Arleen Samuels presented the December 2025 financial reports, including revenue, expenditures, and cash flow. She reported a year-to-date deficit of $181,034, with December reflecting a monthly loss of $53,927. December revenue totaled $620,266, while expenses totaled $674,193.

Ms. Samuels noted that federal reimbursements totaling approximately $200,000 are expected, with one reimbursement received in January and an additional reimbursement anticipated on January 30. Cash flow reflected 96.8 days of cash on hand as of December, with forecasting indicating improvement in the coming months.

The committee also reviewed the aging report, noting improvement in accounts payable, with the largest outstanding balances related to Nourish and Purpose Capital.

Diane Freeman provided an update on federal funding, including IDEA and Title I drawdowns, and explained the timing of accruals and reimbursements. She clarified that salary payments must be made before reimbursements can be received and that accruals can be drawn through September 30.

Ms. Freeman also reviewed requirements related to federal technology funding, including the federal technology report due in March, inventory tracking for federally purchased equipment, and the need for a cybersecurity policy. Funding was noted to cover certain staff salaries but not associated benefits.

Wendy Brinson-Grimes provided an update on facilities and operations, including completed fence repairs and ongoing issues with bathroom fixtures and equipment. She reported on technology inventory efforts, Chromebook damage, and the need to strengthen accountability for device management.

The committee discussed equipment needs, including replacement of a two-sided refrigerator and warmers, with quotes pending.

Ms. Freeman reviewed the copier contract renewal, noting that $3,999.98 had already been paid and that the new contract would cost $770 per month. The committee discussed the contract and supporting documentation. This item was discussed in the Finance subcommittee meeting on Jan 20, 2026.

Wendy Brinson-Grimes presented the need for a temporary custodian for 35 days due to the head custodian’s medical leave. Committee members requested clarification on the budget line from which the position would be funded, as it was not previously budgeted. Mr. Williams was asked to provide additional information before the item advances.

Barry Williams presented the FlyLight website and digital marketing contract renewal, covering the period January 20 through June 30. The contract includes lead generation services ($4,500) and website maintenance ($21,566.60).

Mr. Williams shared that FlyLight’s lead generation efforts resulted in 30 new students, representing a 20% conversion rate. The committee reviewed the communications budget, noting $34,000 remaining after $38,432.82 in expenditures.

The committee discussed strategies to address the current deficit, including close monitoring of expenses with the goal of eliminating the deficit by May. The possibility of canceling future field trips was discussed; however, Rhonda Finley requested a list of already scheduled field trips before any decisions are made.

Additional discussion topics included:

Exploring higher interest rates for school bank accounts

Clarification regarding responsibility for an employee speeding ticket

Review of E-Rate funding for internet and Wi-Fi improvements

Ms. Thomas provided a comprehensive overview of FlyLight’s digital marketing and website management services. She reported a 35% increase in website traffic following the launch of Cirrus Academy’s new website and outlined ongoing web care services, including daily backups, security monitoring, and plugin updates.

Ms. Thomas clarified that Cirrus Academy owns its domain, originally purchased through M&R Systems, while FlyLight provides hosting and maintenance services. Planned enhancements include improvements to the careers page, governing board page, a documentation resource hub, an interactive academics page, and a fully functional external calendar. These updates were confirmed to be included within existing services at no additional cost.

Committee members requested bi-monthly virtual updates from FlyLight, with Mr. Williams agreeing to schedule a presentation for March.

The committee reviewed a request for funding for the Athletic Director and Assistant Athletic Director to attend a conference in Athens. Due to insufficient documentation regarding the conference's purpose and outcomes, the committee voted to deny funding for the conference.

Chair Golphin requested that the notes reflect Mr. Williams stated he had to leave the meeting at 7:30, and the finance meeting ended at 9:27 pm.