A.C.E. Academy
Minutes
Board Meeting
Date and Time
Thursday November 21, 2024 at 7:30 PM
Location
Join Zoom Meeting https://aceacademycharter-org.zoom.us/j/84445533716?pwd=8fTF0HDnG5DVQQfe3NkMHhWCcyaJKC.1
Meeting ID: 844 4553 3716 Passcode: 246230
Mission: A.C.E Academy will equip students from all backgrounds to succeed in the college and career of their choice by driving academic excellence, developing strong character, and instilling an entrepreneurial mindset.
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Directors Present
D. Graham, K. Best, T. Cline
Directors Absent
C. Rodgers, J. Figueroa
Guests Present
D. Hammond (remote), Dr. Reese (remote), L. Minott (remote)
I. Opening Items
A.
Record Attendance
B.
Call the Meeting to Order
C.
School Mission
D.
Approve Agenda
II. Approve Minutes
A.
Approve Minutes
B.
Public Comment
We respectfully urge that public commentary remain exclusively related to the topics outlined in the present agenda. This protocol promotes a concentrated and productive dialogue.
C.
Hear from Board Chair
Dr. Cline opened the meeting with a warm welcome to all members of the board.
III. Staff Updates (New Hires & Vacancies)
A.
Laila Minott informed the board that a new staff member has been hired for EC and instructional support. This recent addition to our team will enhance our educational capacity and ensure we continue to provide exceptional services.
IV. Laila Minott
A.
A.C.E. Academy DPI Presentation for Charter Renewal Update
Laila Minott, following a DPI visit for our charter renewal, inquired about Dionna Graham's experience. Being a board member, Dionna Graham attended the session and found it quite instructive. Through this event, she got a deeper understanding of the significance of a strong, accountable school board. She pointed out that observing other schools, some of which were evidently ill-prepared, was quite concerning. However, she took great pride in our presentation and was relieved that we were not among the underprepared institutions.
V. Academic Update Presented by Dr. Reese
A.
Academic Data & Trends
Dr. Reese presented comprehensive EOG data, highlighting significant growth across all grade levels. As per EVAS data, the data showed that overall math proficiency experienced considerable progress. The 7th-grade students were a mere fraction away from surpassing the growth expectations in math. The school's math proficiency score on our report card increased from 38 to 51, reflecting a 17-point growth within a year and standing just four points short of achieving a 'C'. Notably, reading proficiency has been consistently strong, leading to an increased focus on improving math scores. Dr. Reese outlined future strategies to ensure sustained academic growth for our students.
B.
School Improvement Plan
Dr. Reese presented a comprehensive strategic plan designed with a single goal in mind—the consistent development and improvement of our students' academic growth. Dr. Reese's strategy is a well-thought-out initiative proposed as a significant part of her presentation for the Charter Renewal. This presentation was pivotal, showcasing the school's commitment to enhancing the educational experience and creating an environment conducive to learning.
VI. 2025-2026 Calendar
A.
2025-2026 Calendar
VII. Audit Report
A.
Audit Report
Laila Minott announced the completion of a clean audit. The comprehensive report was provided for board members to review. Ms. Minott took the time to walk through the audit report, highlighting the absence of any findings.
VIII. Construction & Financing Update
A.
Construction & Financing Update
Laila Minott informed the board about the lender's approval of our proposal, pending the completion of our audit. Now, we are progressing toward the initial stages of obtaining the necessary funds for the preschool, the middle school's additional classrooms, and the gym. This funding will be received in two phases. The first phase will cater to the preschool and additional classrooms, enabling us to introduce three more classes for grades K-2. Consequently, we'll have three classes per grade for K-2 and two classes per grade for 3-8. The limitation on expanding to three classes for grades 3-8 is due to space constraints. Ms. Minott mentioned that this model, which reduces the class size from 70-75 to 50 students, is practiced in other schools. A lottery will be implemented to fill the remaining seats.
A.C.E Academy will equip students from all backgrounds to succeed in the college and career of their choice by driving academic excellence, developing strong character, and instilling an entrepreneurial mindset.