Amended agenda to:

1. Move the executive session to the last item on the agenda and

2. Add to action items: C. Cirrus Academy Spending Moratorium on all spending over $500 until a Board-approved balanced Budget is passed. 

Rhonda Finley reported the current enrollment at 492 scholars. A new curriculum emphasizing phonics and literacy has been launched to strengthen early reading outcomes. Summer remediation yielded a 38% passage rate, which the committee noted as progress toward state benchmarks. The Academic Committee also highlighted recent professional development initiatives that have been positively received by staff. Additional focus areas included monitoring state accountability measures and ensuring compliance with upcoming requirements due in October.

Shirlynn Kelly discussed various updates, including the arrival of metal detectors, facility maintenance, and enrollment numbers. The committee also reviewed fiscal year 26 grants and funding allocations, including a security grant and new initiatives for math and science teachers.

Latrell Taylor reported that the school has 64 total staff positions, with only one current vacancy. Recent professional development sessions, particularly those held in July, were well-attended and aligned with instructional priorities. Leadership continues to focus on staff recruitment and retention strategies.

Lisa Golphin reviewed July expenditures, noting a deficit. A  budget timeline was introduced in collaboration with Mr. Williams, with the goal of achieving a balanced budget by November 18 in partnership with Purpose Capital (Candace Ramsey - Brown). The committee also approved revisions to the board and finance meeting schedule, aligning finance committee meetings to precede Governing Board meetings.

Barry Williams reported progress on student behavior tracking systems, ongoing marketing efforts—including website and social media updates—and upcoming compliance deadlines. Staffing updates included two vacancies: a paraprofessional and a social worker (funding for the social worker has been secured). Williams also discussed the development of two new financial trackers: a cash analysis tracker to monitor daily cash flow and a purchase request tracker for directors to align spending with budget priorities. Updates on Flylight’s marketing work were also shared, including 200 website changes and ongoing deliverables. Mr. Williams confirmed that the upcoming clergy luncheon will serve as both a networking opportunity and a potential avenue for donor cultivation.

The Governing Board entered into executive session pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(b)(2) to discuss personnel matters. No action was taken. The session was facilitated by Latrell Taylor.

Chantelle Blake discussed revisions to the annual board calendar for SY26 to ensure alignment with Finance Committee meetings. Supporting documents reviewed included the FY26 Cirrus Annual Board Calendar and the Cirrus Academy Board & Finance Meeting Revisions (July 2025).

The Board tabled adoption of the Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy after identifying discrepancies in the definition of “key personnel.” The Board agreed to seek further legal clarification from counsel before adoption.