Kathy Ortiz's review of the demographic data reveals a diverse student population. The gender distribution shows a slightly higher number of females compared to males. A significant portion of the students are classified as economically disadvantaged, and this figure may rise to between 89% and 90%.

In terms of attendance, the school successfully achieved a commendable 90% attendance rate for both September and October. However, the enrollment numbers indicate a slight shortfall, with a budgeted figure of 590 students, while the actual count stands at 578.

October Highlights were shared:

• Introduction of high school articulation counselor at the Middle school
• 18 students will complete the specialized H.S. exam in November.
• BAE hosted second annual clothing drive.
• The BAM Jazz Club started practice two days a week in preparation for Jazz on Longfellow
• The BAM Volleyball team reached the playoffs.
• We established a new Partnership with Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Mr. Eric Osorio discussed the success on NYS performance in ELA & Math over the last few years.

• Past performance concerns have improved significantly; outperforming state, city, borough, and district in ELA and Math.
• This will be the first year of full programming across the board.
• Regents exams for 8th grader will be administered to all in Biology and algebra. 

David Barnard provided an update on the current status of 950 Longfellow, the private rented facility for BAE. He emphasized the need to review the scope and role of the facilities & real state committee to ensure oversight and management. The primary focus areas include improvements to HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and lighting. Civic Builders has been engaged to assist with assessments and provide support gathering quotes for the necessary capital upgrades. The Capital reserve account funded by the school but held by the landlord, Civic Builders, may be used to help fund the capital improvements.

Next a meeting will be organized with the nominated members of the facilities and real estate committee to discuss these initiatives further.
 

Financial Update by Melanie Hok:

• YTD actuals reflect a net income of approx. $369k due to underspending in personnel costs but higher costs in instructional and classroom expenses.
• Full year projection assumes per pupil revenue shortfall of approx. 300k due to lower enrollment, but will be offset by federal grant funding.
• Higher costs in classroom, teacher PD, and other instructional expenses that are covered by ESSER 3 and Summer Boost 2024 grants.

Jasmin Abbatiello provided an update regarding private contributions and communications efforts:

• The Development and Communications Committee met on November 6th. During the meeting, Susan G. volunteered to be the Secretary and Zahreen G. volunteered to be the Chair. These positions have yet to be formalized since all members were not present. Jasmin confirmed she would be reaching out to anyone who did not make the meeting to ensure everyone is okay with the assigned roles moving forward. The committee requested the description of the committee be updated and Jasmin confirmed she would update the description and share for approval. The next meeting will be held on December 3rd.

• Jasmin discussed recent contributions and grant awards:

1. Disney Grant Award (The Lion King showkit and production rights)
2. $37,500 for Mornings with Jazz (morningcare/received)
3. $5,000 matching gift incentive for Giving Tuesday (received)
4. $2,000 book fair sponsorship (pledged)
5. $500 unrestricted (pledged)

• Jasmin will be promoting Giving Tuesday (two weeks in advance, falls on December 3rd) and year-end (following Giving Tuesday through December 31st) with all supporters. 

Upcoming Events

• All month-Food Drive at BAE
• 11/13-Volleyball Playoff Game
• 11/13-Parent Association Meeting with Ms. Ortiz & Ms. Millie
• 11/16-High School Specialty Admission’s Test
• 11/21-Parent/Teaher Conferences
• 11/27-11/29-Thanksgiving Break
• 12/10-Board Meeting
• 1/16-BAM Musical

Barbara Scott requested that board members stay for closed executive session.

Confidential discussion regarding personnel matters.

Barbara Scott expressed her gratitude to everyone and reminded the team that the upcoming Board Meeting in December will be conducted via Zoom. Additionally, the January Board Meeting is scheduled to take place in person in the city, with Kathy and Barbara committed to providing further details.

Executive session ended at 7:13pm