The Highlander Charter School

“The form 990 is prepared by the external auditors and reviewed by management. Once all are satisfied with the form, it is finalized and a copy is sent to all board members. At the subsequent board meeting, the board is asked if they have any questions or comments and a general review of the form is conducted by management. Revisions, corrections, etc. Are made as necessary. Subsequent to this meeting, the form is submitted to the irs.”

“Members of the board of trustees complete an annual conflict of interest disclosure statement. The disclosures are reviewed annually by the board of trustees. Disclosures are publicly made to the full board of trustees, and board members at any time may raise the issue of potential conflicts of interest. Board members with a conflict of interest cannot vote on any transaction arrangement that results in such conflict of interest. Annually, each board member must sign an affirmation attesting to the fact that the board member has received a copy of the conflict of interest policy, has read and understands the policy, has agreed to comply with the policy and understand that the corporation is a charitable organization and must engage in activities which accomplish one or more of its tax-exempt purposes.”

“The executive committee of the board of trustees functions as a compensation committee in determining compensation for the chief executive officer. The committee meets with the executive director. In making its decisions, it takes into account the compensation paid to similar executives at comparable non-profits and charter schools in the new england area. The committee considers the performance of the organization during the review period and considers the executive director's success in achieving organizational goals. The chief executive officer reviews all other employees for compensation. In making her decisions, the chief executive officer considers the performance of each individual employee and the performance of his or her department during the review period and considers the employee's success in achieving the organizational goals.”

“The organization makes its governing documents (articles of incorporation and by-laws), its conflict of interest policy and financial statements available upon request. The organization will mail copies upon request or provide copies to those who come to the administrative offices during normal business hours. The organization charges for the copies in accordance with irs regulations.”