OPEN MEETING REQUIREMENT
In accordance to Tennessee Open Meetings Act (TCA §8-44-101), Circles of Success’ Board Meetings are public meetings open to the public at all times, except as provided by the Constitution of Tennessee. A Board Meeting schedule is provided for your convenience.
COSLA Board Meeting Documents February 19, 2025
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes - Wednesday, Wednesday, February 19, 2025
I. Opening Items
A. Record Attendance and Guests
B. Call the Meeting to Order
C. Approve Minutes and Financial Updates
II. School Business
A. CEO School Update Discussion
Compliance
1. Audit 2023/2024
2. Line Of Credit Renewed
3. Health Inspection
4. PreK Compliance/TDOE Site Visit
5. Fire Marshall Compliance
6.. Transportation Supervisor Certification
School Updates
1. Reach University
2. First 8 Memphis Board Visit
3. Church Increase Request
4. Building Acquisition
- Magnolia Elementary
- Potential Opportunities
- LIIF Changes
III. Other Business
IV. Closing Items
A. Next Meeting
B. Adjourn Meeting
Date: 02/19/25
Time: 12:00 PM
Facilitator: D. Leven
IN ATTENDANCE S. Catron Cooper, D. Leven, A. Jones, D. Burton, K. Dodson, M. Newman, M. Pierson No guests were present. The meeting was called to order at 12;13pm.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES The meeting minutes from the October 23, 2024 Board Meeting were approved. Moved by K. Dodson; Second: A. Jones.
BOARD BUSINESS
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
Reports from the Executive Director/CEO, finance department, and program staff leads. M. Pierson was introduced as the newly appointed staff representative for the Board of Directors.
COMMITTEE REPORTS There were no Special Committee Reports for this meeting.
BUDGET
In the Business Manager’s emergency absence, the financials were not reported. However, it was reported that the FY2023 audit process is complete. Two minor findings were shared and discussed. The FY2024 audit is underway. The business office is hopeful that process will be done
sooner than anticipated.
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
COMPLIANCE: Audits and 990s are underway, although they are late in being submitted. Luther Speight is the current auditor. COSLA’s line of credit has been renewed at the current rate, and there is a zero balance. The health inspection was successful, and the school received a score of 98 due to a missing ceiling tile. PreK inspections were also successful, as was the annual TDOE visit. The fire compliance inspection report has a few findings, and the church is working with staff persons to make the necessary corrections. COSLA has partnered with Reach University, and currently, has three employees working on their BA degrees, with the intent to obtain
certification as teachers. COSLA was selected to host First 8 Memphis’ board members as part of
their retreat.
BUILDING/NEW LOCATION UPDATES: Information was shared about the current condition of the identified school building, Magnolia Elementary. The school has been vandalized quite extensively. S. Catron Cooper indicated that select board members and staff visited two alternative locations, but none of them are ideal for the school. This information, including the pros and cons, was shared with the board members. The board members also expressed their concerns regarding the two alternative locations. It was determined that the prospect of Magnolia should remain the primary plan for COSLA. S. Catron Cooper suggested that the school order a new appraisal, and the board members agreed that this should be the next step, especially since considerable time and resources have already been allocated for that location.
OTHER INFORMATION: St. Andrew is requesting that the school increase rent beginning in July 2025. The increase represents a $10,000 adjustment for COSLA. Board members discussed how this would impact the school’s ability—specifically, its lack of ability—to maintain effective operations. The church’s letter outlined areas where they incurred increases and indicated where they felt they could use the school’s financial support. While the school acknowledges that some areas may have increased, several of the items listed are questionable as costs that COSLA should contribute to. Therefore, S. Catron Cooper and D. Leven will write a letter requesting clarification on these items, which will be discussed at our next meeting. Following the Board’s discussion, select members will meet with church representatives to negotiate the current request.
New business• Make appointment to have building appraised in its current state.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
• Finance
• Building Relocation
ANNOUNCEMENTS
N/A
NEXT MEETING
Our next meeting will be March 19th @ 12pm.
Motion to adjourn was made at 1:37 pm and was passed unanimously.
Minutes recorded by Sylverna Ford, Secretary of the Board
COSLA Board Meeting Documents March 19, 2025
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes - Wednesday, March 19, 2025
I. Opening Items
A. Record Attendance and Guests
B. Call the Meeting to Order
C. Approve Minutes and Financial Updates
II. School Business
A. CEO School Update Discussion
School Updates
1. Church Rent Increase Discussion and Follow Up
2. Building Acquisition Updates
- Magnolia Elementary Updates
- Other Potential Opportunities
III. Other Business
IV. Closing Items
A. Next Meeting
B. Adjourn Meeting
Date: 03/19/25
Time: 12:00 PM CST
Facilitator: D. Leven
IN ATTENDANCE
S. Catron Cooper, D. Leven, A. Jones, D. Burton, K. Dodson, M. Newman, M. Pierson
No guests were present. The meeting was called to order at 12:13 PM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The meeting minutes from the October 23, 2024 Board Meeting were approved. Moved by K. Dodson; Second: A. Jones.
BOARD BUSINESS
OLD BUSINESS
N/A
NEW BUSINESS
Reports from the Executive Director/CEO, finance department, and program staff leads. M. Pierson continues to serve as the staff representative for the Board of Directors.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
There were no Special Committee Reports for this meeting.
BUDGET
In the Business Manager’s emergency absence, the financials were not reported. However, it was reported that the FY2023 audit process is complete. Two minor findings were shared and discussed. The FY2024 audit is underway. The business office is hopeful that the process will be completed sooner than anticipated.
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
COMPLIANCE – Audits and 990s are underway, although they are late in being submitted. Luther Speight is the current auditor. COSLA’s line of credit has been renewed at the current rate, and there is a zero balance. The health inspection was successful, and the school received a score of 98 due to a missing ceiling tile. PreK inspections were also successful, as was the annual TDOE visit. The fire compliance inspection report has a few findings, and the church is working with staff to make the necessary corrections. COSLA has partnered with Reach University, and currently has three employees working on their BA degrees with the intent to obtain teacher certification. COSLA was selected to host First 8 Memphis’ board members as part of their retreat.
BUILDING/NEW LOCATION UPDATES
Information was shared about the current condition of the identified school building, Magnolia Elementary. The school has been vandalized extensively. S. Catron Cooper indicated that select board members and staff visited two alternative locations; however, neither site was ideal. The pros and cons of each location were shared and discussed. Board members expressed concerns regarding the alternative locations. It was determined that Magnolia should remain the primary plan for COSLA. S. Catron Cooper suggested ordering a new appraisal in its current condition. The board agreed this should be the next step, especially given the time and resources already invested.
OTHER INFORMATION
St. Andrew is requesting that the school increase rent beginning in July 2025. The increase represents a $10,000 adjustment for COSLA. Board members discussed the potential impact on the school’s ability to maintain effective operations. The church’s letter outlined their increased expenses and areas where they believe the school should provide financial support. While some increases are acknowledged, several listed items were questioned as costs COSLA should assume. Therefore, S. Catron Cooper and D. Leven will draft a letter requesting clarification. The matter will be discussed further at the next meeting. Following discussion, select board members will meet with church representatives to negotiate the request.
NEW BUSINESS ACTION ITEM
• Make appointment to have the building appraised in its current state.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
• Finance
• Building Relocation
ANNOUNCEMENTS
N/A
NEXT MEETING
Our next meeting will be April 16, 2025 @ 12:00 PM CST.
Motion to adjourn was made at 1:37 PM and was passed unanimously.
Minutes recorded by Sylverna Ford, Secretary of the Board
COSLA Board Meeting Documents June 18, 2025
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes - Wednesday, June 18, 2025
I. Opening Items
A. Record Attendance and Guests
B. Call the Meeting to Order
C. Approve Minutes (2) and Financial Updates
II. School Business
A. CEO School Update Discussion
School Updates
1. Building Acquisition Updates
- Follow-up: Recent Opportunities
- LaPaloma Findings and Potential
- Transitional Team: Operation Relocation
- Prospective Funder Exploration
- Proposed Staff Change
III. Other Business
A. Board Member Training (Deadline June 30th)
B. New Board Members
C. E-Mail Communication Request
D. Afton Partners Presentation (Budgeting In Uncertainty)
IV. Closing Items
A. Next Meeting
B. Adjourn Meeting
Date: 06/18/25
Time: 12:00 PM CST
Facilitator: D. Leven
IN ATTENDANCE
S. Catron Cooper, D. Leven, A. Jones, K. Dotson, M. Newman, M. Pierson, I. Randolph, C. Sawyer, K. Robinson, and M. Robinson
No guests were present. The meeting was called to order at 12:06 PM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The meeting minutes from the previous Board Meeting were approved. Moved by I. Randolph; Second: C. Sawyer.
BOARD BUSINESS
OLD BUSINESS
N/A
NEW BUSINESS
Reports were presented by the Executive Director/CEO, finance department, and program staff leads.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
There were no Special Committee Reports for this meeting.
BUDGET
Presented by I. Randolph. Costs from state and federal funds were shared. While funds are currently in the bank, they are allocated. Additional funds should be used to secure a new location. The school is projected to remain in good standing throughout the fiscal year. The financial report was accepted by the board. Moved by K. Dotson; Seconded by A. Jones.
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
TCAP testing preparation is underway.
ST. ANDREW UPDATE
In response to COSLA’s written request for clarification of items supporting the July 1, 2025 rent increase, the church confirmed the $10,000 increase to be non-negotiable. The board discussed the impact this increase would have on the school’s operational sustainability. While some cost increases were acknowledged, COSLA would be unable to maintain positive operational status under the new rate.
BUILDING/NEW LOCATION UPDATES
Information was shared regarding Magnolia Elementary. The building has been extensively vandalized. Select board members and staff visited two alternative locations; however, neither option was ideal. After reviewing the pros and cons, the board agreed Magnolia should remain the primary plan. S. Catron Cooper and board members agreed to order a new appraisal of Magnolia in its current condition.
ORGANIZATIONAL UPDATES
Discussion included formation of a Transitional Team, Operation Relocation. Prospective funder exploration efforts were shared. A proposed staff change was introduced for consideration.
NEW BUSINESS ACTION ITEM
• Magnolia building appraisal.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
• Finance
• Building Relocation
ANNOUNCEMENTS
N/A
NEXT MEETING
Our next meeting will be July 16, 2025 @ 12:00 PM CST.
Motion to adjourn was made at 1:36 PM and was passed unanimously.
Minutes recorded by Sylverna Ford, Secretary of the Board
COSLA Board Meeting Documents August 20, 2025
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes - Wednesday, August 20, 2025
I. Opening Items
A. Record Attendance and Guests
B. Call the Meeting to Order
C. Approve Minutes and Financial Updates
II. School Business
A. CEO School Update Discussion
1. Tax Credit Program Update
2. Compliance
3. LaPaloma
- Status
- Contractor’s Plans
- Financing
- The Move
- Certificate Of Occupancy
- Inspections
- Business Clearing with St. Andrew
III. Other Business
• PreK Program Updates
IV. Closing Items
A. Next Meeting
B. Adjourn Meeting
Date: 08/20/25
Time: 12:00 PM CST
Facilitator: D. Leven
IN ATTENDANCE
S. Catron Cooper, D. Leven, K. Dotson, M. Pierson, C. Sawyer, D. Burton, S. Ford, M. Robinson, and R. Lee
No guests were present. The meeting was called to order at 12:08 PM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The meeting minutes from the previous Board Meeting were approved. Moved by K. Dotson; Second: D. Burton.
BOARD BUSINESS
OLD BUSINESS
N/A
NEW BUSINESS
Reports were presented by the Executive Director/CEO, finance department, and program staff leads.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
There were no Special Committee Reports for this meeting.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Presented by D. Leven in I. Randolph’s absence. Costs from state and federal funds were shared. While funds are currently in the bank, they are already allocated. Additional funds should be used to secure a new location. The school is projected to remain in good standing throughout the fiscal year. The financial report was accepted by the board. Moved by C. Sawyer; Seconded by K. Dotson.
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
ST. ANDREW FOLLOW UP REVIEW
COSLA’s Transition Team and St. Andrew church members met to finalize COSLA’s move and expectations. The July 31 extension was approved at the current rate of $20,000. COSLA will secure its own trash dumpster, clean all rooms and shared spaces, and have the kitchen professionally cleaned. At the conclusion of the meeting, COSLA paid St. Andrew $69,000, covering May, June, and July rent payments, along with a $9,000 kitchen use fee.
BUILDING/NEW LOCATION UPDATES
S. Catron Cooper shared several potential spaces and the pros and cons of each. Most remain under consideration as COSLA approaches the July 31, 2025 transition date.
THE TRANSITION
Leaders for the Transition Team have been identified. Focus areas include Facilities and Operations, Communications, Technology and Infrastructure, Academic and Curriculum Continuity, Student and Family Support, and Logistics and Move Coordination. The school relocated within 20 days. Families were informed that Open House would be held at New Hope.
FINANCING OPTIONS
The Facilities Committee will explore financial options outside of LIIF to secure the best fit for COSLA. Eight potential funding sources are under review, with updates to follow. Preliminary funds are available but insufficient to complete the full scope of work. Ransom Construction will invoice COSLA for due diligence work on LaPaloma, and remaining state grant funds will support that effort.
NEW BUSINESS
• State-mandated board member training must be completed by June 30. Board members should monitor emails from the Tennessee Charter School Center.
• The need for new board members was discussed. S. Catron Cooper and C. Sawyer will meet to determine next steps.
• A presentation titled “Budgeting In Uncertainty” from Ashton Partners was shared for board consideration.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
PERSONNEL
S. Catron Cooper requested board approval to divide the Executive Director and Principal roles after serving in both capacities for 20 years. She recommended M. Pierson, who has 16 years of service in multiple leadership roles and holds the necessary credentials, to serve as Principal. After discussion, S. Ford moved and C. Sawyer seconded approval of the role division. K. Dotson moved and C. Sawyer seconded that M. Pierson serve as Principal and S. Catron Cooper continue as Executive Director. The board approved both motions.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Well-wishes and prayers were extended to I. Randolph, Treasurer.
NEXT MEETING
Our next meeting will be September 17, 2025 @ 12:00 PM CST.
Motion to adjourn was made at 1:36 PM and was passed unanimously. Moved by K. Dotson; Seconded by C. Sawyer.
Minutes recorded by Sylverna Ford, Secretary of the Board
COSLA Board Meeting Documents January 21, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes - Wednesday, January 21, 2026
I. Opening Items
A. Record Attendance and Guests
B. Call the Meeting to Order
C. Approve Minutes and Financial Updates
II. School Business
A. CEO School Update Discussion
1. Compliance
2. LaPaloma
- Status
- Contractor’s Plans
- Financing
- Pros
- Cons
- Integration Thoughts/Options
- Sub-Committee
III. Other Business
• New Board Members
IV. Closing Items
A. Next Meeting
B. Adjourn Meeting
Date: 01/21/26
Time: 12:00 PM CST
Facilitator: D. Leven
IN ATTENDANCE
S. Catron Cooper, D. Leven, K. Dotson, M. Pierson, A. Jones, C. Sawyer, D. Burton, S. Ford
No guests were present. The meeting was called to order at 12:07 PM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES and FINANCIALS
The meeting minutes and financials from the previous Board Meeting were approved. Moved by K. Dotson; Second: D. Burton.
BOARD BUSINESS
OLD BUSINESS
COSLA received over $500,000 from a tax credit program applied for during COVID.
NEW BUSINESS
Reports were presented by the Executive Director/CEO, finance department, and program staff leads.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
There were no Special Committee Reports for this meeting.
FINANCIAL REPORT
N/A
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
COMPLIANCE
COSLA received a 4.84 out of 5 on the annual scorecard for the 2024–2025 school year. All information has been submitted for the FY24 suit. The lead auditor experienced personnel issues that delayed the process. Board training deadlines were met, resulting in 100% compliance for that indicator. TCAP scores improved, and COSLA is no longer on any identifying lists.
BUILDING/NEW LOCATION UPDATES
Since the move, enrollment has remained consistent.
THE TRANSITION
The school relocated to a temporary site at 1299 E. McLemore, Memphis, TN 38106, approximately 1.5 miles from St. Andrew. Mr. Pogue of Pogue Management is the landlord. COSLA received a temporary Certificate of Occupancy, and required inspections are underway. A video of the new space was shared. The move from St. Andrew was hectic but completed on time. The playground was dismantled and placed in storage until a permanent site is secured. The final outstanding item is the commercial cleaning of kitchen areas and appliances.
LAPALOMA
An updated PSA is pending as funding sources are evaluated. Once a preferred option is identified, the Facilities Team will present a recommendation to the board. Trade quotes are being scheduled. Asbestos abatement will be required. An architect has been engaged to begin design planning. COSLA secured a $90,000 Letter of Credit to serve as a down payment. Financing options were presented, and philanthropic partners are being engaged for additional funding support.
NEW BUSINESS
COSLA’s PreK program is nearly fully enrolled. An agreement was made to expand by adding an additional classroom in the coming weeks.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
None
ANNOUNCEMENTS
None
NEXT MEETING
Our next meeting will be called pending building updates.
Motion to adjourn was made at 12:46 PM and was passed unanimously. Moved by C. Sawyer; Seconded by K. Dotson.
Minutes recorded by Sylverna Ford, Secretary of the Board