Ms. Davis led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Ms. Douglas gave an invocation.

Ms. Davis welcomed committee members to the meeting.

With no objections, the meeting agenda was approved.

The Military Enrollment Preference Ad Hoc Committee convened for its initial meeting to review new legislation impacting enrollment procedures at Liberty STEAM Charter School. The committee discussed key areas of consideration to ensure alignment with the law while maintaining equity and clarity in the admissions process.
 

Topics of Discussion:

1. Background and Context:  The committee reviewed the purpose of its formation, stemming from newly enacted legislation allowing military enrollment preference for charter schools. The intent is to recognize and support military-connected families through equitable enrollment access.
2. Review of Relevant Charter, State, or Federal Guidance:  Committee members examined applicable sections of the Liberty charter agreement, state laws, and any relevant federal statutes or best practices concerning enrollment preference for military families.
3. Summary of Current Admissions/Enrollment:  An overview of current admissions and lottery process was provided, outlining current preferences and how changes might be integrated.
4. Discussion of Areas Where Preference Could Be Integrated: The committee explored where within the admissions framework a military preference might be applied, including lottery priority, mid-year enrollment, and waitlist procedures. Received information from Palmetto Scholars Academy regarding their current military enrollment lottery procedures.
5. Define Desired Outcomes: The committee identified two primary deliverables:

• A draft policy outlining military preference language
• Procedural guidance to support consistent implementation

  6.  Determine Deliverables and Timeline: Members discussed target dates for:

• Draft policy development by July Retreat
• Board presentation and approval at the September Meeting
• Communication rollout prior to the next enrollment window October - December 2025

  7. Identify Required Stakeholders or Collaborators

• Executive Director
• Enrollment Coordinator
• Legal Counsel
• Charter Sponsor (SCPCSD)

8.  Definition of “Military-Connected” Families: The committee began to define this term,   referencing state guidance and sample definitions. Potential criteria include active-duty status, reserve, and National Guard.

9.  Application and Documentation Process: Preliminary ideas were shared about how families would indicate their military status during application and the type of documentation required to verify eligibility once accepted.

• Dr. Ivey will draft a policy based on the information received and criteria discussed.