Led by Stuart Welch

No comments from the public

No comments from the public

No comments from the public The Board went into closed session at 3:11 p.m.

Nothing to report

Nothing to report. Return to Open Session at 4:44 p.m.

Executive Director Jerri Levers presented an overview of the Student Records Department, highlighting their responsibilities in student intake, maintaining educational records, tracking vaccinations, and assigning students to Education Specialists. She commended the department for their efficiency and collaboration with Tammy, Deputy Executive Director, to ensure smooth operations, noting the importance of timely student enrollment for school funding. A board member inquired about discrepancies between the number of intake calls and processed applications. Jerri explained that variations occur due to differing levels of family responsiveness and support needs, as some families require multiple calls or discontinue the process after learning more about the program. Tammy added that many families reconsider enrollment once they understand the parent-educator model, which can lead to additional communication and follow-up.

Intake Coordinator Kelly Jacob presented an overview of the intake process, explaining how families transition from student records into intake to gain a deeper understanding of the school’s model. Kelly emphasized the department’s efforts to clearly and repeatedly communicate expectations—especially the parent’s role as the primary educator—to ensure families fully understand before enrollment. Board and staff members noted that while the information can feel overwhelming, the multiple formats and resources available help parents stay informed and supported. Kelly invited board members and staff to attend upcoming intake presentations to observe the process and provide feedback on clarity and communication. The Board thanked Kelly for her work and noted that the virtual format seems to work well for both staff and families.

Executive Director Jerri Levers presented her report to the Board, which was received and discussed. She shared updates on the recent CWEB site visit and highlighted the success of the CSDC Conference, where both certificated and classified staff gained valuable insights. Jerri reported on her productive meeting with Mr. Hurst from Modesto City Schools regarding the upcoming CV charter renewal and noted her meeting with Irene Salter to explore collaboration on the board evaluation and training process. She also mentioned the continued success of the “Donuts with Directors” outreach and ongoing community engagement efforts with ACOE. The Board suggested exploring options for holding future meetings in the evening or virtually to increase family participation.

Board Member S. Welch excused himself from the meeting at 5:36 p.m.

The Deputy Executive Director provided updates highlighting the addition of a new communications assistant to engage staff and increase the school’s visibility in the community, efforts to streamline processes, and participation in professional development including Effective Educator trainings, CSDC, and upcoming A+ and Breakthrough Coaching conferences. She also noted successful ACOE site visits, a planned hands-on seizure training with the school nurse, and progress on the CV mural project with potential vendors, including one who would involve students in the creation. The Board thanked her for her report.

The Board reviewed the September 2025 monthly financials for all three Connecting Waters Charter School campuses. DMS was not available for questions, but feedback indicated that revenue and expenditures are on target, with the budget remaining healthy for upcoming projects including the CWEB mobile culinary kitchen and the Central Valley land purchase. 

No questions

No questions

The Board discussed adding a section to the 2026–2027 Employee Handbook addressing out-of-state employees. The intent is to formalize and clarify existing practices rather than impact current employees. The policy would primarily guide employees considering relocation out of California on the process to follow, taking into account legal and compliance requirements.. The discussion is preliminary, and future meetings will allow public comment to refine the approach.

The Board shared brief remarks about recent and upcoming conferences, noting that the CSVC conference was well-attended and informative, while details from the A+ conference will be shared at the next meeting. Board members discussed attendance, with only one currently planning to attend A+. Additionally, a Thanksgiving turkey giveaway hosted by Life Connection Church on November 22nd from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. in Modesto was announced, offering opportunities for both receiving and volunteering. Board members encouraged participation and will provide information to facilitate involvement.