Barry Williams presented the amended FY26 budget, giving an overview of projected revenue and highlighting the balance between state and federal funding sources. He noted that the budget maintains prior-year salary levels and remains aligned with board guidance regarding administrative compensation.

The board reviewed the underlying revenue assumptions, enrollment projections, and the rationale for using a conservative planning approach. Mr. Williams explained how the submitted enrollment figure was adjusted for budgeting purposes and walked the board through major budget adjustments, including reductions to operational spending, STEAM allocations, and field trip funding.

Board members asked clarifying questions about shifts in federal funding, the expenditure of charitable donations, and minor rounding discrepancies within the financial spreadsheets. The board discussed per-pupil calculations and confirmed that rounding variances did not meaningfully affect the overall financial picture.

Members expressed concern about the timing of the budget revisions and emphasized the need for a more structured development process, earlier planning, and stronger communication throughout the fiscal year. Mr. Williams agreed and confirmed that the next budget cycle would begin earlier, with workshops planned to support board engagement.

The board requested additional information to support their review before moving forward with a vote.

There was no public comment.

Several board members expressed concern about moving forward with a vote on the amended FY26 budget at this time. Chair Golphin noted that she did not have sufficient information to make an informed decision. Chair Finley emphasized that the budget should have been finalized earlier in the year and that several key questions remain unresolved. Mr. Lewis shared that while he is able to vote, he is not fully confident that the necessary parameters have been met. Chair Taylor acknowledged both the board’s concerns and Mr. Williams’ responses, stating that she did not want to advance a vote until the board is fully aligned.

Specific concerns raised included:

The timing of the budget amendments and the need for an earlier, more organized development schedule

Clarification of outstanding financial parameters and assumptions

Questions related to restructuring considerations

Nutritional services spending trends and Nourish billing

Ensuring alignment with prior board resolutions

Reviewing KPIs and projections for the second half of the fiscal year

Given these unresolved items, the board agreed that a vote could not proceed.

Motion: Chair Taylor requested that the board table the vote until the remaining materials and questions are fully addressed.
Outcome: The motion passed. Board members will submit their outstanding questions to the Head of School by December 3rd.

A follow-up governance meeting was scheduled for December 11, 2025 at 6:00 PM, which will include an executive session and a vote on the amended FY26 budget.