Download minutes PDF Minutes Approved

Believe Memphis Academy

Minutes

Special Board Meeting

Date and Time

Tuesday February 24, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Location

Believe Memphis Academy

2230 Corry Rd

Memphis, TN 38106

Directors Present

A. Norman, D. Reed, E. Eber, F. Jones, J. Buford, J. Causey (remote), J. Torres, J. Turner, M. Mason (remote)

Directors Absent

B. Moritz, E. Stephens

Guests Present

Danny Song, K. Green, M. Cowan

I. Opening Items

A.

Record Attendance

B.

Call the Meeting to Order

A. Norman called a meeting of the board of directors of Believe Memphis Academy to order on Tuesday Feb 24, 2026 at 4:09 PM.

C.

Approve Minutes

J. Torres made a motion to approve the minutes from BMA Board Meeting on 02-10-26.
D. Reed seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

D.

Public Comment

Chaniah Brown

  • Requested clarity regarding the timeline and progression toward a final decision on whether the school will remain open.
  • Urged the Board to make a decision with a sense of urgency.
  • Shared that students feel supported by staff and teachers.
  • Encouraged Board members to visit the school to observe classrooms and school culture firsthand.
  • Expressed that the delay in a decision is creating tension within the school community.
  • Reported that students are struggling with the uncertainty, noting increases in behavioral concerns, student withdrawals, and declining morale.

Alicia Norman

  • Shared that a final decision is anticipated within approximately 2–4 weeks.
  • Encouraged Chaniah Brown to connect with Randi Cuzma regarding participation in the community committee.
  • Reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to supporting the school community.
  • Noted that additional engagement sessions are being planned for Believe families.

II. Priority List Designation

A.

Priority List Designation Presentation

Presented by Kenneth Green Jr. 

D. Reed made a motion to Call the Executive Session to Order while keeping Danny Song in the session.
F. Jones seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

III. Executive Session

A.

Priority List Designation Action Plan

  • Additional Family Engagement planned 3/12 Dinner + Partner Schools
  • Flyers go out week of 3/2 + 3/9 + Social Media + Text/calls

J. Turner made a motion on contingent budget for merger success.

J. Buford seconded the motion.

The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

IV. Closing Items

A.

Adjourn Meeting

There being no further business to be transacted, and upon motion duly made, seconded and approved, the meeting was adjourned at 5:45 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,
A. Norman

Believe Memphis Academy Charter School prepares students in grades Kindergarten-8 with the academic rigor, robust supports, and leadership development necessary to excel in high school, thrive in college, and lead lives full of opportunity.