Denni Claycomb-Gardner

The board discussed financial reports for the current month and received updates from the Building Committee regarding bleacher remediation and HVAC software repairs. The Chief Executive Officer provided updates on staff activities and an intersession program held at Durham Charter School. Additionally, the Development Office reported on the success of the annual Amazing Shake competition, noting that the top students will participate in the global competition in Atlanta. The board also convened in closed session for legal and privacy-related matters.

The board approved the FY25 Audit Report, December 2025 financial reports, a new policy regarding the use of wireless communication devices, and new hires for January 2026. The building committee reported on structural issues with upper fixed bleachers, and the CEO provided updates on school events, high historical kindergarten reading performance, high school AP Honor Roll status, and strategic budget planning efforts in light of state budget delays. Additionally, the development office highlighted upcoming volunteer opportunities and recent successful student presentations.

The regular board meeting included several key updates and motions. The Building Committee reported on roof inspection results confirming proper membrane thickness and warranty issuance, noted that upper fixed bleachers require weld remediation, and confirmed receipt of the T&B report pending final HVAC repairs and owner training. The Chief Executive Officer provided updates regarding cautious revision of trips and programming due to recent concerns, and noted staff engagement in learning about AI implementation through external cohorts and trainings. The Development Office reported on the success of the raffle ticket fundraiser, raising over $24,000, and announced the focus for the upcoming Giving Tuesday event would be scholarship funds. The Board also entered a closed session to discuss a confidential contract matter.

The meeting included updates from the Building Committee, including the closing of a construction loan and pursuing independent inspections for the steel structure under the upper fixed bleachers and the roof. The Chief Executive Officer shared updates, including attendance at a Charter School Growth Fund CEO convening and the potential use of new AI programs to increase productivity in classes. The Development Office provided updates on the annual school raffle ticket fundraiser. The board moved into a closed session to discuss a contract matter.

The board discussed and approved financial reports for July and August 2025. Updates were provided on the MP facility's final walkthrough, including concerns about basketball goal placement, court striping, and bleacher installation. A motion was passed to approve the posting of a cash bond to release a mechanics lien. The board authorized negotiation during mediation with Cooper Tacia General Contracting. Academic achievement data from NC DPI was shared, highlighting the school's exceeding its growth goal and outperforming state and local districts. The board also discussed moving the October regular board meeting to Tuesday, October 21st, 2025 and approved new hires for September 2025.