Inwood Academy for Leadership Charter School
Minutes
September Board of Trustees Meeting
Date and Time
Tuesday September 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Location
433 West 204th Street, New York, NY 10034
Trustees Present
C. Reyes, J. Almonte (remote), J. Looney (remote), M. Rosenthal (remote), S. Santo (remote)
Trustees Absent
C. Talero, J. Zucker, K. Drezner, V. Singh
Guests Present
B. Mercedes, J. Pichardo
I. Opening Items
A.
Record Attendance
B.
Call the Meeting to Order
C.
Approval of Minutes and Agenda
II. Board Committee Reports
A.
25-26 SY Goals Report
B.
Academic Committee Report
New York State Assessment Results
B. Mercedes presented the 2025–2026 state assessment results. Mathematics proficiency increased overall, with sixth grade outperforming both the district and New York City; ELA results were mixed, and the school will expand successful textual-analysis practices across grades K–12.
C.
Finance and Facilities Report
A. Enrollment Report
J. Pichardo reported enrollment of approximately 907 students, representing 96.7% of the school’s overall seat goal and remaining slightly above the prior year. Elementary School enrollment increased significantly, Middle School enrollment declined as anticipated, and the school continues backfilling available High School seats.
B. Finance Update
The school is currently two students below its budgeted enrollment, with several pending registrations expected to close the gap. Finances are trending positively, and the school’s goal is to add approximately $500,000 to its reserves.
IV. Board Development
A. Board Recruitment
The Board received an update on two prospective trustees with experience in finance, operations, government, and community development. The candidates are expected to attend the October meeting for further consideration.
A. Attendance and Academic Outcomes - 25-26SY Goals in Review
C. Reyes reported that overall attendance was slightly below the goal, although the Elementary and Middle Schools met the target. The school exceeded its English Regents and graduation goals, while Algebra I results were mixed across grade levels.
B. Finance, Enrollment, and Staffing Goals
J. Pichardo reported that the prior-year deficit is expected to remain below $500,000, pending completion of the audit by October 31. The school met its english language learner application goal, significantly increased Elementary School enrollment, and continues working to strengthen teacher recruitment.