School Board recognizes outstanding performance

The Ascension School Board held their regularly scheduled meeting, August 27. Among items discussed was faculty recognition, an extension of flood recovery timelines, and the consideration of Constitution Day and Constitution Week being celebrated in Ascension Parish Schools.

Carli Francois, the Principal of Dutchtown High School was recognized as the Louisiana High School Principal of the Year. She has been the Principal there since 2014, but her experience in education began in 1998. She says her students are an extension of her family.

The school board also recognized Kelly Naquin and Mark Ebarb for being finalists for the Norman Saurage III Service Award. This award recognizes teachers for their service to their community.

Some of Kelly Naquin's community involvement includes organizing a shoe drive for tornado victims, making care packages for children and parents at St. Jude's Research Hospital and making care packages for soldiers. She also led the nationwide program of Girls on the Run at Prairieville Primary.

Also recognized as a finalist was Mark Ebarb, a teacher at Dutchtown High School. Some of his many contributions include being a former grand knight, volunteer at the Red Cross, and the Treasurer of the Louisiana Quiz Bowl Association.

Next on the agenda, was the consideration of Amendment Three to the Professional Service Agreement for 2016 flood recovery. While the majority of buildings are back up and running, there are a couple buildings still in need. "We're asking to extend time, not money," said Chad Lynch.

This request was passed, and this is extension will keep them in line for their reimbursement terms with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The school board also passed the consideration of Constitution Day and Constitution Week for Ascension Parish Schools.