Chair Rhonda Finley called for the review of the February 23, 2026 Academic Committee meeting minutes. During the review, Chair Finley requested that the salary range discussed for the Special Education Coordinator position be reflected in the minutes as $60,000–$70,000. Chantelle Blake noted that she would review the meeting recording to confirm the exact language shared during the February 23, 2026 meeting to ensure the minutes accurately reflect the discussion.

A motion was made to approve the minutes with the inclusion of the salary range discussed, pending confirmation from the meeting recording. The motion passed.

During the academic discussion, Barry Wiliams reviewed a proposed Kindergarten through 2nd Grade field trip to the Atlanta Zoo scheduled for March 11. Arleen Samuels, Chief Financial Officer, confirmed that transportation costs would be covered using the school credit card, and Wendy Grimes, Director of Operations, will coordinate meals through Nourish.

The committee discussed future field trip planning and noted that additional field trips should be scheduled for May and presented as part of a comprehensive plan rather than being brought forward individually. Barry Williams, Head of School, will present transportation deposit costs for potential May field trips to the Finance Committee for review.

Nisah Brinson, Director of Academics, presented an academic strategy and school culture update, including an overview of the after-school program and upcoming assessments such as DRC Beacon and midpoint and end-of-program evaluations scheduled for March and April. Baseline results show many participating scholars performing below grade level, particularly in 7th grade. The academic team is addressing these needs through small group instruction, one-on-one support, and increased coordination between daytime and after-school teachers.

Barry Williams, Head of School, discussed the program’s goal of increasing the percentage of scholars performing on or above grade level by at least 10% and emphasized strengthening the school’s MTSS processes to better support academic and behavioral needs. The committee discussed enrollment trends, MTSS support capacity, and potential options including an MTSS coordinator or external support. Diane Freeman suggested exploring services through Middle Georgia RESA.

The committee also reviewed discipline and attendance trends and discussed ongoing teacher support strategies, including coaching, walkthroughs, and classroom support. Chair Rhonda Finley requested additional data on classroom walkthrough trends and outcomes, which will be presented at a future meeting. Lisa Golphin suggested exploring additional diagnostic tools such as IXL. Ms. Freeman also confirmed that FTE counts and enrollment remain within the expected range.