A dedication ceremony has been scheduled for 9 a.m. Thursday at the New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy. The event will feature Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills, Commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North, as well as other local military and political figures.*

Board member Carol McCall, who has a background in school development and fundraising, urged members to invite their friends and associates. “It’s not just being cordial to the people who are here,” she said, noting that those who cannot attend may make a visit later in the spring.

School Commandant Bill Davis said the school still needs funding to pay for renovation of a nearby metal building it hopes to use for JROTC. The Joint Development Committee, created to oversee Federal City, of which the school is a part, has discussed waiving $400,000 in fees to help pay for the project.

As the school expands to four grade levels, it will need the extra space, Davis said. Board president Col. Terry Ebbert acknowledged some pushback but described the metal building as a shovel-ready project for which the need is clear. He said he hoped the committee would approve the acquisition.

Davis outlined additional funding needs. Foremost are shelves, tables, and other furniture for the library. He said one company quoted a price of $45,000, but he estimated fully outfitting the facility will cost more. Currently, books are stacked on the floor.

The band and choir need upgraded equipment, and the science department needs lab equipment, he said. Principal Cecilia Garcia mentioned the cost of materials needed for AP classes, that require specified materials.

New member James Bean, chief executive officer of C.F. Bean, a maritime services company, was introduced to the board. Members thanked him for bringing maritime experience to the board.

Also present were board members Marcellus Grace, Jack Bergman, Dave Whiddon, Courtney Bagneris. Absent were Eades Hogue, John Charpentier, James Reiss and Blake LeMaire.

*Correction: This story originally had the incorrect title for Lt. Gen. Richard P. Mills. (March 20, 2014)