Approve the agenda as submitted
By: Ms. Bridget Robinson Seconded by: Mrs. Roberta Walker
There was no notable discussion on the motion.
DeKalb Preparatory Academy
Governing Board
Special Called Meeting - Friday June 27th, 2025 @6:00 PM
Meeting Minutes
Attendance Summary
| Name | Status | Arrival Time | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ms. KathyAnn Young | present chair | On Time | At Adjournment |
| Ms. Suzette Arnold | present vice-chair | On Time | At Adjournment |
| Mrs. Janelle Wilhite | present Treasurer | On Time | At Adjournment |
| Ms. Bridget Robinson | present secretary | On Time | At Adjournment |
| Mrs. Roberta Walker | present member | On Time | At Adjournment |
| Mrs. Wanda McKay | present member | On Time | At Adjournment |
| Dr. Lenise Bostic | present ex-officio | On Time | At Adjournment |
| Diane Mingo | not present member |
Welcome Call To Order
The meeting was called to order and a quorum ascertained at 6:10 p.m.
Approval of Agenda
Budget Presentation
Budget Planning and Expense Adjustments
The meeting focused on budget discussions, including salary increases, revenue projections, and expenditure plans for fiscal years 2025-2026. Key points included a $298,741 salary increase approved by the division, a federal grant total of $870,008, and a 40% reduction in software and equipment expenses. The group also discussed changes to benefits, including a 20% employee contribution to insurance premiums, and reviewed adjustments to various line items to align with strategic development goals. School Leadership presented a proposed budget for the 2025-2026 school year, showing a fund balance of $2,533 in 2024 and an anticipated addition of $98,900 in 2025.
Budget Impacts of Staff Reduction
The group discussed budget considerations, focusing on personnel cuts and revenue projections. They calculated that reducing staff by 8 positions would represent approximately 5.2% of salaries, while the revenue decrease needed to reach 480 students would be around 10%. Ms. Arnold requested that these percentages be included in the budget documentation for clarity and future reference.
2025-2026 Budget and Bonuses Approved
The board approved a budget of $8,475,942.27 for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and a contingency budget of $7,374,100.72. They also approved a retention bonus program for employees, with payments to be split into two installments in September and February. The board discussed changes to the payment schedule and agreement language, which had been reviewed by legal.
Motion to approve the budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year in the amount of $8,475,942.27, a contingency budget of $7,374,100.72 and a retention bonus in two installments in September and February.
By: Mrs. Janelle Wilhite Seconded by: Ms. Bridget Robinson
There was no notable discussion on the motion.
RFP
Selection of Nutrition Vendor
The governing board approved School Gourmet as the vendor for Dekalb Preparatory Academy's nutrition services, selecting them over Simply Elegant and SLA Management after evaluating proposals based on cost, menu variety, service quality, and regulatory compliance. The board discussed that while School Gourmet's per-meal cost was higher than the other vendors, their quality and service experience justified the selection.
E-Rate Funding for Wireless Upgrades
The board discussed the status of an E-rate funding application for wireless access point upgrades, with funding expected in July. School leadership has already selected vendors for the upgrades but is waiting for the funding letter to proceed with the RFP for technology support. There was discussion about contingency plans if the funding amount is less than requested, with approximately $75,000 available for infrastructure improvements. School leadership is also considering hiring a technology support person, but the specific qualifications will depend on the final scope of the upgrades.
Motion to approve School Gourmet as the vendor for DPA's nutrition services.
By: Mrs. Janelle Wilhite Seconded by: Mrs. Roberta Walker
There was no notable discussion on the motion.
Other Business
Motion to approve the hire of Vanetta Vincent Richard at a total cost of $85,442.65 (Salary: $64,059.31 + Benefits: $21,383.34)
By: Mrs. Roberta Walker Seconded by: Ms. Bridget Robinson
There was no notable discussion on the motion.
The Meeting was Adjourned
The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:15 pm
Motion to adjourn
By: Ms. Bridget Robinson Seconded by: Mrs. Roberta Walker
There was no notable discussion on the motion.