Margaret Jessica Kirsch

The meeting included a CEO Report Summary covering construction updates, noting progress on excavation, demolition, and foundation work, with parking lot completion pending. The enrollment update indicated an approximate 23% increase in enrollment. Staffing updates highlighted new hires and introduced four new staff members. The submission of a $1.5M federal grant application (PACSP Grant) was noted, with awards expected in October 2025. Other topics included the submission of the Charter School Annual Report and plans for the Summer Institute for Staff. New Business involved the unanimous approval of several exhibits, including Financial Statements, HR Updates, Health Benefits Renewal, Commercial Insurance Package, and Curriculum Purchases. An Executive Session was held to discuss personnel matters, attorney-client privilege, pending litigation, and negotiations.

The meeting included a CEO report covering construction progress, which is slightly behind schedule but on track for core objectives, including completing precast concrete and sewage connections, with structural framing still in progress. The CEO also reported on a consent agreement with Clairton City School District and shared legal costs with Propel. Revisions to the 2025-2026 Handbook were discussed, specifically updating the Head Lice Policy to require absence until free of live lice, with asynchronous learning provided for such cases. Preliminary Future Ready Index (FRI) results were presented, pending final PDE data release. Updates were provided on the Foundations (Extended Day Program) attendance and partnerships. The Board approved the agenda for the November 6th, 2025 meeting. New business also involved the unanimous approval of the minutes from October 2nd, 2025, the Financial Statements and Expense Report as of October 31st, 2025, the Bed Bug Policy and the handbook revision, and the Annual Financial Report. No public members participated in open discussion.

The meeting included several key updates and actions. Construction updates indicated that steel erection was complete, but progress on the first floor was slower than anticipated. The CEO reported the award of a $1.5 million PA Charter Schools Program Grant for expansion goals, including increasing enrollment to 440 students. Significant discussion focused on transportation issues, particularly the discontinuation of yellow bus service by Clairton City Schools, leading to temporary arrangements and legal action. Academic goals for 2025-2026 were set for Math and English Proficiency (35%) and 92% Average Daily Attendance, alongside plans to launch Advanced Study Teams and a school band. Academic updates noted the administration of iReady Diagnostics and the strong start of new initiatives like team teaching and foreign language programs. The Board approved the current agenda, minutes from September 4th, 2025, Financial Statements and Expense Report as of September 30th, 2025, Commercial Cleaning Services, Food Services Emergency Procurement, revisions to the Parent-Student Handbook (excluding the lice section change), and Staff Stipend Payments. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters, attorney-client privilege, and pending litigation.

The CEO Report summarized key areas, including a 22% enrollment increase (374 out of 396 maximum), construction progress being slower than expected, and strong hiring outcomes. Academic updates noted that the Math goal for 2024--2025 was exceeded, but the ELA goal was not met, leading to new proficiency targets for 2025--2026. Handbook updates addressed field trip expectations, AI policy, and attendance. The board approved the meeting agenda, financial statements as of July 31st, 2025, a rental agreement and donation to Versailles Borough Fire Department, Uniform Grant Guidance Policies, HR Updates, the YSGA 25-26 Student Handbook, and the Schoolwide Title 1 School Plan. The session concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel, legal, litigation, and negotiation matters.

The meeting commenced with a statement regarding compliance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act and public notification procedures. Updates provided to the Board included a report on construction progress, noting work in areas like structural framing and window installation, with concrete work and rough plumbing in progress. Academic updates covered assessment tools such as i-Ready and PA Firefly, and discussions on typical vs. stretch growth targets. Miscellaneous informational items included the hiring of an Outreach Coordinator, expansion of the IA Supported Camera System via a safety grant, scheduled installation of fencing and automatic gates, and the approval of a $250 performance-based holiday bonus for staff. The Board also reviewed past and upcoming school events. Enrollment stood at 361 scholars with 3 active offer letters. New business items involved the approval of the subsequent month's agenda, the minutes from the current meeting (November 6th, 2025), financial statements and expense reports as of November 30th, 2025, and the Year End Bonus.