• Parent (Shakisha) discussed the PTA meeting.  She loves the BLCS Connect app and the parent features.  It is pleasant and she received a response right away regarding her inquiry. 
• Parent (Kim) commented that she likes seeing the scholars in the photos on the app and how happy they look. 
• Parent (Jackie) appreciates the additional communication from the Principal and the staff.  There are many schools with challenges in this neighborhood and BLCS is one of the best schools she has ever experienced for her children.

• Javier brought the Board through several points of the revised bylaws.  Following the meeting and detailed review of the proposed by-laws, Javier would like for Board members to vote via email regarding their desire to move forward with the amended by-laws.
  • Language was largely based around the MetLCS by-laws.
  • The by-laws will refer to a separate financial policies and procedures document, which will need to be drafted.
    • For example, one policy would be around when capital improvements need to be made and the expenditure is above X amount, three bids would be needed
• Javier will send a follow up call to vote.  Board members should plan to review over the weekend and provide Javier with their vote by Monday.

• The Board reflected on a prior conversation wherein it was suggested that Robert Jackson step into the role of "social media manager".  The Board is in support of him taking on these responsibilities.
  • The Board would like for Robert to develop the "rules of the road" for social media use and share with the Board prior to the next Board meeting.
  • Frantz is interested in supporting with:
    • Recovery options should be further explored.
    • Two-factor authentication will be important for security.

BLCS Cell Phone  Approved: 

1.  Students/Staff felt it was too harsh to take cell phone and keep for a week.
2.  After feedback from scholars was reviewed- What if we allowed scholars to use their phones at lunch? 
4.  At Lunch time for 60 minutes, they can use their cell phone.
5.  If cell phones are in use during class, the phone is taken away from the scholar and returned at the end of the day. 
6.  Repeat offenders of cell phone usage during class, will result in - The parent(s) to be notified and requested to come to the school. 

 

Academic Approach : Nikali 
Changes discussed: 
1. Academic curriculum 
2. Collaborative Enviroment
3.  Lower & Upper School Academic 
4.  Data Driven Decisions (3-12 Assessments) 
5.  Specialization - Customized classroom 
6.  College & Career Readiness 

Math & ELA (3-8 Grades) State Test Score Results Discussed 
  
MATH 

1. Goal- Exceed City Average 
2. 30% to 43%  (13% increase in Mathematics)
3. Key Leadership one of the main reasons for the increase 

ELA 

1. 32% did not meet the goal 
2. Negative in 3 out of 5 of Cohorts 
3. Discussed ELA Program Purposes discussed to increase score percentages 
4. Majority of ELA Department replaced 

Department Retention Strategies discussed: 

1. TFA Partnership (2 Year Employees)
2. NYU Residents   (2 Year Employees)

Parent & Community Engagements discussed 

 

Courtney Russell provided update of the enrollment progress
Lower grades are over slightly 
Waiting List for 11th Grade 

 

Courtney Russell provided update of the renewal activities 
Working with staff to complete assigned sections of the renewal process 
November 1 & 2  DOE visits 
October meeting - Mock interview to take place  
 

Mansoor Mustafa discussed: 

1. Summer work project results  
2. Play Deck flooring 
3. Solar Power options 

Javier suggestion to provide numbers for our current energy costs for future building options.

Robb Granado discussed Building Finance activities: 
Finalizing disclosure documents for Environment 
Plan B discussed if by Oct 12 Bond deal is not successful 

1. LIFF & Chase funds due on October 12, 2018 
2. Pay off Chase due on Oct 12, 2018 
3. Option to use cash from balance sheet to pay of debt

Resolution to use sinking and unrestricted funds for debt pay off discussed.
Javier motioned to approve the resolution to use sinking and unrestricted funds owned by the school. 
Vilma seconded and Bard unanimously approved.




 

Robb Granado discussed details related to finance. 
Funds reconciled and reported by Mary Beth.  

 

Minutes amended to 

Discuss open issues related to Finance 

Board Entered Into Executive Session at 8:30 PM.

Courtney Russell & Travis Brown invited into Executive Session.