A.C.E. Academy
Minutes
A.C.E. Academy January 23, 2025 Board Meeting
Date and Time
Wednesday January 29, 2025 at 7:00 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 (remote), J. Figueroa (remote), K. Best (remote), T. Cline (remote)
Directors Absent
C. Rodgers
Guests Present
D. Hammond (remote)
I. Opening Items
A.
Record Attendance
B.
Call the Meeting to Order
C.
School Mission
D.
Approve Agenda
Dionna Graham moved to accept the agenda pending the finalization of the immigration policy.
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 and Ms. Minott discussed the board's goals, emphasizing that the board should set clear objectives for the next few months. They stressed that the functions of the school and the board should remain distinct. The board will not simply approve everything but will understand the school's operations without interfering in daily activities. Those elected will manage day-to-day operations and lead the school. The board's goal is to design objectives that best guide the school. We are currently seeking new board members that will be committed to the school.
III. Charter Renewal
A.
Charter Renewal
Ms. Minott shared the exciting news that our Charter Renewal has been approved, giving us three more years. The new charter contract will be mailed out soon for everyone to review.
IV. Staff Updates (New Hires & Vacancies)
A.
New Hire
Ms. Laila Minott explained that we hired an EC teacher through an agency because we couldn't find one directly. She discussed the pros and cons of using an agency, noting that EC teachers are in high demand and hard to find. The agency was the best option to fill the position. Ms. Minott also mentioned that she and Ms. Pooja, the EC director, applied for a grant to get someone to act as a one-on-one assistant to help support a student in the classroom.
V. Closed session
A.
Closed Session
Meeting went into closed at 7:21 pm
To prevent the disclosure of information that is privileged or confidential pursuant to the law of this State or of the United
States, or not considered a public record within the meaning of Chapter 132 of the General Statutes.
VI. Budget Approvals
A.
December Budget Review
Ms. Minott presented the December budget review, confirming our good financial standing. She noted some categories require further review due to underspending but mentioned there are unspent funds. She provided an example of reallocating funds appropriately. Ms. Minott requested the board to approve the December budget for 2024.
VII. New Board Members
A.
New Board Members
Ms. Minott updated the Board Member description document for charter school's that explains what is expected from all board members and their duties. She is asking the board to approve this new version and suggests it be used when bringing in new members. This will help new recruits understand their roles and responsibilities clearly from the start.
VIII. Conflict of Interest DPI Performance Framework
A.
Conflict of Interest
Ms. Minott shared Dr. Cline's recommendation that the board should formally vote on the Conflict-of-Interest Framework document. This document has been used and signed by each board member. However, there is no formal record of the board's agreement to this policy. Dr. Cline stressed the importance of taking this matter seriously and addressing it with the board.
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.