harlem prep charter school - Democracy Prep Public Schools

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HARLEM PREP CHARTER SCHOOL
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS IN COLLEGE & CITIZENSHIP
240 East 123rd Street ! New York, NY 10035
212-281-1248 (o) ! 212-283-4202 (f)
www.DemocracyPrep.org
Work Hard. Go to College. Change the World!
Harlem Prep Charter School Board of Trustees Meeting
September 17, 2012
Trustees Present:
Colin Beirne
Douglas Snyder
Jamal Epps
Anthony Manley
Kellie Zesch
Preston Henske
Seth Andrew
Tom Kearney
Allyson Downey
Trustees Absent:
Roger Berg
Jake Foley
Chris Jackson
Others Present:
Katie Duffy
Melanie Hok
Lindsay Malanga
Steve Cunning
Doug Snyder called the meeting to order at 6:39 PM.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Seth Andrew thanked the Board for their hard work, and briefed them on the Harlem Prep’s
excellent results so far. He also discussed his anticipation of the Chancellor’s Progress Report, which
would hopefully solidify Harlem Prep’s results and provide comparative data of the school’s success.
Seth then briefed the board on the state of a second turnaround school in Camden: the CMO
currently holds a thin contract with Freedom Academy in Camden, one of the lowest-performing
schools in the state of New Jersey and a former KIPP school. Unlike the Harlem Prep turnaround,
which began in March of 2011, the turnaround of Freedom began much later. If successful, the
Camden turnaround will show that a failing school can be turned around with spectacular leadership
and without getting rid of the wrong people from the start. In Camden, only 2-3 people were let go,
and Freedom is currently using the DPPS PD plan on a group of people DPPS did not pick.
Freedom Academy will not be branded DPPS until a full management agreement in January.
Finally, Seth discussed Democracy Prep’s relatively low passing rates on the AP Physics exam (65%).
The passing rate is an improvement from last year, but reflective of the fact that all scholars take the
test, not a successful sample.
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
Lindsay Malanga described the current state of Harlem Prep (now in week three of the academic
year): There are two schools across two campuses, serving grades K-6 (472 scholars), which opened
the academic year with seven days of Prep Academy. There are 12 returning teachers, and 15 new
teachers at HPE, and the HPM staff is primarily new.
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HARLEM PREP CHARTER SCHOOL
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS IN COLLEGE & CITIZENSHIP
240 East 123rd Street ! New York, NY 10035
212-281-1248 (o) ! 212-283-4202 (f)
www.DemocracyPrep.org
Work Hard. Go to College. Change the World!
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Lindsay also described the role of the DREAM Coach: students who need to re-visit the DREAM
values receive in-classroom coaching from the DREAM coach. Harlem Prep has de-stigmatized
coaching by making it more of a cheerleading relationship. The intervention system has been
designed so crises will often start in Dream Coaches world and end with the social worker. 71
scholars in K-6 have an IEP; 21 of them are in 6th grade.
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Katie Duffy explained that Democracy Builders is working the phones and pounding the pavement
to do outreach – also outreach to Special Education students in regular district schools – to reach
more scholars with IEPs.
Lindsay then updated the Board on a her 3-step growth plan: Step testing earlier in prep academy;
Infuse step data in mastery program; Scholars must have more opportunity for articulation
Lindsay updated the board on SPED and ELL proficiency. Seth then updated the Board on CTU
and his tweeting activities. Katie updated the board on the Leader U fellows (Debbie Woods) and
the Elementary Specialist (Danielle Liebling) as the two additions to the network.
Doug suggested the Catapult Learning update take place at the next board meeting, as well as tabling
the finance update.
FUNDRAISING UPDATE
Steven updated the board on communication between Harlem Day Donors: HP is working with
strategy and development, speaking with donors from last year and has recently submitted a grant
application to The Robin Hood Foundation.
Katie updated the board on the hire of David Wakelyn. She also updated the board on a possible
hire for fundraising.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF 5/1/12 MEETING
MOTION: Motion to approve the minutes from 5/1/12 passed unanimously at 7:40 PM.
Doug proposed to begin the next meeting at 6PM at Harlem Prep’s middle school campus.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously at 7:44 PM.
Harlem Prep Board of Trustees Meeting
October 16, 2012
Trustees Present
Seth Andrew
Jake Foley
Anthony Manley
Kellie Zesch
Preston Henske
Colin Beirne
Tom Kearney
Trustees Absent
Doug Snyder
Chris Jackson
Roger Berg
Jamal Epps
Allyson Downey
Other People Present
Sean McGrew
Melanie Hok
Benjamin Feit
Steve Cunning
Kim Dacres
Lindsay Malanga
Miriam Joelson
Anyeli Matos
Amara Sillah
Seth Andrew called the meeting to order Seth Andrew in Doug Snyder’s Absence at 6:48 PM.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AT HP
Seth began discussing the recent civic engagement initiatives that have taken place at Harlem Prep. Seth showed the
“Vote for Somebody” video, which was created by Brian Duran and features Harlem Prep 4th graders. Discussion
ensued about the video and Harlem Prep’s Civic Engagement activities.
DATA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Anthony Manley introduced Sean McGrew from Catapult Learning. Sean explained that he is here to help explain
data in a manner that is understandable to non-educators. Sean gave a brief overview of his background and
Anthony offered to send Sean’s resume out to the board. Sean discussed proficiency and that the big takeaway is
that proficiency levels tend to not move over time. Sean said that proficiency levels vary greatly amongst states and
that proficiency only has to do with whether or not a student is able to pass a certain threshold. Sean mentioned
that at first NCLB looked at what percentage of students are proficient, but now it focuses on what type of growth
is being made. Sean believes that it is best to look at individual students and how they have grown to best measure
growth.
Sean stated that the work done at Harlem Prep has been remarkable. Seth explained that in order to keep integrity,
Harlem Prep has multiple assessments that are checked and the trend lines remain the same across all of the
assessments. Jake mentioned that HPCS has struggled to articulate that its trends are consistent and predictive of
the school’s end of year success. Seth chimed in to say that Democracy Prep’s ELA test results in the middle school
are not as good as math results because Democracy Prep schools refuse to use the bubble strategy of only targeting
students who are on the cusp of increased proficiency.
Sean talked about benchmark and formative assessments. Seth cleared up questions about State tests not being
entirely reflective of the quality of teacher instruction. Sean said that ANet is the biggest predictor of how students
will score on end of year state assessments. Anthony suggested that Sean come back and inform the board on data
in a longer presentation. Kellie requested more data discussions and her desire to be better prepared to discuss data
at meetings.
Seth talked about 6 categories of data that Harlem Prep will focus on going forward. 1) STEP 2) Fountas and Pinell
3) ANet 4) State Assessments 5) End of Course Grades 5) MAP. Seth went on to explain that if Harlem Prep
IS TO
EDUCATE
CITIZEN-SCHOLARS
categorizes kids inOUR
termsMISSION
of data, then
it takes
away theRESPONSIBLE
focus from individual
students.
FOR SUCCESS IN THE COLLEGE OF THEIR CHOICE AND A LIFE OF ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP.
207 West 133 rd Street New York, NY 10030 | t| 212-281-1248 f| 212-283-4202 | www.DemocracyPrep.org | [email protected]
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT:
Lindsay Malanga stated that she would like to show the board how data is collected and what is done with the data
after it is collected. Lindsay said that in grades K-6 there are currently 490 scholars, 171 who are in the middle
school and 319 in the elementary school. Currently, 18% of HP scholars are identified as IEP scholars and 8% have
been classified as ELL (English Language Learners) scholars. Lindsay informed everyone that most recently the first
round of STEP testing has been completed. The STEP test is used to guide reading mastery and guided reading
levels. Lindsay said that the STEP data does not look good so far, but she assured everyone that the STEP data did
not look good at this time last year, either. Many scholars slid back in growth over the summer—even scholars who
attended Summer Academy. Jake asked if it is possible to recover from the slide. Lindsay responded that it is and
that she expects scholars to bunce back relatively quickly now that they are back in school. .
Lindsay discussed the practice state test results. On the practice ELA exam 273 scholars were tested 10% scored
proficient (level 3 or 4). On the practice Math exam 280 scholars were tested. 8% of scholars scored proficient (level
3 or 4,). Lindsay informed the board that there will be no more listening Day 2 sections on the State ELA Test.
Also, the text for the ELA session will be more authentic and written in editorial style. Lindsay stated that she wants
scholars to be life long learners and that HPCS does not want to be solely focused on test results. Lindsay also
discussed Special Ed. and ELL demographics at Harlem Prep.
NETWORK UPDATE
Seth discussed his announcement to leave Democracy Prep Public Schols after the 2012-13 school year. Seth
mentioned that he still plans to work with Democracy Prep Builders and plans to work to support Democracy Prep
alumni in their college transition. Jake asked who will oversee the selection of the new CEO and Seth stated that the
DPPS Board will oversee the process. Seth also announced that the network received straight A’s on the
Chancellor’s Progress Report (CPR). Seth then discussed the struggles that Democracy Prep Charter High School
scholars have in regards to the SAT and then reviewed the differences between the SAT and ACT.
DEVOLPMENT UPDATE
Steve gave an update on Harlem Prep Letters. Melanie revealed that the budgeted goal for fundraising is $375,000.
Jake mentioned that the Board needs to get started on the letter writing campaign. Jake also pushed for the Board
and Network to have more organizations and people visit so that they are comfortable donating. Jake told the board
to inform Steve of connections you may have with people at organizations that can increase donations. Kellie asked
how the $9.1 million dollars plays into individual donations. Seth informed everyone that the money does not
support individual schools. Instead the money supports the development of school leaders.
FINANCE UPDATE
Melanie discussed the budget, noting that there was a surplus of $418,000 for the first quarter due to enrollment
numbers being higher than what was budges. Colin affirmed that the financials for 2012-13 year look good.
ADVISORY COUNCILUPDATE
Kellie updated the Board regarding the Harlme Prep Advisory councils and that there will likely be two co-chairs of
the council. Kellie discussed co-chair selection, nomination, and what her and Jamal would do to work with the cochairs.
APPROVAL OF 9/17 MINUTES
MOTION: Motion to approve 9/17 minutes passed unanimously at 8:11 PM.
OUR
ISmeeting
TO EDUCATE
MOTION: Motion
to MISSION
adjourn the
passed RESPONSIBLE
unanimously at CITIZEN-SCHOLARS
8:12 PM.
FOR SUCCESS IN THE COLLEGE OF THEIR CHOICE AND A LIFE OF ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP.
207 West 133 rd Street New York, NY 10030 | t| 212-281-1248 f| 212-283-4202 | www.DemocracyPrep.org | [email protected]
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING MINUTES
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November 20, 2012
TRUSTEES PRESENT
Doug Snyder
Katie Duffy
Roger Berg
Chris Jackson
Jamal Epps
Jake Folley
Kellie Zesch
Allyson Downey
TRUSTEES ABSENT
Anthony Manley
Colin Beirne
Preston Henske
Thomas Kearney
OTHERS PRESENT
Lindsay Malanga
Melanie Hok
Miriam Joelson
Natalie Aronson
Dan Lennon
Amara Sillah
Doug Snyder official called the meeting to order at 6:40 PM
Advisory Board Update
Dan Lennon and Natalie Aronson, Co-Chairs of the Harlem Prep Advisory Council
(HPAC), introduced themselves to the Board. Doug said that Harlem Prep (HPCS) needs to
refocus as a board and make sure that everyone on the board is all on the same page. Doug
said that the name of the advisory board should work for the group. Names for the group
were discussed and Harlem Prep Advisory Council (HPAC) was generally agreed upon.
There are currently five members on the HPAC: Dan, Natalie, two colleagues of Kellie
Zesch and another friend of Doug Snyder. Kellie said there will be an HPAC kickoff event
on December 12th and that the Board is still recruiting members. In December, fundraising
and goals for the HPAC will also be discussed. Doug said Colin Beirne’s firm may have
some interested young people and that the Board should continue its recruitment efforts.
Doug stated that he is happy to come and HPAC should let the board know what HPAC
wants from the Board. Natalie noted that HPAC should focus on what teachers do at HPCS
and fundraising. Doug agreed that HPAC should engage with the teachers since HPAC is
comprised of young professionals as well. Jamal said the Board can help recruit candidates
and any potential HPAC member should meet with two trustees before officially joining
HPAC.
Principal Update from Lindsay Malanga
Lindsay noted that there are currently 480 total scholars, 313 in grades K-4 and 167 in grades
5 and 6. HPCS has an 18% special education population, which is 84 scholars. Doug asked
about projected enrollment numbers. Melanie responded that the projected enrollment of
students was 483. Katie stated that SUNY said HPCS needs to pay attention to
disaggregated data by category. Lindsay revealed that 27 of the 6th graders need to be taught
by a special education teacher for 60% or greater of the school day. Lindsay stated that it has
been challenging, but these scholars need HPCS the most. In grades K-5 there are 15
scholars who require 60% or greater of the school day to be taught by a special education
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teacher. Doug asked if HCPS expected the number of scholars needing 60% or greater
services to come down. Katie responded that these scholars are authentic 60% or greater
scholars and that HPCS receives $19,000 for these 60% plus scholars.
Lindsay said that the teachers are facing more of a challenge. She explained that the best
support would come from an additional social worker. Jake Foley asked how long it would
take to get a new social worker. Katie said that there would be an interview on Monday.
Roger Berg asked if these scholars are in small group or individual learning settings. Lindsay
stated there is small group instruction, and that an additional ACT teacher was hired due to
the high number of 60% or greater scholars. Katie clarified that a social worker is better
because a lot of the issues are emotional and behavioral issues. Katie exclaimed that the
board should be proud because parents know HPCA wants to serve all students. Roger
asked if the high number of special education scholars impacts other scholars. Katie
explained it does and this is why HPCS added an additional ACT teacher and the ACT
program is different compared to other middle schools.
Lindsay said Round 2 of STEP testing has been completed. Scholars still have trouble
flushing out and articulating information for critical questions. Lindsay noted that 35% of
scholars grew from level 1 to level 2. Professional development plans and feedback have
been crucial to increasing growth on STEP. Lindsay wants to make sure scholars are growing
at least 3 steps.
Allyson Downey asked if data is standing out by grade level or if there are any noticeable
trends. Lindsay replied that the lowest data was seen in 5th grade and growth was low overall
for grades 4-6. Lindsay stated that there was a difference between 2 classes on the same
grade and that asymmetrical growth patterns in the same grade are targets of concern.
Kindergarten had the highest level of growth. Katie noted that this is the same conversation
HPCS had last year. Jake asked if test training would prepare scholars to do better. Lindsay
said HPCS offers STEP test prep, and STEP test auditing.
Doug asked how Lindsay was feeling three months into the school year. Lindsay explained
that the foundation is excellent, but the staff is being challenged every day. Jake asked how
the new teachers are doing. Lindsay stated that she was impressed with the new teachers.
Jamal Epps asked what percent of teachers are new. Lindsay said that at least 50% of
teachers were new. Doug asked how the split model has been working. Katie said not well
and the 20 block gap has put a strain on Lindsay and that is something DPPS may not do
again. Katie noted that leadership has talked to leaders and reshaped what is expected of
them. Jake asked if Lindsay needed more resources or more leadership services. Katie said
HPCS may need another vice principal. Lindsay noted that whatever is added to the mix
from the network needs to be purposeful.
Roger asked if there is a difference with second year students. Lindsay replied saying that
returning scholars were able to hit the ground running, which allowed administration to
focus on different areas. There was an adjustment for new scholars. Lindsay discussed the
coin drive where K-6 scholars donated over a thousand dollars. Doug echoed that HPCS
should write a letter to TD bank for taking 6% of scholars’ funds for donating money.
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Network Update from Katie Duffy
Doug asked how much the Board talked about what’s going on with Seth at the last meeting.
Katie said Seth would be graduating with the first class of seniors. Katie expressed that 25%
of seniors have college acceptance letters in hand currently. DPPS works with the Posse
Foundation for scholarships. DPCHS scholars want to attend top-tier schools. Katie alerted
the board that she is seeking to replace Seth as Superintendent. Katie stated that the DPPS
board was doing the search to replace Seth and Board chairs would be contacted. Doug said
the HPCS Board needs updates at Board meetings because the Board wants to make sure
they meet the person and interact with them since the new Superintendent will be leading
the CMO. Allyson noted that the applicant pool is small. Initial interviews will take place in
January. Doug asked if the DPPS board would hire the CEO, Allyson replied yes. Doug
asked to have a representative from Bellwether at the next meeting to brief the board on the
process at next meeting or if DPPS could brief the board. Allyson stated that Bellwether is
located in Chicago. Doug stated that the Board should make sure Bellwether or DPPS calls
before the search and interviews go further in depth. Katie noted that the decision is to be
made by early February.
Katie stated that DPPS got a grant for 9.1 million dollars for the funding of Leader U so that
DPPS can replicate and expand. Doug asked if DPPS knew how the 9.1. million dollars was
being spent. Katie explained that the money is to be used for adding more Leader U fellows
and hiring more people on CMO side. Katie turned the discussion back to college
acceptance and explained that even with financial aid offers, scholars still turned down offers
for some schools. Wisconsin was turned down because DPCHS didn’t feel like it would be a
good fit for scholars. Jamal asked if there are guidance counselors, which Katie said yes. Dan
asked if there are kids who haven’t applied. Katie explained that scholars apply when DPCS
tells them to because DPCS promised to get scholars to college.
Finance Report from Melanie Hok
Melanie stated that there was a shortfall in fundraising and 50% of the DPPS CMO fee was
revoked. Roger said the Board would reduce the next management fee by the amount of the
credit. Doug interjected and noted that the goal is to not be in a deficit at the end of the
2012-13 school year. Jake requested to table the discussion to subcommittee.
Melanie stated that for financials up until October HPCS continues to have a surplus this
year. This surplus reflects a higher special education student enrollment. Jamal asked why
enrollment budgeted is so low. Katie said it is because Harlem Prep underestimates
enrollment to be conservative and not have to worry about enrollment numbers since that is
how Harlem Prep obtains a lot of its funding.
Doug said the Development Committee needs to meet again soon. Katie mentioned that
Harlem Prep already has $100,000 towards fundraising due to a two year grant that Harlem
Prep received in 2011. Doug asked about the fundraising efforts for next year and the future.
Katie said that fundraising would go down and hopefully continue to go down until there is
no need for fundraising.
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Fundraising Update
Doug said that he and Katie were going to sit down and discuss fundraising event
possibilities. Doug mentioned that the fundraising event should honor Ben Lambert. Katie
said Harlem Prep will continue to get Charles Hayden Foundation funding per pupil and
Hayden will do this every year. Doug asked about different foundations Harlem Prep has
applied to. Jake discussed letters that Steve Cunning sent out that need to be sent to
organizations. Jake said Harlem Prep needs to decide on a spring fundraising event. Jake
noted that Lunch and Learns are powerful and that the Board needs to start leveraging these
opportunities. Jake mentioned that Lunch and Learns could be used to select members for
HPAC. Doug noted that Lunch and Learns are great for HPAC because it shows the
employers of HPAC members how much HPAC members are dedicated and it starts to
spread the word. Jake mentioned that the Board needs to reach out to someone at JP
Morgan in order to receive a check. Doug stated that the Board still needs to recruit to bring
on new trustees. Allyson noted that she has two candidates that she would like to add who
can bring education backgrounds to the table. The Board needs to be clear on what the
expectations are as far as adding new members. Doug asked for everyone to send around
contact info again.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously at 8:38 PM.
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING MINUTES
December 18, 2012
TRUSTEES PRESENT
Doug Snyder
Seth Andrew
Roger Berg
Colin Beirne
Kellie Zesch
Preston Henske
Chris Jackson
Allyson Downey
Tom Kearney
Jake Foley
TRUSTEES ABSENT
Jamal Epps
Anthony Manley
OTHERS PRESENT
Ryan Offutt
Carlos Lejnieks
Pallavi Verma
Justin Fong
Katie Duffy
Lindsay Malanga
Melanie Hok
Chiv Heng
Tameka Royal
Dan Lennon
Steve Cunning
Benjamin Feit
Amara Sillah
Principal Update from Lindsay Malanga
Lindsay Malanga started her report by stating that HPCS had recently finished ANet round 2
testing. Lindsay noted that after ANet is administered and analyzed, teachers spend a week
re-teaching standards that scholars did not master. Lindsay indicated that following ANet
round 1, there has been significant progress made.
Lindsay stated that Harlem Prep Middle just completed the first round of T1 comprehensive
exams for the 6th grade. The classes with the strongest teachers returned the strongest data
but overall Lindsay and administration were not happy with the results. Jake Foley asked if
there was a difference in performance between the returning 6th graders and new 6th graders.
Lindsay stated that it was difficult to compare since there were comparatively so few
returning 6th graders. Lindsay mentioned that the week of December 17 was Teacher
Evaluation Week, and Tameka Royal and Kim Dacres were having conversations with
teachers about data and how teachers could grow to improve instruction. Lindsay confirmed
that some teachers are stronger than others, but insisted that there must be a focus on
enhancing instruction for all teachers. Doug asked if there were any teachers who were
outliers in regards to performance. Lindsay noted that there were indeed some outliers and
that there are on-going discussions regarding improvement of classroom management.
Lindsay explained that there is a correlation between classroom management and student
performance. Doug asked if the colocation has led to any of the performance or classroom
management issues. Lindsay explained that planning and implementation were different for
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the elementary and middle schools. She believe that this difference has been the biggest
contributing factor to the performance and management issues. Katie Duffy stated that
another factor is the large number of new scholars and teachers resulting from the middle
school expansion.
DPPS Board Question & Answer Regarding CEO Search
Members of the DPPS Board joined the meeting to update the HPCS Board regarding the
DPPS Search Committee process for finding a new CEO for Democracy Prep Public
Schools, its progress to date and its schedule for completion of the process by February.
The two boards discussed, without resolution, the role to be played by the DPCS Board and
other DP boards in this process.
Principal Update (cont.) from Katie Duffy
Katie stated there would be a joint public hearing on January 8th for Harlem Prep Middle
School’s permanent space allocation at PS 38 (Building M121), 232 East 103rd Street. The
final vote for the space will take place at the Panel For Education Policy Hearing for Harlem
Prep Middle on January 18th. Both hearings will occur at Building M121. Katie said this
location is 3 blocks from where HPMS is currently located and it would be permanent for
grades 6-8. Katie mentioned that DPPS staff should send out a reminder about HPCS board
dinner.
Katie informed the Board that HPMS is in the process of hiring an additional social worker.
Katie mentioned that Natalie Aronson would be returning to Harlem Prep as an
instructional leader in January as a K-1 Specialist. Jake asked why would Natalie not be
returning as a vice principal. Katie noted that the K-1 specialist was a position that Lindsay
said she needed. Katie explained that one of the issues that lead to needing a social worker is
that HPCS added more scholars but didn’t staff up accurately to provide for scholars with
increased needs. Social workers allow HPCS to handle student issues proactively. When
teachers must address these issues it cuts into classroom time. Katie stated that HPMS wants
to add more social workers because scholars IEP’s don’t call for academic intervention,
instead scholars face behavioral and emotional issues.
HPAC Update from Dan Lennon
Dan Lennon noted that HPAC had their kickoff event on Wednesday December 12, 2012.
Dan stated that HPAC looked into adding 2 more members, which will bring the total
number of members up to 10. Doug mentioned that there would be an HPAC kickoff event
at the end of January, and that HPAC would like the senior board to attend as well. Doug
asked Dan to create an invite and send it out to the Board.
Executive Session
The Board convened in Executive Session, during which time Seth Andrew and all nonBoard members left the room.
The Board then reconvened in plenary session.
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Doug stated that there should be an agenda organized for the event at Jake’s house. Doug
stated that the agenda should include a discussion about fundraising and what happened at
the CEO interviews being conducted by the DPPS Search Committee on January 9th and
10th. Jake said he would send around a list to see what people would bring. The event will
start around 6:00 PM.
MOTION: Motion to approve minutes from November 20, 2012 passed unanimously
at 8:49 PM.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn meeting passed unanimously at 850 PM.
Harlem Prep Charter School Board of Trustees
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MINUTES OF MEETING
February 4th, 2013
Trustees Present
Doug Snyder
Jake Foley
Anthony Manley
Jamal Epps
Chris Jackson
Roger Berg
Others Present
Lindsay Malanga
Steve Cunning
Doug Snyder called the meeting to order at 6:59 PM
Principal’s Report
Lindsay Malanga explained that Harlem Prep has begun its celebration of FUNbruary, which
consists of culture building activities throughout the month of February. Lindsay also explained that
she is excited to welcome back Natalie Aronson, HPCS 1st grade lead teacher in 2011-12 who is now
supporting teachers in grades K-2. Doug asked Lindsay about her bandwidth as principal and if she
is receiving the support she needs for Harlem Prep to be successful. Discussion ensued regarding
the needs of Harlem Prep and support for the school’s adaptation to the Common Core learning
standards.
Committee Assignments
MOTION: Motion to name Anthony Manley chair of Academic Accountability Committee
was approved at 7:33 PM.
Fundraising Update
The Board discussed having a spring fundraiser similar to the 270 Lives event in March of 2012. The
Development Committee will begin discussing a date and venue for this event in the coming weeks.
Approval of Minutes From December 18th Meeting
MOTION: Motion to approve the minutes passed unanimously at 7:41 PM.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously at 7:42 PM.
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Harlem Prep Charter School Board of Trustees
MINUTES OF MEETING
February 26th, 2013
Trustees Present
Chris Jackson
Jake Foley
Roger Berg
Colin Beirne
Kellie Zesch Weir
Seth Andrew
Jamal Epps
Others Present
Lindsay Malanga
Katie Duffy
Don Porter
Maribeth White
Steve Cunning
In Doug Snyder’s absence, Colin Beirne called the meeting to order at 6:47 PM.
Principal’s Report
Lindsay Malanga began her report with Harlem Prep’s current enrollment, which is 465 scholars.
19% of enrolled scholars are learning with special needs, which is higher than the 16% Harlem Prep
anticipated prior to the school year. Natalie Aronson, Harlem Prep’s 2011-12 1st grade chair returned
to the school in February as an Elementary Specialist, supporting teachers in grades K-2. Harlem
Prep recently finished Round Three of STEP Assessments. Roger Berg asked Lindsay to clarify
Harlem Prep’s STEP growth. Lindsay explained that Harlem Prep has been challenging scholars to
learn with a higher-level text to prepare for the rigor of the new Common Core State Assessment.
Although scholars will continue their independent reading with books that are on their level, guided
reading—scholars reading in an instructional setting consisting of a small group with a teacher—will
consist of texts that are more than a level higher than scholars’ independent levels. Lindsay and her
staff believe that increasing the rigor of texts in guided reading will result in scholars growing faster.
Discussion ensued regarding the structure and purpose of guided reading.
Lindsay explained that Harlem Prep recently sent Promotion In Doubt (PID) letters to families.
70% of Harlem Prep’s families received a letter. PID letters are designed with three tiers. Tier One,
which includes 22% of Harlem Prep’s scholars, is the group that is most likely to be retained and are
failing more than two subjects. Tier Two, which includes 18% of Harlem Prep’s scholars, consists of
scholars failing 2 subjects. Tier Three, which includes 30% of Harlem Prep’s scholars, consists of
scholars struggling with either reading or math. Harlem Prep casts a wide net with PID letters in
order to build parent awareness of summer school early in the school year. All PID conversations at
Harlem Prep are documented. Discussion ensued regarding summer school and scholar retention at
Harlem Prep and Democracy Prep.
Lindsay thanked the Board for helping Harlem Prep’s scholars receive a donation from TD Bank to
help victims of Hurricane Sandy. Lindsay also explained that Harlem Prep, like all Democracy Prep
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schools, is celebrating FUNbruary, which will culminate with a skit performed by Harlem Prep’s
staff at Town Hall on February 22nd.
Roger asked if the Harlem Prep Board would view any data to show Harlem Prep’s growth. Katie
Duffy explained that the data that is available is not predictive of how Harlem Prep’s scholars will
perform on State Exams. Discussion ensued regarding how the Harlem Prep Board would review
data and the type of data it will view going forward.
Jamal Epps asked if Harlem Prep has any scholars that are outliers regarding their academic
performance. Lindsay responded that Harlem Prep has two classes in Kindergarten that are
exceptionally strong, and one that is lagging behind. Harlem Prep’s 5th grade is an outlier regarding
its lack of STEP growth. Lindsay also noted that there is a stark discrepancy in 2nd grade
performance due to half of the scholars being new to the school. Roger asked why the 5th grade is
struggling with STEP growth after they grew so much in 4th grade. Katie explained that they have
flat lined in 5th grade as a result of their remarkable growth in 4th grade. The 5th grade scholars are
now approaching grade level and will not grow as fast.
Network Growth Update
Katie outlined Democracy Prep’s growth plans. In 2013-14, Democracy Prep Harlem (DPH) will
add a high school, starting with 9th grade. DPH will also add an elementary school, starting with
Kindergarten. Natalie Aronson, who has been and will continue to be at Harlem Prep for the
remainder of the 2012-13 school year, will lead DPH’s elementary school. Democracy Prep Charter
School (DPCS) will expand to an elementary school, but will take 2013-14 as a planning year and
open in the fall of 2014. Democracy Prep is currently working with the DOE to secure a facility.
Jake Foley asked if Harlem Prep’s scholars would be able to go to one of those high schools. Seth
Andrew responded that Harlem Prep would likely expand to educate scholars in high school when
the time comes to do so.
Katie also explained that Democracy Prep has begun to embark on regional expansion as a result of
the $9.1M CSP grant received in the fall of 2012. Democracy Prep is currently evaluating expansion
sites in Delaware, Tennessee, New Jersey, Mississippi, and Louisiana. For regional expansion,
Democracy Prep will consider mergers and acquisitions in addition to opening new schools.
Discussion ensued regarding Democracy Prep’s regional expansion.
Finance Update
Melanie Hok explained that Harlem Prep continues to do well financially. Harlem Prep is expected
to have a surplus at the end of the fiscal year due to a higher than projected enrollment. Colin added
that there remains a gap in fundraising from last year, which the Board and Democracy Prep will
continue to work to close.
Harlem Prep Advisory Council (HPAC)
Jamal explained that the HPCA had a recent event, which raised $1400 for Harlem Prep. Jamal
requested more trustees be present at the next event. Seth added that the event was really well done.
Seth also informed the Board that Democracy Prep Public Schools is having a big event in June,
which will celebrate the graduation of Democracy Prep’s inaugural class of scholars.
!
Board Committees.
Katie reviewed the 2011-12 Board committee assignments and instructed trustees to coordinate with
Steve Cunning to express committee preferences. Discussion ensued regarding the purpose and
structure of the Board committees.
Trustee Recruitment
Katie introduced Don Porter, a prospective trustee, to the Board. The Robin Hood Foundation
recommended Don as a potential trustee to Democracy Prep. Katie explained that Democracy Prep
and Robin Hood will continue to partner to fill vacant seats on Democracy Prep school boards.
Development Update
Chris Jackson explained that the committee is considering another fundraiser to take place in the
spring of 2013 to follow-up last year’s event. Discussion ensued regarding the design, date, and
location of the spring event.
Approval of 2/4/13 Minutes
MOTION: Motion to approve the February 4th minutes of meeting passed unanimously at
8:04 PM.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously at 8:04 PM.
Harlem Prep Charter School Board of Trustees Meeting
April 9th, 2013
Trustees Present
Roger Berg
Doug Snyder
Jamal Epps
Seth Andrew
Anthony Manley
Jake Foley
Colin Beirne
Trustees Absent
Allyson Downey
Chris Jackson
Tom Kearney
Kellie Zesch
Preston Henske
Others Present
Melanie Hok
Lindsay Malanga
Robert Frost
Steven Cunning
Miriam Joelson
Jason Broder
Diane Reimer
Sean McGrew
Andrew Ordover
Doug Snyder called the Meeting to order at 6:44PM.
Doug Snyder moved to approve the minutes from meeting on February 26th at 6:48PM.
MOTION: Motion to approve the minutes from the meeting on February 26th passed
unanimously at 6:48PM.
Anthony Manley introduced guest speakers from Catapult Learning who presented on the shift to
Common Core State Standards. Discussion ensued regarding the common core shift at HPCS, and
what support the Board could offer Lindsay Malanga going forward.
Doug Snyder updated the Board on Committee Assignments.
Principal’s Report by Lindsay Malanga
Ms. Malanga gave the Principal’s Report. She said that HPCS has been using ANet to demonstrate
growth overall, as well as individual students’ growth in reading. ANet tests get increasingly difficult,
as ANet is attempting to align to the Common Core. Ms. Malanga expressed her hope that ANet’s
high difficulty level will prepare students for the transition to the Common Core. She noted that
while HPCS witnessed a lot of growth from A1 to A3 exams, some students’ performance declined
or has remained stagnant. Mr. Andrew attributed such stagnations to the fact that the average
performance in entering sixth grade was higher. Ms. Malanga said that next year DPCS will be taking
all of E.D. Hirsch’s Core Knowledge and infuse it at each grade level. Ms. Malanga also gave an
overview of enrollment data and budget, and noted that both enrollment and budget were good.
Network Update by Katie Duffy
Ms. Duffy gave the Network Update, focusing on potential areas of geographic expansion, which
include Louisiana, Delaware, Harlem, and New Jersey (Freedom Prep);
Democracy Prep will be serving K-9. Ms. Duffy said that the expansion increased the Network’s
demand for talent, and that the Network is vigilant about identifying and training new leaders. Ms.
Duffy ended the Network Update with a briefing on Democracy Prep’s Graduation Gala, “A Night
at the Zoo,” which will be held at the Central Park Zoo and honor former New York City Schools
Chancellor Joel Klein. All HPCS trustees were encouraged to attend.
Doug asked for the board’s feedback regarding the information DPPS has provided the board
regarding academic performance at the school. Jake Foley recommended that Lindsay provide data
to the Board each meeting. Lindsay explained that she and Anthony Manley, Chair of the Academic
Accountability Committee, would meet monthly in preparation of each board meeting. Roger asked
that the board be updated to know what is working and what is not working, but that committees,
such as the Academic Accountability committee, should ensure that the proper questions are asked.
Roger asked how Harlem Prep Middle School is working? Lindsay explained that the school is
continuing to work toward achieving excellence. Discussion ensued regarding Harlem Prep Middle
and next year’s grade configuration between Harlem Prep’s two campuses.
Finance Report by Melanie Hok
Melanie Hok explained that HPCS is projected to have a surplus as a result of over enrollment.
HPCS also received contributions from the Charles Hayden Foundation and the Louis Calder
Foundation. HPCS has no new expenses. Discussion ensued regarding the current HPCS budget.
Katie explained that if HPCS were to have a surplus that did not want to be spent in technology, she
would recommend it be used for alumni support, such as College 529s and social and emotional
support for first generation college goers.
HPCS Fundraiser Update:
Doug explained to the Board that there is a lot of work to do. Discussion ensued regarding
increasing attendance and donations for the event. We should send a Harlem prep e-mail as well.
Katie also reminded the Board that the Harlem Prep Advisory Council is also having an event,
which she hopes trustees can attend.
Doug Snyder moved to adjourn the meeting.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously at 8:32 PM.
Harlem Prep Charter School Board of Trustees
Minutes of Meeting
May 14th, 2013
Trustees Present
Doug Snyder
Roger Berg
Colin Beirne
Tom Kearney
Kellie Zesch
Seth Andrew
Others Present
Katie Duffy
Lindsay Malanga
Ben Feit
Maribeth White
Steve Cunning
Network Update
Katie Duffy discussed scale and growth of the CMO and at the regional level, which she hopes will
mirror that of what has been accomplished by the education reform movement in Harlem. Harlem
has more quality school choice per square foot than any other community. DPPS has reached
saturation in 6th grade, but not at any other grade level. Roger Berg asked for clarification regarding
saturation. Katie explained that saturation means that any student in Harlem that is in the 6th grade is
guaranteed a seat at a high performing school in Harlem if he/she applies to the lottery. Katie went
on to explain that there is much work to be done as a result of the federal mandate associated with
the Replication and Expansion CSP grant DPPS received. By 2018, DPPS will have roughly 25
schools in the regions of Harlem, Camden, Washington, D.C., Delaware, and/or Louisiana. DPPS
has submitted applications to open schools in D.C. and Louisiana. Once accepted, those regions will
allow DPPS to delay the opening of schools for a year to prepare for successful growth. In Harlem,
Katie intends, as CEO, to solidify systems, codify policy, and continue to support DPPS school
leaders so as to provide them a higher quality floor from which they can work. This will provide a
replicable model. Katie requested the Board’s help by referring candidates for vacant senior level
positions. Discussion ensued regarding the Board’s potential role in helping to fill senior level
positions.
Roger asked Katie where DPPS stands on charter mergers. Katie explained that not much progress
has been made. The only potential merger is with DPCS and DPH because they have the same
authorizer. Doug asked for Katie’s view on Harlem Prep’s growth with regard to facilities and
mayoral issues. Katie explained that HPCS has a permanent siting for HPCS middle school, which is
a great asset to have now because securing that space later would have been a challenge. Katie
mentioned that DPPS is hosting a Mayoral Forum on May 15th, which would be moderated by
DPCHS scholars and would feature questions around education reform and will expose the views of
the candidates who participate. HPCS will keep its footprint in Taino Towers. Discussion ensued
regarding the renewal and timeframe of the lease with Taino Towers.
Doug Snyder officially called the meeting to order at 7:13 PM.
Principal’s Report
Lindsay Malanga reviewed the HPCS data dashboard to outline recent academic and cultural data.
Doug asked Lindsay what the Board should focus on when examining the data. Lindsay encouraged
the Board to consider the cultural elements that HPCS been working on, such as dream dollars.
Lindsay explained that she is not satisfied with the academic results, but that growth is visible.
Discussion ensued regarding data and growth at HPCS and how the Board should examine data
moving forward.
Finance Report
Melanie presented the Board with HPCS’s year-to-date actuals. A surplus is expected due to
enrollment numbers. HPCS revenue is higher than originally planned, but the school has hired
additional staff members, which has increased expenses. Melanie presented the HPCS proposed
budget for FY13-14, which reflects growth in enrollment with a fully enrolled 7th grade. The
proposed budget projects a surplus with no increase in revenue and less fundraising. The budget
reflects inflation as well as agreements with Alumni Revolution and Democracy Builders. Colin
Beirne added that HPCS is in the process of expanding the school drastically, heading to a school
enrollment of 800 scholars. Discussion ensued regarding the budget, school expansion, and location.
MOTION: MOTION to approve HPCS FY13-14 budget pending revisions after finalizing
agreement with Democracy Builders approved unanimously at 8:57 PM.
Board Growth
Doug indicated that there is a need to grow the Board. Discussion ensued regarding the growth of
the HPCS Board.
Event Update
The Board requested DPPS to double check the net amount raised at the Step Up Fundraiser. Seth
encouraged the Board to purchase tickets to the upcoming DPPS Gala, A Night at the Zoo.
Approval of Minutes
Motion: Motion to approve Minutes from April 9th passed unanimously at 9:05 PM.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously at 9:07 PM.
!
Harlem Prep Charter School Board of Trustees
Minutes of Meeting
August 6th, 2013
Trustees Present
Doug Snyder
Jake Foley
Kellie Zesch
Preston Henske
Colin Beirne
Chris Jackson
Roger Berg
Others Present
Katie Duffy
Daniel Brewer
Jamal Epps (via phone)
Raphael Gang
Emmanuel George
Ben Feit
Dan Lennon
Steve Cunning
Katie Duffy asked Daniel Brewer and Raphael Gang to introduce themselves to the Board.
Doug Snyder called the meeting to order at 7:41 M.
Academic Report
Katie Duffy explained that the DOE recently released the full State Exam score report for all DPPS
schools. However, DPPS will not know the full context of scores until Wednesday when scores
from other schools citywide are released. Prior to the State Exams, DPPS expected to see a drop in
proficiency scores, and that is the case. Katie noted that the most change was seen in a shift from
level 3 (grade level) to level 2 (approaching grade level). Katie emphasized that DPPS does not know
what it means until citywide data is released. Katie promised that all DPPS Boards will get a full email update after the data is released. The Board discussed setting up a conference all to follow
Katie’s e-mail update.
Katie updated the Board with Harlem Prep’s final promotion and retention numbers now that
summer academy had officially ended, noting that there will not be any Harlem Prep scholars being
retained in grade for a second time.
Katie reviewed the changes that have been made to the Academic Team, most notable of which is
the addition of three assistant superintendents, Lindsay Malanga, Emmanuel George, and Lisa
Friscia, to support elementary, middle, and high schools, respectively. Assistant superintendents
have been spending the summer meeting with campus directors to prepare for the upcoming school
year.
Network Update
Katie explained that the DPPS network staff team has grown substantially. Currently, the CMO is
preparing to move out of its office in Taino Towers while looking for office space in Harlem. The
move should be final by mid-September. Katie also informed the Board that DPPS is about to
submit an application to open a fresh start school in Washington, D.C. DPPS is continuing to look
at Louisiana as a prospective expansion site. Recently, a Leader U fellow was recently observing
schools in Baton Rouge. DPPS currently has 12 Leader U fellows in program, which is an increase
from three last year. The main driver of the increase is the CSP grant. Chris Jackson asked why
DPPS has chosen D.C. Katie explained that the region has a positive funding, political, and facility
environment. Also, D.C. is an attractive place for a school called Democracy Prep. In the spring,
DPPS entered a full management agreement with Freedom Academy, now named Freedom Prep, in
Camden, NJ. Roger Berg asked where DPPS will be located in Washington, D.C. Katie responded
that the school will be located in either Ward 7 or Ward 8. Doug asked if the network is still talking
with Taino Towers about office space there. Katie answered that DPPS is delaying that conversation
because there is too much space for DPPS’ needs.
Mulgrew v. DOE - Siting Litigation
Ben Feit explained that UFT has filed a lawsuit against the DOE to block future colocations that
were sited “too far in advance.” This suit would include Harlem Prep Middle and several schools in
the Success network. Last week, the New York City Charter Center and Success joined other
networks in New York City and held an information meeting about the suit. Doug asked if any of
the mayoral candidates have picked up on the issue. Katie explained that they have not. Discussion
ensued regarding future mayoral support of charter schools.
Doug asked Emmanuel George, Assistant Superintendent of DPPS middle schools, to introduce
himself to the Board. Emmanuel explained that he looks forward to working with the Board and
supporting Harlem Prep Middle School.
Roger requested to turn the discussion back to the siting litigation, emphasizing that the Board
needs to see the engagement letter. Ben explained that it is not yet available, but that he will notify
the Board as soon as it is. Roger advised that the Board should follow what is going on and be in a
position to assert itself before the suit moves in one direction or another. Jake Foley asked if the
Board needed to vote on the Board accepting association. Roger explained that the Board would
need to vote to intervene in the suit and on the retention of Arnold and Porter LLP as counsel.
MOTION: Motion to Approve intervention in the lawsuit unanimously 8:05 AM.
MOTION: Motion to retain Arnold and Porter pending review of the engagement letter 8:06
AM.
HPCS-Democracy Builders Grant Agreement
Roger explained to the Board that he deems the agreement to be fine. The only question to ask is in
regard to the fact that the Board is paying a management fee on top of the 1% for the grant
agreement. Doug noted that this would be a good year to evaluate the value of Democracy Builders.
Roger explained that Democracy Builders provides advocacy and other services, such as student
recruitment and orientation programs.
MOTON: Motion to approve the HCS-Democracy Builders Grant Agreement was approved
unanimously at 8:09 AM.
HPCS-DPPS Management Agreement
Roger explained that the 2013-14 agreement has the 0.5% step down in fee, and that the changes are
nothing significant to the current agreement. Roger explained that his only issue is that that the
Board is supposed to evaluate the performance of DPPS on an annual basis, which should be used
as the basis of the renewal decision. Roger added that although committees were put in place after
the 2011-12 school year, no determinations were made. The Board decided that the governance
committee would present suggested improvements to the CMO at the next meeting.
Board Membership
Doug explained that the Board has two candidates, Trevor Gibbons and Katie and Katie, both of
whom he proposed be approved. Roger added that their approval is contingent on SUNY approval
and that the Board must vote to reduce the number of trustees on the Board by one (Seth Andrew’s
resignation), and add two.
MOTION: Motion to reduce the number of trustees from 11 to 10 was approved
unanimously at 8:17 AM.
MOTION: Motion to elect Trevor and Gibbons and Katie Duffy to the Harlem Prep Board
pending SUNY approval passed unanimously at 8:18 AM.
Approve Minutes
MOTION: Motion to approve the minutes from the meeting on June 11th passed
unanimously at 8:19 AM.
HPAC Update
Dan Lennon reported some questions that came out of the last HPAC meeting, such as if there
would be representatives form the Board on the committee and where the money that is fundraised
would go. The committee is also looking to increase membership. Chris asked what the current
number of members is. Dan explained that it is 11. Roger explained that as a legal structure, if
HPAC is a formal committee, it is subject to all rules of a committee. Roger noted that his main
question is regarding the functionality of HPAC. Discussion ensued regarding the role of HPAC.
Staff Update
Katie explained that DPPS recently hired a CFO, Howard Schnidman, who joined DPPS after
working for years at IBM. Katie explained that Melanie Hok will continue her work as Senior
Director of Finance, and that Howard will support the finance office as DPPS continues to grow.
MOTION: Motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously at 8:25 AM.