding a student virtual day on Monday, Jan. 4; a public speaker stressed that professional development days are essential to continued student growth.
Superintendent reported four bids for student transportation and said staff will compare daily-rate sheets to produce an annual cost recommendation; EchoRide’s COO described an AI camera system intended to improve safety and provide video evidence for drivers, prompting board questions about sensitivity and human review.
Staff asked permission to re-advertise an agricultural lease covering 330 acres in Clouterville after no bids; board members raised a constituent claim that only 280 acres are farmable and noted prior unpaid hunting-lease payments and contract drafting concerns.
Maintenance reported limited ice-storm damage but an estimated $267,000 quote to replace the roof over a school cafeteria; contractors reportedly declined to bid on temporary patching, prompting debate about whether to proceed immediately or wait for summer and public bidding requirements.
The mayor of Goldeneye asked the Natchitoches Parish School Board to approve a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement to lease the former Goldeneye campus to the village, contingent on a proposed 1¢ sales tax election to fund upkeep; staff attached an 11-page draft agreement for review.
Superintendent Dr. Eloy introduced the district’s first student advisory council and recognized several students; NCHS orchestra director Lincoln Hall announced students were selected to perform at the Percy Grainger Festival in Chicago in 2027.
Transportation director reported two new drivers and AI cameras installed on buses; superintendent outlined a bus‑service RFP (vendor applications due Feb. 3) and staff said they will score proposals by rubric and present a recommendation for the Feb. 10 meeting. Named vendors include Durham, First Student and EchoRide.
Superintendent and calendar coordinator recommended a 2026–27 calendar that moves three Monday professional‑development days to the first week of August to reduce 'chopped' weeks and support teacher preparation; board debated fall break length, club scheduling and a two‑year calendar with a testing‑window disclaimer.
