Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas

Minutes

Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas Board Meeting

Date and Time

Monday June 5, 2023 at 4:30 PM

Location

7951 Deer Springs 

Las Vegas, NV 89131 

Posting of Agenda: This agenda has been posted at the following locations: 

Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas (“CASLV”) Centennial Hills Campus, 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 (remote), Brin Gibson (remote), Dr. Carryn Warren (remote), Elizabeth Kazelskis, Feyzi Tandogan

Directors Absent

Chan Lengsavath

Guests Present

Adem Akgedik, CASLV Sandy Ridge Principal, Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant, Anthony Vu, CASLV Director of Operations, Brettani Thomas, SPCSA, Brianna Aquino, CASLV Athletic Director, Bridget Peevy, CASLV HR Director, Dr. Denise Shaw, SPCSA, Dr. Selcuk Ozdemir, SPCSA, Ercan Aydogdu, Jackie Working, CASLV SPED Service Director, Kayla Davis, Centennial Hills Assitant Principal, Mark Gardberg, CASLV Legal Counsel, Mark Hendrie, DMS Finance Director, Monica Patel, DMS Assistant Finance Director, Mustafa Gunozu, CASLV Chief Academic Officer, Nick Sarisahin, CASLV CFO, Omer Arikan, CASLV Director of Information Systems, Serdar Yuksekkaya, Centennial Hills Principal

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 Monday Jun 5, 2023 at 4:30 PM.

The board took a break from 6:21 pm to 6:32 pm. 

B.

Public Comment

Mr. Trocio a parent at the Cadence campus commented about his student suffering injuries during recess. The student went to urgent care and a battery report was recommended. 

 

Ms. Balasta a parent at the Sandy Ridge campus commented on the value of sports programs, and challenges in the sports programs at Sandy Ridge campus saying there is limited practice time and that the after-hour times are late. The programs developed over time have expanded which is appreciated by the community. 

 

Ms. Wingate a parent at the Sandy Ridge campus commented that the coaches at the Sandy Ridge campus have been amazing. She added they are not appropriately supported by the administration. There have been no administrators at games. Uniforms have not been ordered promptly, and there have been problems with the Athletic Director. 

 

Ms. Robinson a parent at the Sandy Ridge campus commented as well about the coaches and gym usage. She said volleyball received much more attention than golf and other sports. 

 

I. Robinson a student at the Sandy Ridge campus added similar comments regarding the gym usage and athletic coach and added this has been an ongoing issue all school year. 

 

L. Ladislao a student at the Sandy Ridge campus said it is disheartening to struggle to get time in their own gym. Volleyball has the majority of the time and they are only offered gym time at very late hours. 

 

Mr. Gardberg said the board has heard these concerns and that given the parent’s presentation, the safety incident will be discussed in a closed session. 

 

II. Consent Agenda

A.

Approval of the March 9, 2023 Regular Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the minutes from Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas Board Meeting on 03-09-23.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

B.

Approval of the March 10, 2023 Special Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the minutes from Special Board Meeting on 03-10-23.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

C.

Approval of the April 17, 2023 Special Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the minutes from Special Board Meeting on 04-17-23.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

D.

Eastgate Campus Turf Installation (For Possible Action)

E.

Eastgate Campus Painting (For Possible Action)

F.

Eastgate Campus Fence Installation (For Possible Action)

G.

Eastgate Campus Copier Lease Amendment (For Possible Action)

H.

A Dental Buy-Up Plan for Employees (For Possible Action)

I.

Approval AP Exam Fees (For Possible Action)

J.

Cleaning Quotes for Carpets & Floors at All Campuses (For Possible Action)

K.

SY 23-24 Textbooks and Online Curriculum Orders (For Possible Action)

L.

Kagan Training Approval (For Possible Action)

M.

Go Guardian Renewal (For Possible Action)

N.

SchoolMint Approval (For Possible Action)

O.

Nellis Campus Furniture Purchase (For Possible Action)

P.

Wildflower Agreement Amendment (For Possible Action)

Q.

Revolution Foods Service Agreement Amendment(For Possible Action)

R.

DMS Agreement Amendment (For Possible Action)

S.

Executive Director Credit Card Transactions Approval (For Possible Action)

T.

Financial Audit Company Agreement (For Possible Action)

U.

Report of Purchases and Expenses Between $10,000 and $25,000 (Information)

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the consent agenda.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.

Ms. Diggins indicated that the Finance and Facilities subcommittee reviewed all of these items and all recommendations were for the lowest responsive bidder (price, capability, and scope of work). 

The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

III. Information/Discussion Items

A.

Centennial Hills Campus Painting (For Possible Action)

Mr. Serdar presented the painting quotes and indicated they plan to paint most of the facility. Three quotes were presented to the board. 

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the lowest responsive bidder, NV Painting Company in the amount of $32,800.
Ann Diggins seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

B.

Financial Update (Information)

Mr. Hendrie, a DMS representative, presented the financial update. He indicated service costs increased due to substantial increases from a few vendors such as United Testing Services (UTS) and SCOOT. Despite the increases, the financial outlook is strong.

 

Mr. Gibson asked if DMS could please include specifics regarding bond covenant ratios. Mr. Nick said CASLV is meeting the cash on hand, but perhaps not the DSC ratio (depending upon remaining revenues and expenses). 

C.

Special Education Report (Information)

Ms. Working presented Special Education (SPED) report and included a year-in-review noting academic and life skills services are being provided. There are three services offered by CASLV staff: General education support, resource room, and self-contained classes. Therapies and evaluations are outsourced by various vendors. Ms. Working gave an overview of the companies providing these services as well as specifics regarding the number of SPED students across all CASLV campuses and the number of staff members providing support. 

 

Mr. Gibson asked about summer programs and if we can mandate summer education for students who have fallen behind. It was discussed that Mr. Gardberg and Mr. Gunozu will review this. Mr. Gunozu indicated there are virtual programs and recovery/catchup programs currently in place.  

 

Ms. Working confirmed all required hours have been met and that CASLV is only missing a facilitator at Cadence who doesn't actually give minutes/services because it is an admin role. 

D.

SPCSA Site Evaluation Report for CASLV Cadence and Nellis Campuses (Information)

Mr. Ercan explained this is regarding the first site evaluation for the CASLV Cadence campus and the most recent site evaluation for the CASLV Nellis campus. Mr. Ozdemir explained to the board this is another tool for more information and reviewed the reports with the board. Ms. Thomas indicated there are many positives in the report, including strong student support, culture, and a positive environment. Dr. Shaw said she has nothing to add but that there were many strengths seen. In terms of recommendations, they suggest military population-specific professional development for CASLV Nellis. 

 

Ms. Diggins suggests the Academic Subcommittee meet to deliberate about these reports. 

E.

Amendment of Student Handbooks (For Possible Action)

Mr. Vu presented the suggested revisions to the handbooks and provided a one-pager for the board to review. 

Feyzi Tandogan made a motion to approve proposed amendments to the Student Handbooks.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

F.

Amendment of Employee Handbook (For Possible Action)

Ms. Peevy presented the amendment to the employee handbook. Mr. Gibson requested a change in the verbiage regarding teacher licensing. Ms. Peevy confirmed she will make this update. 

Arlene Hayman made a motion to accept the changes to the Employee Handbook.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

G.

Cadence Campus Safety Update (Information)

Mr. Ercan gave a detailed update regarding the incident at the CASLV Cadence campus on April 25, 2023, and indicated it is still an open investigation. More information regarding campus safety will come back to the board at the August meeting. Ms. Diggins requested that parental input regarding armed security guards is solicited for all campuses. 

H.

Budget Hearing Notice (For Possible Action)

Mr. Nick presented the budget and explained this is for formal approval since the budget needs to be submitted to the SPCSA and NDE by Thursday, June 8 per NRS. Mr. Nick explained we are planning a special board meeting to discuss changes coming soon due to recent legislative changes. The changes include the increase in per pupil funding, unknowns regarding the class size reduction bill, a potential new law regarding cameras in special education classrooms, as well as mandatory summer school requirements. Today is the last day of the legislation and based on these bills the final budget will be updated and presented to the board. 

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the final budget for the 2023/2024 school year.
Ann Diggins seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

I.

Election of Board Members (for three Board posts with expiring terms) (For Possible Action)

Mr. Gardberg explained there is no formal nomination process required for board elections. Mr. Gardberg reminded the board of these three individuals (Ms. Hayman, Ms. Diggins, and Mr. Gibson) and that this is technically their final two-year term unless we amend the Bylaws. Last year creating a Governance Committee was discussed to recruit replacements. This will be added to the August board meeting. 

 

Dr. Warren nominated Ms. Hayman, Ms. Diggins, and Mr. Gibson to be re-elected to serve on the CASLV board. The members nominated accepted and agree to continue serving. 

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to have the election for the three nominated candidates.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.

Ms. Diggins added we will proceed at the August meeting to review the scope of authority for the Governance Committee and whom will serve on this committee. The scope of the committee will oversee the recruitment of new board members, terms, and the Bylaws with Mr. Gardberg's assistance. 

The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

J.

Nomination and Election of Board Officers (For Possible Action)

Mr. Gardberg said there are existing officers and unless people want to nominate others or if those individuals do not want to continue serving we could reelect the same slate again. 

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to continue with the current executive board as is.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

K.

Executive Director’s Progress Report (Information)

Mr. Ercan discussed CASLV's accomplishments and important information regarding students and school clubs with the board. 

 

  • Community Eligibility Program (CEP) % - Mr. Ercan presented the CEP percentages and informed the board FRL applications for Cadence and Eastgate no longer need to be collected as they are over 40%. 
  • Update / Timeline regarding the Charter School Growth Fund (CSGF). Mr. Gibson congratulated Mr. Ercan and the team on this exciting achievement. 
  • Mr. Ercan shared images from the Tamarus campus Fun Run event. 
  • The Annual College and Career Week event at the Cadence campus was discussed and images were presented. 
  • The Windmill VEX IQ team was invited to compete at the VEX Worlds in Dallas. 
  • Rewarding experience at VEX IW Worlds Championships (Cadence, Tamarus, and Windmill campuses). Out of 74 teams in the Innovate division, only 20 made it to the elimination rounds, and we are proud to have been among them. 
  • The State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA) is so proud that the Centennial Hills campus was honored with this Gold Level School recognition. 
  • Nevada Department of Wildlife visited the Centennial Hills campus and presented to the students. 
  • The students at the Sandy Ridge campus demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and artistic prowess in their participation in the 2023 National Junior Duck Stamp Contest. 
  • Brilliant minds at the Windmill campus made us proud at the UNLV Science Fair. 
  • Sandy Ridge Speech and Debate Team at the Golden Desert National Qualifier. 
  • Math League Contests, Windmill Campus: 6th-grade team achieved the Top 1 ranking with a total of 157 team points. The 7th-grade team secured a top 2 position with 121 team points, nationally. 
  • Sandy Ridge campus students presented in the prestigious Berkeley Mini Math Tournament and one team secured 7th place in the team round. Our students also achieved individual recognition with Sastha R. receiving a "Distinguished Honorable Mention", and Ty T. and Tia S. both receiving an "Honorable Mention" in the individual round.  
  • Sandy Ridge campus students participated in the Noetic Learning Math Contest and placed 5th place in all 8th-grade teams in the Nation.  
  • The students at the Sandy Ridge campus have achieved remarkable success in technology and STEM education: Lorelani R. L., and Momoka U. being recognized with prestigious
    awards by the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT).
  • Sandy Ridge campus students explored California and visited top universities like USC and UCLA.
  • The Class of 2024 at Sandy Ridge campus just had the time of their lives at Six Flags Magic Mountain: Amidst the stress of important exams like the ACTs, SATs, and APs, these students found a moment to kick back, relax, and let loose on some of the most heart-racing rides in the country.
  • International Scholars Academy had a wonderful time exploring Italy over spring break
  • The students at Sandy Ridge campus created art work and they were on display at City Lights Gallery off Water Street!
  • City Lights Gallery in Henderson was proud to host an extraordinary art show at Sandy Ridge and Cadence Academy.
  • Henderson City Councilman Dan Shaw visited the Cadence campus: Mr. Shaw took time
    out of his busy schedule to visit Ms. Morrison's third-grade class, sharing his experiences growing up on a cattle ranch, being a Boy Scout, and planning parks for the City of Henderson.
  • Primary Career Day at Nellis AFB was a huge success: We were thrilled to welcome a
    variety of professionals, armed forces, firefighters, teachers, and many more. 
  • Our in-person summer camps provide a dynamic learning environment. 
  • Review-Journal’s annual Academic Excellence Awards: Winners of the Academic
    Excellence Award, were Sandy Ridge 10th grade students Caitlin N. and Viktoriia M. Caitlin serves as the American Red Cross Club vice president and helps to organize blood drives and she will participate in the medical summer program at Johns Hopkins University. Viktoriia just completed her first school year in the United States since she moved from Ukraine. She served on the student council and excelled in four advanced placement classes. 
  • Centennial Hills campus middle school boys' Volleyball team has emerged victorious in the prestigious NCSAA Championship! Mr. Ercan shared images of the team showing off their championship rings. 
  • In a momentous gathering at the Council Chambers, we celebrated the amazing
    accomplishments of 38 remarkable Valedictorians from Coral Academy Sandy Ridge! Mayor Romero presented certificates to all of our Sandy Ridge campus valedictorians.
  • Henderson City Mayor and Council honor Coral Academy and local school Robotics teams!
  • State Public Charter School Authority (SPCSA) Board spotlighted Nellis and Centennial Hill
    campuses as recipients of Purple Heart Schools recognition from NDE at the SPCSA board meeting. The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) has officially designated both Coral Academy Nellis and Centennial Hill campuses as Purple Heart Schools. Furthermore, SPCSA Board spotlighted them as well.
  • Field day at the Cadence campus was amazing. 
  • Thank you to everyone who joined us for the End of the Year Celebration!
  • End Of Year Awards, Teacher of the Year (TOY), Staff of the Year (SOY): Mr. Ercan shared images of the event and awards, and 10-year pins were given for years of service and reviewed the list of this year's winners. 
  • Coral Academy has been recognized as one of the winners of the 4th annual Top Workplaces Award 2023 in Nevada.
  • Twin Day at the Tamarus campus was amazing: Mr. Ercan shared images of students dressed as twins. 
  • Cadence campus students excelled at learning: Mr. Ercan discussed the Great American Challenge celebration event and shared images.  
  • Celebrating Kindergarten Excellence at Eastgate and celebrating 5th Grade Promotion at Eastgate: Mr. Ercan shared images from the celebrations. 
  • Celebrating 8th Grade Promotion at Centennial Hills: Mr. Ercan shared that CASLV board member Chan Lengsavath gave a wonderful speech and shared images from the event. 
  • Celebrating Kindergarten Excellence at Tamarus: Another great celebration that Mr. Ercan discussed and shared images of. 
  • The 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony at Nellis campus was also discussed and images were shared of the ceremony. 
  • Coral Academy Cadence campus teachers and students joined the City of Henderson Memorial Day ceremony at Cornerstone Park and presented the Gettysburg Address. Sandy Ridge campus Civil Air Patrol Color Guard also had the flag ceremony at this event.
  • Sandy Ridge campus 8th Grade Promotion was discussed and images were presented. COH Councilman Dan Stewart was the commencement speaker.
  • Sandy Ridge campus high school graduation was a success. Images were shared and Mr. Ercan shared highlights from the event. Special thanks to Mr. Alvarez from Congresswoman Susie Lee’s office for joining our graduation ceremony. 
  • Certification in Memoriam for Adon Chavez and Eric Lyons. Mr. Ercan shared images and said their parents appreciated that their students' were remembered at the Sandy Ridge graduation. 
  • Next CASLV board meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled to be on August 30th, 2023. A special board meeting is scheduled for June 12th, 2023 at 4:30 at the central office. 

 

IV. Public Comments (Information)

A.

Public Comments

Mr. Gardberg made a public comment about Mr. Ercan's contract renewal. Ms. Diggins indicated she has been in touch with Ms. Peevy regarding it and that the contract renewal will be discussed at the special board meeting on June 12th. His formal evaluation will follow in the fall. 

V. 241.015(3)(b)(II): Closed Session with Legal Counsel

A.

Closed Session re. Cadence Incident

The closed session was held from 7:17 pm to 7:42 pm. 

B.

Closed Session re. Sports Issues

Mr. Gardberg indicated this is not permissible since it does not involve any potential litigation. It was discussed that a Finance and Facilities subcommittee meeting will be scheduled to discuss these issues. 

VI. Closing Items

A.

Adjourn Meeting

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously 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 7:17 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,
Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant