Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas
Minutes
Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas Board Retreat Meeting
Date and Time
Saturday August 16, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Location
2450 Hampton Rd
Henderson, NV 89052
Posting of Agenda: This agenda has been posted at the following locations:
Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas (“CASLV”) Central Office, 2450 Hampton Road, Henderson, NV 89052, CASLV website at www.caslv.org, and Nevada Public Notice website at http://notice.nv.gov.
Format / Procedures / Rules: This is a notice of a public meeting held pursuant to NRS Chapter 241. Members of the public are invited to be present.
Certain items may be removed from open/public consideration if permitted or required by Nevada law. The Board may also (i) take agenda items out of order; (ii) combine two or more items for consideration; (iii) separate one item into multiple items; (iv) table an agenda item to a future meeting; and/or (v) remove an agenda item.
Reasonable efforts will be made to assist and accommodate persons with physical disabilities desiring to attend the meeting. Please contact Ms. Shepard at ashepard@coralacademylv.org at least 48 hours before the time of the meeting, if possible, so that reasonable arrangements may conveniently be made.
Please also contact Ms. Shepard if you would like a copy of the agenda and any public reference materials relating to agenda items. Those materials will also be available at the meeting location. Those materials would provide you with greater context and clarity as to the matters under discussion.
By law, no one may willfully disrupt the meeting to the extent that its orderly conduct becomes impractical.
All items are action or possible action items if denoted as such.
Directors Present
Arlene Hayman, Arlene Hayman, Chan Lengsavath, Esq., Dr. Carryn Warren, Elizabeth Kazelskis, Feyzi Tandogan (remote)
Directors Absent
Ann Diggins, Brin Gibson
Guests Present
Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant, Bridget Johnson-Peevy, Chief People Officer, David Hall, Esq., CASLV Legal Counsel, Dr. Ercan Aydogdu, CASLV Executive Director & CEO, Dr. Mustafa Gunozu, CASLV Chief Academic and Schools Officer, Hamza Cengiz, CASLV Director of IT, Kayla Davis, CASLV Centennial Hills Campus Principal, Mark Gardberg, Esq. CASLV Legal Counsel (remote), Nick Sarisahin, CASLV Chief Finance and Operations Officer, Selim Tanyeri, CASLV Chief Student Services Officer
I. Opening Items
A.
Call the Meeting to Order
B.
Public Comment
II. Consent Agenda
A.
May 21, 2025 Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)
This item was pulled out of the consent agenda.
B.
June 16, 2025 Governance Committee Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)
C.
Cadence Campus Additional Classroom Change Orders (For Possible Action)
This item was pulled out of the consent agenda.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Arlene Hayman |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Absent
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
No
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
Dr. Warren stated that she wants to remain consistent with her previous votes on this matter, while also complimenting the newly constructed classroom.
D.
Windmill and Sandy Ridge Campus's Front Entry Remodeling Project Change Orders (For Possible Action)
E.
Fire Alarm and System Upgrade Change Order for CASLV Windmill (For Possible Action)
F.
Teacher Appreciation Celebration Final Payment (For Possible Action)
G.
Consulting Services for Secondary ELA (For Possible Action)
H.
Consulting Services for Data Analysis (For Possible Action)
I.
Report of Purchases and Expenses Between $10,000 and $25,000 (For Possible Action)
III. Information/Discussion Items
A.
Nellis Construction Update (Information)
Representatives from KNIT Architecture and CORE Construction presented a comprehensive update on the Nellis AFB expansion project. They outlined the anticipated construction timeline, reviewed the 95% completed design plans in detail, and addressed questions and feedback from the board. The presentation provided assurance that the project remains on schedule and aligned with the board’s expectations, with the next steps focused on finalizing the design package and preparing for the start of construction.
B.
Executive Director’s Progress Report (Information)
Dr. Ercan discussed CASLV's accomplishments and shared important updates regarding students and school clubs with the board.
- Teachers and Staff Recruitment Numbers: Dr. Ercan presented current teacher and staff vacancies by campus (2 teacher vacancies and 5.5 non-teaching vacancies as of 8/13/25) and compared recruitment totals between SY 24–25 (506 staff) and SY 25–26 (517 staff).
- Central Office SLT Team: The senior leadership team members were introduced, including Selim Tanyeri (CSSO), Dr. Mustafa Gunozu (CASO), Nick Sarisahin (CFOO), and Bridget Johnson-Peevy (CPO), each outlining their updated titles and areas of responsibility.
- Class of 2025 Graduation: Coral Academy achieved a 99% graduation rate (167 out of 168 students). 60.4% will continue higher education in Nevada, 30.6% at prestigious national universities, and 9% will pursue trades, certificates, or gap years.
- High School AP Scores: AP results from CASLV Sandy Ridge campus were reviewed (details presented on the slide). Dr. Ercan emphasized the academic accomplishment by stating how both the number of students taking the AP exams and the percentage of passing scores increased over the years.
- US News & World Report Best Elementary and Middle School Rankings: Coral Academy campuses earned high rankings in Nevada: Elementary: Tamarus (#3), Centennial Hills (#20), Eastgate (#33). Middle: Eastgate (#3), Windmill (#4), Centennial Hills (#9), Sandy Ridge (#12).
- Professional Development Day: Teachers and staff from all seven campuses engaged in collaboration, training, and goal-setting to prepare for SY 25–26.
- First Day of School: Coral Academy launched the new academic year on August 11, 2025, welcoming students and families with a focus on growth and excellence.
- Principal Leadership Retreat: A two-day retreat was held in June at Lake Las Vegas with principals and the senior leadership team to strengthen leadership and collaboration.
- Operations & Facilities – CASLV Nellis Campus: New playground structure installed with grant funding.
- Operations & Facilities – CASLV Centennial Campus: Exterior painting is underway to refresh the building.
- Operations & Facilities – CASLV Windmill Campus: Classroom flooring replaced, fire system upgraded, new front office renovations completed for security, one classroom enlarged by 30%, faculty lounge extended, and additional staff restroom added.
- Operations & Facilities – CASLV Cadence Campus: New classroom addition near MPR nearly complete; grass field seeded; courtyard turf added; shade structures in progress.
- Operations & Facilities – CASLV Tamarus Campus: Playground graded for new shade structure, turf expansion planned, wall toppers installed around school perimeter, and new office lobby/security doors added.
- Operations & Facilities – CASLV Sandy Ridge Campus: Renovations include a new staff meeting room, a new classroom, upgraded teachers’ lounge/restrooms, new hallways, and a redesigned front office for improved security.
- Lunch Vendor & Kitchen Upgrades: Sandy Ridge, Windmill, and Nellis campuses will have a new lunch vendor this year, with electrical and plumbing kitchen upgrades underway.
- Next Meeting: Scheduled for September 24, 2025, at 4:30 pm in the Central Office.
C.
Eastgate Campus Bond/Loan Financing Update (Information)
Dr. Ercan reported that the project remains on track and that the three-party agreement with the neighbor, landlord, and CASLV has been finalized and signed by all parties. He noted that a few items remain outstanding, including the alternative road agreement with the City of Henderson. While the language of the agreement remains largely the same, CASLV is requesting some revisions now that the property is being purchased. Discussions with the City of Henderson attorneys are ongoing, and the agreement is expected to be finalized soon.
Mr. Nick provided an update on the Eastgate campus bond financing, noting that it has been approved by the EFF Board. He shared information regarding the financing and the estimated interest rate and reported on the tentative closing date. He further informed the board that Eastgate will be receiving a Kaboom grant for the playground.
This item was presented for informational purposes only.
IV. Discussion & Possible Action Items- Contracts, Purchases, and Procurements
A.
New Rubber Surfacing and Demolishing Old Playground Centennial Hills (For Possible Action)
Mr. Nick presented on the condition of the existing surface, noting that it is failing and requires replacement. He reported that bids were obtained and recommended awarding the project to Exerplay, a company with whom the organization has had positive prior experience. The proposed replacement surface will be blue in color.
B.
US Turf Tamarus Campus (For Possible Action)
Mr. Nick reported that the area has been graded and recommended installing approximately 8000 sq. feet of new artificial turf. He further recommended awarding the project to US Turf.
C.
Approval of Curriculum Purchases for the 2025–2026 School Year (For Possible Action)
Dr. Gunozu presented recommendations for instructional resources for the 2025–2026 academic year. Following a detailed discussion, including questions and concerns regarding the “AR” product, the team recommended the renewal of Coach Digital, AR, IXL, and NWEA MAP. These resources were requested by school sites and teachers to address instructional needs. Each program supports core instruction, intervention, or enrichment and has demonstrated alignment with academic standards, instructional effectiveness, and standardized assessments. The recommended selections are intended to sustain academic growth and address learning gaps across grade levels and subject areas.
D.
Financial Audit Company Agreement (For Possible Action)
Mr. Nick presented the proposed contract with the current auditor, Velez Hardy CPA and Advisors, noting a slight increase in fees. The same auditor who served in prior years will conduct the audit at a cost of $30,000, with an additional $2,500 for preparation of the Form 990s. The contract term is two years. Mr. Nick reported no performance concerns and highlighted the auditor’s effective communication.
V. Discussion/Possible Action Items-Governance/Policies/Finance
A.
Adding Drone Stipend in to Salary Schedule (For Possible Action)
Ms. Peevy presented a proposal specific to the Windmill campus to establish a Drone Competition Club aimed at engaging students in STEM, teamwork, and communication skills. The proposal included a $2,500 stipend for staff members contributing 100+ hours to the club, consistent with the stipend provided for robotics.
B.
Annual Provision of Assessment Whistleblower Protections (For Possible Action)
Dr. Gunozu presented this item, noting that it is an annual reporting requirement for the State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA).
C.
Annual Written Test Security Notice Certification (For Possible Action)
Dr. Gunozu presented this item, noting that it is an annual reporting requirement for the SPCSA.
D.
Discussion and Approval of New Mission Statement (For Possible Action)
Dr. Ercan presented this item, noting that although this is the 19th year, the mission statement has never been updated. Leadership has been discussing a revision to include STEM, and feedback was gathered through surveys of staff and families.
E.
Update of Eastgate Purchase & Corporate Resolution (For Possible Action)
This item was tabled until the board meeting on September 24, 2025.
F.
New Board Member Selection (For Possible Action)
It was discussed that the Board must replace Ms. Hayman with a current or retired teacher in good standing. The nominee is Melinda Kabar, a special education teacher at a local district school with a master’s degree.
Dr. Ercan noted that Arlene’s resignation is regrettable, emphasizing that term limits were removed to retain experienced members like her. This position differs from a regular Board membership, as it requires a teaching license, and today’s candidate is highly qualified.
Ms. Hayman acknowledged that it is the appropriate time for this transition. Ms. Hayman introduced Ms. Kabar, who currently teaches at an elementary school, serves 28 special education students, and acts as a mentor. Ms. Kabar expressed excitement to join the Board and contribute, and Mr. Lengsavath welcomed her to the Board.
G.
Board Committee Structure and Chairs of Committees (For Possible Action)
Dr. Warren agreed to serve as Academic Committee Chair, succeeding Ms. Hayman.
The election of other committee chairs was tabled until the next board meeting.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Arlene Hayman |
Aye
|
| Arlene Hayman |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Absent
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Abstain
|
H.
Review of Strategic Plan (For Possible Action)
Dr. Ercan presented the strategic plan in detail, providing additional facts and recent data. For example, the waitlist currently totals approximately 5,500 students, while the local school district has experienced a significant decline. Despite this, demand for CASLV remains strong.
Dr. Ercan noted that CASLV has already met or exceeded many empirical benchmarks, including teacher retention and student retention, both of which are above target. He said that he will provide more information regarding meeting the goals of the strategic plan at the next meeting.
No action was required.
VI. Public Comments (Information)
A.
Public Comment
No public comments.
No public comments.