Minutes for November 14, 2005

Attendees: Allyson Downing, Frank Geier, Ellen Erdmann, Carol McQuillen, Lynne Baechle, Sheila Royer, Rick Ebel, Allyson Yandow, Maureen Genzlinger, and Connie Keetle.

Co-President Allyson Yandow opened the meeting by welcoming all in attendance.

Secretary Lynne Baechle read the minutes from the October PTO meeting for approval.  Frank Geier motioned to approve the minutes, Allyson Downing seconded the motion.  The minutes were approved as read.

Stage Curtains: Ellen Erdmann

Co- Vice President Ellen Erdmann brought forth a proposal to replace some or all of the stage side curtains.  These curtains would be hung in the wings of the stage, by the school district maintenance department.  Mrs. Erdmann received a quotation from Tina’s Home Design (Orchard parent Chris Gregoire).  For one panel, 10’ x 10’, box pleated, flame retardant, panel would cost $1614.30.  Mrs. Erdmann asked to purchase two panels this year, and use the existing panels in the rear of the stage.

Mr. Geier asked if this expense was included in this year’s budget.  Treasurer Royer responded no, but there is enough money in the account to cover the cost of 2 panels.  Mrs. Erdmann added that there Drama subcommittee is planning to do some extra fundraising around the drama program.  Mr. Geier then asked about lighting for the drama production. Mrs. Erdmann explained that the school district is trying to purchase mobile lighting equipment for all the schools; however some schools in the district are unable to contribute funds at this time.

Teacher Mrs. McQuillen asked how the curtains would be protected when not in use.  This question would have to be investigated.  Mrs. Erdmann took the action item.

Sheila Royer motioned to purchase two panels from Tina’s Home Design.  Frank Geier seconded the motion; the motion passed.

Drama: Ellen Erdmann

Chairperson Ellen Erdmann announced that the play has been cast and that the kids and parents seem to be happy with the casting.  Mrs. Erdmann asked the PTO’s opinion on asking the parents of children involved in drama to contribute to the drama program specifically.  The group validated the idea.  Principal Ebel suggested that a donations box be placed out during the performances.

The Drama subcommittee is looking for ways to sustain the drama program.  Currently, the program is breaking even each year.  The committee is looking into ideas for additional fundraising ideas to cover the ever increasing costs of the yearly productions.

Principal Ebel is looking into getting risers in the back of the gym to improve the viewing.  Any risers would have to meet fire and safety codes.  Mr. Ebel asked the PTO if we wished to pursue this, if there is a cost involved.  The PTO said please continue to pursue.

Slimy: Carol McQuillen

Co-Chair Carol McQuillen stated that the semi-annual Slimy Tag Sale went smoothly. The subcommittee raised $2262.35. 

Slimy surveyed the teachers to see if the staff would do more baking if a food preparation cart was available.  Seven of eighteen teachers said they would use the cart.  Questions raised by the PTO included: Would the cart be locked?  Would there be an inventory list of supplies on the cart?  Is there an estimated budget for the purchase of the cart?  Mrs. McQuillen would answer these questions before pursuing.  President Yandow asked for a priority listing of wish list items from Slimy.

Enrichment: Carol McQuillen

Teacher McQuillen has talked with music teacher Frostman.  She is open to the concept of the artist in residence.  Mrs. McQuillen needs to engage the staff in the 2/3 and 4/5 wings. Kindergarten teacher Genzlinger expressed concern that the younger students have full involvement in the experience.  It is expected that the winter concerts will be scheduled just before February vacation.

Principal Ebel has yet to receive a detailed proposal from Mr. Hollister.  To make the proposed timing, the PTO would need the written proposal by January at the latest from Mr. Hollister.

Treasurer Royer asked Mrs. McQuillen to double check on the P.O. for summer expenses related to the Slimy summer intern.

Healthy Eating Documentary: Connie Keetle

Parent Connie Keetle has purchased a British documentary about healthy eating in school aged children.  She has offered to make it available to those interested parents.  Please contact Mrs. Keetle for details.

International Night: Allyson Downing

Co-President Downing reported that International Night was a huge success.  The kitchen has never been busier.  The entertainment started early to allow all performers time, and we had close to 30 tables.  Treasurer Royer reported that we made a couple hundred dollars on the evening.  Co-President Yandow will tally the number of prepaid families and try to tally the number of walk-ins.

Book Fair and Pizza Night: Allyson Yandow

 Book Fair and Pizza Night preparations are well under way and on target.  The subcommittee will be able to serve some walk-ins.

Budget Report: Sheila Royer

Treasurer Royer reported that the gift wrap sales netted $2500, $1000 below projections.  The PTO officers have proposed a web only gift wrap sale in the spring to supplement the current fall gift wrap drive.  Based on other schools experiences with Innisbrook over the web, the Orchard community is under-utilizing this fundraising tool.

French Club: Rick Ebel

Principal Ebel was looking for clarifications from the PTO on how French Club funding is structured.  Currently, each parent directly pays the teacher for services rendered.  The school district or PTO is not involved.  The PTO has paid for supplies and snacks.  Principal Ebel will investigate further.

School Signage: Rick Ebel

Principal Ebel showed those gathered the new school sign.  One side was completed by high school seniors last spring.  Art Teacher Cicerello finished the second side.  The school district has installed the posts and is waiting for good weather to finish the installation.

There will be no PTO meeting in December.

Allyson Yandow motioned that the meeting be adjourned.  Allyson Downing seconded the motion.  Motion passed.

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Page created by PTO Secretary Lynne Baechle and Orchard Library/Media Specialist Donna Macdonald.

  This page last updated: 01/13/06.