Lauren Burgardt

The board discussed operational updates for the Alpine and Riverton campuses, including grant funding and enrollment goals. The Headmaster provided a report on academic routines and preparations for the upcoming school year. Key action items included the approval of an auditor engagement letter for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, and discussions regarding enrollment projections and the implementation of a house system. The board also reviewed proposals for new upper school uniforms and held an executive session to discuss personnel matters and grievances.

The meeting agenda covered several key areas for discussion and action. Discussions included updates on the Alpine and Riverton campuses, including the hiring of the new Alpine Headmaster and progress on their respective build-outs and enrollment efforts. The Headmaster provided a report focusing on curriculum updates, including the 1776 curriculum, the onboarding of the new Dean of Students, and strategies for improving student performance in reading and math, particularly concerning the need for tutoring and credit recovery options. Financial reporting was presented through December 31, 2025, noting the payoff of the startup loan. Action items included the approval of the construction manager/architect for the new building (One West), discussion and possible action regarding enrollment for the 2026/2027 school year, discussion regarding the House System, and possible action on school uniforms. The Board also planned to schedule the mid-year Headmaster review and approve the 2026/2027 Board Meeting Schedule. Furthermore, the Board addressed the approval of the Daniel's Fund grant for $300,000 for expansion purposes, and discussed additional legal counsel.

The Board of Directors meeting agenda covered several areas, including public comment procedures and reports from the PTO and Board Members. Key action and discussion items included the potential approval of minutes from the January 8, 2026 board meeting, a presentation on Child Advocacy Training (CAP), discussion of the Headmaster Report focusing on hiring a new dean, curriculum emphasis on Hillsdale content, and preparation for 9th grade expansion. Enrollment projections for the 2026/2027 school year were reviewed, showing strong interest across K-8 grades and initial enrollment for 9th grade. The Board discussed and potentially approved the District Membership Agreement to unify Wyoming Classical Academy Mills and Wyoming Classical Academy Alpine under one corporate district structure. Additionally, the strategic plan for 2025-2030 was presented, and updates were provided on the Alpine and Riverton campuses. Discussion also included the selection of a Construction Manager/General Contractor and Architect for the facility expansion project.

The strategic planning session focused on adjusting the strategic plan based on insights from Hillsdale College. Key discussions included extending the strategic plan timeline to 2025-2030 and updating curriculum descriptions. Regarding WCA Alpine, the decision was made to establish it as a Charter Management Organization (CMO) that would contract with WCA, rather than proceeding with the initially proposed unified governance structure. Enrollment goals were set for 420 students by mid-January and 479 by the start of the 2026-27 school year. The Board also encouraged formalizing the 'Coffee with the Headmaster' event and exploring other engagement methods like Facebook Live and Zoom events. Additionally, progress on the Daniels Fund grant application was confirmed.

The special meeting focused on critical action and discussion items. The primary discussion revolved around the selection of a Construction Management Services Provider following a request for proposals. Board members discussed concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest, ultimately recommending and unanimously approving a contract with Roundtable based on their specialization in construction management services without building operations, their alignment with the school's mission, and the proposed fee structure being contingent upon funding. Additionally, the Board administered the Oath of Office to Meredith Leonard as a new Board member.