NORTH WINDHAM ELEMENTARY PTO

MINUTES

October 6, 2009

Attendees:

 Kim Charron – Co-President                           John Adams                                        

Amy Boulay – Co-President                               Lisa Adams                             

Damaris Gonzalez                                             Lori Sfakios - Treasurer                       

Sara Couillard                                                  Moniqua Palmer          

Chris Siebert                                                    Betsy Fernandez – Principal                 

Lisa Nilsson                                                      Adelyne Prince                        

Mickie Bettencourt

Jessica Welden                                    

Meeting called to order by Kim at 6:35pm

Board of Ed candidate- Tracy Lambert

·        Tracy Lambert is running for a seat on the Board of Ed. She joined our meeting to introduce herself and to let parents know that she is available should anyone have any idea, concerns or questions.

Treasurer’s Report- Lori Sfakios

·        On-line banking was opened so that Lori can print statements and have them ready should anyone request information.

·        One cash withdrawal of $150 for petty cash for fun fest.  Money was redeposited after fun fest.

·        Handout given for all expenses and credits for the month of September.

·        $14,497 in catalog sales for the Jeannine Fundraiser. This is $3807.50 more than last year. A total profit amount will be available next month.

·        We went through about 40% of the ice cream we purchased for open house. The rest of it will be stored and used at another time.

·        A couple of outstanding checks from the fun fest. Will update at next meeting.

Family Fun Fest- Jessica Welden

·        Good turn out despite the rain.

·        Next year we will plan for two days (one being a rain date)

·        $1979 sold in tickets. $1384 sold in basket raffle tickets.

·        Great amount of donations this year. Thank you to all who donated.

·        Leftover food was dropped off at the soup kitchen in Willimantic.

·        Any ideas and concerns will be brought up again in June.

Principal’s Message- Betsy Fernandez

·        Survived the very stressful month of September. This month is always a challenge due to new incoming students, new staff, as well as larger classes this year.

·        All students have been assessed in reading and math. All students ahead of where they were last year. This is great news.

4^th grade students doing an amazing job!

·        “paw-fection” - staff finding that it is not fast enough. They must stop what they are doing in order to fill out the form completely for students. Thinking about changing to a “paw” shaped reward with one of the 4 school rules printed on it so that students will still know which rule they are being congratulated for. More info to follow.

·        4^th grade graduation will be held on June 11^th at 2pm in order to make this day a full day of “special-ness” for students.

·        The idea for an afternoon graduation was put out last year and also was added to this months newsletter. If parents have any concerns regarding this they should call Betsy at 465-2400. The school is not trying to take anything away from parents by doing it in this way. This is a test situation and discussions will take place afterwards to decide if it will continue in this way. NWS will be the one school to hold an afternoon graduation.

Resignation- Amy Boulay

·        Amy Boulay is resigning as PTO co-president. She submitted he letter of resignation to Kim Charron on October 5^th.

·        An election will take place November 4^th for a replacement co-president.

·        John Adams nominated himself for the position.

·        Lori Sfakios and Sara Couillard nominated Jessica Welden.

·        Election votes will be taken by secret ballots.

District Wide PTO Report-

District wide members were unable this months meeting. Information will follow next month.

Full Fundraiser- Amy Boulay

·        Please see treasurer’s report for amount sold.

·        Families and friends can still order online until December, our school will still receive credit for all online sales.

·        Total profit information will be given next month.

Important Dates:

·        Wreath sale: “Evergreens of Hampton” will begin in November. Wreaths usually sell for $11-$12. More info to follow.

·        Book Fair: 11/16-11/20, held in room 10A.. Lisa Adams will co-chair with Kim Charron. Volunteers are needed for this event. Please see Kim if you are able to help out. Students will view items Monday and Tuesday of that week. We will begin selling Wednesday during conferences through Friday. Jessica Welden will check with UCONN for information on their book fairs. We are looking for information to see if there is another program we would like to use.

·        Holiday Shoppe: 12/5. Thinking about holding it on Friday 12/4 during school hours so that all children will have the chance to participate. Volunteers will be needed. More info to follow.

G&L Christmas Barn: 12/10 4pm - 8 pm. G&L is a parents night out. 10% of all profits from that night go to our school. They do cooking demonstrations for us as well. Always a great time.

Mini-grants-

·        No mini grants at this time.

·        Betsy proposed that $400 go to the 4^th grade to supplement the Sturbridge Village trip. She will talk to the 4^th grade teachers and see what they think. More info to follow next meeting.

New Business-

·        Motion proposed by Jessica Welden, she would like $20 to print pictures taken by Rich Grotton at the family fun fest. Pictures will be displayed in the display case in front of the office. Motion granted, all approved.

·        Jessica Welden has asked for anyone interested in handling the PTO website to please contact her at j.welden@yahoo.com or to call her at 465-9491. She would like to train someone to run the site.

November 10^th parent, student, and staff awards held at the Middle School.

·        Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday November 4^th due to election day and other activities held through out the month.

PTO will once again sponsor dinner for the staff on Wednesday November 18^th during parent/teacher conferences. We will offer pasta dinner and salad with dinner rolls. Fresh baked desserts are requested. More info will follow at next months meeting.

Meeting adjourned at 7:45pm

Respectfully submitted

Jessica Welden on behalf of Donna Rymash

North Windham Elementary PTO

Minutes

September 1, 2009

Attendees:

Betsy Fernandez – Principal        Kim Charron – Co-President                 

    Amy Boulay – Co-President    Donna Rymash Secretary              Lori Sfakios - Treaurer

 John Adams                                                        

  Lisa Adams                                                      Angelica Hernandez

  Damaris Gonzalez                                              Michelle Collins

Sara Couillard                                                    Moniqua Palmer          

Chris Siebert                                                     Amber Garrow                        

 Ana Galindo                                                      Sandy Ferguson  

  Jodi Walcenwiecz                                            Cecily Silva

Tonya Lemire                                                    Maria de los Angeles

 Kimberly Paplior                                                  Lisa Nilsson   

 Chris Braheney                                                      Adelyne Prince

Cheryl Bell                                                             Lori Slyman                                         

Jessica Welden                                                  Vanessa Gonzalez

Meeting called to order by Kim at 6:35 PM

PTO meets the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m.   We will try to have a few of the meetings in the afternoon depending on the outcome.  Babysitting is available and free to parents.  We organize a fall fundraiser which will be handed out next Thursday; book fairs, Family Fun Day; the silent auction; Holiday Shoppe (student holiday shopping), playground equipment; staff appreceiation; etc.

Treasurer’s Report – Lori Sfakios

*     One outstanding check from last May for Ms. Anderson’s art supplies, Lori will follow up with her.  Also Funtastic has an outstanding bill but we will wait for the statement.

*     Amy and Lori will go to the bank to add their names on the account. 

*     New forms were created for expense reimbursement, please staple the receipt.

Open house/Ice Cream Social

*     Next Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m. for K-2 grades and next Thursday for 3-4 grades.

*    Ice Cream Social for the kids – volunteers needed.  Last year we spend $300 on the Dairy Bar ice cream.  Talk about whether we should use the Dairy Bar again or use the Hoodsie cups.  PTO members present voted yes to the Hoodsies ice cream cups.  Lori Sfakios will get them at cost for us.

Principal’s Message

 *     Changes:          from 24 classes to 21

                        K – 18 in a class

                        1 – 19-20 in a class

                        2/4 – 26-28 in a class

                        Three NWS teachers are now at the middle school

Fewer  paraprofessionals which is less support for classes; may shuffle para support for now

Lost prep time for teachers (options – 30 minutes a day or 3 preps a week; specials everyday)

 *    P.E., Music, and Library are twice per week only 30 minutes and recess is now 15 minutes

*     Teaching school – FOUR RULES:  RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY, SAFTEY AND CARING

*     There will be students from UConn to assist in learning of the rules.  They will be here all year long.

Book Fair

 *     Jo Ellen informed the PTO that she cannot run the book fair this year due to her schedule and we will need to find another place in the school to hold it.  It will be held in November and in March (during parent teacher conferences).

*     We will need volunteers for all shifts.  A sign up sheet will be passed around at next meeting.

*     Possible location - Laura’s old room .

New Business

*     Family Nights at North Windham School

*    Staff appreciation – have a volunteer sign up sheet

*     Box Tops and Campbell Soup labels

Meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted

Jessica Welden on behalf of Donna Rymash

North Windham Elementary PTO

Minutes

May 5, 2009

Attendees:

Kim Charron – President                        Jodi Walencewicz – District wide PTO                     Betsey Fernandez - Principal

Donna Rymash – Secretary                    Amy Boulay - Fundraising                                       Mickie Bettencourt – Fundraising                           

Sandy Ferguson – District wide PTO      Lisa & John Adams                                                  Sara Couillard                                                        

Elsie Maldonado                                      Jessica Welden                                                        Pat McMahon                                                         

Lori Sfakios                                              Kristi Dudek – Treasurer                                         Shawndalyn Moore                                

Moniqua Palmer                                      Lori Slyman                            

Meeting called to order by Kim at 6:35 pm.

Approval of minutes from April 7, 2009:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Minor changes were made.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Jessica Welden approved the minutes with corrections and Sara Couillard seconds the motion.

Principal’s Message:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Last week’s Science Fair was a huge success; 60 participants compared to last year’s fair(30 participants).  The kid’s speeches to present their project were great.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->We are in the middle of “Misting” which is a pilot program offered from the State which will replace the District Benchmark for the third and fourth grade students.  The District Benchmark will remain in effect for the first and second grade students.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Tomorrow we will find out what students (8) are leaving NWES and where they are going to be placed.  We will have 3 kindergarten and first grade classes and two second, third, and fourth grade classes.  We will be losing one fourth grade companeros.  The classes will go up to 26 students in each room   

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->There was a meeting with the other elementary school principals regarding PTO meetings.  Betsy would like us to alternative times of our meetings; keep the evening but every other month have one in the afternoon right after school.  She is hoping to have more parents attend.  A notice will go home to the parents.  She would also like to have at least one teacher attend a PTO meeting.  We will discuss more at the next PTO meeting in June.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->The Silent Auction was a great night.  Next time we should end the bidding at 7:15 or 7:45 and use a laptop with the information already entered to make it more organized.

Budget Referendum – May 12, 2009

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Vote on May 12^th; the education budget is at 0%.  Our school has lost two staff so far but it is not public knowledge as of yet.

Treasurer’s Report:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Some of the money has been used for field trips but not a lot.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->The total budget $6,836 is not including the silent auction and the Reading Night Mini-Grant, Field Day Entertainment, and Playground Equipment have not been taken out.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->We received two thank you notes one from Dollars for Scholars and one from WHS Project Graduation.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->We received a box top check for $536.43 which is included in the budget; the next check will come in October.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->We will give all the money earned from the Silent Auction to the playground equipment.  We will order the swing set and the seesaw equipment; the total including installation and shipping will be $8,867.  We will also need to get wood fiber for the surfacing, if we can install this we will save $700 and if we pay for the equipment in full we will receive a 3% less discount.  We hope to have the equipment here by the end of May/early June.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Summer Counts deal for Parents – one book $8; two books $15 and three books $20.  Last year we sold 92 books and PTO paid out $130 but worth it.  Amy approved and Jessica seconds the motion.  We will double check to see if they come in Spanish; but the books go up until 8^th grade.

District Wide PTO Report:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->On Movie Night there were 157 people who attended and received $31 in donations.  Next there they would like to do two Movie Nights.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->They are in the process of ordering a book “Manuela the Iguana”.  They are trying to get the funds for this, maybe next year.  Sandy will have to get back to us, she is unsure what grades will be receiving this book.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->There may be a possible adult dance at the Elks in the fall.  This is on the next meeting’s agenda which will take place in the fall.  The money would be split between all the schools.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Fundraisers for schools for playgrounds that need it (i.e. Sweeney & North Windham)

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->We (NWS) doing our own Defenders fundraiser on 5/29

Nominations of PTO officers for the 2009 – 2010 school year:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Kristi will prepare and count the ballets.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Co-Presidents – Kim Charron; Amy Boulay; John Adams

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Fundraisers – Amy Boulay and Sara Couillard

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Secretary – Donna Rymash (Jessica Welden and Jodi Walencewicz will be back-up for the afternoon meetings)

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Treasurer – Lori Sfakios (Kristi is resigning as Treasurer; her last day will be July 31.  Thanks Kristi for all your hard work, you did a great job!) 

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->District wide PTO – Sandy Ferguson and Jodi Walencewicz

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Fun Fest – Jessica Welden; we will need to set up sub-committees (especially for the volunteers).  Tentative Date:  October 3^rd.

Teacher Appreciation Week:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Teacher luncheon will be rescheduled for May 14^th unless the library is not available.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Carnation Delivery 5/8/09 – 360 carnations were ordered and everyone will receive one including the bus drivers.

4^th grade moving up ceremony:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->We would like to do this in the afternoon at 2:00 p.m. instead of the evening to try to have all 4^th grade students attend.  The teachers were very excited about this idea.  We will send a survey out to the parents to see if they would be able to attend, if a lot of parents say no we will need to change it to the evening.

Yearbook Update:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Still working on it and seeking ads.  The deadline is May 15^th if you know anyone who wishes to place an ad, let Jodi know.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->The personal ads are going home this week.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Mr. Daigle asked if we could give trophies to the Safety Patrol Leaders, the cost would be $40 and everyone agreed to this.

New Business:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Vote for the 2009-2010 PTO Officers.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Family Fun Fest.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->·         <!--[endif]-->Schedule PTO Meetings for 2009-2010.

Meeting adjourned at 7:46 PM.

North Windham Elementary PTO

Minutes

April 7, 2009

Attendees:

Kim Charron – President                        Jodi Walencewicz – District wide PTO                     Betsey Fernandez - Principal

Donna Rymash – Secretary                    Amy Boulay - Fundraising                                       Mickie Bettencourt – Fundraising                           

Lisa & John Adams                                  Sara Couillard                                                         Elsie Maldonado                                                     

Amber Garrow                                        Michelle Collins                                                       

Meeting called to order by Kim at 6:34 pm.

Approval of minutes from March 3, 2009:

·         Kim approved the March 3, 2009 minutes and Sara Couillard seconds the motion.

Principal’s  Message:

·         The UConn opera will be here on Wednesday for two assemblies of Hansel and Gretel; all are welcome.

·         Lots more parents are coming in to have lunch with their student, please continue if you can.

·         The small swing set (closest to the red house) will be removed next week and replaced with a new one.  The price of the new swing set is $1,500 which should include the cost of installation.

·         We are going to try to apply for a mini-grant at toys-r-us.

·         Summer school will be at two schools Sweeny and either North Windham Elementary School or Windham Center School.  If students did not meet January Benchmark deadline will most than likely will have to attend summer school.

·         The CMT’s went well and the student’s really appreciated the little goodies provided. 

·         MIST – benchmark testing for 3^rd and 4^th graders which is a pilot project and hopefully will take the place of the District Benchmarking.  MIST is an online test which is developed by the state.  The District Wide is not used outside of our district.  (Benchmarking – an assessment students take three times per year.  The student has to reach the math and reading level at the time of the assessment.)

·         Family Reading Night had 210 people attend as the Math Night had 251 people.

·         The Companeros open forum went well; current parents and parents who are interested in the program attended.  This program has been extended to Pre-K.

·         April 14 - A presentation on the internet child predators, cyber bullies, etc from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Mansfield Middle School.

·         April 23 – No TV night at NWES 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

·         April 29 – Advisory Council

·         April 30 – Grades 2-4 Science Fair 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

·         May 5 – Orientation for Kindergarten

·         May 21 – Windham Middle School orientation at 6:30 p.m.

Treasurer’s Report:

·         Project Graduation – majority voted and $125 will be donated unless Kristi can check to see of $100 is doable.

·         Dollars for Scholars – majority voted and $100 will be donated.

·         Funds available in the General Fund – appx 4,378.97 which includes the payments of the Reading Night; People to People donation; Field Day Entertainment; and the Playground Equipment Purchase.

·         At the next meeting we will need to discuss the summer books, last year it cost appx $138.  Do we still want to order them?

District Wide PTO Report:

·         The meeting was cancelled – nothing to report.

·         The District Wide event – Horton Hears a Who went very well.  Another movie night is scheduled for April 24^th.

Spring Fundraiser Update:

·         We made $2,700 in profit; 62 students and seven staff participated. 

·         We have six extra cream cheese breads if you want one.

Silent Auction/Pot Luck dinner Update:

·         John Adams tried to contact the Boston Red Sox and Blockbuster – so far no luck.  He will keep trying.

·         As of today,  we have over $2,200 collected in donations. 

·         Some donations are Midas (2 oil changes);; dinner cooked for you at your home; Sapata jewelry; gift certificates and misc baskets.

·         Invite family and friends.

·         Potluck dinner – only the family of the student should bring a dish.  A notice will go home with your child soon.

·         Jason Altieri will be the kid’s entertainer and Syndia will be the MC.

·         The auction will be from 6:00 – 7:45 p.m.

·         The event will be held in the gym; Jason will be in the Library; kids can also go outside or the cafeteria (child care will be provided)

Teacher Appreciation Week:

·         Teacher Luncheon          5/7/09 – volunteers:  Michelle, Lisa, Amber, Sarah, Amy Jody, and Kim

                                                Grinders, salad, etc. will be ordered at the cheapest place (Michelle will make some inquiries).

                                                The luncheon is from 11-1 please be here at 10:30 a.m. to help set up the tables.

Sarah will make a carrot cake and a cookie platter.  We will need to make arrangements with the cafeteria to have the

cake chilled.

·         Carnation Orders            4/29 – 5/1/09 – Outside of main office from 8:20 – 9:00 a.m.

                                                The volunteers are Kim, Jodi, Michelle, Amy, Amber, Mickie, and Lisa.

The students are allowed to buy a carnation for a special person (teacher, staff, bus drivers, etc) at school and write a personal message.  If someone doesn’t receive one, PTO will still give one to them.

                                                The PTO will deliver the carnation on May 7^th.

·         Carnation Delivery           5/7/09

                                                Since it is on the same day as Teacher Luncheon the volunteers will come earlier.

Yearbook Update:

·         Gulemo Printers quoted us $1,400 for the yearbooks.

·         Start soliciting adds – if you know anyone who would want to sponsor let us know – Business card size $40; ¼ page ad $75; and ½ page ad is $100.

·         Last year we sold enough to pay for the whole book which is free to all fourth graders.

·         Families and teachers will also get a chance to leave personal notes in the books.

New Business – topics may be placed on next month’s agenda:

Family Game Night

·         At the next meeting we will need to discuss the summer books, last year it cost appx $138.  Do we still want to do them?

The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. and Jessica seconds the motion. 

North Windham Elementary PTO

Minutes

March 3, 2009

Attendees:

Kim Charron – President                        Jodi Walencewicz – District wide PTO                      Kristi Dudek – Treasurer                        

Donna Rymash – Secretary                    Sandy Ferguson – District wide PTO                       Amy Boulay - Fundraising                      

Lisa & John Adams                                  Sara Couillard                                                         Moniqua Palmer

Lori Slyman                                             Jessica Welden                                                        Amber Garrow

Elsie Maldonado                                      Kelsey Campbell (ECSU)                                        Jen Sanna (ECSU)                

Meeting called to order by Kim at 6:34 pm.

Approval of minutes from February 10, 2009:

·         Kim approved the February 10, 2009 minutes and Sandy Ferguson seconds the motion.

Career Day – ECSU Students:

·         Kelsey and Jenn are here to talk about Career Day for the 3^rd and 4^th grade students which will be April 24 from 9-12 in the gym.

·         Please contact Kelsey at 860-617-4867 or Catina if you wish to volunteer or volunteer your career.  Students from Eastern will also volunteer but as of today they have not been asked.

·         Who they have coming so are are Zeke (Willimantic Police Dog), Seth Milakle from Karate, and Windham Hospital X-ray and Lab.  They should contact Generations (the school’s dental plan), the Magnum School (Capital Theater), hairdressers, chefs (we will ask John Murray). 

·         Ten stations will be set up. 

·         The theme is Bright Futures so you have to wear shades.

·         Kelsey and Jenn will let us know by the next meeting if they still need parent volunteers.

Treasurer’s Report:

·         Not a lot of activity since our last meeting.  Norm secured entertainment for field day ($900 for the yo-yo guy).  And we have over $6,000 for field trips.

·         Project Graduation – the donation will go into a general fund it, it does not sponsor just one specific student.  The money is used for the entertainment and food.  The party which will be held in the Sports Complex is free to all seniors but guest have to pay.  If we donate to Dollars for Scholars the school will accept any amount donation for Project Graduation.  Kristi will call the school to see how many students have attended this event in the past years.

·         The PTO babysitter, Nicole has been selected to go to Australia with the People to People Program.  Can we donate $50; she needs to raise $5,000 for herself.  The majority of PTO said they will be willing to donate the $50 for her, if she cannot raise the money we will be refunded.

District wide PTO Report:

·         Friday, March 6^th is the Horton Hears a Whoo movie night at the Windham Middle School starting at 7:00 p.m.  Our school gave a $25 donation which goes towards the refreshments.  This event is free to everyone.

·         District wide fundraiser – Defender’s tickets.  We will work with the Windham Center School who has already scheduled a night on May 29.  The tickets are $8 and if we sell more than 75 tickets we will receive $4 profit per ticket.  This will be an independent event from Windham Center School (profit wise). 

·         Applebee’s fundraiser will not be scheduled for this year but the District wide PTO will set up a table at the next Third Thursday.

·         No TV week is scheduled for April 20^th.  Each school participating should have an event planned for one night and host other schools.  A list will be sent home with the school’s activities and date/time the event is being held.  We will plan a game night on Thursday April 23 from 6:30 – 7:30 with bingo, bowling, bean bag toss, hopscotch, jump rope, the Wonder Ball, limbo, Twister, Are you Smarter than a 4^th Grader, and Hullabaloo.

Mini-Grant Requests – Diane Forester & Reading Teachers:

·         Diane Forester is requesting 24 display boards and 24 headers for their annual science fair.  The cost for her request is $72 which she needs as soon as possible.  Kim approved and many others seconds the request.

·         The reading teachers are requesting $250 which they also need as soon as possible for the Little Red House school wide reading night.  The cost will cover miscellaneous crafts and school supplies needed for the event and if there is any money left over it will be used for the summer program. 

·         Kim approved and Jessica seconds the request.

·         A request was made from the Family Resource Center for the literacy bags which are given to all kindergarten students at the beginning of the year.  A form will be completed and presented at next PTO meeting.

·         As of next year if people request a mini-grant they will need to come to the PTO meeting to present their reasoning.

Spring Fundraiser:

·         The spring fundraiser will be ending on Monday.  If every child sells at least six items we could make a profit of $12,000.

Spring Book Fair:

·         A signup sheet was passed around for parent volunteers to help out on either Wednesday from 2-4 or 6-8 and Thursday 2-4.

·         The conference schedule will be sent home this week so you can always call once you find out your meeting time.

Silent Auction/Potluck Dinner:

·         Out of the 113 letters sent out we have 20 donations, $950 worth of items donated and three no’s (G & L Christmas Barn, Basketball Hall of Fame, and Museum of Science).

·         Jessica will chair a committee for the potluck dinner and will be looking for volunteers to help. 

·         John Adams will be going on WILI on Friday to promote the silent auction.

New Business:

·         Parent Teacher conferences are March 18 and 19^th.  We will contact  Olympic Pizza to see if we can order dinner again like last year (1 ziti with

·         meat, 1 ziti without meat and a large salad.  Sarah will donate 4 dozens rolls and two pies.  A signup sheet is going around for other desserts.  We will also have coffee, soda, and water.  The dinner will be at 4:30 – 5:00. 

·         It was mentioned that once the new teacher knows his/her list of students for the next year could if they send the list of supplies home before the end of the school year, this way parents are not getting the items at the last minute.

·         Kristy sent a thank you out to everyone who participated in Math Night, it was a great success.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:34 p.m. and Jessica seconds the motion. 

North Windham Elementary PTO

Minutes

February 10, 2009

Attendees:

Kim Charron – President                        Betsy Fernandez – Principal                    Kristi Dudek – Treasurer                        

Donna Rymash – Secretary                    Mickie Bettencourt – Fundraising            Sandy Ferguson – District wide PTO

Amy Bauley - Fundraising                       Lisa & John Adams                                                                 

Meeting called to order by Kim at 6:07 pm.

Approval of minutes from January 13, 2009 meeting:

¨       Kim approved January 13, 2009 minutes and Sandy Ferguson seconds the motion.

Treasurer’s Report:

¨       $1,000 was transferred from the general fund to the cultural arts fund since the last meeting.

¨       We also need to minus $1,800 for the playground fund; $1,000 for field day activities; and $500 for the teacher appreciation lunch out of the 5,062.54.

¨       Kristi received information asking for a donation of $125 to sponsor a graduating student for Project Graduation, she is going to research this further.  If we participate maybe we can sponsor a former North Windham student.  We would much rather donate to the Dollars for Scholars which we anticipate will be forthcoming.

¨       Kim will have a new budget for us at the March meeting.

Principal’s Message:

¨       The students have been working on their assessments for reading.  They will be doing a DRA2 (a pilot assessment for reading) for the 3 and 4 grade students to help them work towards the CMT’s which are March 2-13 (a.m. only).  We would like to give the students positive enforcements such as goodie bag filled with treats.  A notice will be sent to the teachers letting them know PTO will be doing this for the students.

¨       A ribbon assembly will be held on February 27 for the whole school then we will have one per month.

District Wide PTO Report

¨       Move night is March 6^th 7:00 pm at the Windham Middle School – Horton hears a who; snacks will be provided.  Kim approved and John seconds the $25 donation for this event.  The Town of Windham does own a Universal Movie license (and we own a screen), in case we ever wanted to do something like this at our school.

¨       The District Wide PTO will have a booth at the next Third Thursday to sell coupons for Applebee’s breakfast ($4 per ticket with a $3 profit per ticket) or to a Defender’s game ($8 per ticket with a $4 profit per ticket).  The money we receive will go to the new playscape fund. 

¨       Public forum tonight at 7:00 pm.

¨       Jodi will mention the Defender’s game at the next District Wide PTO meeting.  We would go in with the other school’s PTO and the Willimantic Little League (The Soup Kitchen is also interested in participating).  We can pick a night but if the person who wishes to purchase the ticket cannot attend that night they could go another night as long as they bring their ticket with them to the game. 

Family event ideas – game night

¨       Family game night – we could have a variety of different family games such as Are you smarter than a 4^th grader (see handout).  Prizes will be awarded.  We will revisit this idea at a later meeting.

¨       Math night we had 251 people attend; 26 staff members contributed to this along with a former student and their family.  This was the biggest turnout so far.  Maybe next year we can have it start earlier from 6-8 instead of 7-8 also have the people helping rotate their positions so they have a chance to see everything.

Silent Auction Update

¨       Over 100 inquiries went out to businesses so far two (G & L and Boston Museum of Science) turned us down but we are receiving a lot of items in the mail. 

¨       We will not be advertising the silent auction on the radio.

¨       John Adams will be checking with WILI. 

¨       Donna Rymash will send the link to Kim with regards to the donation of an UConn women’s or men’s basketball.

¨       Monica will contact Wal-Mart. 

¨       We can send out a generic form letter to companies if they need our FEIN.

¨       We will bring this event up at the next District wide PTO meeting.

Kim adjourned the meeting at 6:44 p.m.; Sandy seconds the motion.

North Windham Elementary PTO

Minutes of 1/13/09 Meeting

Present & Signed in:

Kim Charron                                                   Lisa Smey-Adams

Sara Couillard                                                 Sandy Ferguson

Amy Boulay                                                     Vanessa Gonzalez

Jessica Welden                                              Jodi Walencewicz

Mickie Bettencourt                                          Brenda Anderson

John Adams                                                    Kristi Dudek

Betsy Fernandez, Principal

Jodi volunteered to take minutes (PTO Secretary not present)

Kim called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm.

Minutes from 11/10/08 meeting reviewed.  It was noted by that, at our 11/10/08 meeting, the PTO unanimously approved $1800 contribution to aid in the replacement of the playground equipment that was removed for safety reasons.  Jessica motioned to approve (with edit as noted above), Sara seconded.

Treasurer’s Report – Kristi

General Fund Balance is $6,148.08.

$412 profit from wreath fundraiser

$314 profit from Holiday Shoppe.

Cultural Arts

Upcoming Events:

2/12   Ballet

3/1     3^rd & 4^th grade to Jorgensen for a grant-funded show

4/8  - UConn Opera – Hansel & Gretel

5/13 – Two Science Assemblies

Kristi motioned to earmark $1,000 for future Cultural Arts Events – Kim & Vanessa seconded.

Family Math Night is coming up on 1/29/09.  Committee is looking for a $50 - $60 stipend to support the event – Wild About Math (for prizes, supplies, etc.)  Unanimously approved by all present.

No new mini-grant applications have come in.

Principal’s Message – Betsy

Many assessments/testing coming up for Feb/March

January Reading Assessment Month – Especially 3^rd & 4^th grades. 

February – MIST
March – CMT

Inauguration Day – There will be a TV set up in library so Fourth grade classes can watch the event. 

Looking to set up a live stream into the gym so the Second and Third grades can also watch.

The Event will be taped for the Kindergarten and First grades to their teachers can show when it best fits their schedules.

Daniel Carrero, Fourth Grade Companeros Teacher is leaving at the end of the week to pursue a medical career.  Staff is in the process of looking for a long term substitute.

Art Show  - Brenda Anderson

In the fall, it was decided to produce a show of NWS student Art, to display at Art Space in Willimantic.  Brenda has been working on the work, but is facing challenge of space for storage and, acquiring enough work to fill the space at ART Space, a huge gallery. 

Issues brought up by Brenda:

• How to support (monetary & volunteers).  Will this be a PTO sponsored event?
• Will there be enough artwork to fill the space.  Time is limited and there is no way to accumulate enough work.
• Storage of artwork produced – big challenge – the stage at NWS is currently unstable – the roof is leaking and we can’t use for storage.
• Will the work be sold at the show?

There is a lot of interest and support for the event.  PTO will assist and will help promote the event.

It was suggested that we move the event to next spring (2010) and during the time between now and then, find a suitable area for storage of the students work.  This will also give Brenda time to accumulate enough work, generate support and plan a successful, worthwhile event.  It was agreed to continue to work on the project with a show date estimated at spring 2010.

Brenda has spent approximately $200 so far on mat materials.  It was motioned and approved to reimburse Brenda for her expenses

Fundraiser Update – Amy

Spring Fundraiser will be Butter braids and Cookie dough sales.

Sales will take place from 2/23/09 – 3/9/09.  Delivery March 31^st.

Prize Ideas for top sellers – Borders Book Store Gift Cards

Top Seller for school - $40.00

Top Seller in each grade - $10.00

Silent Auction Update

It was decided to determine a future date for the Silent Auction and coordinate a Family Event to draw more interest.

Light discussion about what type of event –

May 1^st, 2009 – Family Pot Luck and Silent Auction was set.

The proceeds from this event will benefit the Playground Equipment Fund.

Movie Night – NWS – Tabled until future meeting.

7:42 Motion to adjourn by Sara.  Seconded by Jodi.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jodi Walencewicz

North Windham Elementary PTO

Minutes

April 7, 2008

Attendees:

Kim Charron                                                      Jodi Walencewicz

Sandy Ferguson                                                Kristi Dudek

Donna Rymash                                                 Ray Wykowski

Sara Couillard                                                   Jack Giordano

Meeting called to order by Kim at 6:33 pm

Jessica Welden, Secretary, not present.  Jodi volunteered to conduct minutes.

Minutes from March 3, 2008 meeting distributed and reviewed.  Accepted by Kim, seconded by Sara with corrections.

Principal’s Message – Jack -
            The Commissioner of Education, David Calchara, was in the building the previous week.  Mr. Calchera will be a mentor/coach for the Windham Board of Education.  The Board of Education has three positions to fill – Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and a Grants Position.  The State Dept of Education will enter into a “partnership” with Windham Board of Ed to fill an Interim Superintendent Position for up to two years.

            There are two candidates currently being considered to fill Jack’s position of NWS principal.  There is one candidate in particular that the search committee, particularly those on the committee who represent NWS, feel strongly positive about.  The final interview with the Board of Ed will take place on April 9^th. 

Sandy Ferguson interjected that the search committee has spent endless hours researching, conducting site visits and interviewing to ensure that the final recommendation to the Board of Ed reflects their knowledge of the candidate.  The committee was diligent in finding the candidate best suited for our needs and community here at NWS.

Upcoming Dates/Events (Jack)

            April 9, 10, 11                         Dental Clinic

            April 9                                    “Gotcha” party for Rich Grotton & Son

            April 10                                  3^rd/4^th grade career fair

            April 25                                  Ronald McDonald Reading Event

            April 25                                  Family Tye-Dye Night & Pot Luck

            April 28                                  DRA

            April 30^th                                Special Persons’ Day – K, 1, 2

            May 1                                    Special Persons’ Day - 3, 4

            June 12^th                                Fourth Grade Farewell

            May 7^th                                   PBS (Positive Behavior Support) In-Service

            May12                                   Staff Meeting

PBS – Positive Behavior Support - Jack passed around summary of PBS program/ Information sheet – PBS is a common-sense approach to behavior management.  North Windham may be assembling a TEAM of parents, staff, etc. to promote and implement PBS at NWS if the program is adopted at the school.  The decision to adopt will be voted upon at the May 12^th staff meeting.

If implemented, PBS would be phased in beginning the fall 2008.

Treasurer’s Report – Kristi

Current report was distributed

$10,310.87 in General Fund

$5,169.00 must be retained for remaining field trips this year

$400 was promised for fourth grade t-shirts

Field Day - entertainment cost will be $1,097.00

Dollars for Scholars – motion to donate $100 to DFS.  PTO has donated in the past, but two or three years have gone by with no donation.  Kim motioned to make a $100 donation – Sara seconded.  Kristi will send in a check.

Districtwide PTO Report – Sandy

No TV Week – the week after Spring Vacation

There will be no districtwide No TV Week event – individual schools are hosting their own events

The check NWS sent to District Wide for the Movie night may need to be reissued.  The check was payable to District Wide PTO.  Districtwide does not have a checking account in their name and are having problems cashing the check.  If necessary, the check will be returned to Kristi for new issue.

Town Wide reading program – A suggested reading list will be complied and the idea of such a program will be brought up at the next DW meeting.

Fundraiser Update - Kim

Spring Fundraiser went very well.

May 31^st – Tag Sale - Jessica not present to report – more info will follow.

Proposed dates for G&L Christmas Barn Fundraiser – Nov. 7^th & Nov 14^th.  Kim will contact G&L to firm up date.

Teacher Appreciation Week Events – Kim

Staff Appreciation week – May 5 - 9

   Luncheon scheduled for Thursday, May 8^th – volunteers needed

            Set up around 10 am – lunch between 11 and 1:30

            Kristi motioned to invite NWS Bus Drivers to the luncheon.  The idea was unanimously accepted.  Jodi will prepare an invitation to include our bus drivers.

   Carnations – Orders will be accepted before school on 4/30, 5/1 & 5/2.  Deliver the morning of 5/8.  Cost - $1 each (same as past years).

Yearbook Update – Jodi

Currently in process of soliciting local advertising/funding.  Students have been given assignment of writing up their reflections of NWS.  Staff will type and email to Jodi for publication in the yearbook.

New Business –

Ray – Attended a seminar at ECSU – the Future of Education in the State of CT.  Was very enlightening.  PBS will broadcast a documentary on April 24^th regarding this subject.  Will also address Business and strategies to keep CT Graduates from leaving the state.  Ray encouraged all to watch the show.

Coffee & Conversation will take place at the Middle School on April 22^nd.  Fourth Grade students and parents are invited to come and chat w/ existing Middle School parents & students casually.  Refreshments provided.

Tye Dye Planning Meeting – Monday April 21^st after school

Meeting to concluded at 7:20 pm.

Kristi motioned to adjourn.  Sara seconded.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jodi Walencewicz

NORTH WINDHAM SCHOOL

PTO MINUTES

MARCH 3, 2008

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Jack Giordano    principal

Jodi Walencewicz   co-president                                                Kim Charron  co-president

Kristi Dudek   treasurer                                                               Jessica Welden    secretary

Donna Rymash                                                                             Amy Boulay

Sara Coulliard                                                                               Victoria N

Mickie Bettencourt                                                                     Amber Garrow

Ray Wykowski                                                                             Elsie Maldenado

Eastern SWK interns

1. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER 6:32 BY JODI

2. February minutes approved by Jack, Sara seconds.

3. Treasurer’s report- Kristi Dudek- (HANDOUT GIVEN)

                                        * Cookie dough and fried dough fundraiser raised about $3,200.

                                      *   Pat Palmer to check with PTO in regards to 4^th grade t-shirts.

4. Principal’s report- Jack Giordano

                                       * 3/4- CMT’s to start. They will continue until the 14^th.  Third and fourth grade teachers worked very hard to prepare students for tests.

                                     * 3/19 & 3/20- Parent teacher conferences.

                                    * 4/1-4/4- Kindergarten registration. (Both main stream and companeros)

                                     * 4/1- Spring pictures

                                  * 4/3- Family Reading Night

                                 * 4/14- 4/18 Spring break

                                * 4/24 & 4/25- tentative dates for special person days. Committee looking to see if they want to do it another way. Last year cost close to $600 for lunch. It is always a nice turn out. More info to come.

                              * 4/25- Ronald McDonald coming at 1:45pm to read to students.

                              * 5/12- staff appreciation week

                              *6/18 – Last day of school

                              * 6/12- 4^th grade night.

                              *Cambridge report is out. They presented to the board on 2/27.

                             * PBS team going for the 3^rd session on 4/3. Staff will need to decide if they want to participate in this program.

                             * 30-35 applications for the new NWS principal.  The Assistant Superintendent position put on hold while filling the superintendent position.

                             *   Jack would like to have a full plan in mind for the first day celebration before he leaves and new principal comes in.

5. District report- Sandy Ferguson-

                          * NO DISTRICT REPORT THIS MONTH

6. Mini Grant Requests-

                           *NO MINI GRANT REQUEST THIS MONTH.  

7. Eastern SWK interns-

                             * Holding the 4^th annual career day on 4/10. This is for all third and fourth grade students from 9am-12:30pm. There will be a total of 10 presenters. Volunteer sheet going around school.

8. Year Book- Jodi W

                             * Will start selling ads which helps to pay for the yearbook.

                            * Expected to be completed by June 1^st.

9. New Business-

                             * 3/19-3/20 book fair. Volunteers needed. 30% discount on books this time

                           * Sign up sheet went around for the ‘70’s themed tie-dye night. Date of family night has been changed from 4/11 to 4/25

                            * Morning of 3/20 PTO will sponsor bagels and juice for teachers.

                          * Tag sale -May 31^st.

                         * Staff lunch date for staff appreciation week TBD by next meeting.

                         * Carnation sale- TBD.

                         * Valentine Bingo was a HUGE hit!! Students and staff enjoy playing!!!

                        * Currently working on Kindergarten bags, Elsie is currently buying these.

                      * Campbell’s soup labels for education have started with flyers going home to parents.

                     * Papa Gino’s night- Fundraiser idea presented by Amber Garrow. Will discuss fall fundraisers by end of this year.

MOTION TO ADJOURN & 7:45 by Ray, Sara seconds.

Respectfully submitted,

Jessica Welden

North Windham School

January 7, 2008

PTO minutes

Members present:

Jodi Walencewicz: Co-President

Jessica Welden: Secretary                                       Kristi Dudek: Treasurer

Jack Giordano: Principal                                        

Sandy Ferguson: Kindergarten Teacher                  Mickie Bettencourt

Donna Rymash                                                        Sara Couillard

Ray Wykowski                                                        Elsie Maldendo

Meeting called to order 6:30pm by Jodi

*AGENDA HANDED OUT*

November minutes approved by Sandy Ferguson, Jack seconds. (Dec. PTO meeting canceled no minutes.)

1. Welcome and sing in:

                       * All members introduced and signed in.

2. Treasurer’s Report-Kristi Dudek:

Hand out given

                       * $1300 requested from the Cultural Arts fund for a percussion assembly. They will hold two performances.  

                       * Sharon Haight working with Bill Stover ( Bill is giving $350 towards the percussion assembly)

                       * Also looking to hold an assembly for “Trash to Tunes” $620

                       * Sharon Haight requesting money for the general cultural arts fund.

                       * Field day entertainment usually PTO sets aside $1000 for Norm Allard to find things. We will ask Norm if he would like to have “Trash to Tunes” as the entertainment. (This will lower cost of PTO donations and keep more in our bank)

                       * We have raised about $8,700 so far this year; usually we raise about $10,000.

                       * $100 check being written to the District Wide PTO to help cover the cost of movie night and other events.

Jodi proposed a motion to allot $1000 to Norm to find entertainment for field day. Motion approved by all members.

Jodi proposed a motion to approve a donation of $1000 till the end of the year for the Cultural Arts fund. Motion approved by all members

3. Principal’s message-Jack Giordano

                       *Holiday Shoppe was a huge success this year! There was a great turn out of shoppers and helpers. Helpers even had to run out and get more products!!! A good time was had by all who attended. (This event was never meant as a fundraiser, but we raised $133 this year)

                       * Wreath sale was good this year. A little concerned that we had to give some away, maybe want to order fewer extra next year.

                       * 3^rd grade going to the Lincoln Theater in Hartford, to see the Freedom Train performance.

                       *29^th- 2 performances of “Back stage at the ballet”- sponsored by the Ossen Fund.

 * 31^st- Family Math Night- “the Color of Math”

 * Team went to get trained on PBS they will be presenting to the staff on 1/28. At some point there will be a vote taken of the staff to see how many are interested in being involved in this program.

                       * Budget draft for next year has been completed. $52,344 with a 0% increase and $54,120 with a 3% increase.

                       * Also prepared a list of furniture and fixtures (i.e. café seats) which are not apart of the budget. There are safety concerns over about 50 broken seats. Also looking for student seats for k-2, Teacher chairs, and carpets ($150ea) for a total of $2500

                       * 2/5 – Café being used the whole lunch wave for the primaries. Kids will eat in the gym. We will accommodate parking.

                       * Grade fixing investigation is complete. A report of the finds has been sent out to the schools.

4. District wide PTO- Sandy Ferguson:

                       * Movie night was rescheduled for 12/14. About 50 families came and enjoyed the movie. They plan to hold another in the spring.

                       * There was a discussion on whether PTO needs to carry liability insurance? - Will discuss at a later time.

                       *Planning on holding Parent Info Nights w/ kids.

                       * Natchaug School- PTO holding family nights including pizza, math night etc. and holding PTO meeting in the beginning to get more parents involved.

                       * School Audits happening through out the school year.

5. Spring fundraiser Ideas-

                       * Tag sale is going to happen again this year. Date not yet decided. We will talk about the date at a later time along with when drop offs will be.

                       * Kim proposed selling cookie dough and fried dough in the spring to raise money for upcoming events and to try and keep money in our account for the Fun Fest costs.

                        *Kristi proposed selling bagged pasta for about $6-$10 ea. Pasta comes in all kinds of shapes.( stars, wreaths, etc) more info will be given at a later PTO meeting, but did mention that this might be better as a fall fundraiser.

                       * Jess proposed holding a Mystery Dinner night. Couples will pay $35 for tickets. This would be a parent’s only event (family resource center volunteering babysitting if given enough time to prepare.) Dinner could be just a simple pasta dinner.

                       * Other ideas: tie-dye shirt night, family dance, ’70 themed tie-dye night with pot luck dinner.

                       * A survey will go out to get the opinions of parents and a decision will be made in Feb.

Jodi proposed a motion to approve the cookie dough and fried dough fundraiser. All members approve.

6. Year book- Committed to doing the year book again looking for help with EVERYTHING. If you would like to help please call Jodi at 423-8309 or email her at dwalencewicz@earthlink.net Also if you have ideas for sponsors.

7. Other Business- G&L Christmas Night raised $209 for one night of shopping. We are planning on signing up for this again next year.

                       * Kristi asked if PTO would be sponsoring Family Math Night.

Jodi proposed a motion to approve this request. All members approve.

Motion to adjourn at 7:30 by Jodi, Jack seconds.

Respectfully submitted by:

Jessica Welden

North Windham School

October 1, 2007

PTO minutes

Members present:

Kim Charron: Co-President                 

Jodi Walencewicz: Co-President

Jessica Welden: Secertary                  

 Kristi Dudek: Treasurer

Jack Giordano: Principal                     

Pat McMahon: 4^th Grade Teacher

Sandy Ferguson: Kindergarten Teacher          

Mickie Bettencourt

Amy Boulay                                      

Barbara MacGillery

Donna Rymash                                 

 Victoria Nimirowski

Ray Wykowski

Meeting called to order 6:30pm by Kim Charron

*AGENDA HANDED OUT*

1. Welcome and sing in:

                       * All members introduced and signed in.

                       * 3 new members attended this meeting. Welcome to all.

2. Treasurer’s Report-Kristi Dudek:

2007 Fun Fest Report handed out.

                       * Ticket sales down almost $500 from last year.

                       * Basket raffle up around $250 from last year

                       * Magnet and T-shirt sale a new profit ( not done last year)

                       * Funtastic Inflatables a little more than last year.

                       * Prizes, specialty food & food ½ of last year's expenses.

                       * Total in account $3,997.63 as of 10/1. (Library fund included in this total, NOT including cultural arts fund from last year {$1,000}

3. Principal’s message-Jack Giordano

                       * Enrichment Fund started by Mr. Jeff Ossen who recently passed, will continue.

                       * Sharron Haight asking what the PTO can pledge to the cultural arts program. – Last year we pledged $1,000. This money is still left untouched; PTO will pledge the same amount.

                       * Asking that everyone try not to deplete the PTO. Go to them AS NEEDED! Go through grants first.

                       *HAND OUT GIVEN, and discussed

                       * All new business to be discussed at later date.

4. District wide PTO- Sandy Ferguson:

                       * November 16- date currently scheduled for the district wide movie night. More info to come.

                       * Asking each PTO to donate a single one time donation of $.25 per child, with a ceiling of $100 to help cover cost of this event and others to come.

                       *No TV week April 21-25

                              - will hold a district event

                              - each school should hold a school based event

                              - more info to come.

                       * Reading program- High school students to read to younger students.

                              - talking about what book, how to raise money

                              - still in the works…more info to come

                       * School Audits happening through out the school year.

                       * Parent Nights- Thinking of holding workshops

                              - Monies from other PTO’s to go towards this as well

                              - More info to come

                       * Health Committee- District wide dental plan

                              - Dental Hygienist in each school

                              - open to all students

                              - operated on a sliding scale

                              - Parents make an appointment with dentist for follow up examination and treatments

                              - More info to come

                       * Magnet school- Money in negotiations

                              - Article in the Chronicle (10/1) if you would like to get more info

5. Family Fun Fest- comments/improvements/changes etc.

                       *Over all a HUGE SUCCESS

                       * Jack- This event was never meant as a fundraiser. Always meant as a “community builder”, knowing this, it is great that we made a profit.

                               - should the date be rescheduled, for a time when it is not competing with other local events? (i.e. local fairs, sport events etc.)

**members voted and decided that end of Sept. early Oct. best time to hold this event.**

-         Thinking of ways to attract more people. (Maybe opening to the public)

-         Good mixture of people

-         Good mixture of foods for all cultures

-         A big thank you to the 14 ECSU students who came and volunteered. A big help, thank you again!

-         Smaller baskets this year a good idea- worked very well.

-         Few concerns from the staff about the lack of involvement from parents with the basket items.

-         Staff loved the Fun Fest!!! LOTS OF FUN!!!!

-         PTO will discuss this again later in the year to make any and all changes.

6. Fall Fundraiser update-

                       * $12,500 brought in, PTO to get about 40%-50%, for a total of $6,000-$6,500

                       * With this amount we should have enough money for field trips and assemblies.

                       * May do another in the spring.

                       * 1 4^th grade student sold over $600. CONGRATS to them.

CONCERN: ALL schools in the district had the same fundraiser. Hard time selling. May want to change in the spring & fall to one that no one else uses, or another type that brings in the same amount.

7. Staff appreciation-

                       Kim Charron- Doing this monthly is too expensive. We would like to change to bi-monthly or for holidays.

Mickie will run this committee. She will take care of when we do them and who will do them.

Kristi – would like to add 12 to our current list of staff, the 12 being the bus drivers for our school.

* Total of 90 staff

8. New business-

                       * November 9^th “MOM’S NIGHT OUT, DADS WELCOME” at G&L Christmas barn on RT 14. 5pm-9pm. They will cook for us. We eat, drink, shop and socialize. PTO to get 10% of all profits made this night. Notices will come out about 2-3 weeks before the event.

                       *Pat McMahon- PAPA GINO’S night idea, thinking about looking into this event for January. More info to come.

                       * Pat McMahon- Pie fundraiser from GREAT AMERICAN PIES starts again this year. This fundraiser is to raise money for the play scape which needs to be repaired when ever there is a problem and updated every three years. This fundraiser usually brings in about $1,500 and is done twice a year (Easter & Thanksgiving)

                       * Sandy Ferguson- Stated a concern about the sand box. The wood is falling apart (wood rot), nails are falling out, &sand is gross. We would like to see a possible cover. Pat McMahon will look into getting a new one, possibly made of hard plastic.

                       * Ray Wykowski- Asked if there would be a school dance this year.

                              -possibly in late winter/early spring

                              -more info to come at later date

                       * Field trip money concerns- With additional 60 new students, should the $15 per child for field trips be reduced?

                      - After discussing all prices for possible future trips with that of past trips, we discussed bringing the price down from $15 to $14, $13, or $12 with parents supplementing extra cost.

                       - On average it cost $11-$15 per child not including the bus-which staff then needs to find a way to pay for, usually done with a bake sale.

                       -Motion to change the amount offered from $15 to $13- approved by Jessica and seconded by Ray.

                        - Kristi to send out a memo to inform the staff.

                       * Victoria N. asked if we have ever looked into merchants to see if they will match what the PTO raises. The answer was unknown. She will look into this and get back to us. More info to come as it becomes more available.

                       * Jack informed the group (Victoria’s question) that Liberty Bank gives a $50 savings bond to one child per grade quarterly.

                       * Wreath fundraiser again in December. More info to follow.

9. Mini Grants-

                       * PTO bench marks $1000 for classroom teachers to enrich classroom projects.

                       * Mini Grants are a first come, first served program.

                       * Kim motions to approve the above stated amount. Jessica seconds.

                       * Mini Grant request from Kristi Dudek and Sheri Gietner in the amount of $270.30. This request is for the Ace-cut Pattern Block set, the Ace-cut Attribute Shapes, plus S&H. This item is be used and benefit all students and staff.

                        * Jodi motions to approve and Amy seconds.

10. Box Tops for Education- Mickie Bettencourt-

                       * Mickie informed the group that we would like to raise $800 this year with this program. In December we should receive a check for about $200 from last year.

                       * Program is doing good as are the students who bring in the box tops. Keep up the good work!

11. Recycle fund- Mickie Bettencourt-

                       * Mickie informed the group that a $40 check is coming in. Also from last year.

12. Adjournment- Motion to adjourn by Jodi at 8pm. Kim seconds. Meeting adjourned at 8:10pm

Respectfully submitted

 Jessica Welden