M. Smith provided an update on several governance matters.

He noted that the board remained on track with the Executive Director evaluation process and that BoardOnTrack would be used for the year-end evaluation. He said the goal was to complete the process by the end of June or July, following graduation.

M. Smith also discussed planning for a board retreat at the beginning of the school year. The board discussed the possibility of holding the retreat during the last week of August, potentially in connection with a staff gathering.

M. Smith provided an update on the NYSED renewal process. He noted that the school had been apprised throughout the process and that certain items in the renewal report required correction, including clerical and housekeeping matters. He said the renewal process was generally in good shape and that the school continued to focus on enrollment, financial improvement, and programmatic compliance.

M. Smith also highlighted the recent school production of Sister Act Jr., describing it as an outstanding production and a strong reflection of Amani’s arts program.

The board voted to move into executive session to discuss capital planning.

The board later returned from executive session.

T. Cajoux provided the financial report through February 2026.

He reported that the school remained positive year-to-date through February and reviewed the school’s year-end projections. He discussed ongoing efforts to manage expenses and reduce the projected deficit while minimizing disruption to the student experience.

T. Cajoux also noted that the school had begun developing the budget for the next fiscal year, with enrollment and program assumptions being reviewed as part of that process.

The board reviewed the proposed school calendar for the next fiscal year.

The calendar includes 190 school days and is generally consistent with prior years. The board discussed the structure of school days, holidays, half days, and days off.

G. Sardi made a motion to approve the proposed school calendar.
The motion was seconded.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

She reported on the administration of MAP assessments, including math assessments for kindergarten students for the first time. She noted that winter math results were above the national norm and said the school was pleased with student performance in both math and English.

J. Ciavirella also provided updates on recent and upcoming student activities, including Hat vs. Sock Day, Trivia Day, the Scholar vs. Basketball game, parent-teacher conferences, the NYC Science Assessment, and the National Junior Honor Society.

She also praised the school’s recent production of Sister Act Jr., describing it as a phenomenal student performance.

He discussed the Lady Pink mural project and noted that D. Stern was working with the Art Club on designs, with painting dates anticipated in June.

The board also discussed potential future fundraising initiatives, including a New York City-based event to attract Amani supporters who may be less likely to travel to Westchester, as well as a possible golf outing. The committee will continue exploring fundraising opportunities before the close of the school year.

C. Stern noted that materials had been included in the board packet and that the expansion planning process was continuing.

Board members were encouraged to review the materials carefully and share questions in advance of future meetings so that issues could be addressed efficiently.