Melisa Lemire, Board Chair, expressed gratitude to the Board for their attendance and directed their attention to Sonya Pratt, Executive Director, for General School Updates. Pratt shared that the school has successfully kicked off the year, noting that it is slightly over-enrolled with approximately 78 students, with about 90% currently dual enrolled at Roxbury Community College (RCC) or Wentworth Institute of Technology. She highlighted that attendance has reached an all-time high of 90%.

Pratt also noted that she met with the School's Union Representative, who mentioned that staff morale is high, with satisfaction stemming from observing students actively engaging in both on-campus and off-campus courses. She indicated that the school is in the process of hiring a Spanish teacher, and students have been participating in an online Edgenuity course with a live instructor, with feedback suggesting they are thoroughly enjoying the experience.

Andres Tejeda, Board Member, inquired about the school’s process for tracking attendance in remote and dual enrollment courses. In response, Pratt noted that all students are required to check in at City on a Hill each morning before attending their college courses, during which attendance is recorded. She explained that College and Career Counselors regularly visit the college campuses to verify that students are attending their classes. Pratt also mentioned that the school has consulted with institutions employing similar models, such as New Heights Charter School, which has provided valuable support in implementing an effective approach for City on a Hill.

Next, the Board turned their attention to the General Finance Updates. Jordan Lopez, Chief Operating Officer, displayed the School's Budget vs Actuals as of September 30, 2024 ,indicating that expenditures were consistent with seasonal expectations and should not raise concern. Lopez provided a detailed overview of recent spending, highlighting the need to utilize ESSER funds before the September 30 deadline. Lopez discussed a strategic spending approach, focusing on investments in field trips, staff appreciation, and bulk purchases of essential supplies.  She noted the school currently accommodates 78 students, slightly above the projected 75 enrollment. Lopez reassured the committee of the school’s strong financial position, supported by conservative budgeting practices.

Melissa Lemire, Board Chair, directed the attention of the Board to Committee Updates.

Lemire provided updates on the Governance Committee's meeting held on September 24, 2024. She noted that the committee addressed compliance updates and noted positive ongoing meetings with the Department of Education. Additionally, Lemire informed the Board that the School Foundation is currently in the process of selling the building.

The Academic Excellence Committee did not convene for a meeting this month. The Committee will provide an update following the meeting. 

The Executive Director Support Committee did not convene for a meeting this month. The Committee will provide an update following the meeting. 

Andres Tejeda, Committee Member, confirmed that the Finance Committee convened earlier this month to discuss the School's current financial position. He noted that much of the discussion had been covered by Lopez earlier in the meeting.

Sonya Pratt, Executive Director, provided an encouraging overview of the school's enrollment statistics, noting a significant increase in daily average attendance and a decline in chronic absenteeism. She highlighted that 73% of students are enrolled in at least one dual enrollment class, with those who missed the summer enrollment deadline set to have another opportunity to register for college courses next semester. During Back to School Night, the school successfully hosted its first Special Education Advisory Council meeting, allowing parents, staff, and community members to engage in crucial discussions about special education services and resources.

Pratt then shared updates on the school's facilities, revealing that the basement is being converted into a storage area while operations are currently focused on the upper levels of the building. She emphasized the school's commitment to fostering stronger connections within its smaller community. Additionally, Sonya highlighted the school's regular meetings with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to ensure proactive planning and a smooth transition moving forward.