Nicoleen Richards

Key discussions during the meeting included the Executive Director's report, which recognized staff achievements such as security training completion and successful certification testing, and a report on Career Education (CE) credits, outlining four school partnerships and trends in participation, noting more juniors than seniors participating in CE classes. The Financial Committee Report addressed the January 2026 Budget, noting increased state revenue and the need to adjust the budget for Mentors and Math Tutors. The committee also monitored board job descriptions and the Board Chair role. Discussions were held regarding the Legacy Learning Scholarship applications and awards, emphasizing the value to students. The Board voted to unanimously approve the School Employee Grievance Policy and unanimously approved the Fee Waiver Policy. A first review and discussion occurred regarding the proposed 2026-27 Fee Schedule. The final segment involved board assessment and development based on assigned chapters from the Charter School Board University.

The meeting commenced with the Chair's opening remarks, followed by Board Member Bright Spots. The Executive Director provided an update on Class Presidents' activities and presented an enrollment summary showing a total of 529 students across grades 6 through 12, with discussions focusing on long-term student retention strategies. The Financial Committee Report indicated positive financial standing, and a Fee Waiver Audit Report suggested minor upcoming changes. The Board reviewed and addressed Educational Director Monitoring Reports pertaining to Governing Style and Electronic Board Meetings. Furthermore, the Board unanimously approved several new and revised policies: Incident Reporting, Investigation, and Action Plan; Bullying, Cyber-bullying, Harassment, Hazing, Retaliation, and Abusive Conduct Policy; Emergency Safety Intervention Policy; and Process For Reporting Violations of Statute Board Rule. Finally, the 2026-27 Academic Calendar was approved, and the Board discussed charter school board development.

The board meeting included discussions and reports on student performance, enrollment, and a state audit for LAU. The board reviewed the LAU 2025 Audit Report, which indicated no compliance or budget issues and a positive financial outlook for the school. The Financial Committee reported on the school's financial status, progress on fall payments, and efforts to reconcile restricted funds with the budget. The board approved the LAU/WL Contract and Additional Skill Certification Recognition. They also discussed LAU employee compensation and went into a closed session. The meeting concluded with a discussion on assigned chapters from Governing Greatness and upcoming calendar events.

The board retreat included discussions on Williamsburg Learning's report on Derivita and WL math success, mentor evaluations, and how WL supports LAU growth. The Executive Director's report highlighted how ED and LAU support growth for LAU and its students and families, including an Ends Policy Report. There were discussions about the Legacy Scholarship Foundation Process, Summit Journey deliverables, and the Teacher Student Success Act (TSSA), which was approved. An update was provided on the USCB's focus on updating to a common template for Charter Agreements and charter school expansion, including small and large expansions. The board also discussed its responsibility to support growth for students and families, board roles and boundaries, and key takeaways from the board retreat.

The board meeting included discussion and updates on various topics. The Executive Director's report highlighted steady enrollment and the importance of the student support team, including new Pre-ET's and English Language Learners classes. There was an update on technology infrastructure, including periodic reviews to ensure the best systems are in use. The Financial Committee reported that monthly expenses are in the red due to a large payment, but finances are expected to remain on a positive trajectory. The Legacy Scholarship is ready to accept student applications. The board also approved the 2026 meeting schedule and a one-year contract for the Outdoor Leadership Camp 2026. A closed session was held, after which LEA-S Licensure for Kent Schwager and Emily Campbell was approved. Upcoming calendar events were announced.