Environmental Charter Schools
Minutes
ECS Board of Directors' Meeting
Date and Time
Monday June 4, 2018 at 5:00 PM
Location
ECHS Auxiliary Office, 2625 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Suite 100, Redondo Beach, CA 90278
ECS Board Members Term and End Date
Mr. Ken Deemer, President...................................................3 years June 30, 2019
Mr. Anthony Jowid, Vice President........................................2 years June 30, 2019
Ms. Denise Berger, Secretary................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Jenni Owen.....................................................................3 years June 30, 2019
Ms. Cathy Creasia.................................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Zena Fong.......................................................................1 year June 30, 2018
Mr. Ernie Levroney.................................................................2 year June 30, 2019
Ms. Jenina Ramirez...............................................................3 years June 30, 2021
Lawndale Elementary School District Representative...........Rotating Position
ECS Staff
Ms. Alison Diaz, Executive Director & Founder
Ms. Farnaz Golshani-Flechner, Chief Operating Officer
Ms. Tracy Bondi, Director of Finance and Operations
Ms. Danielle Kelsick, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Ms. Kami Cotler, Acting Principal at ECMS - Gardena
Ms. Beth Bernstein, Principal at ECMS - Inglewood
Ms. KC Villoria, Principal at ECHS
Mission
To create and deliver vibrant, innovative, interdisciplinary learning opportunities using the environment to engage students and connect them to the wider world.
Vision
Our vision is that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to graduate from college, inspired to discover their own sense of purpose and empowered to become quality stewards of their own communities.
THE ORDER OF BUSINESS MAY BE CHANGED WITHOUT NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the order of consideration of matters on this agenda may be changed without prior notice.
PUBLIC SPEAKERS AT BOARD MEETINGS
Notice is hereby given that consistent with the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act, special presentations not mentioned in the agenda may be made at this meeting. However, any such presentation will be for information only. The public should be aware that the Board is unable by law to deliberate or take action on items raised during the Presentations from the Floor section.
Environmental Charter Schools recognizes that it benefits greatly from public input and perspective. Individuals are invited to address the Board on any topic or subject matter that falls within the Environmental Charter School's purview. Speakers may sign up in person immediately prior to the beginning of the Board meeting by turning in a Speaker Form (available at the check-in table in English and Spanish).
Should a member of the public wish to speak on matters not listed on the agenda, they may speak during the Presentations from the Floor section of the agenda. Speakers will be given a maximum of three (3) minutes each to address the Board (non-English speakers utilizing translators will be given a maximum of six (6) minutes each). Please note that the Board allows a maximum of 10 minutes to each subject as determined by the Board's presiding officer.
Should a member of the public wish to speak on matters listed on the agenda, they may speak during the Presentations from the Floor section of the agenda. Speakers will be given a maximum of five (5) minutes each to address the Board (non-English speakers utilizing translators will be given a maximum of ten (10) minutes each).
The public should be aware that the Board is unable by law to deliberate or take action on items raised during the Presentations from the Floor section.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION WILL BE PROVIDED FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL WITH A DISABILITY
Pursuant to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, any individual with a disability who requires reasonable accommodation to attend or participate in this meeting of the Governing Board may request assistance by contacting ECS at (310) 214-3408, option 5.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information concerning this agenda or for materials relating to this meeting, please contact ECS at (310) 214-3408, option 5.
Mr. Ken Deemer, President...................................................3 years June 30, 2019
Mr. Anthony Jowid, Vice President........................................2 years June 30, 2019
Ms. Denise Berger, Secretary................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Jenni Owen.....................................................................3 years June 30, 2019
Ms. Cathy Creasia.................................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Zena Fong.......................................................................1 year June 30, 2018
Mr. Ernie Levroney.................................................................2 year June 30, 2019
Ms. Jenina Ramirez...............................................................3 years June 30, 2021
Lawndale Elementary School District Representative...........Rotating Position
ECS Staff
Ms. Alison Diaz, Executive Director & Founder
Ms. Farnaz Golshani-Flechner, Chief Operating Officer
Ms. Tracy Bondi, Director of Finance and Operations
Ms. Danielle Kelsick, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Ms. Kami Cotler, Acting Principal at ECMS - Gardena
Ms. Beth Bernstein, Principal at ECMS - Inglewood
Ms. KC Villoria, Principal at ECHS
Mission
To create and deliver vibrant, innovative, interdisciplinary learning opportunities using the environment to engage students and connect them to the wider world.
Vision
Our vision is that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to graduate from college, inspired to discover their own sense of purpose and empowered to become quality stewards of their own communities.
THE ORDER OF BUSINESS MAY BE CHANGED WITHOUT NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the order of consideration of matters on this agenda may be changed without prior notice.
PUBLIC SPEAKERS AT BOARD MEETINGS
Notice is hereby given that consistent with the requirements of the Ralph M. Brown Act, special presentations not mentioned in the agenda may be made at this meeting. However, any such presentation will be for information only. The public should be aware that the Board is unable by law to deliberate or take action on items raised during the Presentations from the Floor section.
Environmental Charter Schools recognizes that it benefits greatly from public input and perspective. Individuals are invited to address the Board on any topic or subject matter that falls within the Environmental Charter School's purview. Speakers may sign up in person immediately prior to the beginning of the Board meeting by turning in a Speaker Form (available at the check-in table in English and Spanish).
Should a member of the public wish to speak on matters not listed on the agenda, they may speak during the Presentations from the Floor section of the agenda. Speakers will be given a maximum of three (3) minutes each to address the Board (non-English speakers utilizing translators will be given a maximum of six (6) minutes each). Please note that the Board allows a maximum of 10 minutes to each subject as determined by the Board's presiding officer.
Should a member of the public wish to speak on matters listed on the agenda, they may speak during the Presentations from the Floor section of the agenda. Speakers will be given a maximum of five (5) minutes each to address the Board (non-English speakers utilizing translators will be given a maximum of ten (10) minutes each).
The public should be aware that the Board is unable by law to deliberate or take action on items raised during the Presentations from the Floor section.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION WILL BE PROVIDED FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL WITH A DISABILITY
Pursuant to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, any individual with a disability who requires reasonable accommodation to attend or participate in this meeting of the Governing Board may request assistance by contacting ECS at (310) 214-3408, option 5.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information concerning this agenda or for materials relating to this meeting, please contact ECS at (310) 214-3408, option 5.
Directors Present
Anthony Jowid, Cathy Creasia, Dr. Denise Berger, Ernie Levroney, Jenina Ramirez, Ken Deemer, LESD Representative, Zena Fong
Directors Absent
None
Guests Present
Danielle Kelsick, Dorothy Lee, Dr. Geneva Matthews, Jeremiah David, Julie Vo, KC Fabiero, Kami Cotler, Marcela Pak, Qiana O'Leary, Robert Maxwell, Toni Perez
I. Opening Items
A.
Record Attendance and Guests
B.
Call the Meeting to Order
Ken Deemer called a meeting of the board of directors of Environmental Charter Schools to order on Monday Jun 4, 2018 at 5:12 PM.
C.
Approve the Agenda
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve the agenda.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
D.
Approve Jenni Owens' letter of resignation from the ECS Board effective June 1, 2018
The board sends Jenni Owen best wishes and congratulations on her new baby.
Anthony Jowid made a motion to approve Jenni Owens' letter of resignation from the ECS Board effective June 1, 2018.
Jenina Ramirez seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
II. Presentations from the Floor
A.
Presentations from the Floor on Non Agenda Items
None.
B.
Presentations from the Floor on Agenda Items
None.
III. Reports/Presentations
A.
CEO Update
CEO Alison Diaz shared that new team members are joining and there is a lot of excitement in the air. As well, it feels like things are settling into place.
New principal at ECMS-Gardena has been hired and her resume is linked in the packet. Also hired new Senior Talent and HR Manager through the Broad Residency program
Upcoming board and cabinet retreat will be held on June 25. LESD board representative Travis Collier or other LESD designee is encouraged to attend.
Alison further remarked that the Finance Committee meeting recently held was very well set up and coordinated, as well as the board meeting currently taking place. Thank you to Jeremiah David and Toni Perez for making this possible.
Chief Operating Officer Farnaz Golshani added that she is grateful to be working at ECS and is inspired every time she sets foot on an ECS school.
Alison added that the Earth Carnival event that recently took place was wonderful. The level of learning that happened at the event went up another notch from previously.
Board President Ken Deemer offered his gratitude and congratulations to the ECS staff, noting it had been a very tough year organizationally. Staff set aside regular responsibilities and came together to support. The entire board is appreciative of these efforts and additionally is very excited to be working with new ECMS-G Principal Qiana O’Leary.
New principal at ECMS-Gardena has been hired and her resume is linked in the packet. Also hired new Senior Talent and HR Manager through the Broad Residency program
Upcoming board and cabinet retreat will be held on June 25. LESD board representative Travis Collier or other LESD designee is encouraged to attend.
Alison further remarked that the Finance Committee meeting recently held was very well set up and coordinated, as well as the board meeting currently taking place. Thank you to Jeremiah David and Toni Perez for making this possible.
Chief Operating Officer Farnaz Golshani added that she is grateful to be working at ECS and is inspired every time she sets foot on an ECS school.
Alison added that the Earth Carnival event that recently took place was wonderful. The level of learning that happened at the event went up another notch from previously.
Board President Ken Deemer offered his gratitude and congratulations to the ECS staff, noting it had been a very tough year organizationally. Staff set aside regular responsibilities and came together to support. The entire board is appreciative of these efforts and additionally is very excited to be working with new ECMS-G Principal Qiana O’Leary.
B.
Principals Updates
ECHS: Held Amazing Earth Carnival event. Will do College Update presentation at next board meeting. Brief update: 97% college acceptance rate was achieved this year by outgoing high school seniors.
Will be hiring additional counselor and full-time paraeducator for next school year. Will hold senior thesis writing support class and will be partnering with UCLA to have four writing interns from writing program assist students.
Will increase coaching for math teachers to move forward math initiative. Will hold more events for parents of unduplicated pupils. Also, will hire two teachers/coaches on special assignments to focus on environmental issues to fill in the gap from the loss of Green Ambassadors Coordinator Sammy Lyon.
ECMS-Gardena: ECS Director of Curriculum & Instruction Danielle Kelsick shared that one key priority has been hiring for the next school year. Getting very close to being fully hired and expect to be there before the school year ends. Very good set of new hires to join ECMS-G team.
Another major initiative over the past month has been CAASPP testing. Only 18 students left to test.
Preliminary test scores have been briefly reviewed and promising results have already been seen in core subjects.
Another key priority is outreach to ensure that the school is fully enrolled. Has had support from teams at both ECMS-G and ECMS-I to assist with this priority.
It has been a very busy time of year and there has been a lot of support provided from the entire organization to transform the school.
ECMS-Inglewood: ECMS-I Assistant Principal Geneva Matthews shared that 5th Annual Career Day took place. It was an amazing event with over 20 presenters coming forward.
1st Annual Family Math Night also took place with over 20% of the students at the school attending. Parents were appreciative and commented they wanted to come back again next year, they would like the event to last longer, and to have dinner provided in addition to the snacks that were provided.
Grandparents’ and Significant Elders Day took place with these guests who attended sharing valuable information with students about transitions from other countries and how their own schooling was.
These events are a reflection of the constant ways in which ECMS-I strives to constantly engage students and their families.
Will be hiring additional counselor and full-time paraeducator for next school year. Will hold senior thesis writing support class and will be partnering with UCLA to have four writing interns from writing program assist students.
Will increase coaching for math teachers to move forward math initiative. Will hold more events for parents of unduplicated pupils. Also, will hire two teachers/coaches on special assignments to focus on environmental issues to fill in the gap from the loss of Green Ambassadors Coordinator Sammy Lyon.
ECMS-Gardena: ECS Director of Curriculum & Instruction Danielle Kelsick shared that one key priority has been hiring for the next school year. Getting very close to being fully hired and expect to be there before the school year ends. Very good set of new hires to join ECMS-G team.
Another major initiative over the past month has been CAASPP testing. Only 18 students left to test.
Preliminary test scores have been briefly reviewed and promising results have already been seen in core subjects.
Another key priority is outreach to ensure that the school is fully enrolled. Has had support from teams at both ECMS-G and ECMS-I to assist with this priority.
It has been a very busy time of year and there has been a lot of support provided from the entire organization to transform the school.
ECMS-Inglewood: ECMS-I Assistant Principal Geneva Matthews shared that 5th Annual Career Day took place. It was an amazing event with over 20 presenters coming forward.
1st Annual Family Math Night also took place with over 20% of the students at the school attending. Parents were appreciative and commented they wanted to come back again next year, they would like the event to last longer, and to have dinner provided in addition to the snacks that were provided.
Grandparents’ and Significant Elders Day took place with these guests who attended sharing valuable information with students about transitions from other countries and how their own schooling was.
These events are a reflection of the constant ways in which ECMS-I strives to constantly engage students and their families.
C.
Financial Update
EdTec financial update 2017-2018 presentation (attached) was shown.
The forecast was adjusted for fundraising from 804k to about 500k for the current fiscal year.
ECHS P2 ADA was above the budgeted ADA so this is positive news.
ECHS operating income changes since March were shown.
ECHS P2 ADA was above the budgeted ADA so this is positive news.
ECMS-G P2 ADA was discussed with a small drop in ADA from P1 to P2.
ECMS-G operating income changes since March were shown. About a 35k drop overall, mostly due to lower LCFF funding as a result of ADA decrease.
SB740 funding was assumed to be a 20% deficit but is now adjusted to be a 10% deficit.
ECMS-I P2 ADA was a decrease of only 0.85% from P1. Forecast changes were only a 35k decrease. Still projecting operating income of 167k.
Balance sheet and cash balance slides were shown.
Financial deliverables due to LACOE soon: unaudited actuals and budget.
Auditors visited in early May and will complete the rest of audit in the fall.
2018-2019 budget slides were shown. The proposed state budget has higher COLA than previously projected, LCFF is planned to be fully implemented, one-time funds will be increased, and SB740 funds are projected to be higher than in the current year.
LCFF rates for the current year and upcoming year were compared as well as LCFF rates for prior years.
STRS and PERS (ECHS only) pension programs were stated to be increasing exponentially. STRS rates are set by statute but PERS rates change from year to year.
One-Time Funds were said to be variable each year and so cannot be counted on definitively in school budgets.
Enrollment is consistent at ECHS and ECMS-G. At ECMS-I, it is expected to grow by 60 students.
ECMS-G unduplicated counts that were captured were historically lower than in previous years due to paperwork issues which caused revenue to decrease. ECS staff will install processes into place this upcoming school year to ensure that collecting FRL applications will be done correctly.
ECS proposed budget 2018-2019 presentation (attached) was shown.
Slides with a comparison of all expenses were shown.
ECHS historical fund balance growth was shown as well as historical look at receipts of One-Time Funds.
ECHS revenue bridge from 17-18 to proposed 18-19 was shown.
ECMS-G historical fund balance growth was shown as well as historical look at receipts of One-Time Funds.
ECMS-G revenue bridge from 17-18 to proposed 18-19 was shown.
ECMS-G expense bridge was shown. Largest increases were in benefits, certificated staff salaries, and instructional consultant expenses.
ECMS-I historical fund balance growth was shown as well as historical look at receipts of One-Time Funds.
ECMS-I revenue bridge from 17-18 to proposed 18-19 was shown, noting that LCFF funds will increase due to adding 60 students for 18-19.
ECMS-I expense bridge was shown. Largest increases were in benefits and certificated staff salaries.
Cash flow slide was shown. Cash flow was projected conservatively to account for expected lags in receiving cash.
The forecast was adjusted for fundraising from 804k to about 500k for the current fiscal year.
ECHS P2 ADA was above the budgeted ADA so this is positive news.
ECHS operating income changes since March were shown.
ECHS P2 ADA was above the budgeted ADA so this is positive news.
ECMS-G P2 ADA was discussed with a small drop in ADA from P1 to P2.
ECMS-G operating income changes since March were shown. About a 35k drop overall, mostly due to lower LCFF funding as a result of ADA decrease.
SB740 funding was assumed to be a 20% deficit but is now adjusted to be a 10% deficit.
ECMS-I P2 ADA was a decrease of only 0.85% from P1. Forecast changes were only a 35k decrease. Still projecting operating income of 167k.
Balance sheet and cash balance slides were shown.
Financial deliverables due to LACOE soon: unaudited actuals and budget.
Auditors visited in early May and will complete the rest of audit in the fall.
2018-2019 budget slides were shown. The proposed state budget has higher COLA than previously projected, LCFF is planned to be fully implemented, one-time funds will be increased, and SB740 funds are projected to be higher than in the current year.
LCFF rates for the current year and upcoming year were compared as well as LCFF rates for prior years.
STRS and PERS (ECHS only) pension programs were stated to be increasing exponentially. STRS rates are set by statute but PERS rates change from year to year.
One-Time Funds were said to be variable each year and so cannot be counted on definitively in school budgets.
Enrollment is consistent at ECHS and ECMS-G. At ECMS-I, it is expected to grow by 60 students.
ECMS-G unduplicated counts that were captured were historically lower than in previous years due to paperwork issues which caused revenue to decrease. ECS staff will install processes into place this upcoming school year to ensure that collecting FRL applications will be done correctly.
ECS proposed budget 2018-2019 presentation (attached) was shown.
Slides with a comparison of all expenses were shown.
ECHS historical fund balance growth was shown as well as historical look at receipts of One-Time Funds.
ECHS revenue bridge from 17-18 to proposed 18-19 was shown.
ECMS-G historical fund balance growth was shown as well as historical look at receipts of One-Time Funds.
ECMS-G revenue bridge from 17-18 to proposed 18-19 was shown.
ECMS-G expense bridge was shown. Largest increases were in benefits, certificated staff salaries, and instructional consultant expenses.
ECMS-I historical fund balance growth was shown as well as historical look at receipts of One-Time Funds.
ECMS-I revenue bridge from 17-18 to proposed 18-19 was shown, noting that LCFF funds will increase due to adding 60 students for 18-19.
ECMS-I expense bridge was shown. Largest increases were in benefits and certificated staff salaries.
Cash flow slide was shown. Cash flow was projected conservatively to account for expected lags in receiving cash.
D.
Strategic Dashboard Update
CEO Alison Diaz and COO Farnaz Golshani-Flechner modified the ECS Strategic Dashboard format by adding a second column so the change in status (green/orange/red) for each goal can be compared between the prior board meeting date and the current board meeting date.
In Goal 2 (pursuing equity), there has been an improvement with a 57% reduction in the number of referrals across the organization. Baseline number of enrollments per grade level were captured and input into the strategic dashboard.
Another highlight was the recruitment of the ECMS-G principal, moving the goal status from red to yellow.
For the first time, customer service ratings for the Home Office were collected from the school sites, showing some success in school support.
Also, final DSA approval was received for ECHS portables project, now waiting on final approval at next week’s LESD board meeting.
In Goal 2 (pursuing equity), there has been an improvement with a 57% reduction in the number of referrals across the organization. Baseline number of enrollments per grade level were captured and input into the strategic dashboard.
Another highlight was the recruitment of the ECMS-G principal, moving the goal status from red to yellow.
For the first time, customer service ratings for the Home Office were collected from the school sites, showing some success in school support.
Also, final DSA approval was received for ECHS portables project, now waiting on final approval at next week’s LESD board meeting.
E.
Development Update
ECS Development Manager Julie Vo shared the fundraising update (attached).
ECMS-Inglewood Teacher Tashanda Giles-Jones was featured in Scholastic Magazine as a "cool teacher”: https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/articles/17-18/cool-teachers-tashanda-giles-jones/
Stand Up Paddle Event for ECMS-I students coming up later in the week and the following week.
Fundraising receipts are captured into three areas. The General Fund is for activities and programmatic supports that are currently in place for students. Possibilities Fund is for restricted grants for specific uses. Capital Fund is for facility development work.
Based on projections from July 2017, fundraising goal was 891k. To date, received 239k in grants, 15k in corporate giving, and 95k in individual giving.
For 2018-2019, ECS will focus much more closely on receiving grants and then after fundraising goals are met, will work on boosting corporate and individual giving.
Slide showing table of grants applied for and approved was shown. Then slides showing a table of 18-19 grants already received were shown.
COO Farnaz Golshani-Flechner stated that fundraising is working at ECS even though it may not seem that way looking at the overall goal of 891k and the current year-to-date funds received. However, part of this is due to the timing of the grants received. If you look at 17-18 grants received and 18-19 grants already committed, the fundraising goal is much closer to being reached.
Finally, slide showing table of grant prospect was shown.
ECMS-Inglewood Teacher Tashanda Giles-Jones was featured in Scholastic Magazine as a "cool teacher”: https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/articles/17-18/cool-teachers-tashanda-giles-jones/
Stand Up Paddle Event for ECMS-I students coming up later in the week and the following week.
Fundraising receipts are captured into three areas. The General Fund is for activities and programmatic supports that are currently in place for students. Possibilities Fund is for restricted grants for specific uses. Capital Fund is for facility development work.
Based on projections from July 2017, fundraising goal was 891k. To date, received 239k in grants, 15k in corporate giving, and 95k in individual giving.
For 2018-2019, ECS will focus much more closely on receiving grants and then after fundraising goals are met, will work on boosting corporate and individual giving.
Slide showing table of grants applied for and approved was shown. Then slides showing a table of 18-19 grants already received were shown.
COO Farnaz Golshani-Flechner stated that fundraising is working at ECS even though it may not seem that way looking at the overall goal of 891k and the current year-to-date funds received. However, part of this is due to the timing of the grants received. If you look at 17-18 grants received and 18-19 grants already committed, the fundraising goal is much closer to being reached.
Finally, slide showing table of grant prospect was shown.
F.
Equity and Diversity Update
ECS Director of Curriculum and Instruction Danielle Kelsick was interviewed for EdWeek's Market Brief publication about using data-driven practices to drive equity. All other school operating organizations that were interviewed were large districts.
Last week, the final Equity and Diversity Committee (EDC) meeting for the year took place last week. The key areas of focus from all three schools were in how parents are and should be engaged, particularly toward increasing equitable representation for African American students. In addition, the Committee reported on creating community spaces for African American students to feel a sense of affinity and belonging. As well, ECMS-Inglewood reported on tieing in academics to community events with one example being the recently held Math Night.
The Committee raised the question of how to make this equity work more lasting and sustainable. Their answer: ECS needs more funding for equity work and dedicated positions directly focusing on equity.
Reminder about the call to action--making explicit what was once implicit in the cause for social justice.
COO Farnaz Goshani-Flechner gave kudos to Danielle's leadership as chair of the EDC, noting her ability to facilitate the equity conversation with the EDC in such an open and transparent way.
Board member Ernie Levroney commented on the excellent work that the EDC has undertaken this year and asks that they keep up this top-notch, robust, and deeply committed work.
Last week, the final Equity and Diversity Committee (EDC) meeting for the year took place last week. The key areas of focus from all three schools were in how parents are and should be engaged, particularly toward increasing equitable representation for African American students. In addition, the Committee reported on creating community spaces for African American students to feel a sense of affinity and belonging. As well, ECMS-Inglewood reported on tieing in academics to community events with one example being the recently held Math Night.
The Committee raised the question of how to make this equity work more lasting and sustainable. Their answer: ECS needs more funding for equity work and dedicated positions directly focusing on equity.
Reminder about the call to action--making explicit what was once implicit in the cause for social justice.
COO Farnaz Goshani-Flechner gave kudos to Danielle's leadership as chair of the EDC, noting her ability to facilitate the equity conversation with the EDC in such an open and transparent way.
Board member Ernie Levroney commented on the excellent work that the EDC has undertaken this year and asks that they keep up this top-notch, robust, and deeply committed work.
G.
SELPA Discussion
CEO Alison Diaz recounted the history of ECS' membership with the Southwest SELPA.
Director of Strategic Initiatives Kami shared that SELPAs primarily provide expertise, direct service, emergency/insurance funding for special education services.
Because of changes in Southwest SELPA's level of service, ECS will explore whether to stay with this SELPA or join another SELPA.
As such, ECS is required to submit a SELPA exit letter a year in advance to the Southwest SELPA, stating ECS' intention to explore its options for joining a SELPA for the 2019-2020 school year.
LESD board representative Travis Collier asked if ECS has taken part in discussion with other districts/LEAs that are under the Southwest SELPA that are considering taking back the special education services currently being provided. CEO Alison Diaz responded that the group of charters had their own meeting to discuss the Southwest SELPA but did not cover the topic of taking back special education services.
Director of Strategic Initiatives Kami shared that SELPAs primarily provide expertise, direct service, emergency/insurance funding for special education services.
Because of changes in Southwest SELPA's level of service, ECS will explore whether to stay with this SELPA or join another SELPA.
As such, ECS is required to submit a SELPA exit letter a year in advance to the Southwest SELPA, stating ECS' intention to explore its options for joining a SELPA for the 2019-2020 school year.
LESD board representative Travis Collier asked if ECS has taken part in discussion with other districts/LEAs that are under the Southwest SELPA that are considering taking back the special education services currently being provided. CEO Alison Diaz responded that the group of charters had their own meeting to discuss the Southwest SELPA but did not cover the topic of taking back special education services.
IV. Study Session
A.
LCAP for Each Site
Robert Maxwell presented the overview section of the LCAP presentation. Annual Measurable Outcome was defined as a regular term that will be used throughout the study session.
ECMS-I annual update AMOs were shared.
Assistant Principal Geneva Matthews shared the updates to 18-19 actions and services:
Principal KC Villoria shared the updates to 18-19 actions and services:
ECMS-I annual update AMOs were shared.
Assistant Principal Geneva Matthews shared the updates to 18-19 actions and services:
- emphasis on English Learner success
- math curriculum adoption
- enrichment software
- full-time math coach
- full-time instructional coach
- safety efforts, including research, focus groups, and trainings
Principal KC Villoria shared the updates to 18-19 actions and services:
- hiring a full-time paraeducator
- enrolling all EL students in a senior thesis writing support class
- teachers will attend SAT and ACT workshops and receive PowerSchool for SAT/ACT prep
- diagnostic exams and summer homework will be assigned for all AP courses before the courses start
- increase coaching for math teachers
- attend summer institute at Harvard to improve match coaching and instruction
- conduct math nights for students and families
- student achievement data will be analyzed mid-year and at the end of year
- hiring additional full-time counselor
- increasing participation in unduplicated pupil parent participation
- conducting student course evaluations
- hiring part-time teacher to coach and provide PD on environmental and experiential learning
- hiring a part-time equity coach to plan programming and PD identified by Equity and Diversity Taskforce with the goal of increasing recruitment, retention, and achievement of African American students
V. Approve Consent Items A-J
A.
Approve Previous Meeting Minutes for April 09, 2018 Board Meeting
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve minutes from the ECS Board of Directors' Meeting on 04-09-18 ECS Board of Directors' Meeting on 04-09-18.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
B.
Accept Minutes From the Following Board and Committee Meetings
Cathy Creasia made a motion to accept Minutes From the Following Board and Committee Meetings.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
C.
Approve March & April 2018 Check Registers as recommended by Finance Committee
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve March & April 2018 Check Registers as recommended by Finance Committee.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
D.
Accept March - April 2018 Private Donations Over $1000 as recommended by Finance Committee
Cathy Creasia made a motion to accept March - April 2018 Private Donations Over $1000 as recommended by Finance Committee.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
E.
Approve Candidates' Participation on the Following Board Committees
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve Candidates' Participation on the Following Board Committees.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
F.
Approve 2018-2019 Contracts as Recommended by Finance Committee
Cathy Creasia made a motion to Approve 2018-2019 Contracts as Recommended by Finance Committee contingent upon the application and approval of the NatureBridge scholarship for the ECHS 12th grade field trip.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
G.
Approve Award of General Construction Contract for DSA Portable project to Curtom-Dunsmuir
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve Award of General Construction Contract for DSA Portable project to Curtom-Dunsmuir.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
H.
Approve Title IX Policy
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve Title IX policy.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
I.
Approve Revised ECS Uniform Complaint Procedure
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve Revised ECS Uniform Complaint Procedure.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
J.
Acceptance of Form 990
Cathy Creasia made a motion to acceptance of Form 990.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
VI. Action Items
A.
Approve 2018-2019 Board Terms and Officers
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve 2018-2019 Board Terms and Officers.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
B.
Approve 2018-2019 Board and Committee Calendar
Anthony Jowid made a motion to approve 2018-2019 Board and Committee Calendar.
Zena Fong seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
C.
Approve 2018-2019 Academic Calendars for each site
Board President Ken Deemer asked if all ECS schools had to have the same number of academic days. ECS staff responded affirmatively, citing that teachers are all on the same salary schedule.
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve 2018-2019 Academic Calendars for each site.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
D.
Approve Graduation Waivers for 2 Students
Board President Ken Deemer asked why any students below a 2.0 GPA would be given permission to graduate. CEO Alison Diaz responded that traditionally several students are given graduation waivers each year for varying reasons. ECHS Principal K.C. Villoria responded that these students are requesting graduation waivers but will plan to complete their high school coursework over the summer. Furthermore, these two students have already been accepted in El Camino College and are set to start there in the fall.
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve Graduation Waivers for 2 Students.
Jenina Ramirez seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
E.
Approve ECHS and ECMS-Inglewood LCAPs
Anthony Jowid made a motion to approve ECHS and ECMS-Inglewood LCAPs.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
F.
Approve 2018-2019 Year Budgets for each school site as recommended by Finance Committee
Anthony Jowid made a motion to approve 2018-2019 Year Budgets for each school site as recommended by Finance Committee.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
G.
Approve 2018-2019 Education Protection Account Resolution/Plans as Recommended by Finance Committee
Ernie Levroney made a motion to approve 2018-2019 Education Protection Account Resolution/Plans as Recommended by Finance Committee.
Dr. Denise Berger seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
H.
Approve Investment Policy as recommended by Finance Committee
Ernie Levroney made a motion to approve Investment Policy as recommended by Finance Committee.
Jenina Ramirez seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
I.
Approve Board Policy 32188 - Teacher Assignment Option Based on Education Code §44258.3
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve Board Policy 32188 - Teacher Assignment Option Based on Education Code §44258.3.
Ernie Levroney seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
J.
Approve Student and Family Privacy Rights Policy
Jenina Ramirez made a motion to Approve Student and Family Privacy Rights Policy.
Dr. Denise Berger seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
VII. Upcoming Dates/Announcements
A.
Next ECS Board Meetings
B.
Next ECS Committee Meetings
C.
Student Led Tours
D.
Upcoming Events
E.
Appreciations
Board President Ken Deemer shared that it has been a tremendous pleasure and honor to be of service to ECS. He is super passionate about education and it has been extremely fulfilling working with smart, passionate, dedicated hard-working people at ECS that want to make a difference. Very happy to see organization over the years embracing working with data, looking at evidence-based outcomes, and drawing on the board for advice and expertise.
VIII. Transition to Closed Session
A.
Adjourn to Closed Session
Anthony Jowid made a motion to adjourn to closed session.
Dr. Denise Berger seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
IX. Report Out of Closed Session
A.
Report Out
Discussion of student matter took place, no decisions were reached.
X. Closing Items
A.
Adjourn Meeting
Cathy Creasia made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Dr. Denise Berger seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
There being no further business to be transacted, and upon motion duly made, seconded and approved, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ken Deemer