Laura Stabler, Director of Academic Performance and Accountability at The Center for Charter Schools, Central Michigan University, presented the findings from the academy’s recent Educational Program Review. The purpose of the review was to provide transparent, constructive feedback on the implementation and support of the school’s Educational Program, with a central focus on the questions: Are students learning? and How are students learning?

Ms. Stabler emphasized that the intent of the review was not punitive but rather to offer a clear and candid overview of observed practices. The review team visited classrooms in core subject areas and conducted discussions with school administrators and instructional staff to gather evidence of program implementation.

The presentation summarized both the school’s areas of strength and those requiring improvement. It was reiterated that any proposed changes to curriculum must be formally updated in the school's charter contract to remain in compliance.

The Board of Directors and school leadership expressed their appreciation to Ms. Stabler for the comprehensive and transparent report. The findings will be used to guide reflective discussions and implement structural improvements to support academic growth and fidelity to the Educational Program.

April 2025 financial reports were presented by Dr. Lorilyn Coggins highlighting cash
on hand, year-to-date revenues, year-to-date expenditures, and the current fund balance
in a summarized format. The financials are in order.

Elizabeth Rodriguez, 21st CCLC Site Coordinator, presented the monthly program and budget report. The after-school program continues to meet its daily attendance targets, with 53 students regularly participating. Surveys have been distributed to students, parents, and staff to gather feedback and support continuous improvement efforts.

Ms. Rodriguez highlighted the soccer team's success, noting that the soccer team has advanced to the championship rounds in the tournament and a game is scheduled for May 30th at Fort Wayne Field. Additionally, the newly developed summer curriculum will be launched during the summer program and implemented as part of the after-school program in the fall.

Board President Cristina Stamatin requested that the curriculum be shared with the Board of Directors and school leadership, along with the soccer team’s game schedule. Ms. Rodriguez acknowledged the request and confirmed she would follow up. The last day for the 21st CCLC program for the 2024-2025 school year has not yet been determined. 

Ana Ulloa, CEO, and Erika Reed, Instructional Coach, presented the monthly management report on behalf of Sanga Consulting, Inc.

Academic Data & Instructional Updates:

• NWEA Assessments for grades 3–8 were administered the week of May 12–16, 2025.
• Fall 2024 to Spring 2025 Growth and Achievement Charts were reviewed.
  • Reading: 51% of students met their growth goals. The reconfiguration of the Success For All (SFA) program was noted as a positive contributing factor to increased literacy.
  • Math: 53% of students met their growth goals. The team emphasized the need for increased teacher training throughout the year for Eureka Math Squared.

Board President Cristina Stamatin inquired about the meaning of “student accessibility to the curriculum.” Erika Reed clarified that it refers to students lacking the background knowledge necessary to engage fully with the content.

Attendance:

• Daily student attendance remains steady at or above 90%.

Staffing:

• Staffing changes include resignations from the Resource Room Teacher and 7th Grade Science and Math Teacher.
• Special education services will continue uninterrupted through Pam Moura Special Education Services to ensure timely IEP completion and student support services.

Talent Recruitment:

• Recruitment has begun and the following roles for the 2025–2026 school year have been filled:
  • Certified Resource Room Teacher
  • Instructional Coach (K–4) with ESL Endorsement
  • In-person School Social Worker (Contracted)

Board Vice President Andeea Bordeianu suggested creating a digital welcome packet for new teachers. The packet should include expectations, an overview of the Marzano Focused Teacher Evaluation Model, common acronyms, and other essential reference materials to support acclimation to Escuela Avancemos Academy’s unique culture.

Educational Program Review Reflection:
The school leadership team collaborated on the Educational Program Review Reflection Tool and expressed gratitude for the external feedback provided during the CMU review. Leadership is committed to addressing discrepancies in current curricula and instructional practices to ensure alignment with Marzano’s High-Yield Instructional Strategies and to increase student engagement and achievement. A hard copy of the reflection tool was distributed to the Board.

MAPSA Site Visit:

On May 14th, Dan Quisenberry and Heather Risner of MAPSA visited Escuela Avancemos Academy. During the visit, Mr. Quisenberry met with the school’s management team to learn more about the academy's mission, history, and future academic priorities. The discussion highlighted the school’s founding values and its commitment to student growth and community impact.

End-of-Year Activities:

The academy plans to conclude the academic year on a positive note with various field trips, celebrations, and promotion ceremonies for Kindergarten, 5th Grade, and 8th Grade students.

Facilities & Emergency Operations Update:

On May 14, 2025, Mark Paliswiski of Proctor Consulting and Investigation Group, contracted by Central Michigan University (CMU), conducted a follow-up site and facilities review. The purpose was to verify resolution of prior egress concerns in the K–1 modular classrooms. Mr. Paliswiski confirmed that all issues had been fully addressed and reported no new findings.

The academy’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) has been submitted to the Detroit Police Department (Precinct 4) and the Michigan State Police Office of School Safety. Both agencies responded that they are currently unable to review or approve the plan. All related communication records have been shared with Mr. Paliswiski, who noted this is a common issue among districts. He will continue communication with CMU and provide updates accordingly.

No extended public comments at this time.

Jennifer Joubert, Field Operations School Lead from the Governor John Engler Center for
Charter Schools at Central Michigan University, reminded the Board and School leadership of the 
2025 Annual Conference, scheduled for August 14, 2025, at Huntington Place in Detroit,
MI. All board members, management, leadership, and teachers are welcome to attend
and must register for the event.

The Escuela Avancemos Academy Board of Directors extended their sincere thanks to The Center for Charter Schools at Central Michigan University for conducting the Educational Program Review. The review serves as a valuable reflective tool, offering an external lens to guide the academy in implementing corrective actions. The Board recognizes that these actions require time and a thoughtful process for setting and achieving meaningful goals.

The Board emphasized the importance of remaining informed on school activities, events, and resource needs to ensure continued academic and operational success. In light of ongoing renovations at the Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit, which impacts the school campus, the Board discussed the necessity of forming a building committee to explore future facility options—especially considering the potential need for a new school building once the current lease agreement expires.

Board members expressed their gratitude to the school leadership team for their continued dedication to addressing the needs of the academy. Ana Ulloa, CEO, concluded the discussion by thanking each member of the leadership team for their unwavering commitment, hard work, and leadership in support of the academy’s mission.

Tuesday,  June 24, 2025, at 6:30 pm at Escuela Avacemos Academy.