Principal Chantel Van Pool and the third graders of the campus provided the campus update covering the following topics:

• Open House & STEM Night: Despite heavy rain, the event had high family participation. Students led hands-on STEM activities, demonstrating year-long learning. Appreciation was extended to the teacher leadership team for organizing the grade-level projects.
• Interim Assessments
• Student Leadership Recognition: As part of a successful internship initiative, half of the 3rd grade class earned the title of "Vice Principal for the Day," recognizing their hard work and academic growth.
• Harvest of the Month: This ongoing program continues to engage students with fresh produce, encouraging healthy eating habits and exposing them to new foods. Board secretary asked if the students get to take these vegetables home, and Chantel shared that the produce from the program is prepared on campus in collaboration with the meal supervisor and the scholars sample the fruits and vegetables in various creative ways. The initiative introduces students to new foods and also teaches them about nutritional benefits. Many students tried these vegetables for the first time, making it an exciting and educational experience.
• Graduation Celebration: A special video time capsule featuring the 3rd grade graduates was created, highlighting their future aspirations and achievements.

The board was also thanked for their continued support in making these experiences possible.

Executive Director, Jason Watts, provided the organization update and provided information:

• San Bernardino Campus Appeal: An appeal hearing is scheduled for May 12. The campus received unanimous approval (7–0) from the planning commission to increase capacity from 200 to 550 students. The appeal process is ongoing in collaboration with the city.
• Riverside Campus Construction: On track for a partial opening in the fall. The rear building is expected to be completed on time; the front building remains uncertain but work is progressing with crews working extended hours.
• Enrollment Intake: Both Riverside and Upland campuses have begun student intake. Temporary intake sites have been established at local libraries to accommodate high interest and accessibility.
• Charter School Growth Fund: The organization is in the due diligence phase with the Charter School Growth Fund, aiming to secure grant support for strategic growth. The partnership is focused on organizational capacity building and long-term expansion planning. Plans remain in place for two or more TK–8 feeder schools in Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties, eventually leading to high schools in those regions. No current plans for expansion in San Diego or Los Angeles Counties.
• South Bay Oversight Visit: Congratulations to the South Bay team for an outstanding LAUSD oversight visit. Feedback was highly positive, with the final report expected in May.
• STEM Program Expansion: STEM integration is being enhanced at all campuses, including potential new physical learning spaces like STEM or maker labs.
• Year-End Events: Schools are preparing for award ceremonies and promotion events. Principals will share details with the board for those interested in attending.

The board discussed forming committees or working groups in response to interest from members, authorizers, and grant vendors. Jason Watts outlined benefits such as deepening expertise, boosting efficiency, supporting strategy, and promoting accountability and leadership. Two committee types were introduced: formal standing committees (requiring Brown Act compliance) and ad hoc committees (advisory-only, board-member-only, and less than a quorum). Informal working groups, proposed as a lighter alternative, were also considered. Potential focus areas included governance, finance/audit, academics, growth/facilities, development, and community engagement—aimed at increasing board involvement and transparency. Board Member, Barbara George, would like the other board members who were not able to attend this meeting to also get the opportunity to hear this presentation and hear these initiatives. Maribel added asking if there was a way to assess organizational needs before implementation. The board agreed to review the materials and revisit the topic at the next meeting, with the Jason to bring more detailed proposals.

Tracy Haberman at Charter Impact provided the Financial update. This presentation included updates and highlights for the Oceanside, Orange County, and South Bay school sites as well as an update on all bond covenants, which are all projected to be met.

Board President, Charles Friedrichs, asked what LOA stood for during the Oceanside portion of the presentation. Tracy answered, stating that it stands for "leave of absence." 

Charles also asked what the liquidity of 90.85 means? Tracy explained that it represents the number of days of cash on hand. The benchmark is a 45-day minimum, so 90.85 is strong and reflects cash flow timing.

Lastly, Charles asked if Oceanside has a liquidity covenant, and Tracy explained that it does not because it is not tied to bond financing.

Charles asked if the Upland and Riverside Master Calendars were created proactively. Andrew Crowe gave a thumbs up to confirm that these calendars were created proactively should the schools open in the fall. 

The Board entered the closed session at 2:46pm.

Board Chair, Charles Friedrichs, reported out of close session at 3:16 pm. There was nothing to report out of closed session.