Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas

Minutes

Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas Board Meeting

Date and Time

Wednesday September 27, 2023 at 4:30 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”) Sandy Ridge 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, Chan Lengsavath (remote), Dr. Carryn Warren, Elizabeth Kazelskis, Feyzi Tandogan (remote)

Directors Absent

Brin Gibson

Guests Present

Adam Harper, CASLV Windmill Robotics Coach, Adem Akgedik, CASLV Sandy Ridge Principal, Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant, Bridget Peevy, CASLV Chief People Officer, Deninis Jenner, CASLV Cadence Robotics Coach, Emrullah Eraslan, CASLV Cadence Principal, Ercan Aydogdu, CASLV Executive Director & CEO, Ismail kocabiyik, CASLV Windmill Principal, Kathy Fogg, CASLV Tamarus Robotics Teacher, Mark Gardberg, CASLV Legal Counsel, Mia Nelson, CASLV Nellis AFB Principal, Mustafa Gunozu, CASLV Chief Academic Officer, Nick Sarisahin, CASLV Chief Financial Officer, Sabine Roes, CASLV ELL Specialist, Selim Tanyeri, CASLV Chief Operating Officer

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 Sep 27, 2023 at 4:34 PM.

B.

Public Comment

CASLV Cadence campus Robotics Coach, Mr. Jenner commented on robotics competitive clubs adding that it takes a lot of time. Additional funds would be helpful, for coaches and the clubs. It would be a great investment. 

II. Consent Agenda

A.

Approval of the August 30, 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 08-30-23.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

B.

Approval of the September 20, 2023 Academic Subcommittee Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the minutes from Academic Subcommittee Meeting on 09-20-23.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

C.

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

D.

The Stepping Stones Group Agreement (For Possible Action)

E.

Workers' Compensation Insurance Contract Renewal (For Possible Action)

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the consent agenda.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

III. Discussion & Possible Action Items- Contracts, Purchases, and Procurements

A.

Discussion and Approval of 403(b) Plan Offer without Employer Contribution (For Possible Action)

Ms. Peevy indicated that some of the employees have been requesting this additional retirement plan. The advantage is the funds are pre-taxed, and employees can borrow against it. The employee can contribute as much or as little as they would like. Employees can adjust up or down as much as they would like. There is no cost to CASLV for this. It gives another option for retirement. Mr. Tandogan added it is a good thing and they offer it at his schools. 

Arlene Hayman made a motion to approve the 403(b) plan offer without Employer (CASLV) Contribution.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.

Ms. Diggins recused herself. 

The board VOTED to approve the motion.
Roll Call
Elizabeth Kazelskis
Aye
Dr. Carryn Warren
Aye
Chan Lengsavath
Aye
Arlene Hayman
Aye
Ann Diggins
Abstain
Feyzi Tandogan
Aye
Brin Gibson
Absent

B.

Change Order for the Eastgate Fence Installation (For Possible Action)

Mr. Selim explained this has been on hold for the Eastgate campus, the same project was approved last year but has been on hold. The quote has since increased. This is being done for safety as the current fencing is very old. This will make it safer for students. Staff recommends All-Star Fencing in the amount of $35,868. 

Feyzi Tandogan made a motion to approve the change order for the Eastgate Campus Fence Installation.
Chan Lengsavath seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

C.

All City Management Agreement for CASLV Windmill Campus Crossing Guards (For Possible Action)

Mr. Selim explained this is just a renewal and they provide crossing guards for pick-up and drop-off times at the Windmill Campus. The cost is over $25k which is why it is being brought to the board for approval. 

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the All City Management Agreement in the amount of $40,024.80.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

IV. Discussion/Possible Action Items-Governance/Policies/Finance

A.

CASLV Internal Substitute Teacher Rate Increase and Class Coverage Stipend Increase (For Possible Action)

Ms. Peevy explained this increase is to remain competitive. There are two parts to this regarding stipend and income. The short-term substitute amount will increase to $130 per day and the long-term substitute rate will increase to $145 per day. The class coverage stipend will increase to $30.00 per hour. Mr. Nick confirmed this is compatible with the budget. 

Arlene Hayman made a motion to approve the CASLV Internal Substitute Teacher Rate Increase and Class Coverage Stipend increase as presented.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

B.

Additional Stipend for the VEX and First Robotics Coaches (For Possible Action)

Ms. Peevy indicated this is regarding robotics competitive clubs and that we recognize our teachers are putting a lot of time and effort outside of their normal contract times. The request is for $2,500 per team with a 100-hour minimum. Mr. Harper from CASLV Windmill and Kathy Fogg from CASLV Tamarus spoke about how many hours they are currently working and gave additional details. They put in all this extra time so their students can have this opportunity. They added it is a lot of work but well worth it, so their students can benefit. 

Dr. Carryn Warren made a motion to approve the increased stipend for the VEX and First Robotics Coaches.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

C.

Approval of English Learner (EL) Policy and Plan (For Possible Action)

Mr. Gunozu informed the board that the SPCSA has requested we update the format. Ms. Roes explained the formative assessment, exit tickets, and how students are assessed. There are a total of 264 students qualified for EL services districtwide. She also gave an update regarding the refugee status. 

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the English Learner (EL) Policy and Plan as presented.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

D.

Amendment of the CASLV Lottery Application Procedures (For Possible Action)

Mr. Selim explained the housing rates at the Nellis AFB housing have dropped and now they will be offering priority to military members outside of Nellis AFB. Some of the questions in the application needed to be updated. They must be active military. Mr. Selim reviewed the questions and added that this has been reviewed by the SPCSA (State Public Charter School Authority). 

 

Mr. Gardberg added that the legislative session changed and any military child can be given priority anywhere. Ms. Nelson discussed concerns from the base leadership. It was discussed that Military-related students should have priority at any campus. Mr. Ercan reviewed the NRS details with the board. Dr. Warren added that as the policy reads now this would go for any campus and the board agreed. 

Ann Diggins made a motion to approve the Amendment of the CASLV Lottery Application Procedures as described and related to active military.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

E.

FY23-24 Budget Amendment (For Possible Action)

Mr. Nick presented the budget amendment and timeline and indicated the amendment is based on current enrollment numbers, per-pupil fund, and current salaries. The budget amendment was reviewed in detail while answering various questions from the board. Mr. Gardberg noted that total revenues were up approximately 20%, and the revised budget funnels virtually all of that into increased teacher and staff salaries, fulfilling one of the goals the Board has been talking about for several years.

Arlene Hayman made a motion to approve the FY23-23 Budget Amendment.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

V. Information/Discussion Items

A.

Strategic Planning Discussion (Information)

Mr. Ercan introduced Mr. Bray and explained the service came through the Charter School Growth Fund (CSGF). Mr. Bray gave a brief introduction and information about his experience. He works with high-performing charter networks. Mr. Bray noted he's very impressed with CASLV, which has produced incredible results to date. Mr. Bray discussed the external landscape and overview of the next 5-years. He also discussed the strategic planning process, SWOT analysis, and next steps. He looks forward to the future, any feedback from the board, and the next board meeting. Ms. Diggins said this is another example of the great opportunity with the additional funding.  

B.

Nevada School Performance Framework Results (For Possible Action)

Mr. Gunozu presented the Nevada School Performance Framework Results (i.e., a 75.5 performance index average, 6 of our 12 campuses getting 5 stars, and the 12 campuses averaging 4.4 stars) and discussed details of the results for each campus while comparing them to surrounding schools. 

 

Ms Hayman said the academic subcommittee met and had a very comprehensive discussion with the two lower-performing campuses and received a lot of details about scores and interventions. It was requested that the board refer to the academic subcommittee meeting minutes for additional information. The COVID-19 pandemic impact and numerous interventions being implemented were reviewed. Ms. Kazelskis added one thing that impressed her is the mentoring program implemented this school year. Mr. Ercan indicated they have already started working on the chronic absenteeism action plan. Ms. Nelson added that at Nellis AFB they wanted to focus on a well-rounded intervention program and culture that can have an impact. 

 

Ms. Diggins asked if we are providing enough resources to the Nellis campus. Ms. Nelson said the central office has been supportive. They have also rearranged instructional times to add social and emotional time and said time is always an issue. More aides in the classrooms could help. Ms. Diggins asked that this be a regular report so the board is paying attention to this. There may be more dramatic out-of-the-box thinking for Nellis AFB. The #1 focus is high-quality tiered I instruction. PLC is also a huge focus, as well as consistent coaching, Ms. Diggins added the board stands ready to support, and for the campuses to please let them know anything they may need. 

C.

Sandy Ridge Campus Update (For Possible Action)

Mr. Ercan explained we would like each campus to present a campus update this year at each board meeting. Mr. Adem presented the Sandy Ridge campus update. He discussed recent successes regarding speech and debate, their 5-star high school rating, National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists, College Board National Recognition Awardees, Science Bowl, 100% graduation rate, the Congressional Awards, U.S. News & World Report Best High School ranking as well as clubs, activities, and trips. 

 

Mr. Adem reviewed the Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBAC) results in detail. Their area of growth is closing the opportunity gaps for their low-achieving 8th-grade students.  ACT scores and AP courses were also discussed in detail. A review of high school and middle school athletics was presented. A counseling update was also presented and work-based learning goals were discussed.  

D.

Executive Director’s Progress Report (Information)

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

 

  • Elementary School NSPF Rankings 2022-2023 SY: Centennial Hills ES received 1st highest index score among all NV Charters, 3rd highest index score in Nevada (including district and charter schools), Centennial Hills MS received 14th highest index score among all NV Charters, 19th highest index score in Nevada. Sandy Ridge HS received the 5th-highest index score among all NV Charters and the 12th-highest index score in Nevada. Only 27 MS and 27 ES received 5-star ratings in NV this year. 
  • Middle School NSPF Rankings 2022-2023 SY: Windmill MS received the 5th highest index score among all NV Charters, 6th highest index score in Nevada (including district and charter schools), Eastgate MS received the 7th highest index score among all NV Charters, 10th highest index score in Nevada. Tamarus ES received the 10th-highest index score among all NV Charters and the 15th-highest index score in Nevada. Only 27 MS and 27 ES received 5-star ratings in NV this year.
  • Niche Best Schools Rating, Eastgate campus: Rated #5 of 395 Best Public Elementary Schools in Nevada, #5 of 50 Best Charter Elementary Schools in Nevada, and #5 of 49 Best Charter Middle Schools in Nevada. 
  • Cadence campus Hosted CSAN Conference: The 2023 Charter School Association of Nevada was held at CASLV Cadence campus on September 22, 2023. 
  • The 2023 Best High School Rankings from U.S. News & World Report: Coral Academy Sandy Ridge campus is the #1 Best HS in Henderson, #1 Best Charter School in Nevada, #4 Best HS in Las Vegas, #6 Best HS in Nevada (Five of the top six schools are either magnet schools or special schools for gifted students; CASLV is the only public school that is not selecting its students by academic skills) #111 Best Charter HS in the Nation. #569 Best High School in the Nation. 
  • National Merit Scholarship Program, Six Sandy Ridge campus students have soared to the ranks of Semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program! Isaac D., Tyler F., Ryder G., Avner M., John M., and Joseph S. Most of these amazing students have
    been at Coral since either elementary or middle school!
  • Three of our Sandy Ridge campus students received Silver Medals for the Congressional Awards.  
  • The College Board National Recognition Programs: 8 of our Sandy Ridge students have
    achieved an outstanding academic milestone through the College Board National Recognition Programs! Each of these students received one of the following awards: The National African American Recognition Award (NAARA) National Hispanic Recognition
    Award (NHRA), and the National Indigenous Award (NIA). 
  • MTSS Implementation Recognition: Platinum Winners: CASLV Tamarus, CASLV Centennial Hills, CASLV Windmill. Gold Winners: CASLV Sandy Ridge, CASLV Eastgate. 
  • CASLV Tamarus campus' 5-star Rating and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Book Vending Machine: Mr. Ercan reviewed images with the board from the recent celebration. 
  • CASLV Windmill campus students, teachers, staff, admin, and parents had a blast at the fun run event: Mr. Ercan shared images of the event with the board. 
  • CASLV Centennial Hills campus students, teachers, staff, admin, and parents had a blast at their fun run event: Mr. Ercan shared images of the event with the board. 
  • Next Meeting: The next regular meeting will be on October 30, 2023 at Centennial Hills campus. Finance and Facilities Subcommittee meeting will be on October 25, 2023 at the Central Office. Sandy Ridge U.S. News & World Report and 5-Star rating celebration will be on October 6, 2023 at 9:45 a.m. 

VI. Public Comments (Information)

A.

Public Comments

No public comments. 

VII. Closing Items

A.

Adjourn Meeting

Arlene Hayman made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Ann Diggins 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 6:46 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,
Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant