Another problem: OPSB computer program automatically adjusted staff seniority to reflect pay grades, regardless of actual years of service.
Critics of the Orleans Parish School Board say the central office is still bloated. But administrative staffing has dropped 90 percent compared to an 81 percent drop in enrollment. OPSB officials say they also have to provide services for private and charter schools.
The increase over last year mostly results from renovations and rental of several floors in the central office.
Enrollment levels are at the heart of a per-pupil state funding cut that appears likely to trim budgets by 4 percent in the remaining months of the school year.
State law bars people from working for the state while holding elected office. But it's complicated.
The board will renegotiate its contract with Stan Smith. Kathleen Padian keeps her contract.
And board member Woody Koppel questions why the board is not planning to authorize financing for school construction.