Susan Schwieger

The meeting included a formal approval for a legal name change to Arts Academy of NH - A Chartered Public High School. The Marketing Committee discussed upcoming radio advertisements, print-on-demand promotional materials, and a direct mailer strategy. The Fundraising Committee provided updates on the upcoming gala event, including theme, auction items, and sponsorship preparations. Operational updates included progress on the spring musical, grant applications for mental health support, ESEA audit status, and upcoming student testing. Updates from the Teacher Representative highlighted various classroom projects and school activities. Financial status and budget projections for the upcoming school year were discussed in an executive session.

The meeting included a review of the investment policy, where it was decided to incorporate a new written cash policy to align with state audit recommendations. The Fundraising Committee reported on the successful results of the Gala, noting funds raised and positive attendee feedback. The DOS report highlighted teacher and student activities, including cross-curriculum planning, theatre projects, and recent dance team achievements. The Marketing Committee discussed enrollment strategies, including participation in community events, updates to printed promotional materials, school swag website status, and a planned radio station interview. The board also reviewed the current financial statements.

The board meeting included updates from the Fundraising Committee regarding the upcoming gala, and a comprehensive update on school operations including the state civics test, academic progress reports, upcoming theater productions, standardized testing, honors inductions, prom, and the preparation of the school calendar and program of studies for the following year. Reports were also provided by the teacher representative regarding rehearsals and a successful student government event. The marketing committee discussed enrollment efforts, including radio advertisements and direct mail campaigns. The board held an executive session to discuss financial matters and concluded the meeting with a unanimous vote to accept the budget.

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.