Debra Webb reminds us that a wording change is needed in section F of the minutes, from "policy" to "handbook."

Debra Webb reminds us that a wording change is needed in section F of the minutes, from "policy" to "handbook."

Debra Webb points out that the plan contains an unfinished sentence.  Alex Soriano highlights the missing portion.

The employee handbook underwent a comprehensive review and update to strengthen legal compliance and improve overall clarity. These revisions ensure our policies align with current California employment law and Best Academy’s operational practices. A primary focus of this update was modernizing workplace policies to establish clearer, more consistent expectations for all staff members.  Marcella Nino asks for clarification of at-will.

Andrew Corder presents the updated contract

This counseling position addresses the school’s shifting demographics and increasing enrollment in elementary and middle school grades.  While maintaining support for high school graduation and credit tracking, the role will now encompass Student Support Services across all grade levels (TK–12).

The Board reviewed and approved amendments to the organizational bylaws. These changes were made in consultation with legal counsel to resolve language inconsistencies and align with current best practices for charter schools.  The Board established a standard four-year term for all members. Board members may serve consecutive terms subject to a formal Board vote.  It was clarified that any member may resign at any time by written notice.  Discussion clarified that Barker Blue Dog is a non-profit corporation and the legal entity for the school. The address in the bylaws refers to the corporation’s official address in Palm Springs.

The Board discussed a proposal to amend the June meeting schedule to ensure compliance with state budget approval requirements and to accommodate the school’s graduation ceremony.  Holding two separate meetings on the same day allows the school to satisfy legal requirements regarding the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) and the budget.

Meeting 1 (AM): Public presentation of the LCAP.

Meeting 2 (PM): Formal approval of the LCAP followed by approval of the 2026-2027 Budget.

Alex Soriano presents the policy changes and the expansion of the AI portion.

The Board discussed the creation of specialized teaching roles designed to address operational gaps in data management, student intervention, and early literacy. These roles will be filled by credentialed teachers with modified rosters to allow for dedicated focus on school-wide support.

The Board reviewed and approved the annual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Arizona State University to provide concurrent enrollment college courses for high school students.  The negotiated tuition rate remains at $250 per 3-credit course. The school handles enrollment and covers the cost of required textbooks, ensuring zero cost to families.  The Board discussed the long-term impact on students, noting that while many students eventually transition to community colleges or UC schools, the program provides them with an official ASU student ID and early exposure to a major university, increasing their future higher education options.

The Board reviewed a preliminary cost breakdown for the upcoming all-hands in-person professional development event. The proposal accounts for approximately 70 attendees, including staff and board members, with a staggered attendance schedule throughout the week.  Research is ongoing to finalize a location that offers the best value, with current estimates based on a site offering discounted rates for large meeting spaces.  Debra Webb goes on record recommending the investment to gain the benefits with camaraderie amongst the staff.