Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas
Minutes
Coral Academy of Science Board Meeting
Date and Time
Tuesday March 10, 2026 at 4:30 PM
Location
CASLV Central Office
8985 S. Eastern Ave #375
Las Vegas, NV, 89123
Posting of Agenda: This agenda has been posted at the following locations:
Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas (“CASLV”) Central Office, 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
Ann Diggins (remote), Chan Lengsavath, Esq., Dr. Carryn Warren, Elizabeth Kazelskis (remote), Feyzi Tandogan, Melinda Kabar
Directors Absent
Brin Gibson
Directors who arrived after the meeting opened
Melinda Kabar
Directors who left before the meeting adjourned
Elizabeth Kazelskis
Guests Present
Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant, Bridget Johnson-Peevy, CASLV Chief People Officer, David Hall, Esq., CASLV Legal Counsel (remote), Dr. Ercan, CASLV Executive Director and CEO, Dr. Mustafa Gunozu, CASLV Chief Academic and School Officer, Jessica Paquin, CASLV School Safety, Security and Student Success Coordinator, Julene Ballard, CASLV Centennial Hills Assistant Principal, Mark Gardberg, Esq. CASLV Legal Counsel, Mia Nelson, CASLV Nellis AFB Principal, Monica Patel, DMS Representative (remote), Nick Sarishahin, CASLV Chief Financial and Operations Officer, Selim Tanyeri, CASLV Chief Student Services Officer (remote)
I. Opening Items
A.
Call the Meeting to Order
B.
Public Comment
II. Consent Agenda
A.
January 21, 2026 Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
B.
February 25, 2026 Finance & Facilities Committee Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
C.
Third-Party Testing Lab Agreement for Nellis Campus Construction (For Possible Action)
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
D.
Revolution Foods School Meal Service Agreement Renewal (For Possible Action)
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
E.
Tamarus Campus Chromebook Purchases (For Possible Action)
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
F.
Report of Purchases and Expenses Between $10,000 and $25,000 (Information)
Dr. Ercan reviewed the purchases and expensees in detail.
Information item, no action.
III. Information/Discussion Items
A.
Quarterly Discipline Report (Information)
CASLV School Safety, Security, and Student Success Coordinator Ms. Paquin presented the quarterly discipline report in detail, addressed the Board’s questions regarding upcoming changes to the restorative justice plan, and indicated she will provide follow-up at the next Board meeting.
Information only, no action.
B.
Nellis AFB Campus Academic Update (Information)
Ms. Nelson presented the academic update for the Nellis Campus, with a focus on student performance in Math, ELA, and Science, as well as key campus metrics. A significant highlight was the steady decline in chronic absenteeism over the past four academic years. At the elementary level, chronic absenteeism decreased from 20.2% in 2022–2023 to 2.9% in 2025–2026, while the middle school saw a reduction from 19% to 3.6% during the same period, reflecting substantial improvement in student attendance.
Staff retention was also noted as a major strength for the campus. The overall teacher retention rate is 94.3%, with 100% of 3rd through 5th grade teachers returning for the upcoming year, and only three teachers not returning. The administration attributed these positive outcomes to several key contributing factors, including the implementation of progressive discipline practices, the use of co-teaching models, ongoing coaching and feedback for teachers, and a strong emphasis on maintaining a positive campus climate and culture. Overall, the update underscored the connection between effective leadership and improved student outcomes.
The board remarked that the chronic absenteeism rate is impressive and an outstanding achievement. Ms. Nelson thanked the board and noted that her team works diligently every day, consistently advancing the school’s mission and vision, and putting in the hard work to support students.
Information only, no action.
C.
State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA) 2025 Site Evaluations Report (Information)
Dr. Ercan explained that the report is based on site visits conducted in December 2026 and noted that this was the first year all seven campuses were visited. He thanked the board members who participated in the board focus group and reviewed a detailed summary of the findings. The State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA) site evaluations for the seven campuses within the Coral Academy network confirmed that CASLV continues to operate as a high-performing charter network with strong academic outcomes. Several campuses earned 4- or 5-star ratings on the Nevada School Performance Framework (NSPF), with academic growth and proficiency frequently exceeding district and state averages. The report highlighted strengths including strong implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), high levels of student engagement, low chronic absenteeism, and a positive school climate, as well as clear mission alignment with STEM education and strong operational practices supported by stable governance and effective board oversight.
The evaluation also identified areas for continued focus, including facilities capacity limitations, staff recruitment and retention challenges, particularly in STEM and special education, and staff workload concerns. Families noted inconsistent communication platforms across campuses, and the report emphasized the need to continue addressing opportunity gaps for students with disabilities and English learners. The SPCSA recommended strengthening inclusive instructional practices, expanding professional development on differentiation and data-driven instruction, streamlining communication systems, and continuing long-term facilities planning. Six campuses received no deficiencies, while one prior deficiency at the Nellis campus remains under monitoring with evidence of academic improvement, and all campuses remain operationally compliant.
Information only, no action.
D.
Fiscal Year 2025 Coral Academy of Science final approved Financial Performance Framework Ratings (Information)
Mr. Nick reported that all financial standards are being met, including strong performance in cash flow, grant compliance, and overall financial management, with no findings or deficiencies identified. It was emphasized that meeting these standards represents the highest rating possible, and in many areas, performance exceeds expectations. Dr. Ercan highlighted that, unlike many schools that receive deficiencies, CASLV has achieved full compliance across all measures, reflecting a high level of financial stability and accountability, and he thanked Mr. Nick.
Information only, no action.
E.
Financial Update (Information)
Ms. Patel presented the financials through the end of February, reviewing the reported amounts and noting that most budget categories are expected to be at or near projections. She highlighted purchased services as an area of concern that is being closely monitored. Overall, financial performance remains stable, and all SPCSA standards are currently on target.
Information only, no action.
F.
Executive Director’s Progress Report (Information)
Dr. Ercan discussed CASLV's accomplishments and shared important updates regarding students and school clubs with the board.
- SPCSA Executive Director Melissa Mackedon recognized Coral Academy for the Eastgate campus purchase and playground design and construction at the Eastgate Campus during the SPCSA's board meeting.
- Coral Academy participated in the CSGF CEO Excellence program with senior leadership, focusing on long-term sustainability planning, and was awarded a $30,000 grant to support implementation across the network.
- Construction has begun on the Nellis AFB Campus expansion, with a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled on April 1, 2026.
- The Sandy Ridge Campus earned Platinum distinction on the 2025 AP School Honor Roll, with 85% of students taking at least one AP exam, 67% scoring 3 or higher, and 49% completing five or more AP exams.
- Students Ezekiel H., Drake L. (Sandy Ridge), and Julian H. (Windmill) achieved top placements in the MATHCOUNTS Chapter Competition, with Drake L. earning 3rd place in the Countdown Round; the Sandy Ridge team placed 1st and the Windmill team placed 5th in Southern Nevada. Sandy Ridge brought the visiting championship trophy home one more time.
- At the Cadence Campus, fifth-grade students participated in the Great American Challenge, presenting project outcomes to community leaders and guests, where Henderson Mayor Romero attended.
- The Centennial Hills Campus hosted Reading Week activities, including a visit from Mayor Shelley Berkley to promote literacy.
- The Nellis AFB Campus hosted Career Day, connecting students with professionals from multiple industries including military, aviation, and healthcare.
- The Windmill Campus held a successful Science Fair showcasing student innovation and creativity.
- The Eastgate Campus hosted a Book-nic event, encouraging family engagement through shared reading experiences.
- The Sandy Ridge Campus Model UN team earned the Best Small Delegation Award at LVMUN XII; Ty T. received Best Delegate and Top Research (UK), Allison H. earned a Commendation (Cuba), and Maqbool I. received a Commendation and was named Best Middle School Delegate (Canada).
- Multiple campuses received MTSS PBIS recognitions: Centennial Hills, Tamarus, and Windmill Campuses earned Diamond; Eastgate and Sandy Ridge Campuses earned Platinum; the Nellis AFB Campus earned Gold; and the Cadence Campus earned Silver.
- Coach Daisy Cayetano from the Cadence Campus was named NCSAA Coach of the Year.
- The Eastgate Campus hosted a Nevada Reading Week author visit featuring Rooman Ahad, promoting inclusion and kindness through her book.
- Cason N. (Sandy Ridge Campus) earned Carson Scholar recognition and an NASC scholarship, including a $1,000 college award.
- The Cadence Campus robotics team (“Dream Team”) was featured in the Las Vegas Review-Journal for qualifying for a world championship competition.
- Robotics teams across the Cadence, Windmill, Centennial Hills, and Sandy Ridge Campuses earned multiple state championships, awards, and qualifications for national and world competitions, including standout student contributors such as Miles H., Lenny H., Avika G., and Anjali S. (Sandy Ridge).
- Drone teams from the Windmill Campus advanced to regional and national competitions.
- The Windmill Campus hosted a Girl Powered STEM Workshop for students across multiple grade levels.
- The Windmill Campus also hosted its first middle school Speech and Debate Tournament, where a student earned 2nd place in Impromptu Speaking and 3rd place in Original Oratory.
- The Cadence Campus robotics teams achieved strong results at multiple competitions, including Team 10058C Genesis Eagles earning tournament recognition and advancing, and Team 10058D Mecha Eagles reaching the semifinals in their first V5 season.
- The Eastgate Campus hosted International Family Night, celebrating culture and community engagement.
- The Sandy Ridge Campus participated in National Day of Hope activities focused on student wellness and mental health awareness.
- Students at the Sandy Ridge Campus completed the Angel Park Project, applying geometry concepts to real-world design in collaboration with local professionals.
- Amelia L. (Eastgate Campus) earned 2nd place in a Girl Scouts debate competition.
- The Sandy Ridge Campus hosted a student council assembly recognizing winter athletes and student performers.
- The Nellis AFB Campus hosted its annual Glow Party to celebrate student MAP growth achievements.
- The Windmill Campus hosted a Cupid Shuffle dance event with strong family participation.
- The Sandy Ridge Campus Girls Varsity Basketball Team recognized seniors Isabella R., Ashlynn W., Bethel B., Savannah C., and Natalia P. during Senior Night and secured a win; the middle school boys team also had a strong season.
- The Cadence Campus Cheer Team placed second in the NSCAA Battle of the Hearts competition.
- The Windmill Campus robotics team (Fearless Falcons) earned top placements, including Teamwork Champion, and qualified for the Nevada Middle School State Championship.
- The next board meeting will be held on April 8, 2026, at 4:30 PM at the Centennial Hills Campus.
IV. Discussion & Possible Action Items- Contracts, Purchases, and Procurements
A.
Medical Insurance Renewal (For Possible Action)
The upcoming insurance renewal is effective April 1, noting that the initial proposed increase of 27% was successfully negotiated down to 20% with the help of the broker. While other carriers were explored, none offered better plan options, and most staff expressed satisfaction with the current provider, making it preferable to remain with the existing company. The school currently covers 90% of employee premiums and 60% for dependents, with over 300 of the 530 total staff members enrolled in medical insurance. It was noted that the provider aims to keep usage below 80%, which can impact rates.
The updated plan offerings will include a shift to a Balance HMO and the addition of another lower-cost HMO option, while removing one existing plan, resulting in a total of five plan options. Staff will also have the flexibility to choose different premiums and deductibles based on their preferred level of risk. Based on projected staff selections, the overall increase is expected to be between 6% and 8%. If approved, the broker will present the updated options to staff prior to the April 1 implementation, and Ms. Peevy reviewed the associated cost estimates.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
B.
Special Education Services Provider Agreement (For Possible Action)
The discussion focused on expanding services to better support student behavior, particularly for more complex cases, by increasing the pool of specialized service providers. Mr. Selim noted that securing these resources can be challenging, and adding this provider would mean incorporating another vendor to help achieve full SPED coverage, alongside existing partners. It was clarified that services are not limited to IEPs and can include staff training, although some training is already handled in-house. Overall, the rates were considered very reasonable and affordable.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
C.
Centennial Hills Campus Admin Area Remodeling (For Possible Action)
The CASLV Centennial Hills Teachers’ Lounge renovation project, presented by Ms. Ballard, focuses on enhancing staff wellness, morale, and collaboration by creating a more welcoming and functional space. The current lounge faces challenges such as outdated design, limited space, insufficient storage, inadequate electrical fixtures, and poor accommodation and ventilation for equipment like copy machines.
The proposed renovation aims to create a comfortable, updated environment with dedicated collaboration areas, improved electrical access, better organization, and expanded space, including an approximately 5-by-12-foot addition. Improvements will include added cabinets, upgraded mailboxes, and a redesigned layout to better support staff needs and equipment use.
Funding for the project includes $1,000 from the PTO, $30,000 raised from this year’s Fun Run, and $9,000 from spirit item sales, along with support from the general fund. An additional Fun Run is planned for September to help further fund the project.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Abstain
|
V. Discussion/Possible Action Items-Governance/Policies/Finance
A.
Concussion Policy Update (For Possible Action)
Mr. Selim updated the board on revisions to the language concerning school nurses. Mr. Hall and Mr. Gardberg contributed to these updates, which also included general document cleanup.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
B.
Memorandum of Understanding with UNLV for Special Education Services (For Possible Action)
Mr. Selim reported that UNLV presented an overview of its services and requested the memorandum of understanding to begin the process. No specific dollar amounts were provided at this time. He noted that UNLV will submit a detailed plan, which will be returned to the Board for review and consideration.
Members Dr. Warren and Ms. Diggins abstained since they work for UNLV.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Abstain
|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Abstain
|
C.
Tuition Reimbursement Policy Amendment (For Possible Action)
Ms. Peevy reviewed proposed updates to the tuition reimbursement policy. Under the current proposal, previously presented, eligible employees must have at least nine months of employment with CASLV. A revision was proposed to instead require that employees begin employment on or before December 31 of the current school year to qualify for tuition reimbursement for that academic year.
It was confirmed that employees actively on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) will remain ineligible for tuition reimbursement during the duration of the PIP. However, clarification was added that these employees are still eligible to participate in professional development opportunities, such as courses, workshops, and training that directly support their improvement.
Ms. Peevy also revisited a previous revision that had not been approved by the Board, which would have limited eligibility for tuition reimbursement for doctorate degrees to members of the Senior Leadership Team and Principals. The current recommendation is to revert to the original policy language, which does not restrict eligibility for doctoral degrees to specific leadership roles.
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
VI. Public Comments (Information)
A.
Public Comment
No public comments.
VII. Closing Items
A.
Adjourn Meeting
| Roll Call | |
|---|---|
| Feyzi Tandogan |
Aye
|
| Melinda Kabar |
Aye
|
| Elizabeth Kazelskis |
Absent
|
| Dr. Carryn Warren |
Aye
|
| Chan Lengsavath, Esq. |
Aye
|
| Ann Diggins |
Aye
|
| Brin Gibson |
Absent
|
No public comments.