December 2024 Minutes
Date of Meeting: December 12, 2024
Directors Present: Chairperson Jon Wilhite, Secretary Andrew Norris, Head of School Debbie Byely, Mr. Mike Tooley, Dr. Blair Dowden, Mrs. Monica Johnson, Dr. Russ Baker, Mrs. Julia Harcourt, Mr. Edgar Momoh, Mrs. Anne Witter
Directors Absent: Treasurer Baird, Director Reese
Others in Attendance: Principal Alex Roell; Mathew Wachtor, Curriculum Director
Call to Order: 6:02 pm
Opening Prayer: Head of School Byely
Upper School & Curriculum Update – Principal Roell, Mathew Wachtor
Principal Roell and Curriculum Director Wachtor provided updates to the Board regarding recent successes and challenges of the Upper School. They discussed new graduation standards established by the State and provided additional details regarding the Indiana College Core program through which Traders Point High School students can acquire college credit in high school. Details were provided regarding ABC Construction Prep, a program through which students can acquire credit toward vocational certifications and degrees.
There is a desire to expand Exploration Trips at all Upper School grade levels and develop additional programming to further the culture of the Upper School.
Review of October Meeting Minutes: Secretary Norris
Due to an error by Secretary Norris, the October Minutes were posted prior to Board approval and will be considered at the January Board meeting. If any changes are required, the October Minutes will be reposted.
Finance Report & Audit Update – Director Harcourt
Cash flow remains strong and the school remains within about 1% of the budgeted ending cash balance for November.
Personnel expenses are within 1% of budget.
Despite some large maintenance expenditures in November ($10K), year-to-date bottom line net income is approximately $235,000 ahead of budget.
Discussions regarding updates to tuition, fees, enrollment policies are ongoing and some announcements are expected after the first of the year.
The Finance Committee is continuing to develop a more robust governance structure for its operation including a budget calendar and policies.
Committee on Directors Update: Dr. Baker
The Committee is continuing to search for new Director candidates.
Head of School Report: Head of School Byely
Leadership is looking for ways to increase staff compensation and further develop educational programming.
The school is hiring for the positions of Director of Mission Advancement and Athletic Director.
A summer program is in development for Summer 2025.
A Vision Night is being planned for 2025.
Executive Session
Recess at 9:02 pm
Head of School Performance Discussion
Discussion regarding staff gift
Reconvene at 9:51 pm
Adjournment: 9:52 pm
