Welcome and Call to Order

The meeting was called to the order and a quorum ascertained at 6:07 p.m.

Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes from Jul 22, 2025

Head of School Report

Dr, Bostic acknowledged the Teacher of the Year and the Support Staff of the Year. She gave an overview of the Back-to-School Bash and Super Saturday (Professional Training Day for instructional staff). Dr. Bostic reported on the school's current enrollment of 550 students and highlighted upcoming events including grandparents' day, open house, and professional development activities. Dr. Bostic reviewed MAP testing data and AMIRA testing.

Academic Committee Report

The board reviewed academic performance data, with concerns raised about proficiency levels in certain grade levels. They discussed a new screening program for K-3 students and the need for teacher certification in this area. The Academic Committee reported on student services and certification targets.

The board approved hiring a school counselor, an extensional coach, and two special education teacher.

Next Steps:

• School administration: Continue focusing on student proficiency in academic areas through PLCs and professional development.
• School administration: Develop and present the data dashboard to the board with GMAS information and enrollment data.
• School administration: Continue implementation of the Amira literacy screening for K-3 students.
• School administration: Follow up with teachers regarding Amira certification information tomorrow.
• School administration: Prepare for upcoming events including Grandparents Day, Parent Teacher Conferences, and Annual Title One Meeting.
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Finance Committee Report

Ms. Lee presented the July financial report, noting revenue of $44,000 and total assets of $2,000,450, with a recommendation to transfer funds to the contingency budget. The board discussed the need to establish a rainy day fund, though no specific amount was decided.

The board approved several financial items, including a $21,635 FY25 security grant to cover 37% of school resource officers' salaries, and a $350,000 contingency account transfer for retention bonuses. They also approved salary adjustments for 3 staff members with each adjustment including salary and benefits components. The board noted that while the original retention bonus plan required 560 enrollment, the current enrollment of 550 would not impact the bonus distribution as the numbers had been finalized and compensation set up.

Next Steps:

• Finance Committee: Determine how much money from the fund balance should be moved to the contingency budget.

Governance Committee Report

The Governance Committee discussed replacing broken classroom furniture, approving a $15,957.26 budget for new desks and chairs, and addressing MAP testing concerns, including internet connectivity issues that affected test validity. They reviewed staffing updates and approved the personal electronic device policy, which includes restrictions on smart watches, glasses, and other devices, with the policy taking effect immediately upon board approval. The committee also confirmed the September 27th board retreat date, which will include board training, and noted that the E-rate internet contract would be reviewed by the attorney before the September meeting.

The board discussed concerns about timely receipt of information from the school, with Ms. Arnold expressing that receiving materials on Friday for weekend review was unacceptable. The board agreed to address this issue immediately rather than waiting until the September retreat, establishing a 7-day timeline for information to be provided before board meetings. Dr. Bostic acknowledged that while the school had created a timeline, it was not always adhered to, and the board agreed to work together to establish proper practices and accountability for information delivery.

Next Steps

• School administration: Continue progress on the E-Rate Category 1 and Category 2 projects.
• School administration: Complete the E-rate wiring and wireless access point project.

Other Business

Tamara Cooper discussed a global partnership between DPA and Mico University, which began in 2023 with a focus on addressing post-pandemic educational needs and creating global opportunities for special education teachers. The partnership evolved to include Georgia State University in 2024, with plans for faculty exchanges, student observations, internships, and collaborative research. Despite some delays due to international and state regulations, the partnership progressed to include professional development trainings and the potential for hosting international graduate students. The speaker proposed hosting 4-8 graduate students for a week-long program, estimating costs around $13,800-27,000, and highlighted the opportunity to create a special education research lab and develop an electronic library of resources.

Ms. Cooper provided an update on virtual professional development that has already started at no cost to DPA. Ms. Arnold clarified that the partnership aims to exchange expertise between DPA's experience with ABC and the university's knowledge in areas like special education, with plans for mutual learning and research. The discussion highlighted the need for DPA to better articulate its contributions to the partnership, particularly in AVC and project-based learning, while also exploring AI applications in education.

Ms. Arnold sought clarity on Georgia State's involvement and the benefits of the arrangement. Ms. Cooper explained that while there was a pause in Georgia State's participation due to budget constraints and timeline issues, they hope to re-engage them. She also mentioned that DPA has been attending meetings and sharing information with teachers during training, but some planned activities like internships and faculty exchanges have been delayed. Ms. Arnold requested a comprehensive update on DPA's contributions and outcomes to present to the board, emphasizing the need for transparency and board involvement in decision-making.

There was discussion regarding the partnership agreement that was not fully implemented due to budget constraints and logistical challenges. Ms. Cooper explained that 8 graduate students selected for a summer internship could not participate as planned, primarily due to visa and financial considerations. The group agreed that a more structured approach to budgeting and communication with the board was needed for future partnerships, with a suggestion to offer 4 students a one-week program instead. Ms. Robinson and others emphasized the importance of involving the board earlier in the decision-making process to better support and account for partnership commitments.

The meeting discussed plans for hosting graduate students in spring, with Dr. Meredith proposing to host 4-8 students for one week to learn on the job teaching. Dr. Bostic expressed concerns about the spring timeline due to visa and work permit challenges, suggesting a more realistic timeline be developed. The group also discussed the Virtual Professional Development Library, with Dr. Meredith's team continuing to build it out. During public comment, questions were raised about salary scales and adjustments, with Ms. Lee promised to follow up on these matters.

Public Comment

Mr. Bernard Robinson inquired about his personal salary. The school will follow-up with Mr. Robinson.

Mr. Garland Lopez inquired about his personal salary. The school will follow-up with Mr. Lopez.

Ms. Rhomeika Murphy asked if DPA compares salaries to other schools. The school will follow-up with Ms. Murphy.

Mr. Jaison Young stated that the AVC Department doesn't have cameras nor the necessary equipment to continue good work. The school will follow-up with Mr. Young.

Executive Session

The Meeting was Adjourned

The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:01 pm