Ms. Tori Harris, board member candidate, was introduced.

Allen Gamble from Lewis & Knopf CPAs presented the 2024-25 fiscal year audit. The school received a clean, unmodified audit opinion, which is the highest level of assurance.

Mr. Cherry presented the September finance report, showing year-to-date expenses and a temporary negative fund balance, which is expected before the first state aid payment arrives in October. He also mentioned the new state budget increased per-pupil funding to $10,050, a significant increase from the previous year’s $9,608.

1. Ms. Williams shared on her report highlighting the return of the “Student of the Month” program and celebrating a student named Kelsey, who was selected as a student ambassador for the healthcare program at the Open Schools Technical Campus (OTEC). 
2. Ms. Williams shared on recent community events and partnerships, including engagement with the Lighthouse Mission and the Pontiac Promise Zone, which provides financial support for students’ post-secondary education and certifications. Upcoming events were announced, including the Lighthouse Grand Opening on November 14th and the Angels Night Out for the Trucker Tree at M1 Concourse this coming Thursday.
3. Ms. Williams shared on a new PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) program called “learn for life dollars” has been implemented. Students earn this “fake money” for academics, behavior, and attendance, which they can use to purchase items like pizza, movie day access, and t-shirts.
4. Ms. Williams mentioned Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for November 6th, and communication has already been sent to parents. She also shared a group of 10-11 students attended the first HBCU college fair hosted by Oakland ISD, providing them with exposure to various colleges and universities.
5. Ms. Williams shared A competitive grant application is being submitted to Ferris State University to seek funding for the PBIS program, and requested Mr. Sanford’ signature on the grant application.

Mr. Homes introduced Mr. Nakon and asked him to briefly describe his position and where he is from.

Mr. Berry gave a marketing recap from July to September highlighted significant reach, including 3.2 million digital ad impressions and 6.9 million billboard impressions. The Pontiac 2gether event drew 370 attendees and collected over 530 leads.

Mr. Thornhill talked about the lead conversion team is currently nurturing 17 “committed” leads and 25 “interested” leads.

Mr. Miller gave a brief introduction on the new State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Glenn Maleyko, which will be begin in early December and may bring staff from the district he is from. 

Mr. Holmes gave a reminder on the December 10-11 MAPSA Symposium and invited the board to register and attend.

Mr. Robinson reported that he is actively working on the 1023 application. He would also like to work on scheduling a meeting for board policy updates. Several proposed dates have conflicts, so scheduling is still in progress.

Mr. Jack Gilbert shared positive feedback from his classroom observations. He noted that the PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) program is strong, students were on task, and the staff is influential. He also directed the board to a document regarding the distinction between board governance and service provider management.

Mr. Sanford reminded everyone that enrollment will go up with the help of school staff, LLAC, and board members.

Mr. Ewing reminded the board, “it’s all about the kids”!

Ms. Sharp appreciated the reminder Principal Williams gave with the upcoming dates and events so the board members can plan to attend.

Next Meeting Date: November 20, 2025, at 6:00pm.