A settlement agreement was approved for Closed Session Case No. 2024100529.

This presentation highlighted a successful all-staff meeting in February focused on professional development, aligning with the school's mission and vision, and understanding the learning styles of today's tech-savvy students. The school continues to prioritize intervention support, a thriving GATE program, and fostering strong social connections among students and families through various engaging events. Additionally, the presentation showcased a marketing video and celebrated Annie Mun, the leadership teacher, for her impactful work in student fundraising. Ongoing professional development across departments and the postponement of a community event due to weather were also mentioned, alongside continued CAASPP test preparation and a successful science fair.

Blake's parent, Mr.  Kakuda, shared a heartfelt testimonial about his son's positive experience at Excel Academy. Blake, diagnosed with autism at 18 months and initially thought to be nonverbal, began speaking at age five after extensive therapy. A video showcased Blake enthusiastically describing his various classes and the support he receives from his teachers. Mr. Kakuda praised the exceptional special education teachers and the collaborative IEP team, including OT, speech therapy, and assistive technology support, all working towards Blake's goal of self-sufficiency in data entry. Impressively, since attending Excel Academy, Blake's GPA has risen to a 4.0, and his reading comprehension and vocabulary skills have improved at a significantly higher rate compared to his previous schooling. Mr. Kakuda expressed deep gratitude to the board and all the Excel staff for their tremendous positive impact on Blake's life.

The board members expressed strong positive sentiments about the meeting and various aspects of the school's work. Key takeaways include:

• Appreciation for Staff and Efforts: There was significant appreciation expressed for the hard work of all staff members and Heidi's leadership.
• Positive Parent Experience: Mr. Kakuda's presentation about his child's positive experience, feeling supported and having needs met, was highlighted as "awesome" and gave one member "goosebumps," emphasizing the importance of parental trust and support.
• Successful Bowling Event: The high participation (375 attendees) at the bowling event was acknowledged as "amazing" and indicative of good work.
• Positive Feedback from Excel Visit: A visit to Excel's office, where board members met with staff and parents, was described as a "great experience" that provided valuable insights into the organization's atmosphere and feelings, which aids in their governance work.
• Impactful Student Testimony: A student's heartfelt, unscripted testimony was noted as particularly powerful and confidence-building.
• Positive Financial Status: The reported 8% return on investment and the overall good financial shape of the organization were highlighted as especially important in the current climate.
• Acknowledgement of Unseen Staff: There was a specific thank you extended to the staff members who work behind the scenes and whose contributions might not always be visible.

Heidi emphasized the strong team effort as the school approaches the end of the year in March, especially highlighting the smooth transition with Heather joining as the new Director of Education mid-year. She specifically commended the executive cabinet – Jenny, Joe, Lauren, Megan, and Lara – for their supportive embrace of Heather and their resilience in navigating the changes. Heidi expressed admiration for everyone's approach to communication and their continued achievement of great things despite the growing pains of this significant transition. She concluded by thanking her executive cabinet for their collaborative spirit.