Sonya Pratt, Executive Director, welcomed the Board and provided an overview of general school updates. Pratt highlighted the stable enrollment figures and the school's highest staff retention rate in recent years. Looking ahead, she outlined plans for upcoming events such as the Washington, D.C. trip, Field Day, graduation, and other end-of-year celebrations. She expressed her satisfaction with the current state of the school and the positive momentum as the year progresses.

Ted Gildea reported that the Finance Committee had met and reviewed the school’s financial standing, noting that it remains in a strong position. Gildea noted tuition revenue had declined slightly, the organization continues to maintain solid financial footing. Additionally, Gildea addressed the outstanding debt owed by the foundation to the school, confirming that it would be settled once the building is sold.

Melisa Lemire, Board Chair, announced that the Board would be entering Executive Session, citing Purpose #1: To discuss the reputation, character, physical condition or mental health, rather than professional competence, of an individual, or to discuss the discipline or dismissal of, or complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member or individual

Melisa Lemire, Board Chair, announced that the Board would be entering Executive Session, citing Purpose #6: To consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property if the chair declares that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the public body.

Jordan Lopez, Chief Operating Officer, directed the Board’s attention to the topic of competency requirements for student graduation, explaining that the MCAS is no longer a state requirement. Lopez further explained that the school's competency determination process will remain unchanged, with students required to pass four years of math and English, three years of science and history, two years of a second language, and a one-year senior capstone.

The board agreed that the current Competency Determination (CD) policy is effective and does not require any changes.

Jordan Lopez, Chief Operating Officer, directed the Board’s attention to the Open Meeting Law update, explaining that, effective March 31st, a physical quorum will be required for meetings. She emphasized the importance of meeting quorum for the upcoming April and June meetings and encouraged board members to prioritize their availability and commitment to attending.

Jordan then opened the floor for questions or concerns about the Open Meeting Law update. The board acknowledged the changes for the next two meetings and moved on to the committee updates.

Melisa Lemire, Committee Chair, acknowledged that the Committee had convened and emphasized the importance of ensuring all members review their schedules to confirm their availability for in-person board meetings in April and June. 

Alekz Hirschmann, Committee Chair, provided an update on the Academic Excellence Committee, reporting that there have been 12 college acceptances to date. Hirschmann also highlighted that students are currently enrolled in spring dual enrollment courses, signaling a strong finish to the academic year.

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

Ted Gildea stated that there were no additional financial updates at this time, as the financial committee's updates had already been addressed during the earlier General Finance updates. 

Sonya Pratt, Executive Director, provided an update on the organization's goals, reporting that current student enrollment stands at 73, with daily attendance at 87%. She noted that chronic absenteeism is at 41%, primarily due to a flu outbreak affecting many students. To help address this, the school introduced a buy-back program during the winter, allowing students to make up missed work.

Pratt also observed a typical dip in performance during Quarter 2, as students generally perform best in Quarter 1 and Quarter 4. She highlighted that, at the end of January, the school hosted both a parent/guardian night and a morning session. The leadership team made a concerted effort to engage families who had not yet attended, aiming to boost attendance and involvement.

Looking ahead to February, Pratt shared excitement about the upcoming Black Trivia Night, inviting both friends and families to participate. She also mentioned that college counselors are holding one-on-one sessions to assist families with the college application process.

In closing, Pratt confirmed that the school is on track with its FY25 budget and compliance requirements. She extended her thanks to Diana Landry, Business Manager at Central Source, for her continued hard work and dedication.