Every Day Counts: Creative, Compliant Ways to Maximize ADA
Average Daily Attendance (ADA) funding drives school budgets, and most schools aren't capturing all of it. Not because they're doing anything wrong, but because the strategies that maximize attendance-based revenue take good systems and knowledge of tools that don't always get enough attention. This session is built around schools that got creative, legally, and what they learned. The presenters will look at how a well-run Independent Study program can serve students and protect funding at the same time, how Attendance Recovery fits in, and what it actually takes to run both in a way that holds up when auditors come knocking. They will cover common misconceptions, the ELOP connection, and state reporting implications, so participants leave knowing what's possible, what's required, and how to build programs that work.
Presented by
Dr. Katherine Michiels Director of Student Data Services Charter Impact
Kat is a seasoned education professional with 18 years of experience in data, assessment, and accountability. At Charter Impact, she leads student data services, helping schools turn data into actionable insights that drive student success. Previously, Kat held leadership roles at Denver Public Schools and Caddo Parish Public Schools, where she designed predictive models, implemented early warning systems for at-risk students, and managed processes for over $300 million in ESSER funds. Her work supports strategic planning and academic achievement. Kat holds a B.A. in Elementary Education, an M.A. in Counseling, and a doctorate in Leadership Studies.
Jason Sitomer Head of Client Finance Charter Impact
Jason serves as the Managing Director for Charter Impact, where he leads a team of 21 directors supporting the financial operations of more than 130 charter schools nationwide. He joined the organization four years ago and plays a key role in strategic growth, fiscal oversight, and client thought partnership. Prior to Charter Impact, Jason served as Senior Director of Finance for a large charter network comprising 27 schools. Over his five-year tenure, he oversaw financial forecasting, cash management, banking relationships, authorizer compliance, and strategic reporting. Jason is a committed advocate for school choice and expanding educational opportunities beyond the traditional public school system.
Gilanie Thomas Coordinator of Data and Accountability Scholarship Prep Charter Schools
Gilanie Thomas serves as the Coordinator of Data and Accountability for Scholarship Prep. With 15 years of experience in education, she has held roles as a classroom teacher, site leader, and district-level administrator. Her work focuses on data systems, accountability, Independent Study, MTSS, and Section 504 compliance. Gilanie is passionate about developing systems that support student success, improve outcomes, and empower educators to make data-informed decisions that best serve students and families.
