Ms. Rhonda Finley provided the Academic Committee Report. She shared that December enrollment stands at 496 students against the goal of 525. The school is currently administering RESA testing, MAP assessments, and MTSS progress monitoring. CCRPI results were reviewed, showing elementary content mastery at 31.7 and middle school at 33.3, with overall progress decreasing to 79.1. The committee noted ongoing academic interventions, assessment cycles, and areas for improvement as the school prepares for the second semester.

Ms. Shirlynn Kelly presented the Operations Committee update. The report highlighted Tier 1 maintenance needs across the campus and noted current space constraints within instructional and support areas. The transition to PC Genesis is underway, with implementation planning in progress. The Operations Committee also discussed final preparations for metal detector installation, set to begin January 5th, as well as other safety enhancements and upcoming operational projects.

Mr. Latrell Taylor presented the Personnel Committee Report. Cirrus currently maintains 65 staff positions, including 42 instructional roles, with one instructional vacancy remaining. Recruitment efforts continue, with the school scheduled to participate in multiple education career fairs early in the spring semester. The committee also reviewed staffing allocations, retention efforts, and projected needs for the upcoming term.

Ms. Lisa Golphin presented the Finance Committee Report. The November financials reflect a $72,000 deficit, with several federal reimbursements and security-related expenses still pending. The committee reviewed upcoming contracts related to flight communications and RICO services. Concerns were raised about clarity in the amended budget documentation and the timing of submissions. The board requested additional detail on federal funding timelines, cost breakdowns, and cash flow before final approval.

Mr. Barry Williams presented his monthly report, noting enrollment stability at approximately 500 students as of December 1st. He highlighted improved school climate indicators, with referrals decreasing following the launch of the sensory room and in-school suspension program. The school is administering the Georgia School Climate Survey from December 21 through March 31. Mr. Williams reviewed literacy initiatives such as Books and Buddies and the January reading push. He also reported on current vacancies, grant submissions for the Future Forward Prize, Luminary Experience, and NSVF, and progress on the planned installation of metal detectors and the development of an MOU with the Macon-Bibb Sheriff's Department for SRO support.

Mr. Williams presented the FY26 amended budget, which was reviewed with GCSA liaisons, SCSC, and legal counsel. The proposal is based on an FTE count of 497 and total expenses of $8.41 million. He explained increases in several line items, including MOPS, instructional costs, and software licensing. Cash flow projections assume significant federal drawdowns in January and QBE adjustments in April. Board members raised questions regarding the accuracy of projected revenue increases, the timing of federal funds, and the underlying assumptions behind revised FTE counts. Additional clarification was provided on QBE formulas and weighted FTE calculations.

FY26 Amended Budget Approval and Adoption

Following the presentation, the board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters connected to the proposed amended FY26 budget. After returning to open session, the board resumed deliberations and ultimately declined to adopt the amended FY26 budget and the associated staffing restructuring plan.

During the discussion, Chair Lisa Golphin stated that the board would proceed using a 472 FTE planning number and revisit the expense structure at midterm when more definitive funding information is available. She also noted the board’s intention to prepare a formal resolution outlining next steps, including the requirement for a revised budget aligned to the board’s expectations and clearer documentation supporting projected revenue and expenditures.

Mr. Williams expressed his disagreement with the board’s decision and requested that his concerns be formally noted in the record.

He stated that:

The amended budget was developed in consultation with GCSA, SCSC, and legal counsel;

The proposed 497 FTE count and revenue assumptions reflected anticipated enrollment trends and historical funding adjustments; and

He did not want to be held responsible for potential operational or financial constraints that may arise from the board’s decision not to approve the amended budget.

He asked that this position be included in the minutes to reflect that he does not support the board’s decision and believes the amended budget was necessary to support projected needs and planned initiatives.

The board acknowledged Mr. Williams’ statement while reaffirming its decision. The board emphasized its responsibility to adopt a financially conservative and transparent plan and noted that it would consult with legal counsel to finalize the forthcoming resolution and next steps in the budget review process.