The Madison Parish School Board voted unanimously to reject a proposed partnership with Star Academy during its regular meeting on July 21, following lengthy discussion about the timing and future financial implications of the program.
Star Academy representatives presented their project-based learning model designed to re-engage middle school students through hands-on curriculum in renovated classrooms. The proposal included outfitting four classrooms with new furniture, technology, and supplies, along with three years of training and support for teachers. They said the program would be fully funded through workforce development grants and would not require any direct district funding until the three years are up.
Most board members expressed concern over the late timing of the proposal, noting that school was set to begin in less than three weeks and that the district was already managing significant challenges related to staffing and finances. Some members also voiced frustration that a contract had already been signed by the superintendent without prior board approval, though the board was told it still had the authority to void the agreement within 30 days. Ultimately, the motion to proceed with Star Academy failed, with all board members voting no. Kathy Gultery said during the vote that she thinks the Star Academy is a good idea and that voting it down is not the right thing to do.
During the meeting, the board voted to approve cashing out certificate of deposits to meet payroll. Tim Green indicated they were optimistic the district would receive more than $1 million in pending state reimbursements before payroll was due, but requested approval to access the funds if necessary.
The board approved payment of current bills and minutes from several recent meetings. It also declared a list of surplus property for sale and voted to advertise the items for public bid. The board excluded several brand new air conditioning units from the sale, agreeing to explore alternative options for selling or repurposing them.
