Susan Schwieger

The meeting addressed several key areas, including updates on the Direct Mailer campaign, which is targeted for completion before the School Choice Event in March, and the approval of an advertising package purchase for enrollment enhancement. The Treasurer's Report noted a successful audit on the meeting date, with the full report forthcoming. Enrollment numbers for the 2025-2026 academic year totaled 98 students across four grades. The Marketing Committee approved changing the Photo/Video Waiver from an opt-out to an opt-in form. The Fundraising Committee reviewed plans for a Lottery Calendar sale and the Spring Gala. The Director of School Operations (DOS) provided a limited update following the Christmas vacation, noting a Five Guys Fundraiser and successful showcases. The Teacher Representative reported positive rehearsal progress for the spring show scheduled for late March, and plans for a summer theater camp for middle schoolers.

Key discussions centered on fundraising ideas, including Musical Bingo, gift wrapping booths, Krispy Kreme sales, and a proposed comedy show fundraiser, with Michael Rennie expressing interest in joining the fundraising committee. The Chair reported on the status of by-law signatures and the low response rate for the student and staff survey. Enrollment marketing efforts were detailed, covering the use of parent comedians for external marketing, developing sponsor solicitation documents, and planning for a Chairman's Challenge expansion. Financial updates included current enrollment figures, discussions on direct mail strategies targeting specific demographics for Open Enrollment ending January 30th, and considerations for radio advertisements in February, March, and April. Fundraising updates noted $14,500 earned from the Salem Gaming Room and planning for a Spring Event featuring art for sale/auction. Operational updates covered successful staff professional development, a well-attended Open House, positive outcomes from the SEL programming, and participation in the Southern NH Chamber of Commerce Expo. The Facilities Committee reported on utility pole replacements.

Key discussions included the Chair reporting on DOE 25 signature, submission of 990 and NHCT Extensions, and discussion regarding New Hampshire HB 222 concerning MOUs for charter schools. The Treasurer's report covered financial numbers and enrollment. The Marketing Committee reviewed meeting ideas. The Fundraising Committee provided updates on the Game Rooms, Skating Fundraiser, Spring Event scheduled for April 9, 2025, and the Annual Giving Drive. The DOS update addressed an Open House for transitioning students on 12/18 and another on 2/5/2026, marking the end of Q1 on 11/1, updates to the Tuition Policy Document and the creation of a Freedom of Information Policy. Updates also covered upcoming events such as the fall play Orestia, Thrift Store dates, and School Choice on January 28, 2026. Student activities included participation in the Salem Holiday Parade and successful events like the first-ever pep rally and Homecoming. The Music program successfully funded a Donors Choose project. All new business items were deferred to the next meeting.

Key discussions included a tabled vote regarding the Business Rate Award and Direct Mailer/WZID Campaign until after the new year. The Treasurer's Report detailed enrollment figures totaling 98 students across grades 9 through 12. The Marketing Committee reviewed meeting ideas. The Fundraising Committee discussed future events, specifically the Brook Game Room update scheduled for November 2026, the Annual Giving Drive replacing the Chairman's Challenge, and a comedy show planned for May 2026. The DOS update noted a first prize win in the Salem Parade, positive turnouts for the Fall Play and Dance Showcase, and upcoming prospective student Open House. Concerns were raised regarding SAT Math Data, specifically low enrollment, non-submission, and scores below the state average. The Teacher Representative noted music production progress and a successful GSA Thrift Store event. The Facilities Committee had no specific actions listed for this meeting. All new business items were deferred to the next meeting.

The meeting included a thank you to Scott Dollover and Melissa Santos for their time on the board. The board voted for the middle package of the Union Leader Ad. The last pieces of equipment for the recording room will be arriving soon. Plans for late summer and fall were discussed. A new gaming room for August was mentioned. Advisories will be every Friday, and at least one a month will be focused on SEL using the ChooseLove format. Summer work includes a new cleaning tool for the school to better sanitize the floors. The board voted on a new board member during the closed session.