Following roll call, the board watched a welcome video from Co-Principals, Beth Birnkrant and Shakira Smith. Teachers are passionate and committed as we navigate the opening under unprecedented conditions but do so with care and joy. Priorities include making instruction more relevant and project-based (partnering with Next Generation Learning Challenges), stabilizing enrollment and strengthening attendance, helping students acclimate to in-person learning, continuing COVID mitigation efforts. Staff relaunched sports and the school is partnering with the Phield House again for athletics and phys ed.

RESOLVED, that on the occasion of Renee’ Rosenbluth’s resignation and James Egan’s conclusion of service, this Board extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to Renee' and James for their years of dedicated service and many contributions of time, wisdom and resources to Young Scholars Charter School, this Board and its committees. Renee' and James will always be welcome at YSCS, and the members of this Board look forward to their visits to observe the continued progress of the school.

Mr. Amenda discussed different models of learning (full in-person/asynchronous/hybrid/virtual) and about the school’s plans to prepare for all models based on public health conditions. The Pennsylvania Department of Education is allowing School Boards to adopt resolutions that affirm that instruction can be delivered in multiple models should public health conditions require anything but full in person learning. 

Last year, the Board provided feedback that members would like a better understanding of all policies. Additionally, the school is going to use Board on Track to better knowledge manage our policies. Ed Diasio, an attorney at Wisler Pearlstein, joined the meeting and discussed policy-related matters and general guidance for programming. He is currently working on an audit of the school’s policies and getting all policy language in a consistent format. 

Next steps following the Board retreat were discussed at this time. YSCS staff member will take minutes at each committee call, help with agendas, set annual goals and schedule all meetings.
Mr. Churchill confirmed the committee members and chairs and discussed the Board’s role in preparing for the school’s next renewal in a year.

Mr. Corcoran gave an update on financial statements and the financial summary. The school started the fiscal year in a strong financial position. A draft report of the audit will be ready in late October. 

Mr. Churchill shared information about the 2021-2022 Annual Campaign and asked Trustees for annual contributions to support the mission of YSCS. He also talked about engaging corporations and/or foundations that could accelerate the school’s building project fundraising efforts.