Matt opened the meeting with brief updates and announcements, including a reminder to save the date for graduation on June 15 at 6:00 PM at Springfield's Symphony Hall (doors opening at 5:00 PM). He also noted that the May Board meeting will be scheduled later in the day to align with Declaration Day on May 28. Matt acknowledged ongoing challenges with Finance Committee attendance, which have impacted the committee’s ability to consistently meet quorum requirements.

Katrina Turner, Communications and Development Manager, provided a development update, highlighting plans for a new College Success Program to support Veritas Prep’s first graduating class. The program will offer advising, workshops, and ongoing support through students’ first year of college, along with a small emergency fund to address minor financial barriers. The school aims to raise $15,000–$25,000 through fundraising efforts, including a planned event at White Lion Brewery on Declaration Day. The program is designed to address lower college completion rates among first-generation students and students of color while also strengthening alumni connections as near-peer mentors.

Rachel shared an update on progress toward FY26 CEO goals, including key priorities around faithfulness to charter, academic success, and organizational viability. Work is underway on the charter renewal application, with Board approval anticipated in July. The school continues to make progress toward accountability plan goals, with a target of meeting at least 90% of metrics. Rachel noted that academic progress has been moderate overall, with a goal of reaching substantial progress this year. Additional detail on senior class outcomes will be presented at the April 30 Board meeting.

The Board also discussed positive staff response to the newly approved compensation schedule. Middle school renewal letters saw a 98% return rate, reflecting strong retention, while high school responses were still in progress. The updated compensation structure has significantly improved staff retention compared to prior years.

In reviewing monthly financials, the committee noted that financial performance remains strong, with a projected year-end surplus of $300,000–$500,000, exceeding the minimum target. The school is strategically reinvesting savings into early purchases of equipment and supplies in anticipation of potential reductions in federal funding. Current enrollment stands at 753 students, slightly below the charter cap but within budgeted expectations.

The Governance Committee also discussed ongoing trustee recruitment, with a focus on identifying candidates with finance expertise to strengthen Board capacity. Additional considerations include upcoming term renewals and potential future vacancies.

Rebecca/Rachel presented the Quarter 3 Middle School academic report, highlighting mixed performance across grade levels. While some grades approached or met the 60% proficiency target, others—particularly fifth grade—showed declines, likely due to the rigor of newly implemented curriculum. Seventh and eighth grades performed closer to target levels. The school is in year two of curriculum implementation, with expectations of improved outcomes as teacher mastery increases over time.

ANet assessment data for ELA and Math was also reviewed. Math results showed a decline in the third interim assessment, potentially due to misalignment between tested content and pacing. Teachers are now engaging in deeper data analysis and reteaching practices, supported by improved staffing stability compared to prior years.

The committee also discussed continued progress in reducing chronic absenteeism and improving attendance rates. While overall metrics have improved significantly, concerns remain about attendance patterns among early college students and a subset of students with persistent absenteeism. Staff continue targeted interventions to address these challenges.

Additional Discussion and Next Steps
The Board discussed evolving student recruitment trends, noting strong demand in sixth grade but ongoing recruitment needs in fifth and ninth grades. Monthly lotteries will continue to support enrollment efforts. The school is also taking a more intentional approach to ensuring high school fit for students, rather than prioritizing retention alone.

Next Steps:

• Counselors will present detailed senior class outcomes at the April 30 Board meeting
• Finance Committee will proceed with implementation of the FDIC risk mitigation strategy and account setup
• Andres Gomez will complete onboarding requirements pending Commissioner approval
• Recruitment efforts will continue for fifth and ninth grade through ongoing outreach and monthly lotteries
• The College Success Program fundraising campaign will launch this spring
• Academic teams will continue data analysis and targeted reteaching based on interim results
• The Board will consider next steps for a potential performance-based compensation pilot for the upcoming school year