Mr. Brown presented a draft template of a monthly report and solicited feedback on its form.  The board requested he add updates on school disciplinary actions.  Mr. Brown will provide the report monthly and will also include data comparing MetLCS to other LHA schools.

Mr. Brown provided an update on the CPA, which is scheduled to open at the start of the new school year:  With respect to hiring a full-time principal, Mr. Brown expects to present 3-5 qualified candidates to the board by January 2018, with a plan to have a candidate in place by April or May 2018.  At its September meeting, the Education Committee will review and approve a hiring process, provide feedback on the desired qualifications and characteristics, and review an "after action" report to ensure any issues with the prior hiring process are fixed.  Mr. Brown recommended that the board review the compensation structure for the position and will present the Education Committee with market comparisons as reference.

LHA has contracted a consulting group to design the CPA; this engagement will include six sessions between August and December.  Board members are invited to participate.

Mr. Brown recommended that MetLCS create a strategy to engage with local public officials and will begin to prepare a proposal for such activity.

 

Mr. Phan provided an update on the project to purchase the MetLCS facility.  A presentation was made to Moody's, a rating agency, which will provide a credit assessment in September 2017. 

Ms. Rousseau provided the financial update.  Fall enrollment is currently strong - the schools are over enrolled with a long wait list.  The preliminary outlook for Federal funding (Title I and II) is strong; the school is eligible for funding over that budgeted due to a new allocation formula. Expenditures are currently in line with those budgeted: the various leasehold improvements will be capitalized and will not be reflected on the operating budget.  Overall the academic year is starting strong.

Mr. Mustafa provided an update on the MetLCS facility.  Focus has been on routine projects to start school, such as installing lockers and desks.  There are some leaks on the roof that will be investigated and fixed.  Construction in the multi-purpose room is on-going to reinforce the four main pillars; the cost is $135,000.  Turner Agassi will sign-off on the permit today; construction is expected to begin on Monday, August 21 and to be completed before September 5.

Mr. Mustafa updated the board that the HVAC compressors require repair or replacement that will cost approximately $25,000.  The board engaged in discussion around the impact of the roof and the school's responsibility for such repairs under the current lease.

The board entered into an executive session to discuss a matter that might lead to litigation.

The board engaged in a discussion about the cost of hiring a consultant to advise on the preparation of the charter renewal and support necessary.  Ms. Russell provided several consultant options to the board.  Mr. Brown indicated that the school wants to focus on growing its depth and ability to prepare such responses on its won.  The board members indicated that LHA should be able to provide this service for the school.  Board members recommended that the school continue to consider exploring the hire of a consultant, but that it ensure they hire a consultant with the right skills and competencies to add value to the process.

Ms. Williams presented the principal report, including new hires for the year.  MetLCS is almost fully staffed, with only two vacancies (in PE and 4th grade ELA); it is expected these vacancies will be filled before September 5.  Professional development began on Monday with the theme that the two schools are one Met; PDI will focus on restorative practices and school culture, among other things. The CPA teachers will begin a collaboration with teachers at BLCS, including regular professional development, to ensure that the teachers have thought partners.  There are currently 53 scholars enrolled at the CPA (1 above budget) and they are continuing to recruit students.  Mr. Jason McNatt will become the dean of the middle and high schools; a new dean will be hired for the lower academy.

There were no updates.

There were no public comments.