Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas

Minutes

Coral Academy of Science Board Retreat Meeting

Date and Time

Saturday August 24, 2024 at 9:00 AM

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, Arlene Hayman, Chan Lengsavath, Dr. Carryn Warren, Elizabeth Kazelskis, Feyzi Tandogan (remote)

Directors Absent

Brin Gibson

Guests Present

Adem Akgedik, CASLV Sandy Ridge Principal, Andrea Katatokis, CASLV Tamarus Principal, Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant, Bridget Peevy, CASLV Chief People Officer, Carrie Stewart, Afton Partners, Dr. Brian Carpenter, Dr. Ercan Aydogdu, CASLV Executive Director & CEO, Dr. Mustafa Gunozu, CASLV Chief Academic Officer, Emrullah Eraslan, CASLV Cadence Principal, Fulton Breen, Afton Partners, Ismail Kocabiyik, CASLV Windmill Principal, Kayla Davis, CASLV Centennial Hills Principal, Mia Nelson, CASLV Nellis AFB Principal, Nick Sarisahin, CASLV Chief Financial Officer, Selim Tanyer, CASLV Chief Operations Officer, Tiffany Baily, CASLV Eastgate 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 Saturday Aug 24, 2024 at 9:07 AM.

B.

Public Comment

There were no public comments. 

There was a break from 9:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.,12:00 p.m. to 12:13 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 1:38 p.m. Mr. Tandogan left the meeting from 9:25 a.m. to 9:47 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.   

II. Opening Items

A.

May 29, 2024 Regular Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the minutes from Coral Academy of Science Board Meeting on 05-29-24.
Chan Lengsavath seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

B.

July 31, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes (For Possible Action)

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the minutes from Coral Academy of Science Board Meeting on 07-31-24.
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 (For Possible Action)

Dr. Ercan presented the expenses between $10,000 and $25,000. This is an information item. 

D.

Amendment of the Scoot Education for Substitute Teachers Agreement (For Possible Action)

Dr. Ercan indicated the short-term substitute rate dropped from $235 per day to $230 per day.  

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the amendment of the Scoot Education Substitute Teachers Agreement.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

III. Board Retreat Items

A.

Executive Director's Report & Campus Updates (Information)

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

 

  • Matthew Birru from Sandy Ridge has been selected as a student representative on the State Public Charter School Authority Board (SPCSA). 
  • Dr. Ercan reviewed the enrollment, application, open seat, and waitlist numbers with the board while answering questions from the board. 
  • Charter School Growth Fund (CSGF) has approved the Project ABC grant funding of $1.9 million. Dr. Ercan reviewed the grant details.                   
  • Henderson Chamber of Commerce's (HCC) Career Fair Helps Students Explore Internship Opportunities. Sandy Ridge Alum, Lemon Doroshow was interviewed by Vegas, Inc. and featured in their August 12, 2024, article regarding the HCC Career Fair. 
  • "Slow and steady works for Coral Academy alumni in Nevada State Am", Jackson Parrish won the Nevada Men's State Amateur at Boulder Creek Golf Club (Nevada State Golf Association). 
  •  Alexis and Dallas H. are set to represent Nevada as Mrs. and Little Miss Silver State at the Regency International Pageant. Alexis and her mom Dallas will join 97 delegates from around the world, vying for the titles of Mrs. and Little Miss Regency International. 
  • Joseph S. Won the 3A State Title, Sandy Ridge. He won the 3A state title in the 200-yard IM (1:53.60) and 500-yard freestyle (4:41.23). Additionally helped the Falcons win the 200-yeard freestyle relay (1:32.01). 
  • Speech and Debate Team had another successful year at the NSDA National Tournament. Jonathan A. earned 3rd Place in World Schools Debate on a team with students from across the valley, marking the first time a Southern Nevada team has made it past the top 32 in Des Moines, IA. On Southern Nevada's other World Schools Team, Zoe K. made it to elimination rounds as a freshman. Her team made it to the Double-octafinal round! Ken B. and Lemon D. posted a winning record in the Public Forum debate.
  • Thanks to generous donations made by CASLV families! The CASLV office team was able to make 100 bags for children in foster care! 
  • Dr. Ercan shared images of CASLV lead teachers embarking on an exciting journey with coaching training at the Nellis campus. 
  • CASLV Sand Ridge campus warmly welcomed incoming students and their parents for Orientation Day and Falcon Round-Up.  Dr. Ercan shared images of the event. 
  • Students and staff embarked on a fantastic journey as they kicked off the new school year. Dr. Ercan shared images of the first day of the new school year at each campus and images of the Cadence campus orientation event.
  • CSGF Grant Approval: Charter School Growth Fund has approved grant funding of $20K for our network’s collaboration with Mariposa Consulting Group (MCG) on paid media marketing strategies. Dr. Ercan reviewed the agreement specifications in detail.                                          
  • Summer Projects/work completed: Sandy Ridge campus: 1. New Offices and restrooms. 2. Gym projector replacement and projector installation. 3. Automatic gate installed at the staff parking lot. 4. 2nd floor carpet replacement. Windmill campus: 1. New turf installed in the backyard.  2. Office double door entryway - Special Education (SPED) room. 3. New SPED classroom creation from locker rooms. 4. Roof replacement. 5. Three new A/C units. 6. Asphalt top coat/repairs (will be completed soon). Eastgate campus: 1. New turf was installed in certain parts of the backyard. 2. Irrigation repair. 3. Roof patches. 4. Traffic stripes. Cadence Campus: 1. Reseeding of the grass. 2. New classroom addition (in progress). 3. Permanent Shade Structure (in progress). Centennial Hills: 1. Additional Safety Bollards. 2. Added pavers to dirt-surfaced island. 3. Wall topper for backyard walls. Tamarus: 1. Fire alarm upgrade. 2. Skylight Replacement. 3. Wall topper for backyard walls. 
  • “2024 Best of Las Vegas” contest, and we are excited to share that our school has been nominated in the following categories: “Best Charter School” “Best High School, “Best Middle School”, and “Best Elementary School”. 
  • Community Achievement Award: Congratulations to Coral Academy Executive Director & CEO, Dr. Ercan Aydogdu for being the 2024 Community Achievement Award Winner! Special thanks to Nellis AFB's new Mission Support Commander, Col. Thompson, his wife, and our staff for joining the AAG Award Ceremony. 
  • Charter Renewal Timeline: 
    • Letter of Intent to submit for renewal: Due September 1 (submitted already), Internal Deadline: September 11 (Academic Committee Meeting)
    • CASLV Board Approval: September 25
    • Charter Renewal Application: Due Between October 1 – 15
    • SPCSA Board Approval: TBD (likely November 15 / December 13
  • Next Meeting: The next regular meeting will be on September 25, 2024, at the central office at 4:30 p.m. 

 

B.

Board Training Session #1 (Information)

Dr. Brian Carpenter presented on two topics: "Eight Strategic Planning Considerations for Your Charter School to Flourish" and "Helping the Board do the Heavy Lifting: The Three Indispensable Charter School Board Committees."

 

During the training sessions, various comments were made by the board:

 

  • Dr. Warren: Expressed a desire to retain the Academic Committee. Dr. Gunozu and Dr. Ercan supported this view. It was agreed that more time should be allocated for this discussion, and there was consensus that the focus on academic issues should continue.
  • Mr. Lengsavath: Suggested that examining financial source documents in detail may be more intensive than necessary or rational in this context.
  • Ms. Hayman: Highlighted a strong sentiment for improving staff morale, rewarding staff, and incentivizing the community. She noted that the Board should increase its participation in school events. Principals shared their impressions on this matter. It was emphasized that successful campuses should not be overlooked; they require resources and attention just as much as other campuses.

C.

Board Training Session #2 (Information)

Ms. Carrie Stewart and Mr. Fulton Breen conducted the training session about the importance/responsibility of the financial committee's oversight. The board convened to discuss the 5 Cs of charter school financial governance, emphasizing the need for clear role definitions between the CEO, Finance Lead, and Board, ensuring effective stewardship of public funds. The board reiterated its commitment to providing a high-quality education for students by maintaining fiscal responsibility. The 5 Cs—Clarity, Collaboration, Communication, Consistency, and Commitment—were highlighted as key pillars for sound financial governance. Strategic partnerships, prudence, and meaningful connections were noted as essential factors in ensuring financial health and alignment with the school’s mission. 

 

This training involved a lot of discussion and engagement with the board. 

D.

Board Committee's Structure Review (For Possible Action)

Ms. Diggins announced she will be leaving the CASLV Board Presidency position in May, but she will remain on the board. Information only, no action. 

E.

CASLV Strategic Plan Review & Board's Goal's & Priorities (For Possible Action)

Dr. Ercan reviewed the strategic plan with the board in detail. Information only, no action. 

IV. Discussion & Possible Action Items

A.

Special Education Support Staff (SESS) Provider (For Possible Action)

Dr. Gunozu presented this and said it is a local special education provider. We are renewing the contract. 

Ann Diggins made a motion to approve the Special Education Support Staff Provider, subject to Mr. Gardberg's review.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

B.

Cross Country Special Education Services Agreement (For Possible Action)

Dr. Gunozu said this is a special education service provider. We are renewing the contract. 

Ann Diggins made a motion to approve the Cross Country Special Education Services Agreement subject to Mr. Gardberg's review.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

C.

Nexus Therapy Agreement (For Possible Action)

This is a new contract for a local special education service provider. They will start only with speech therapy. 

Ann Diggins made a motion to approve the Nexus Therapy Agreement subject to Mr. Gardberg's review.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

D.

Annual Provision of Assessment Whistleblower Protections (For Possible Action)

As required by the SPCSA, Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 390.350 through 390.430 establish whistleblower protections for reporting irregularities in testing administration and security. Specifically, NRS 390.425 mandates that the Nevada Department of Education (NDE) provide an annual written summary of these protections to the board of trustees for each school district and to the governing body of each charter school. The Board will ensure that a copy of this written summary is distributed to all school staff members. 

Arlene Hayman made a motion to approve the Annual Provision of Assessment Whistleblower Protections.
Chan Lengsavath seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

E.

Liability and Worker's Comp Insurance Renewal (For Possible Action)

Mr. Selim presented these saying rates are increasing due to claims last year. The recommendation is to stay with the same insurer. 

Chan Lengsavath made a motion to approve the Liability and Worker's Comp Insurance Renewal.
Arlene Hayman seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

F.

Executive Director Credit Card Transactions (For Possible Action)

The board reviewed Dr. Ercan's credit card transactions and indicated they had no questions or concerns. 

Elizabeth Kazelskis made a motion to approve the Executive Director's credit card transactions.
Feyzi Tandogan seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

G.

Cell Phone Policy Implementation (For Possible Action)

Ms. Diggins presented research information about this. Depression and anxiety have risen since smartphones. Dr. Ercan said all campuses have implemented the cell phone policy. There have been almost no parental complaints about communicating and campus administration indicated it is going well. Information only, no action. 

H.

CASLV's Charter Renewal Process Update (For Possible Action)

Dr. Ercan gave an update regarding the process for CASLV's charter renewal. The board appointed Ms. Arlene Hayman as the point person for this. The actual approval will happen at the September 25th board meeting. Information only, no action. 

I.

Project ABC Grant Agreement (For Possible Action)

Dr. Ercan presented the specifics in detail of the Project ABC Grant agreement indicating the Charter School Growth Fund will support CASLV in improving students' academic performance and CASLV's expansion with a grant of $1.9M. 

Arlene Hayman made a motion to approve the Project ABC Grant Agreement.
Chan Lengsavath seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

J.

Amendment of Investment Policy (For Possible Action)

Nick explained the proposed changes. Chan reviewed them, stating that they were straightforward and that there were no concerns.

Chan Lengsavath made a motion to approve the amendment of the Investment Policy.
Dr. Carryn Warren seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

K.

Amendment of the CASLV ByLaws (For Possible Action)

Mr. Gardberg reminded the board that the Governance Committee worked on the updates first and then the Board approved the update in March 2024. The State Public Charter School Authority had comments Mr. Gardberg presented in detail. 

Chan Lengsavath made a motion to approve the amendment of the CASLV ByLaws as presented including the abolition of the staggering terms.
Elizabeth Kazelskis seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

L.

Grant agreement with Charter School Growth Fund and Mariposa Consulting Group for the Marketing Accelerator services (For Possible Action)

Dr. Ercan indicated this is a grant agreement with the Charter School Growth Fund (CSGF). The grant covers most of the cost, CASLV's portion. The contract amount is $31,750 and CSGF covers $19,750 and CASLV is responsible for $12,000.  

Ann Diggins made a motion to the grant agreement with CSGF and Mariposa Consulting Group as presented.
Chan Lengsavath seconded the motion.
The board VOTED unanimously to approve the motion.

V. Closed Session-Privileged & Confidential

A.

Attorney/Client Conference

The closed session was held from 2:37 p.m. - 2:57 p.m. 

VI. Potential Action(s) (For Possible Action)

A.

Potential Action(s) (For Possible Action)

There were no action items. 

VII. Public Comments (Information)

A.

Public Comment

There were no public comments. 

VIII. Closing Items

A.

Adjourn Meeting

Arlene Hayman made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Chan Lengsavath 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 2:58 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,
Andrea Shepard, CASLV Executive Assistant