Lisa Golphin convened the meeting in the absence of Chair Latrell Taylor and Vice Chair Tosin. Attendance was recorded, and a quorum was confirmed.

During approval of the agenda, Lisa Golphin stated that the agenda would be amended to include a Finance Committee recommendation for enrollment marketing expenditures, specifically funding for billboard outreach and direct mailers. A motion was made and seconded to amend the agenda to include these items under Action Items. The motion passed, and the amended agenda was approved.

During review of the January 27, 2026, Board Meeting minutes, Lisa Golphin and Shirlynn Kelly stated that their understanding of the prior charter amendment vote was to amend the enrollment cap to 500 students rather than 550. Barry Williams clarified that the official meeting recording and the approved minutes reflect that the motion presented and voted upon at that meeting was to amend the charter to 550 students. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that board minutes accurately reflect the motion as stated and recorded. A motion was made by Rhonda Finley and seconded by Shirlynn Kelly to amend the January 27, 2026, board meeting minutes. The board voted to approve the motion.

Rhonda Finley presented the Academic Committee report. Enrollment was reported at 484 students. Updates included implementation of monthly data meetings and benchmark assessments, as well as preparation for upcoming MAP and Georgia Milestones testing. Improvements in student behavior were noted across grade levels, with specific improvement in sixth grade. Increased classroom observations and walkthroughs were reported to support instructional consistency. 

Shirlynn Kelly presented the Operations Committee report. Facilities updates included repair of a water fountain and the requirement to obtain three competitive quotes for a commercial oven installation. Personnel updates included temporary custodial coverage, ongoing recruitment efforts, and background checks for new hires. A data monitoring report was reviewed, noting one adverse practice related to the conflict of interest policy and a compliance finding regarding an outdated inventory sheet. An updated inventory sheet has been prepared, and a corrective action plan will be submitted by March 31.

Lisa Golphin presented the Finance Committee report. The debt service coverage ratio was reported at 1.58, exceeding the required threshold. Year-to-date net income was approximately $72,000, reflecting improved financial stability. Participation in Georgia Fund 1 was discussed as a potential investment strategy. Federal funding updates included approximately $85,000 in E-Rate funding for technology upgrades. The board discussed procurement practices, including sealed bids for technology purchases. 

Barry Williams presented the Head of School report. Financial performance improved from a $1.4 million deficit in FY24 to a $58,170 profit in FY25. Updates included progress in financial stability, enrollment management, and community engagement. Audit findings were reviewed, with two findings noted. It was confirmed that the board did not formally vote to accept the FY24 audit. The board will review prior minutes and prepare a response before the March 31 deadline. The audit will be presented to the full board on March 24 for formal acceptance. Legal counsel will review the board’s response related to the conflict of interest policy.

Recruitment for a Special Education Coordinator was discussed, with discussions around proposed salary ranges. The board requested review prior to extending an offer. Compensation strategies for new hires were discussed, including lower entry rates with performance-based increases. Upcoming events were reviewed, including a Black History program and a March 19 fundraiser. Condolences were expressed to Dr. Fowler’s family.

Barry Williams presented the 2026–2027 Academic Calendar, which aligns with Bibb County’s August 3 start date and meets instructional and teacher contract requirements. The calendar includes half days for students with full professional days for teachers, traditional holiday breaks, and designated asynchronous learning days. A motion was made and seconded to approve the FY27 Academic Calendar. The motion passed.

Barry Williams presented a proposal for enrollment marketing expenditures. He noted that the direct mailer expenditure had previously been reviewed by the Finance Committee, including the associated invoice and corresponding budget line.

Mr. Williams further presented a proposal for the distribution of 6,000 postcards to approximately 2,000 households within a 30-mile radius at a proposed cost of $3,825.

Rhonda Finley raised concerns regarding compliance with procurement policy requirements, specifically the need to obtain three competitive quotes, including quotes from Georgia-based vendors.

Following the discussion, the Board reached consensus to defer action on the postcard campaign pending the receipt and review of additional vendor quotes.