Katie Bouwhuis

The board meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. A significant portion of the meeting involved a detailed district update presented by Dr. Roberts, including the review of the annual audit for the year ended June 30th, 2025, conducted by Landmark CPA. The audit resulted in a clean unqualified opinion with no findings related to internal controls or compliance with laws and regulations. The enrollment report indicated steady numbers around 928-930 students, with strategies in place to replace departing students. A discussion highlighted the entity being the sole course select school in Arkansas, positioning it uniquely for the new fall legislation regarding student course selection across the state. Furthermore, there was an update on January staff and student recognitions, including the presentation of Staff of the Month (Leandro Walter) and Student of the Month awards across various grades. Recognition was also given to a partner, Office Depot, for significant financial support, and to a science teacher, Jessica Wasserman, for leading the state in 10th-grade biology scores. Finally, a comprehensive data review focused on student performance via interim testing in ELA (Reading and Writing) and Math, noting significant growth in ELA proficiency compared to the previous year and a reduction in third-grade level one scores, although Math remains a primary area for improvement.

The meeting included a roll call, followed by discussions on new staff hires, noting the addition of an occupational therapist in-house, while physical therapy remains outsourced. An enrollment report was presented, showing current enrollment above the previous year's numbers, and the process for integrating homeschool students and adjusting per-course rates was detailed. Updates covered the start of the Pre-K program, including logistical preparations. Key discussions also centered on presenting presentations regarding Atlas data analysis, the successful start of school, and transportation updates, including managing bus capacity and waitlists due to construction detours. A significant portion addressed the introduction and rationale for the ARC program, focusing on using arts to re-engage high-needs students dealing with trauma and stress, establishing a safety net with community partners like the Children and Family Advocacy Center and Arkansas Crisis Center, and exploring funding for a full-time school psychologist or social worker. Finally, the board reviewed and discussed proposed changes to the employee handbook, particularly concerning budget deadlines and process updates related to technology.

The meeting began with updates regarding a theatrical production titled 'Puffs,' including performance dates, ticket prices, and student involvement. A report was given on the positive outcomes from the Thesbian festival, noting several student scholarships and awards, including Best in Class for improv for the state of Arkansas. Discussions followed on the Wellington Engagement Index, detailing how student engagement in classes like East, Math, Science, and ELA is measured using a four-quadrant matrix to track whether students feel loved/hated and challenged/unchallenged. Updates were provided on elementary school projects, including the implementation of new allergy identification badges for lunch services, created by third graders using a 3D printer. District updates covered acceptance into the semi-final round of the Titter Growth Fund, planning for a visit from the National Art Museum School delegation in May, and positive feedback from the Department of Education regarding the Child Nutrition program following recent reconfiguration. Furthermore, a new recycling program in partnership with the Northwest Council was announced, focusing on cardboard and food waste recycling at both kitchens. Counselor survey data review indicated plans to propose a data-driven enhancement to the counseling program, including small group and large group time. Progress on the High Impact Tutoring Grant, funded by the Department of Education, was also reviewed. Finally, updates on enrollment, hiring, and upcoming lottery/poll dates were provided.

The finance committee meeting involved the review and approval of previous meeting minutes. Key discussions centered on the October financials, including clarifying that figures were actuals rather than projected, and a review of operating revenue, expenditures, and balances. A significant portion of the discussion focused on managing categorical and federal funds, specifically Title I and Title IV funds, to ensure timely spending to receive reimbursements. There were specific discussions regarding fund reclassifications, such as moving a computer tablets expenditure from operating to a federal/categorical fund and adjusting the arts consulting group expenditure code. The committee also addressed variances in food service fund expenditures, noting higher costs due to Aramark bill structuring and increased disposable use for virtual meal packaging. Furthermore, the negative balance in the teacher salary fund (Fund 2200) related to how arts program expenses are handled through operating transfers was discussed. The compliance requirement for state approval (Appscan) of all monthly journal entries was noted as a procedural bottleneck. Finally, discussions touched upon enrollment trends, the date for the next year's lottery (February 23rd), and the uncertainty surrounding future expenditures related to remote learning tools like Chalk Talk and fluctuating COVID-19 related costs.

The meeting involved several key agenda items and reports. A public comment was heard regarding dyslexia awareness month, prompting a request for hiring additional dyslexia therapists to increase the frequency and intensity of intervention, noting the availability of curriculum resources like Take Flight and Lexia. The Board approved the consent agenda, including September financials and the development report. The new CEO, Richard Burrows, introduced himself and outlined initial efforts focusing on designing a better communication system with a signature look and establishing new protocols for purchases over $500 to enhance financial accountability. He also detailed efforts to organize regular meetings with administrators to focus on teaching and learning. The Child Nutrition director reported on the successful Cycle 2 reporting, the adherence to National School Lunch Program guidelines, and the significant financial benefit from USDA's extension of free meal service through June 2021. Finally, a COVID-19 status update confirmed zero active cases district-wide, although some staff and students were in quarantine due to close contact outside the district.