Environmental Charter Schools
Minutes
Board of Directors' Meeting
Date and Time
Monday January 28, 2019 at 5:00 PM
Location
ECHS Auxiliary Office, 2625 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Suite 100, Redondo Beach, CA 90278 / Zoom info: https://zoom.us/j/147466498 Or Telephone: (669) 900-6833 (Meeting ID: 147 466 498)
ECS Board Members Term and End Date
Mr. Anthony Jowid, President.................................................2 years June 30, 2019
Mr. Ken Deemer, Vice President.............................................3 years June 30, 2019
Ms. Denise Berger, Secretary.................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Cathy Creasia..................................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Zena Fong.......................................................................2 year June 30, 2020
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. Kami Cotler, Director of Strategic Initiatives
Ms. Danielle Kelsick, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Ms. Beth Bernstein-Yamashiro, Principal at ECMS - Inglewood
Ms. KC Villoria, Principal at ECHS
Dr. Qiana O'Leary, Principal at ECMS - Gardena
Mr. Dave Trejo, Principal-in-Residence
Mission:
Reimagine public education in low-income communities of color to prepare conscious, critical thinkers who are equipped to graduate from college and create a more equitable and sustainable world.
Values:
JUSTICE - We examine bias, racism, and prejudice. We deliver culturally-responsive curricula. We succeed when students’ race and class cease to predict their level of achievement. (footnote Noguera).
COMMUNITY - We care. We collaborate. We respect the rights and voices of our stakeholders.
CURIOSITY - We question. We explore. We innovate.
SUSTAINABILITY - We think globally and act locally. We adapt. We encourage systems thinking to create a sustainable future.
LEADERSHIP - We listen. We think critically. We advocate. We shift public discourse. We are our own superheroes.
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. Anthony Jowid, President.................................................2 years June 30, 2019
Mr. Ken Deemer, Vice President.............................................3 years June 30, 2019
Ms. Denise Berger, Secretary.................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Cathy Creasia..................................................................3 years June 30, 2020
Ms. Zena Fong.......................................................................2 year June 30, 2020
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. Kami Cotler, Director of Strategic Initiatives
Ms. Danielle Kelsick, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Ms. Beth Bernstein-Yamashiro, Principal at ECMS - Inglewood
Ms. KC Villoria, Principal at ECHS
Dr. Qiana O'Leary, Principal at ECMS - Gardena
Mr. Dave Trejo, Principal-in-Residence
Mission:
Reimagine public education in low-income communities of color to prepare conscious, critical thinkers who are equipped to graduate from college and create a more equitable and sustainable world.
Values:
JUSTICE - We examine bias, racism, and prejudice. We deliver culturally-responsive curricula. We succeed when students’ race and class cease to predict their level of achievement. (footnote Noguera).
COMMUNITY - We care. We collaborate. We respect the rights and voices of our stakeholders.
CURIOSITY - We question. We explore. We innovate.
SUSTAINABILITY - We think globally and act locally. We adapt. We encourage systems thinking to create a sustainable future.
LEADERSHIP - We listen. We think critically. We advocate. We shift public discourse. We are our own superheroes.
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, Jenina Ramirez, Ken Deemer, LESD Representative, Zena Fong
Directors Absent
Ernie Levroney
Guests Present
Bethany Sanabria, Brandie Davis, Dorothy Lee, Dr. Beth Bernstein-Yamashiro, Fernanda Hurtado, Jeremiah David, KC Fabiero, Laura Linquist, Qiana O'Leary, Roberto Becerra
I. Opening Items
A.
Record Attendance and Guests
B.
Call the Meeting to Order
Anthony Jowid called a meeting of the board of directors of Environmental Charter Schools to order on Monday Jan 28, 2019 at 5:07 PM.
C.
Approve the agenda
Ken Deemer made a motion to approve agenda.
Dr. Denise Berger seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Absent
|
II. Study Session
A.
ECHS seniors presentations
III. Presentations from the Floor
A.
Presentations from the floor on non-agenda items
None.
B.
Presentations from the floor on agenda items
None.
IV. Reports/Presentations
A.
Principals updates
ECMS-G Principal Dr. Qiana O'Leary presented the ECMS-Gardena update:
Regarding progress in Priority 1A, NWEA MAP interim assessments have taken place in Winter. Data shown reflects annual growth in each cohort in math and language. In each, there was significant growth from the prior Winter to the current Winter, which is a key way to measure academic achievement. For Priority 2A, SWDs in the class of 2019 exceeded growth targets more than non-SWDs in the areas of reading. SWDs in the class of 2020 exceeded growth targets more than non-SWDs in the areas of reading and language.
KC Fabiero presented the ECHS update, followed by ECHS Assistant Principal Jane Wyche, who presented the ECHS senior thesis project plan:
Data was shared on the Math Initiative, which is one of the four WASC goals. Growth in math was shown across all cohorts. The reading scores were then shown, reflecting several major dips from Fall to Winter in 10th- and 11th-grade scores. However, the testing data appears to be skewed and thus cannot be relied on. Further research into this issue will be done and potential future remedies relating to the testing environment will be done.
Interim Assessment Benchmarks scores were shown. Sophomores and juniors reflected growth in language and vocabulary use. Seniors were tested in research and they reflected large growth in near standard to above standard and stayed flat in the below standard category.
More data will be analyzed in future Instructional Leadership Team meetings for student groups such as English Learners, Student with Disabilities, and black and African-American students.
The senior thesis project plan at ECHS was presented. The scope of topics has been reduced and this is a change that 96% of ECHS staff has felt was effective. The requirements for the senior thesis projects were shown, which consists of a thesis paper and a civic action. Board members were invited to be on the senior thesis presentation panel on May 30, 2019.
Regarding progress in Priority 1A, NWEA MAP interim assessments have taken place in Winter. Data shown reflects annual growth in each cohort in math and language. In each, there was significant growth from the prior Winter to the current Winter, which is a key way to measure academic achievement. For Priority 2A, SWDs in the class of 2019 exceeded growth targets more than non-SWDs in the areas of reading. SWDs in the class of 2020 exceeded growth targets more than non-SWDs in the areas of reading and language.
KC Fabiero presented the ECHS update, followed by ECHS Assistant Principal Jane Wyche, who presented the ECHS senior thesis project plan:
Data was shared on the Math Initiative, which is one of the four WASC goals. Growth in math was shown across all cohorts. The reading scores were then shown, reflecting several major dips from Fall to Winter in 10th- and 11th-grade scores. However, the testing data appears to be skewed and thus cannot be relied on. Further research into this issue will be done and potential future remedies relating to the testing environment will be done.
Interim Assessment Benchmarks scores were shown. Sophomores and juniors reflected growth in language and vocabulary use. Seniors were tested in research and they reflected large growth in near standard to above standard and stayed flat in the below standard category.
More data will be analyzed in future Instructional Leadership Team meetings for student groups such as English Learners, Student with Disabilities, and black and African-American students.
The senior thesis project plan at ECHS was presented. The scope of topics has been reduced and this is a change that 96% of ECHS staff has felt was effective. The requirements for the senior thesis projects were shown, which consists of a thesis paper and a civic action. Board members were invited to be on the senior thesis presentation panel on May 30, 2019.
B.
CEO/COO Update
COO Farnaz Flechner and CEO Alison Diaz presented the following update:
ECS leadership has made substantial progress in developing a culture of accountability and reporting. This includes the review of student outcome data at each principals' meeting with the CEO & COO.
Progress on Priority 1d was discussed. Create the E in Environmental Taskforce. This taskforce has met twice to complete a needs assessment.
Progress on Priority 2c was discussed. A chart reflecting the significant percentage of people and leaders of color across all employees categories.
Progress on Priority 3 was shared. The Home Office has made significant progress in this area even as their staffing level has been reduced.
Progress on Priority 4 was discussed. New expansion high school has secured funding and hired a founding principal. New HS petition has been drafted and ECS is currently working through an extensive monitoring audit to demonstrate compliance in the charter expansion grant of which it is a grantee.
CCSA is championing new legislation that would provide a grant specifically for black and African American public school students in California.
ECS leadership has made substantial progress in developing a culture of accountability and reporting. This includes the review of student outcome data at each principals' meeting with the CEO & COO.
Progress on Priority 1d was discussed. Create the E in Environmental Taskforce. This taskforce has met twice to complete a needs assessment.
Progress on Priority 2c was discussed. A chart reflecting the significant percentage of people and leaders of color across all employees categories.
Progress on Priority 3 was shared. The Home Office has made significant progress in this area even as their staffing level has been reduced.
Progress on Priority 4 was discussed. New expansion high school has secured funding and hired a founding principal. New HS petition has been drafted and ECS is currently working through an extensive monitoring audit to demonstrate compliance in the charter expansion grant of which it is a grantee.
CCSA is championing new legislation that would provide a grant specifically for black and African American public school students in California.
C.
Board Benchmark Chart Review
This section was presented within the previous CEO/COO updates section.
D.
Equity & Diversity Update
The Equity & Diversity Update was presented by Alison Diaz:
The 2018-2019 goals for each ECS school were shared:
ECMS-G is focusing on implementing a math peer mentor program for 6th grade students, taught by 7th and 8th grade ECMSG students.
ECMS-I is focusing on empowering African American parents to feel more supported and confident
in assisting their child in math.
ECHS is focusing on Ongoing Gradebook Analysis with support from Master Teachers.
The 2018-2019 goals for each ECS school were shared:
ECMS-G is focusing on implementing a math peer mentor program for 6th grade students, taught by 7th and 8th grade ECMSG students.
ECMS-I is focusing on empowering African American parents to feel more supported and confident
in assisting their child in math.
ECHS is focusing on Ongoing Gradebook Analysis with support from Master Teachers.
E.
Financial Update
EdTec Consultant Dorothy Lee presented the Financial Update slides:
Governor's draft budget has been released with an additional $2B for Cost of Living Adjustment increase. In addition, the STRS employer contributions will be lower starting in FY 20 and every year thereafter for the next 30 years.
ECHS actual ADA vs forecast was discussed with a drop of 0.55% from P-1 ADA.
ECHS changes from last forecast were reviewed. Modest decrease in the forecast for Title funding, Comp & Benefits, and SB740 grant reimbursement and PY 20.
ECMS-G actual ADA vs forecast was discussed. Minor decrease of 0.71% in forecast from P-1 ADA.
ECMS-G changes from last forecast were reviewed. Forecast went up by about 100k: higher projected revenues for UPP, decrease in Comp & Benefits. Received a SELPA refund for extraordinary costs and was awarded a Fresh Meals grant. Small decreases in projected ADA, PY expenses, Title funding. Higher spend for substitutes this year than projected.
ECMS-I actual ADA vs forecast was discussed. Modest decrease in forecast of 0.91% from P-1 ADA.
ECMS-I changes from the last forecast were reviewed. Forecast went down by 78k: higher projected revenues for UPP, donations, and federal revenues. Small decrease in Comp & Benefits and larger decrease in ADA.
The balance sheet slide was shown.
The projected cash balances slide was shown.
Governor's draft budget has been released with an additional $2B for Cost of Living Adjustment increase. In addition, the STRS employer contributions will be lower starting in FY 20 and every year thereafter for the next 30 years.
ECHS actual ADA vs forecast was discussed with a drop of 0.55% from P-1 ADA.
ECHS changes from last forecast were reviewed. Modest decrease in the forecast for Title funding, Comp & Benefits, and SB740 grant reimbursement and PY 20.
ECMS-G actual ADA vs forecast was discussed. Minor decrease of 0.71% in forecast from P-1 ADA.
ECMS-G changes from last forecast were reviewed. Forecast went up by about 100k: higher projected revenues for UPP, decrease in Comp & Benefits. Received a SELPA refund for extraordinary costs and was awarded a Fresh Meals grant. Small decreases in projected ADA, PY expenses, Title funding. Higher spend for substitutes this year than projected.
ECMS-I actual ADA vs forecast was discussed. Modest decrease in forecast of 0.91% from P-1 ADA.
ECMS-I changes from the last forecast were reviewed. Forecast went down by 78k: higher projected revenues for UPP, donations, and federal revenues. Small decrease in Comp & Benefits and larger decrease in ADA.
The balance sheet slide was shown.
The projected cash balances slide was shown.
F.
Fundraising YTD Update
Farnaz Flechner presented the Fundraising YTD slides:
The fundraising update slides were shown. ECS is on track to meet or exceed both its 18-19 and 19-20 fundraising goals for the current school year: 972k has already been raised with 417k remaining in order to reach the total goal for the current school year of $1,390,000.
New multi-purpose business cards were distributed to the board members, which provides contact information and addresses for ECS schools.
The fundraising update slides were shown. ECS is on track to meet or exceed both its 18-19 and 19-20 fundraising goals for the current school year: 972k has already been raised with 417k remaining in order to reach the total goal for the current school year of $1,390,000.
New multi-purpose business cards were distributed to the board members, which provides contact information and addresses for ECS schools.
V. Approve Consent Items A-L
A.
Approve Previous Meeting Minutes for December 19, 2018 Special Board Meeting
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve minutes from the Special Board of Directors' Meeting on 12-19-18 Special Board of Directors' Meeting on 12-19-18.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
B.
Accept Minutes From the Following Committee Meetings
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to accept minutes for the committee meetings listed on the agenda.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
C.
Accept November and December 2018 Check Registers as recommended by Finance Committee
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to accept November and December 2018 Check Registers as recommended by Finance Committee.
Cathy Creasia seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
D.
Accept September-December 2018 private donations over $1,000 as recommended by Finance Committee
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to accept September-December 2018 private donations over $1,000 as recommended by Finance Committee.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
E.
ECMS-Gardena and ECMS-Inglewood Low-Performing Students Block Grant Plans
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECMS-Gardena and ECMS-Inglewood Low-Performing Students Block Grant Plans.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
F.
Approve ECHS, ECMS-Gardena, ECMS-Inglewood School Accountability Report Cards
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECHS, ECMS-Gardena, ECMS-Inglewood School Accountability Report Cards.
Cathy Creasia seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
G.
Approve ECHS 9th grade Catalina outdoor education trip contract as recommended by Finance Committee
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECHS 9th grade Catalina outdoor education trip contract as recommended by Finance Committee.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
H.
Approve sale/disposition of ECS Technology Equipment as recommended by Finance Committee
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve sale/disposition of ECS Technology Equipment as recommended by Finance Committee.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
I.
Approve updated ECS Disciplinary Hearing Committee members' roster
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve updated ECS Disciplinary Hearing Committee members' roster.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
J.
Approve ECHS and ECMS-I copier lease agreements as recommended by Finance Committee
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECHS and ECMS-I copier lease agreements as recommended by Finance Committee.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
K.
Approve ECHS Single Plan for Student Achievement
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECHS Single Plan for Student Achievement.
Anthony Jowid 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
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
L.
Approve ECMS-I Skyland Ranch outdoor education trips
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECMS-I Skyland Ranch outdoor education trips.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
VI. Action Items
A.
Accept FY 17-18 audit report as recommended by Finance Committee
The final FY 2017-18 audit report has been sent to the required local and state agencies. As in prior years, this year's report was a clean audit with no findings.
Ken Deemer made a motion to accept FY 17-18 audit report as recommended by Finance Committee.
Cathy Creasia seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
B.
Approve ECHS, ECMS Independent Study Policies
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECHS, ECMS Independent Study Policies.
Zena Fong seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
C.
Approve LACOE Monitoring and Oversight Memorandum of Understanding for ECMS-Gardena
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve LACOE Monitoring and Oversight Memorandum of Understanding for ECMS-Gardena.
Jenina Ramirez seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
D.
Approve ECS schools' transition to El Dorado Charter SELPA in 2019-2020 school year
Dr. Denise Berger made a motion to approve ECS schools' transition to El Dorado Charter SELPA in 2019-2020 school year.
Jenina Ramirez seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
E.
Approve reschedule date for next regular board meeting
Cathy Creasia made a motion to approve the reschedule date to 3/18/2019.
Anthony Jowid seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Cathy Creasia |
Absent
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
VII. Upcoming Dates/Announcements
A.
Next ECS Committee Meetings
B.
Student Led Tours
C.
Upcoming Events
D.
Appreciations
Board President Anthony Jowid and Board Vice President Ken Deemer appreciated that the ECHS seniors presented on topics of social and environmental justice. Ken Deemer also mentioned that he really appreciates the board benchmark chart but that he would like much more time spent each board meeting on the progress toward these goals.
Student Laura Linquist appreciated being welcomed into the board meeting space and for the students being given the opportunity to work with the board.
Student Laura Linquist appreciated being welcomed into the board meeting space and for the students being given the opportunity to work with the board.
VIII. Transition to Closed Session
A.
Adjourn to Closed Session
Anthony Jowid made a motion to adjourn to Closed Session.
Ken Deemer seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
IX. Report Out of Closed Session
A.
Report Out
The board met in closed session to discuss a legal matter with no information to report out.
X. Closing Items
A.
Adjourn Meeting
Ken Deemer made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Dr. Denise Berger seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| LESD Representative |
Aye
|
| Ernie Levroney |
Absent
|
| Anthony Jowid |
Aye
|
| Zena Fong |
Aye
|
| Ken Deemer |
Aye
|
| Jenina Ramirez |
Aye
|
| Dr. Denise Berger |
Aye
|
| Cathy Creasia |
Aye
|
There being no further business to be transacted, and upon motion duly made, seconded and approved, the meeting was adjourned at 8:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Anthony Jowid
Recent highlights at ECHS were that an additional FTE counselor was hired, bathroom facilities were updated, an LA Fitness membership for all students was secured starting in February 2019, and a new after-school program staffed by ECHS employees is being offered.
Student Laura Linquist presented on the topic of ECHS restroom restoration. The student stated that gender-neutral bathroom is always locked and it affects the tardiness of transgender students to class. The board members asked several questions to explore the issue further and find potential solutions.
Student Fernanda Hurtado presented on the topic of shade structure for the ECHS amphitheater. The student stated the lack of shade in the amphitheater causes many of the students to either be substantially uncomfortable or even decide not to participate at major events that take place there, such as keynote speeches at Career Day. The student stated that one potential solution would be sun sails. Other potential solutions were discussed such as temporary tents/canopies.
Student Roberto Becerra presented on the topic of drug use and abuse at ECHS. The student talked about various uses of THC and their detrimental effects on the students' learning. Solutions such as backpack checks and drug-sniffing dogs were discussed, but these approaches were discarded for various reasons. The board and staff asked questions to further explore potential solutions.