Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas
Minutes
Regular Board Meeting
Date and Time
Wednesday October 27, 2021 at 5:00 PM
Location
1051 Sandy Ridge Pkwy. Henderson, NV 89052
Posting of Agenda: This agenda has been posted at the following locations:
Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas (“CASLV”), Green Valley Library, Enterprise Library, James Gibson Library, Paseo Verde Library. Whitney Library, 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.
Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas (“CASLV”), Green Valley Library, Enterprise Library, James Gibson Library, Paseo Verde Library. Whitney Library, 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, Arlene Hayman, Brin Gibson, Dr. Carryn Warren, Elizabeth Kazelskis, Feyzi Tandogan (remote)
Directors Absent
None
Guests Present
Andrea Katotakis, Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant, Bridget Peevy, Crissy Hanna, Dr. Ercan Aydogdu, Emrullah Eraslan, Ismail Kocabiyik, Mark Gardberg, CASLV Legal Counsel, Nick Sarisahin, Omer Arikan, Selim Tanyeri, Taylor Rylant, Yolanda Flores, as well as candidates for the open board position.
I. Opening Items
A.
Call the Meeting to Order
Ann Diggins called a meeting of the board of directors of Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas to order on Wednesday Oct 27, 2021 at 5:00 PM.
B.
Public Comment
Brin Gibson arrived at 5:17 p.m.
At 6:47 p.m. Feyzi Tandogan disconnected and returned at 7:06 p.m.
The board took a brief break from 7:00 p.m. to 7:07 p.m.
Ms. Diggins asked that during the public comment period the candidates for the open board seat introduce themselves. Ms. Diggins added the board is happily surprised at the high quality of people that are interested in possibly joining the board and that there is currently one vacancy the board is looking to fill. Ms. Diggins also reviewed the process the board will use to fill the position. Each candidate introduced themselves and shared their background and interest in serving on the CASLV governing board.
There were no other public comments.
II. Consent Agenda
A.
Approval of the September 18, 2021, Regular Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action), Report of Purchases and Expenses Between $10,000 and $25,000 (Information), Renewal of Henderson Chamber of Commerce Membership and Sponsorship (For Possible Action)
Ann Diggins asked if the board has any questions or comments regarding these routine items.
Mr. Nick had a follow-up from the September 18, 2021 agenda item III. H Liability Insurance Renewal. He checked with the insurance broker and CASLV received credit for $8,140 from the Eastgate campus landlord.
Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the consent agenda Regular Board Meeting on 09-18-21.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
III. Discussion & Possible Action Items
A.
Appointment of Dr. Carryn Warren as Acting Treasurer Until the Regular Appointment at the Next Board Meeting (For Possible Action)
Ann Diggins explained that the board vacancy is for the treasurer position. It is important for the potential candidate to have a strong financial background.
Ann Diggins made a motion to elect Dr. Warren as CASLV acting treasurer
until our new member is elected at the February 2022 board meeting.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
B.
Amendment of the 2021-2022 School Year Student/Parent Handbooks (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan indicated there were urgent items that needed to be updated and he summarized them.
Mr. Gardberg added currently pre-k - 5th grade girls can wear skirts and skorts and recommends we make that policy gender-neutral. Mr. Gardberg added the Lottery Policy requires updating as per the September board meeting in regards to feeder schools.
Arlene Hayman made a motion to accept the Student Handbook with the amendments that were discussed.
Brin Gibson seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
C.
Amendment of Licensed Teacher Salary Scale for SY 2022-2023 (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan explained this has been discussed in previous board meetings and we worked with Mr. Nick regarding improving the salary scale for the next school year. The starting salaries are higher than CCSD's starting salaries. Mr. Nick added this will affect next year's budget by approximately $1 million, and we haven't started to work on next year's detailed budget. The uncertainties are meeting Cadence enrollment numbers as well as the Cadence construction timeline. Ms. Diggins asked if there are any questions or comments.
Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the Licensed Teacher Salary Scale for 2022-2023 school year.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
D.
Retention Payment to the Returning Full Time Teachers and Staff (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan explained since we could not make any changes to the salary scale this year it is proposed to give a retention stipend compensation to teachers, registrars, receptionists, maintenance, school nurses, and health assistants in the amount of $1,000. Teacher aides will receive $800. It will cost $190,000. School administration is excluded as well as central office staff. Two, equal payments will be distributed in November 2021 and June 2022. The board agrees this is great.
Arlene Hayman made a motion to approve the retention payment for the returning full-time teachers and staff for the current 2021-22 school year.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
E.
Policy regarding the rights and needs of persons with diverse gender identities or expressions (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan indicated that in accordance with Nevada regulations, CASLV must devise a policy by January 31, 2022, as well as train our teachers and staff. The central office created this policy with the guidance of legal counsel. Ms. Diggins asked operationally, how this policy will be applied here. Mr. Ercan addressed Ms. Diggins' questions. Ms. Flores added the Sandy Ridge campus has been adhering to the proposed policy since she has been principal for the last six years.
Brin Gibson made a motion to adopt the Right and Needs of Persons with Diverse Gender Identities or Expressions Policy.
Ann Diggins seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
F.
COVID-19 Vaccination Incentive (For Possible Action)
This item was discussed at the September board meeting at length. The board requested we discuss possible incentives at the central office. At present, 82% of CASLV staff are fully vaccinated. Mr. Tandogan suggested the incentive of an additional personal day for all vaccinated staff, regardless of when the vaccine was received. Currently, each staff member has eight personal days. This policy will give one additional day. If a fully-vaccinated staff member does not use the additional day, they will receive $100 at the end of the year per the existing policy. Mr. Ercan reviewed the current numbers of vaccinated staff with the board. adding the incentive increased the rate slightly. Mark Gardberg advised we clarify the doses.
Ann Diggins asked for a discussion on the continuation of incentives and get a sense from the board. Dr. Warren asked whether we are giving enough time to get both doses. The board asked to extend the date to November 30th and asked to define fully vaccinated. Ms. Diggins said she would like to see authority given to CASLV leadership since the board is not meeting again until February 2022. The board asked for public comment at this juncture, and no public comments were offered.
Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the COVID-19 vaccination incentive with a minor change to the definition of fully vaccinated, extending the date to November 30, and give authority to leadership if an OSHA rule comes down to implement as required.
Brin Gibson seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
G.
MOUs for Jumpstart and Dual Enrollment Programs between CASLV and CSN (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan informed the board that Jumpstart and Dual Enrollment Programs will be introduced to CASLV students. CSN provided the Memo of Understandings (MOU) which is their general practice with other charter schools. Mr. Gardberg confirmed this is standard practice and has reviewed the MOU. Upon board approval, we will amend the CASLV charter with the State Public Charter School Authority.
Ann Diggins made a motion to approve the Memorandum of Understanding for the Jumpstart and Dual Enrollment programs between CASLV and CSN.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
H.
Charter Amendment Request for Dual Enrollment and JumpStart Programs and Good Cause Exemption Letter (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan indicated we need to request an amendment of our charter from the State Public Charter Authority (SPCSA) for the addition of these two programs. The board must approve a good cause exception letter as the SPCSA is not in the regular cycle.
Ann Diggins made a motion to amend our charter to include the Dual Enrollment and Jumpstart programs as well as the Good Cause Exemption letter requirement for the State Public Charter Authority.
Brin Gibson seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
I.
Special Education Policy and Procedures Manual and Forms (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan explained the current SPED manual, as presented was approved by the board on August 19, 2017. The manual has had no changes or updates. CASLV is seeking board approval once again. New updates may be made at the end of the 2021-22 school year due to COVID-19.
Brin Gibson made a motion to approve.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
J.
Commitment to Serving a More Inclusive Population Plan (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan summarized this plan implemented by Janelly Corona adding she is doing a great job and working hard to reach out to at-risk communities. Her position was created to engage the community. Arlene Hayman asked about the FRL percentage for Greenspun, and Mr. Ercan said we will verify. Ms. Corona is participating in various community events, including Hispanic Heritage events, promoting CASLV.
Ercan Aydogdu thanked all CASLV principals for their hard work on increasing their campuses' FRL rates. This year was hard due to COVID-19 as all students are eligible for free lunch. All campuses had campaigns and incentive programs to increase applications. Mr. Ercan reviewed the current FRL numbers compared to last year with the board.
CASLV is the first charter school in Southern Nevada to initiate a weighted lottery. On Monday, November 1, 2021, the new application window will open. Parents applying will need to provide documentation to qualify for special weighting in the weighted lottery.
Arlene Hayman made a motion to approve the Plan for Commitment to Serving a more Inclusive Population.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
K.
Board Member Philanthropic Support (For Possible Action)
Ann Diggins requested this item to be added to the agenda. Currently, we have six campuses with the seventh under construction. Ms. Diggins would like the board to feel they can support the school, whether that be a donation of time or an appropriate monetary donation. She requested two board members to participate in a working group to determine the structure of this support. She would like the group to discuss this next generation of support for CASLV besides the board members' donation of time and attending board meetings. The board agrees this is a good idea. Beth Kazelskis and Arlene Hayman volunteered to meet and formulate options for the board.
Ann Diggins made a motion to form a philanthropic support working group from board members. Beth Kazelskis, Arlene Hayman, Ann Diggins, and non-board member, Ercan Aydogdu. The group will meet in November and January with recommendations to the board in February 2022.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
L.
Coach Digital curriculum - license extension until June 30, 2023 (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan explained this is the curriculum CASLV has been using for the SBAC testing preparation and this is the renewal.
Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the Coach Digital curriculum license for $32,988.
Ann Diggins seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
M.
New Website Redesign Services (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan indicated we currently have only one main website for all CASLV campuses. The administrative team proposes each campus have their own website with access from the main CASLV website. Mr. Nick found a great company, Educational Networks, who presented to the team at the principals' meeting. Each campus principal was impressed with the presentation and would support having their own website. Educational Networks will send a photographer to each campus, create drone videos, and it will take about 2-3 months. All data will be transferred from the current website.
Brin Gibson made a motion to approve Educational Networks for website redesign services in the amount of $67,600 for three years.
Ann Diggins seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
N.
Appointment of a School Safety Specialist (NRS 388.910 / SB 36 (2021)). (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan explained we have already assigned our Director of Operations to school safety, but recently there was a change to NRS.388.910 that is asking the board to assign a Safety Specialist instead of the Executive Director or a Principal of the school. Mr. Ercan made the recommendation for the board to appoint Anthony Vu, the Director of Operations as the School Safety Specialist.
Ann Diggins requested Mr. Vu provide quarterly updates to the board regarding changes or updates in terms of campus safety issues.
Ann Diggins made a motion to approve Anthony Vu as the School Safety Specialist, which will include two comprehensive reports to the board per year.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
O.
Approval of the Annual Audit to comply with NAC 387.775 (For Possible Action)
Mr. Nick presented the financial highlights from the audit report, and he stated that there are no audit findings.
Mr. Nick stated that 84% of revenues are DSA funds based on enrollment numbers. Total revenues increased 3%. An increase in enrollment constituted an increase in the revenue from the Distributive State Account (DSA) and Federal sources. CASLV has also received grant funds through the CARES Act Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (the ESSER Fund). Other sources decreased because of distance learning.
Total expenses increased by 2%. Expenses for regular instruction, central services, general administration, and food services increased. Student support, instructional support, school administration, operation, and maintenance decreased due to COVID-19 related instruction model changes. Unallocated depreciation increased due to the acquisition of assets from previous years.
Mr. Nick presented near-term financial indicators and sustainability indicators. He informed the board that CASLV had 268 days unrestricted cash-on-hand and a 1.63 debt service coverage ratio as of June 30, 2021. CASLV meets all financial standards.
Mr. Nick presented all federal award amounts, and he also stated that CASLV is in a strong financial position. Mr. Nick noted that CASLV now qualifies under federal rules as a "low risk auditee. "
Ms. Diggins thanked Mr. Nick and his team for all their hard work.
Brin Gibson made a motion to approve the annual audit.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
P.
Renewal of Edgenuity Online Curriculum (For Possible Action)
Mr. Ercan explained we implemented this online program due to COVID-19 protocols. We currently have 100 online students using this program and our current agreement expires in the middle of this school year. The recommendation is to purchase a one-and-a-half-year agreement. Director of Curriculum and Accountability, Selim Tanyeri answered many questions from the board regarding this purchase and explained in detail the need for this program. It is one of the best programs and they have been very supportive.
Mark Gardberg noted he does not see the new Cadence campus included. Selim Tanyeri said he will verify. The agreement has not been finalized yet as we typically try to negotiate. They will evaluate our usage and the price may drop. If Cadence adds additional cost, we will bring it back to the board.
Ms. Diggins added we need to be supportive to our online students and be responsive during the pandemic. Hopefully next school year we will start to see improvement. She stated we are not an online program, at some point, we would like to see everyone in person. Next school year we should evaluate the effectiveness of this program. Selim Tanyeri said this can be used for credit recovery as well and would like to continue the program in the future, Carryn Warren said she agrees with Ann Diggins and would like to see data on student performance in subsequent classes.
Ann Diggins asked that the Academic Subcommittee put this on their agenda for a spring meeting. She requested the committee analyze the program and report back to the board regarding cost-benefit, the number of students using the program, teacher usage, and summer credit recovery.
Brin Gibson made a motion to approve the renewal of Edgenuity for one-and-a-half-years in the amount of $120,712.87. The board would like this to be reviewed by the Academic Subcommittee.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
IV. Information/Discussion Items
A.
First Quarter Discipline Suspension Report (Information)
Mr. Ercan presented the first quarter discipline suspension report since Anthony Vu was not available for the meeting. Campus staff is doing an excellent job checking in on students and working with families in general. The school administration reported success in applying restorative justice principles, with the high school in particular working with a social worker.
B.
CASLV Campus Update From Sandy Ridge and Tamarus Campuses (Information)
Ercan Aydogdu explained moving forward we will have two campus updates at each board meeting. Principals Yolanda Flores and Andrea Katotakis volunteered to report first.
Yolanda Flores, CASLV Sandy Ridge principal, presented and discussed academics, athletics & activities, student support services, counseling, and work-based learning. Ms. Taylor Rylant, the Lead Counselor at CASLV Sandy Ridge, presented counseling updates and information regarding the work-based learning coordinators' efforts. CASLV Sandy Ridge campus has been ranked the #4 high school, #1 Charter high school, and #7 middle school in Nevada by U.S. News & World Report.
Andrea Katotakis, CASLV Tamarus principal presented information regarding class sections, professional development day details for teachers, school clubs, and after-school tutoring. She also discussed the important roles the literacy and reading specialists have, and that their support has been tremendous. Andrea Katotakis also reviewed updates provided by Tamarus grade level chairs. CASLV Tamarus campus has been ranked the #1 elementary school by U.S. News & World Report.
Ms. Diggins thanked everyone and said this is great information.
C.
Financial Update (Information)
Paul Khoury with Delta Management System (DMS) presented the first quarter September 30th financial update. The financial metrics have been included as requested. The days of cash on hand stands at 305, cash ratio, unrestricted cash, and all current liabilities are at a 3:1 ratio which is very strong. The Current ratio is 7.5 so all in all CASLV can easily cover any outstanding debts in the current operation and balance sheet. CASLV is on track with the budget and where it should be in the year.
D.
Executive Director’s Progress Report (Information)
Mr. Ercan discussed CASLV's accomplishments and important information regarding students and school clubs with the board.
- There was a leadership summit held with the principals recently and Mr. Ercan is planning a second summit in January to include the assistant principals. Former State Superintendent of Public Investigation, Mr. Dale Erquiaga, and Nevada State Senator Carrie Buck were the presenters of this Summit.
- U.S. News & World Report. 2021 - Elementary Schools: Nevada, #1 CASLV Tamarus, #9 CASLV Windmill, #25 CASLV Eastgate, #61 CASLV Centennial Hills. Middle Schools: #6 CASLV Eastgate, #7 CASLV Sandy Ridge, #19 CASLV Centennial Hills, #28 CASLV Nellis AFB.
- National Merit Scholarship: This year one of our senior students Brayden M. received a letter of commendation.
- Mr. Ercan discussed a recent feature in UNLV news of a CASLV graduate.
- Ms. Janelly Corona attended the Cadence Car Show with a booth providing information about CASLV.
- Cadence Campus Update: Construction is on schedule, a postcard mailer was sent this week, and the application window will open on November 1st.
- Mr. Ercan shared an image of the Cadence Campus groundbreaking ceremony and reviewed the dignitaries that attended.
- CASLV had the third Zoom information session for Cadence prospective families.
- CASLV had a booth at the Cadence community truck-or-treat for the new Cadence campus.
- Mr. Ercan reviewed the number of students in distance learning.
- DonorsChoose-approved grants were reviewed campus by campus.
- Mr. Ercan reviewed the staff vaccination report.
- The FRL rates for 2020 and 2021 were compared and reviewed. There is a significant improvement in the FRL percentages compared to the last year's data.
- The Debate Team competed at GDSDA #2 tournament and did an amazing job! Sophia O. and Enessa O. took 1st place in #Varisty Duo, Ryan C. took 1st place and the honor of Top Chair in #Novice House, Kristopher D. took 4th place in #Varsity US Extemp, Jonathan A. and Cevan L. took 2nd place in #Varsity Public Forum
- Debaters challenged themselves by competing in the Varsity division against juniors and seniors with multiple years of experience. They did an amazing job. Kristopher D. took 1st place in Varsity US Extemp, Jonathan A. and Cevan L. took 1st place in Varsity Public Forum, Rachael M. and Adeline K. took 6th place in Novice.
- The Harvest Festival was a blast at CASLV Centennial Hills. Mr. Ercan shared images from the event.
- CASLV Nellis AFB had a Halloween parade with families. Mr. Ercan shared images from the event.
- Girls volleyball team: It was a packed house in the Falcons nest as our varsity girls' volleyball team celebrated the last home regular-season game by recognizing the only senior, Lora G. on senior night. Lora and the team played a great game and defeated Somerset Losee three sets to zero, bringing our record to an impressive thirteen wins and only four losses.
- Windmill Campus gave hero awards to students for special accomplishments and hard work they completed.
- Next Board Meeting: February 26th at 11 am in-person at CASLV Centennial Hills.
V. Closing Items
A.
Adjourn Meeting
Ann Diggins made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED to approve the motion.
There being no further business to be transacted, and upon motion duly made, seconded and approved, the meeting was adjourned at 7:46 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ann Diggins