Patricia A. Brantley

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Key discussion points centered on the Finance Update, which included a review of the FY 2025 audit results by the external auditor, resulting in an unmodified opinion with no material weaknesses noted in internal controls. The board accepted the audit and discussed ongoing quarterly financial items such as enrollment, revenues, expenses, and reserve funding. The board also addressed potential conflicts of interest involving two trustees concerning the approval of a three-year agreement with EmpowerK12 and an agreement with Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP for legal services. Additionally, acknowledgments were made regarding dues-paying organizational memberships where a trustee is affiliated. The School Performance Report highlighted student growth and achievement, noting that performance levels in ELA and math are exceeding pre-pandemic levels, and specific student groups outperformed sector averages. The board also voted to enter and exit an executive session to discuss strategy related to potential contract negotiations, specifically an employment contract and bond refinance opportunities.

The Board meeting addressed several key committee reports and actions. The Nominations and Governance Committee report resulted in the approval of a recommended slate of nominees, committee assignments, and the board calendar, alongside recognizing Dr. Tracy Gray for her service. The Finance Committee update included details on funds received from the Employee Retention Credit, a review of first-quarter financials projecting a net income of $509K, and positive performance trends on Key Performance Indicators. The Board also approved a contract extension with Orrick, Herrington & Suttcliffe LLP for borrower's counsel services related to debt refinancing, with a trustee recusal due to a conflict of interest. The School Performance Committee report highlighted significant academic achievements, including several middle schools ranking in the top tier of charter schools and growth in ELA and math performance across most campuses based on NWEA MAP fall results. The session concluded with an Executive Session to discuss personnel matters, followed by a reported 9-0 vote on one such matter.

The Board of Trustees meeting included a finance update, during which the FY 2025 audit results were reviewed, highlighting an unmodified opinion with no material weaknesses in internal controls, an increase in asset value, and improved cash on hand. The board also discussed and approved contracts with EmpowerK12 and Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, addressing potential conflicts of interest by recusing relevant members from the vote. A school performance report was presented, focusing on growth and achievement, with Friendship PCS exceeding pre-pandemic levels in ELA and making progress in math. The board also discussed academic priorities and assessment updates. Additionally, the board entered a closed session to discuss contract negotiations and legal matters, approving the CEO to pursue an opportunity and bond refinance.

The board convened in a closed session to discuss and establish a position for negotiating the price and material terms of a contract. Following the closed session, the board determined that a specific opportunity aligned with Friendship's mission and authorized the Chief Executive Officer to pursue it.

The meeting addressed the proposed relocation of the Community Office to the Armstrong campuses, highlighting operational efficiencies and educational benefits such as repurposing the current space for educational purposes. The Board reviewed comparative costs, lease terms, and a resolution for the relocation, which is set to commence in 2026. An update on the FY 2026 budget was provided, confirming its soundness based on the Mayor's budget release, with a projected net income of $509K.