Board Governance & Renewal
Barbara Scott shared that this is a key time for governance and board development, including upcoming 30-minute individual check-ins with members.

Board members serve staggered two-year terms based on individual start dates. Kathy Ortiz expressed appreciation for Evette’s continued service.

School Update

• Student enrollment changes were due to a small number of withdrawals and transitions to therapeutic placements or disagreement with promotion status. 
• Attendance remained strong despite February weather challenges.

Midterm Visit Preparation
Kathy highlighted strong readiness for the March 16 mid-term renewal visit, with clear alignment across benchmarks and no last-minute preparation.

Additional Updates

• Continued academic progress despite new assessments and computer-based testing.
• Upcoming leadership retreat will focus on alignment, messaging, and student-centered priorities.
• Artwork presented will be featured in the upcoming virtual art auction; board members encouraged to sign up and participate. 

David Barnard reported:

• No urgent HVAC or roof issues at this time.
• Long-term planning for the BAE facility is underway, including engagement with Civic Builders.
• Early steps include benchmarking and exploring adjacent properties.

More updates expected in upcoming meetings.

Melanie Hok reported:

• Financial position remains stable and favorable year-to-date due to personnel savings.
• Ongoing challenge: shortage of certified teachers.
• Projected revenue: $14.4M (based on ~590 students).
• Projected expenses: $14.3M, with increases in programming, recruitment, and consulting.
• Budget planning for FY 2026–27 begins soon; ~4% per-pupil funding increase anticipated.

Joseph Chiofalo reported:

• Winter recruitment campaign includes MTA ads, print placements, and digital outreach.
• Analytics will be available next month.
• Concerts for Compassion and Metropolitan Opera partnerships are underway.
• Summer Boost grant decision expected by end of March.

Virtual Art Auction

• From Our Walls to Yours runs March 12–19.
• 12 student pieces available.

Fundraising

• Peer-to-peer campaign for Jazz on Longfellow ongoing; goal: $10,000.

The upcoming weeks are packed with key events, including the student art auction, leadership retreats, midterm visits, and another full-day session with Leverage Ed, followed by closures for Eid and spring break. Our Next Board Meeting is scheduled for April 14.