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

T. Cline called a meeting of the board of directors of A.C.E. Academy to order on Thursday Nov 21, 2024 at 7:35 PM.

C.

School 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.

D.

Approve Agenda

K. Best made a motion to approve the minutes from A.C.E. Academy October 24, 2024 Board Meeting on 10-24-24.
T. Cline seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.

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.

T. Cline made a motion to approve the new hire for EC services and Instructional support.
K. Best seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.

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.

T. Cline made a motion to approve A.C.E. Academy's Improvement Plan.
K. Best seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.

VI. 2025-2026 Calendar

A.

2025-2026 Calendar

T. Cline made a motion to approve the school calendar for the 2025-2026 school year.
K. Best seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.

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.

IX. Closing Items

A.

Adjourn Meeting

There being no further business to be transacted, and upon motion duly made, seconded and approved, the meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,
D. Hammond

B.

Closed Session