Author: pirozzip

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Dancy Balestrieri

Thomas Lipping

Leah McVey

Christina Grillo

Pamela Louis

Phyllis Arduino

Nitasha Kumar

Donna Gates

Amada Reimundez

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Jen Povman

Andrea Gottschall

-Welcome/TASH update

Our meeting was called to order at 8:37 A.M. by Angel. Christina Grillo gave a summary of the PTA’s 1^st TASH representation last Saturday at Patriot Park. A table was manned with flyer hand-outs and crafts for children. Foot traffic was light, perhaps due to spring sports practices. PTA agreed to try and keep a presence at TASH this fall. Jen Povman agreed to help man our table. Christina said she will sign us up again for a table in September. The board suggested selling spirit-wear at these events. Christina also agreed to send an email reminder in August to the board to help represent at our table in September.

-Rivertown Parents Update

Mitch Sylves-Berry reminded Christina and all board members that all registered PTA members have access to the email distribution list of Rivertown Parents. Mitch noted the following upcoming Rivertown events: Tinker night, kid’s money management workshop, a college transition seminar, and a mental health presentation that will be hosted by Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow.

-PTA Branding

The board agreed on focusing their efforts on branding, getting more recognition in the community for our PTA. Some ideas included posting pictures on our horsemen website, utilizing Jean O’Brien’s email blasts more frequently, creating a position on the board for nursery school representative. The rep could attend nursery school events and inform new parents how PTA works. Members of the board also suggested that chairpersons of past events post various tips and protocol procedures of said events on our website as guidelines for new chairpersons in future years. Phyllis Arduino has agreed to attend and represent PTA at certain events this summer, for example, Shakespeare in the Park. If 3^rd Friday should return, the board agreed to get a table at this event.

-School Updates

JP-Nitasha Kumar said they had their last principal meeting. She mentioned that PTA wants to be a part of the prek/k registration next calendar year at JP. Fun day is all set for June 21^st. Registration for kindergarten was moved up to January and February (earlier than last year).

Morse- Dancy Balestrieri mentioned that field day was last Friday June 9^th, and all leftover food was donated to the Life Center in Sleepy Hollow, with thanks to Christina for coordinating a wonderful day! Dancy spoke with Principal Holland and they agreed he would address bullying and specifically social media bullying at Morse. Dancy mentioned to Mr. Holland the idea of having a Morse PTA representative present at any principal/parent meetings if the parent wished. The PTA’s position regarding this issue is to suggest to any affected parties the appropriate chain of command to follow with instances of concern. Parents should always advocate for the child by keeping the lines of communications open with teachers first, and if necessary, escalate up the chain of command at the appropriate school and ultimately with the district superintendent. Jen Povman and other board members suggested a statement be included at back to school night regarding all bullying.

WI- Field day will be tomorrow June 15^th and they are hoping for more volunteers to help out at the event.

MS- The middle school transition committee met yesterday to discuss new ideas to help children make the transition from WI to MS more smoothly. The committee hopes to meet with the new MS principal in July. Pam suggested putting some bullet points on the horsemen PTA website to help parents and kids with their transition.

-PTA Board Position Planning

Jacki Geoghegan distributed a printout of the latest PTA board positions for next calendar year. She advised the board that she received some email responses for possible volunteers for next year. She suggested to the appropriate board members to follow up with these individuals.

-Miscellaneous

The board agreed that the wrapping paper fundraiser will continue next year, the board needs to select the best vendor for this event.

Pam noted that we still could use some more Halloween costumes for this October. She suggested mentioning this costume drive at our TASH table in September.

Pam and a few others suggested forming a committee to bring together all of our community fundraisers for better planning and cooperation; a calendar meeting of sorts that would reduce redundancy and hopefully eliminate the feeling of fundraising fatigue in our community.

In conclusion, Jacki and Angel thanked all board members for their tireless efforts during their tenure as co-presidents. Of special note, Paul Pirozzi, Kelley Anniccherico, Thomas Lipping and Katie Scully, who will be retiring from their positions this year. Donna Gates led the board in thanking Jacki and Angel for all of their hard work as co-presidents, and presented them with gift cards and flowers as a token of the board’s appreciation.

Our meeting adjourned at 9:55 AM

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Dancy Balestrieri

Thomas Lipping

Lauren McBride

Kelley Anniccherico

Leah McVey

Christina Grillo

Karen Kuhn

Pamela Louis

*Pamela Fisk (Director of Human Resources)

Elia Londono

Karina Arreola

Phyllis Arduino

Daphne Uvilles

Juliana Aloia

Nitasha Kumar

Donna Gates

-Welcome:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:33 A.M. by Angel and Jacki. Director of Human Resources, Pam Fisk was in attendance, and the board went around the table with introductions. Pam advised the board that the district will be hosting a 1 hour training seminar this summer for individuals interested in participating on any district wide interview committees. The training will focus on appropriate and legal questions to be asked of potential candidates, in addition to other important information. Pam will have a flyer distributed communicating the details to our community. The board also agreed to send any other suggestions to her at pfisk@tufsd.org.

-Angst (Breaking the Stigma around Anxiety):

Indie-Flix Foundation is offering our district this documentary that focuses on anxiety, its causes and effects, and what we can do about it. This is the same foundation that brought us the Screenagers documentary. The target audience is 5^th graders and up. The cost is $1,000.00; however, Indie-Flix is providing our district with a 40% discount on the cost if we book before Memorial Day. Jacki is asking the board for feedback by early next week. http://www.indieflixfoundation.org/angst/.

-PTA Planning

Jacki asked the board to email their intentions for next year PTA positions. Jacki created a “Help Wanted” flyer to communicate open PTA Board positions to the district. The flyer will be distributed via backpack mail, and will be included in Jean O’Brien’s weekly email blast.

-PTA Branding

Christina Grillo questioned why our PTA isn’t better attended. Angel and other board members agreed that we have very low brand recognition. The board suggested that our monthly meeting dates go out in Jean’s email blast. Pam Louis mentioned Emily McCormack as a resource to help with our brand recognition. Nitasha suggested a digital newsletter to improve our presence. Some board members suggested holding some of our monthly meetings in the evenings with principals, and different administrative positions as guest members.

-Parent/Teacher Conference schedule

The district will be changing the academic year for K-5^th grade back to trimesters with the parent-teacher conferences occurring before the distribution of report cards to the homes. The board agreed that this format will help to give parents ample time before report cards to know where their child needs improvements. It should also move the conferences away from simply reading off of the report cards.

-Fundraising & TASH initiative

June 10^th is the first date on the TASH calendar where we will have our Horsemen PTA table set up to create more community awareness. Christina also mentioned that she will have copies of our new “Help Wanted” flyer on the table to help recruit new board members.

-Volunteer Thank You Event & PTA Book Drive

Instead of a daytime event thanking the volunteers in our district, the board is considering an after-hours event, perhaps in a park, where volunteers can bring their children. There would be light refreshments served. There is a PTA Used Book Drive currently in progress.

The gently used books can be donated from May 22-June 9th at any of the school buildings. Jacki is in need of volunteers to help sort these books the week of June 12^th. If available, please contact Jacki Geoghegan at jacki_geoghegan@yahoo.com.

-Miscellaneous Questions/Discussions

Pam Louis mentioned that there seems to be some issues regarding the transition of students from WI to the middle school. Angel and Pam agreed to meet with Ms. Bretti, Ms. Strippoli and Ms. Mullin to discuss.

-School Updates

MS- Mitch is working on setting up a meeting with the new principal in June. The middle school spring dance will take place tonight, Friday May 19^th.

WI- The staff appreciation lunch was a success, with many compliments from the staff. The 5^th graders have completed their gardening project in the front of W.I. Amy White and Leah McVey will take over the greenhouse project at W.I. Angel advised the W.I. VP’s that PTA will provide the same amount of funding for field day inflatables as last year.

Morse- Staff Appreciation Luncheon was a success, with flowers and raffles. Many thanks to Melissa Miller and her help in organizing this event. Christina Grillo mentioned the planting project that is underway in front of Morse school. They are working on having a 4-square board painted on the playground. Leah advised Christina to speak with Ms. Chulla about the 1^st grade Publishing project.

JP- The staff Appreciation Luncheon was a big hit. Our meeting adjourned at 9:49 AM, our last meeting is scheduled for Friday June 9^th.

Attendees:

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Amada Reimundez

Dancy Balestrieri

Andrea Gottschall

Thomas Lipping

Jen Povman

Fiona Galloway

Sheila Emery Murphy

Lauren McBride

Kelley Anniccherico

Samantha Ford-Godette

Tara Schatzel

Leah McVey

-Welcome:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:36 A.M. by Angel.

-Fundraising & TASH initiative

Christina Grillo spoke with TASH (farmers market at Patriot Park). They are OK if Horsemen PTA sets up a table at their Saturday event in the spring and fall. Sheila, Nitasha and Christina will have a table with crafts and PTA membership forms (and other literature taken from Horsemen website) from the hours of 8:30-2PM. Please consider volunteering some time for this event. June 10^th is the first date on the TASH calendar. High School students can receive community service credit for their volunteer efforts. Please email cdgrillo@gmail.com to volunteer. Jen Povman mentioned that she will stop by on June 10^th to help out at the table.

Without a chair willing to run the “Bulbs” fundraiser, the board agreed to table this event for next year. Kelley mentioned that she will consider chairing this event next year.

-Rivertown Parents

On April 20^th Rivertown Parents hosted a “Family Tinker Night” at Dobbs Ferry High School. A family learning program on all things science, designed for K-5 children and their parents. Our district is expected to host one event a year. Mitch will summarize a few ideas in an email, and the PTA board agreed to email feedback as well as any other ideas.

-WI Garden

Leah mentioned the need for volunteer gardeners. She and Tom will distribute a flyer in the WI backpack mail requesting volunteers. Westover landscape is under new ownership and will be working with WI to improve the garden. Leah mentioned the need for a master design garden plan. The budget has $400 allocated to the garden. The WI garden needs $250 for mulch, perennials, annuals etc. The board discussed approaching The Foundations for additional funding. Leah and Tom will have a discussion with Ms. Bretti and email the results to Jacki and Angel.

-PTA Planning:

Angel reminded the board to email their intentions for next year’s PTA to her and Jacki. We need a new president, Treasurer, and Secretary.

-Used Book Drive

There will be a used book drive in late May/early June. Jacki will send out a flyer asking for books and volunteers to sort.

-School Updates

-MS

Andrea advised that Spirit wear sales just closed. They will open again if orders exceed 12 items or more. 8^th Grade students are currently on the Washington D.C. field trip.

-WI

There is a hiring process in progress at WI due to bigger incoming class sizes, resignations and maternity leaves.

-Morse

There were no Morse representatives available this month to discuss school updates.

-JP

ESL teacher Helen Sanchez-Zhu will be retiring at the end of this school year and JP is looking for a replacement. The Peabody Preserve field trip has been postponed numerous times due to inclement weather.

-Miscellaneous Questions/Discussions

Andrea Gottschall noted that mini-grant requests have been added to the High School’s future agenda.

Tara noted a drop-off in volunteer participation this year.

The board agreed that we need a new Horsemen PTA banner. The board also discussed the need to increase our membership numbers and the branding of Horsemen PTA. Next month’s agenda will include discussing some ideas to improve our overall memberships. The board suggested holding an event at the Kindergarten registration, such as a tea social for incoming parents/families.

Our meeting adjourned at 9:37 AM, our next meeting is scheduled for Friday May 19th at 8:30 AM.

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Amada Reimundez

Dancy Balestrieri

Andrea Gottschall

Christina Grillo

Juliana Aloia

Thomas Lipping

Jen Povman

Fiona Galloway

Katie Scully

Nitasha Kumar

Sheila Emery Murphy

Karen Kuhn

Lauren McBride

Kelley Anniccherico

Samantha Ford

Pam Louis

Tara Schatzel

-Welcome:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:39 A.M. by Jacki.

-Budget:

Angel and Kelley distributed copies of a more comprehensive budget. We are waiting to hear from NY State PTA and or the IRS for the OK to roll the middle school budget into our overall budget. Kelley requested that checks be submitted for deposit within a week of your event (or receiving the checks) to avoid any bank fees for returned checks to our account. The board discussed and agreed that box top campaigns should continue to be administrated by each school, and not centralized to the PTA.

-PTA Planning:

Jacki asked the board to consider who will return. We need a new President, Treasurer, and Secretary. All volunteers please email Jacki/Angel. Dancy suggested adding a book fair chair position to the board.

-TASH Springtime Presence

Christina Grillo spoke with TASH (farmers market at Patriot Park). They are OK if Horsemen PTA sets up a table at their Saturday event in the spring and fall. Christina suggested a table with crafts, face painting and other games from the hours of 8:30-2PM. Please consider volunteering some time for this event. June 10^th is the first date on the TASH calendar. High School students can receive community service credit for their volunteer efforts. Please email cdgrillo@gmail.com to volunteer.

-Fundraising

Donna has been researching a bulb/flower sale fundraiser. Samples from different vendors were passed around and Donna is working on deadline dates, minimum order requirements and other variables. “Flower-Power” vendor ships direct to customers, have a 10 day turnaround, and charges $6 for shipping and handling per order. Tara agreed to research other wrapping paper vendors since Innisbrook no longer provides this service. The board asked if there is an itemization of past wrapping paper results from Charleston Wrap to determine how much was raised from wrapping paper, and how much came from other merchandise. Donna agreed to request this information from our vendor. Donna was able to get this information from the vendor and it appears to be almost 50/50.

The board agreed to a wrapping paper campaign in the fall instead of Yankee Candle. The board agreed that a school supply fundraiser would be difficult to coordinate with the school supply needs/list and the profit margin wouldn’t be worthwhile. Amada suggested a mother/son dance event. Most board members agreed that a mother/son dinner might be better attended. Applebee’s and other restaurants are usually very helpful sponsoring these type events. Amada will look into this.

-Mini Grant

Thank you to Mitch for hosting our mini grant meeting. Approximately $4,500 was meted out in grants. We are waiting to hear from the district’s buildings and Grounds Dept. regarding outdoor play equipment on the East side of the JP building. Four grants were fully funded and four grants were partially funded this year, while managing to stay within our budget.

-School Updates

-MS

Andrea suggested that the middle school was considering creating separate school dances next year for the 6^th graders vs. 7^th and 8^th graders. Spirit Wear is marketing new school specific t-shirts for the middle school, flyers will be distributed soon. If these items sell, Spirit Wear will probably expand the merchandise to include the other schools. The middle school received a new clothing (rolling) rack for the steaming of 8^th grade graduation gowns.

-WI

The meeting for WI was postponed until next month due to snow days.

-Morse

Over $1,200 was raised by the Box tops challenge at Morse. An anonymous group donated funds to cover the unpaid school lunch balances at Morse. Thursday March 16^th was Math Night, and the event was well attended and went well. Kindness month (March) is currently being emphasized by the staff at Morse. Trip around the community is coming up soon for Morse students.

-JP

The book fair finished up at JP and was very successful. Sales revenue exceeded $8,200 this year, creating a profit margin of more than $2,000. The PJ party was a success with arts and craft events, and volunteer readings. Thanks to Andrea for organizing the many student volunteers. And a huge thanks to Mrs. Barnett and the staff at JP for their support and help with the PJ party and book fair through out the week. The meeting for JP was postponed until next month due to snow days.

-Relay for Life

Jacki advised that this fundraising event is sponsored by the American Cancer Society and will be held June 3^rd and 4^th. It is an overnight event for the entire community. There are many volunteer opportunities, you can start a team, join a team, or support a team. People can attend the event without camping out if they prefer.

Our meeting adjourned at 10:21 AM, our next meeting is scheduled for Friday April 21st at 8:30 AM.

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Paul Pirozzi

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Leah Mc Vey

Amada Reimundez

Dancy Balestrieri

Andrea Gottschall

Fiona Galloway

Christina Grillo

Juliana Aloia

Thomas Lipping

Phyllis Arduino

Elia Londono

Donna Gates

-Welcome and Intros:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:35 A.M. by Jacki.

-Budget:

Angel and Kelley were not in attendance; however, they have everything ready for our March meeting. Analysis of last year’s revenue and expenses show that we broke even. We won’t be looking to add new line items, and budget cuts should not be required if we keep expenses constant.

-Fundraising

There will be a brunch preview on March 14^th hosted by Miss Chocolate, a possible new fundraising vendor. The board discussed Innisbrook vs. Charleston vendor, although no decision was finalized. Andrea G. suggested a plant/bulb sale, just not the same time as the wrapping paper campaign. Christina Grillo will speak with a representative of the TASH farmers market about getting Horsemen PTA a table. Phyllis suggested a new idea; “Summer in a Box”, a fundraising event that packages the sale of summer items such as flip-flops, sunscreen, hats, creams, and bathing suits.

-Calendar Overview

The calendar committee will be presenting to the Board of Education in March, to set up dates for next year’s school calendar. The options are similar to our current school year.

-Screenagers Recap and Finding Kind Trailer

Feedback was very positive from this well attended event. Parents and kids seemed to agree that it was a great conversation starter and everyone seemed to get a lot out of this very informative presentation. The same company that offered this event is now offering another video called “Finding Kind”.  Two friends travel across the country and expose the truth behind girl against girl bullying. Jacki showed the PTA board a preview video. Viewing of this video would be free, due to our purchase of “Screenagers”. PTA suggested opening it to Rivertown Parents and marketing the event through Girl Scouts. Andrea G. agreed to speak to Ardsley district concerning their opinion, and see if they have viewed/hosted this. The board discussed if it should only be shown in the evening, and whether to show it only to girls, or the coed population as well.

-School Updates

-MS

The book fair was held in the library this year. We are awaiting the results of a survey that was sent out for feedback. We are hoping to hold this event in the auditorium next year, due to a lack of space in the MS library. There are more than 180 students attending the D.C. trip this year. The trip is fully funded for students who need financial assistance. The board discussed having basic guideline requirements in place for scholarship assistance in the future. The middle school dance went well, and was well attended. The variety show was last night and any funds raised there will be going to the arts dept.

-WI

The blood drive will be held at WI on Thursday, March 2^nd from 11:30 to 7:30 PM. The jump rope and Kid Stuff Coupon book events are currently in progress. A gardening plan/design is still needed. The principal chat helped explain that when the temperature is 25 or below, kids are kept inside. There are strict guidelines in place about kids not allowed to touch the snow and must stay on the black top when there is snow. Indoor recess is still in need of adult volunteers.

-Morse

Box tops challenge is currently underway, and the students are very involved as the competition heats up.

-JP

The principal chat was mostly concerning volunteers for the book fair. Juliana will submit her check for last year’s square 1 art to Kelley A.

The Mini-grant committee meeting will be rescheduled for Feb. 27^th or March 1^st.

Our meeting adjourned at 10:16 AM, our next meeting is scheduled for Friday March 17th at 8:30 AM.

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Leah Mc Vey

Amada Reimundez

Dancy Balestrieri

Kelley Anniccherico

Andrea Gottschall

Fiona Galloway

Christina Grillo

Juliana Aloia

Sheila Emery Murphy

Thomas Lipping

Samantha Ford Godette

Karina Arreola-Flores

Tara Schatzel

Lauren McBride

-Welcome and Intros:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:42 A.M. by Jacki and Angel.

-Budget:

Kelley distributed a hard copy of the budget. Kelley and Angel are working on a new budget format, to be presented at next month’s meeting. The new format will show the admin expenditures in addition to how much was spent (by school) for prior year, as well as where we are this year.

-Fundraising

The book fairs at Morse and W.I. are finished. After netting, the results are very comparable to last year. Scholastic has provided feedback that much of the country is seeing a plateau in revenue from book fair fundraisers.

Square 1 program is in progress, and should be ready to have products in time for Mother’s Day.

Jacki and Angel asked the board to think about new fundraising ideas that might target a different audience/market. The board suggested targeting 3^rd Friday with a booth that had kid activities, as well as a booth at the Farmers market in Patriot Park. The board suggested applying for a grant, as long as we choose a specific project. Lastly, a concession booth/bake sale at some town sporting events i.e.: TNT baseball, Tri-county basketball etc. These items will be added to our volunteer list for next season.

-Screenagers Update

A 1 hour and 10 minute documentary dealing with social media, gaming and screen time management followed by a panel discussion moderated by Superintendent Borsari with a Q&A session will be held Tuesday, January 31, 2017 beginning at 7:00 PM in the SHHS auditorium with Spanish subtitles. The event is funded by Horsemen PTA and will be free for the district attendees. Kids are welcome as long as they are with a parent or guardian, and preregistration will be required for this event. This event will be open to the Rivertown Parents partner districts as well. Jacki and Angel asked the board to please try and get the word out.

-Mini Grant Update

Grant request forms went out to the school principals. February 15^th is the deadline for grant requests. The Mini grant committee meeting will be held on Friday February 17^th immediately following our PTA meeting. The middle school agreed to keep the $500 mini-grant separate from other projects to build a reserve. Andrea, Mitch and Tom will discuss this with the middle school parents. Lastly, Jacki noted that grant recipients need to know that purchases/receipts have to be submitted quickly.

-School Updates

-MS

Andrea advised that since there has been an increase in the number of 8^th grade students who need funding for the Washington D.C. trip, there are a number of upcoming events to help raise the funds.

-WI

Indoor recess is in need of more volunteers. Children have complained that they don’t always get to go outside. VP’s agreed to discuss this, as well as the policies regarding outdoor recess rules at the next principal’s chat.

-Morse

VP’s met with Mr. Holland last week. Safety seems to have improved, and the SH police have been randomly checking in. Box top challenge is ready to go next week. The children will be going on a trip to see Mary Poppins next week. The Morse Hi-5 program is changing to promote better behavior all the time, with all students receiving keychain reward to display on their backpacks, instead of Hi-5 bracelets as reminders.   Flooding issues at Morse were caused by tree roots breaking some underground pipes. These issues will be remediated by the village.

-JP

VP’s haven’t had their meeting yet with the principal. Their meeting is scheduled for Monday January 23^rd.

Our meeting adjourned at 9:48 AM, our next meeting is scheduled for Friday February 17th at 8:30 AM.

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Leah Mc Vey

Amada Reimundez

Elia Londono

Dancy Balestrieri

Kelley Anniccherico

Nitasha Kumar

Donna Gates

Pamela Louis

Andrea Gottschall

Katie Scully

Fiona Galloway

Karen Kuhn

Christina Grillo

Juilana Aloia

Jen Povman

-Welcome and Intros:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:41 A.M. by Jacki and Angel.

-Budget:

Kelley distributed a hard copy of the budget. Kelley reminded the board to have all their receipts submitted from the class parent teas; JP vice presidents advised that they will make sure to submit them. Angel advised the board to be more budget conscious this year.

-District Communications Survey

Jacki reminded everyone to please respond to the survey. Dancy and Karina are on the committee. Dancy advised that there are more than 750 responses and Mr. Borsari is hoping for more. Karen Kuhn will add a link on our site that will direct candidates to the survey.

-Screenagers Update

A 1 hour and 10 minute documentary dealing with social media, gaming and screen time management followed by a panel discussion with Q&A session. This event will be held January 31, 2017 beginning at 7:00 in the SHHS auditorium with Spanish subtitles. The event is funded by Horsemen PTA and will be free for the district attendees. Kids are welcome as long as they are with a parent or guardian, and preregistration will be required for this event. This event will be open to the Rivertown Parents partner districts.

-Mini Grant Committee

This committee will meet at the end of January and is open to all to attend. The following list includes PTA board members interested; Katie Scully, Christina Grillo, Donna Gates, Jen Povman, Dancy Balestrieri, Pamela Louis, Amada Reimundez, Nitasha Kumar, Andrea Gotschall, Mitch Sylves-Berry, Angel Rafter, Leah McVey, and Jacki Geoghegan.

-Spirit Wear

Andrea advised the board that ordering will resume at the end of January for spring delivery. They are considering including school (building) specific merchandise.

-School Updates

-MS

Mitch advised that the middle school is working to improve communications between the school and the parents.

The Washington DC trip is currently under funded, specifically for scholarships. They are hoping the two school dances will help close the gap. Donna mentioned that Principal Lopez is looking for fundraising ideas to help. The board suggested a walkathon, concessions at school plays, bake sales and possibly selling video footage of school concerts to the district parents. Donna will bring these ideas back to Ms. Lopez for discussion.

Katie mentioned that the BOE is discussing fundraising for the creation of a better surface to replace the hardpan behind the middle school.

-WI

Book fair was a success with many volunteers and over $13,400 in sales. Many books went to kids in need. Many positive comments came in from parents and teachers regarding better book variety this year.

Fiona noted that safety vests are now worn by staff at recess & dismissal.

Indoor recess will begin in January and there is a need for parent volunteers. Nitasha suggested creating an email asking for volunteers for a 10 week program to oversee crafts, board games etc. Karen Kuhn agreed to post this on the horsemen website.

“Hour of code” was a success at WI 2 weeks ago.

Photo re-take went well and the security guard seems to be working out nicely.

W.I.’s “Trudy Garden” needs a new coordinator to help design a landscaping plan. Katie mentioned a sponsorship from a local landscape business. Other board members suggested asking volunteers from Kendall to help with the garden.

-Morse

Photo day went well, as they managed to stay ahead of schedule. Jacki advised VP’s to tell soliciting photographers that we are currently in a multi-year contract.

-JP

Nitasha and Juliana noted that the security desk has streamlined and organized their sign in system.

The wrapping paper fundraiser was a success. Unfortunately, backorders for all the schools went to JP. The VP’s agreed to work on better communication to avoid this happening in the future. Back orders should go directly to the parent/ordering party.

The JP Principal Fund was used to re-tune Ms. Garibaldi’s piano. The board denied increasing the Fund, but suggested that they apply for a mini grant. Additionally, the board suggested having all the district piano’s tuned for a volume discount in the future.

Our meeting adjourned at 10:27 AM, our next meeting is scheduled for Friday January 20th at 8:30 AM.

September 16, 2016 Meeting

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Tara Schatzel

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Leah Mc Vey

Amada Reimundez

Elia Londono

Dancy Balestrieri

Kelley Anniccherico

Nitasha Kumar

Karina Arreola-Flores

Sheila Emery Murphy

Donna Gates

Pam Louis

Andrea Gottschall

Katie Scully

Lauren McBride

Fiona Galloway

Karen Kuhn

Christina Grillo

Thomas Lipping

Juilana Aloia

-Welcome and Intros:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:38 A.M. by Jacki and Angel. We went around the table and introduced ourselves, for the benefit of several new members that have joined and were in attendance. Jacki distributed the agenda, and a flyer for the board “7 Things Volunteers Hate”. Jacki also mentioned two upcoming events that will be presented at the middle school; “Study Skills Presentation” on September 27^th for parents, as well as “Screenagers Presentation” on October 26^th for parents and their children. Information about both presentations can be found on our website, http://www.horsemenpta.com.

-Budget:

Kelley distributed a hard copy of the budget. She also reviewed the Check-request reimbursement form as well as the Funds Received Sheet Form. Kelley explained to the board that she cannot receive funds without a filled out form. Kelley reminded the board to have all their receipts submitted before June 30, 2017 for reimbursement. Kelley, Angel and Jacki reviewed the budget line items with the board. If there is a line item that a board member wants added to the budget, Jacki advised them to bring the idea to the board for discussion. Jacki used the smart board to discuss our website sign-in and some of the resources and forms that are accessible on the site. Angel distributed and discussed the new middle school budget.

Review-Events, policies:

The board asked if funds aren’t used from a budget line item, can they be used elsewhere. Jacki and Angel explained that the idea needs board approval before funds can be reallocated. Jacki used the smart board to review our Horsemen website. She explained volunteer resources, photo day event checklists and other resources on the site that can be very helpful to board members. Angel and Jacki announced that this is their last year as co-presidents. They reminded that the PTA needs to keep a strong working relationship with the Board of Education, the school administration and the community. If there are any issues, they asked the board members to be discreet, and to please bring these issues before the board as quickly as possible while remaining respectful and diplomatic with all concerned parties.

Volunteers:

Tara is already working on the volunteer sign-up forms. Two back to school nights are already completed. She is working on the spreadsheet of the volunteers. Tara advised the board that sign-ups are stronger this year than last. Forms are still being submitted. Karina volunteered her help translating any forms for the board.

Fundraising:

Photo Day coordinators are needed at WI and JP.   Leah McVey agreed to help out. Amada and Nitasha volunteered to help chair the square one art fundraiser. Wrapping paper is underway, packets went out last week. The book fairs are all chaired. Jacki is looking for a co-chair at each school, including the MS.

School Updates:

JP VP’s will be setting up their principal meeting soon.

Morse elevator construction has been completed, and the VP’s met with Mr. Holland and had a very productive meeting. Morse VP’s mentioned the need for bus monitors and Angel suggested emailing the Board of Education so that this can be put on their monthly meeting agenda.

W.I. meets this week with the principal.

M.S. will set up their principal meeting next week.

Other Updates:

Jacki mentioned a mini-grant request from Ms. Garibaldi to the board for approval. Her previous grant has expired and Jacki asked the board to consider giving her a new one. Angel agreed to circle back and review other grant requests to make sure the board remains consistent before approving this grant.

The VP’s all agreed to try and get their principals and teachers to join the PTA.

Mitch gave a brief explanation of Rivertown Parents to the board.

Andrea advised the board that orders will be taken for Spirit Wear. However, this will not be done until after back to school nights this year. Spirit Wear is considering making school specific apparel this year.

Our meeting adjourned at 10:07 AM, our next meeting is scheduled for Friday October 21^st at 8:30 AM.   Speakers will be Mr. Chris Borsari, Superintendent and also the district Wellness Committee.

May 13, 2016 Meeting

Attendees:

Jacki Geoghegan

Angel Rafter

Paul Pirozzi

Tara Schatzel

Mitch Sylves-Berry

Leah Mc Vey

Amada Reimundez

Elia Londono

Dancy Balestrieri

Maribel Palacios-Perez

David Neilsen

Fiona Galloway

Kelley Anniccherico

Nitasha Kumar

Jennifer Povman

-Welcome and Get Out the Vote:

Our meeting was called to order at 8:35 A.M. by Jacki and Angel. Jacki reminded class VP’s to get the class list from school offices and send the class parents a backpack note with the class list, asking class parents to call and remind households that May 17^th is the day to get out and vote on our school budget.

-Event Dates for Next Year

Tuesday, September 27^th there is a successful study presentation being offered by “Succesful Study Schools S4”.  The seminar will be free for community parents, but will cost $475, and Jacki is asking the PTA board if we should book this event.  PTA agreed that we should consider it, especially if there is some flexibility regarding the cost.  Jacki agreed to go back and try to negotiate the price.  Jen Povman suggested advertising this event at back to school nights early next year.  Jen also mentioned that she is looking into the cost of the “screenagers” documentary and if the licensing fee of $650 will be spread out across districts.

Middle School movie night will be Friday November 4^th, WI movie night will be May 5^th, and both dates will be put on the district calendar.

-PTA Planning Update

David Neilsen will be stepping down as the PTA Membership Chair, a new person is needed. Jacki asked the board to try and think of someone new to fill this position.  Nitasha Kumar has agreed to be the Square 1 Art Chairperson. Amada Reimundez will co-chair.  PTA still needs a Photo Day chairperson.  A class parent coordinator for Kindergarten and Pre-K are positions that still need to be filled.

Jacki advised the board that she received notice from the state, and our name has officially been changed to Horsemen PTA.

-Staff Appreciation Luncheon

The luncheons will be held the week of May 22^nd.  W.I. will be the 23^rd, middle school the 25^th, Morse the 26^th and JP the 27^th.  Wraps are being bought from C-town and will come out of the PTA budget.

-Volunteer Brunch

The brunch is being held Monday, June 13^th from 8:30-10:30 at Pierson Park (weather permitting), otherwise in the Administration Bldg.  Jacki sent an email to the PTA board asking for a list of emails of any volunteers/helpers/coordinators to be sent to her by May 25^th so that she can send out the invitation for the brunch.

-Rivertown Parents

Jen Povman addressed the board, asking for another volunteer to help her represent our district. The commitment would be for 1 Wednesday a month.  Upcoming events are May 24^th “The Hunting Ground” a sex abuse/date rape on college campuses, the movie and discussion will be held at Mercy College from 6:15-9PM.  October 25^th “Anxious kids, Anxious Parents” is being held, time and place to be advised.  Jen also suggested checking Leslie Josel’s website for her seminar on tools of organization.  Mitch Sylves-Berry has said she would like to participate.

-School Updates

Jacki reminded Middle School VP’s to create line items for the middle school budget. Jacki and Mitch will be meeting after the luncheons to work on this.  Angel and Mitch asked the board for volunteers to help steam gowns for the 8^th grade formal dance.

Ms. Susan Bretti has been selected as the W.I. principal for next year. Square 1 Art was successfully completed at WI.

The box-top pizza party at Morse was a big success. Morse received a check for $749 for the box-top campaign and it looks like their goal of $1,000 for the year will be achieved.  The 1^st class field trip around the community was also a success.  The traffic pattern issues at Morse seem to be under control, and Mr. Holland seems satisfied with drop-off and pick-up.

Tara advised the board that the staff luncheon plans at Morse are moving smoothly and that they are working on organizing field day.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 A.M. our next and final meeting for this school year will be Friday, June 17^th.