PTO MINUTES 9/14/09
In attendance: F. Clougherty, K.Sargent, J.Popick, n.Vetters, L.Hebert, T.Karnedy, M.Houston, M.Ostby, L.Capano, K. Strempek, S.Schmidt, D.Macdonald, N.Hellen, M.Daly, C.Mosquera, A.Reichmann, T.Sperry, K. Sperry, D.O’Leary, T.Fornaiser, H.Tamburo, R.Orvis, J.Wijetunga, J.Burke, L.Olson, R.Kummer, E. Borick, K. Borrazzo, P.Nenninger, R.O’Rourke, K.Farrell, L.Norris, R.Adams, N.Khorrami, M.Khorrami, L.Baechle, S.Gregoire, L.Burns, T.March, D.Chamberlain, R.Kelley, S.Austin, K.Zuccareno.
The meeting started with Monica Ostby introducing herself as the outgoing PTO Co-President and introducing the present PTO officers.
Elections were held next and Leslie Capano was voted in as Co-President, moving from Co-Vice President. Megan Houston was voted in as Co-Vice President, moving from Co-Secretary. The Co-Secretary position was left vacant by Megan’s move and all present were asked if they wanted to step forward to fill that role, nobody did and the role is now vacant.
Megan Houston talked about the function of the PTO. She shared with the group some of the upcoming events such as Picture Day on 9/23 and International Night which is scheduled for 10/15. Megan also discussed an upcoming fundraiser which will be an art fundraiser to be done in conjunction with the art teacher. Megan also discussed where the money that the PTO raises goes. Some of the areas which are supported by the PTO include, teacher’s stipends, which are used at their discretion to pay for any extra needs in the classroom. Another area which is financially supported by the PTO fundraisers is enrichment. Megan explained that while most of the clubs are self-sustaining, there are times the PTO must step in to support. Megan told the group that monthly newsletters are sent out the week prior to the PTO meetings.
Carol McQuillen, 1st grade teacher, spoke about S.L.I.M.Y. and how that program works at Orchard. Carol spoke about the 900 square feet spread out over 10 gardens at Orchard School. She said that potatoes among other vegetables are being grown there and will be harvested by the students over the coming months. Carol also discussed two upcoming events, a work day for all family members who are interested in helping in the magical woods. The day is scheduled for Sat. Sept. 26th from 9-12. Also mentioned was the upcoming SLIMY tag sale which will happen on October 8th & 9th in the Gym. In an effort to recycle, the push this year is for Halloween Costumes.
Next Kerry Farrell, Drama Chair, spoke about this year’s play. She discussed the possible volunteer opportunities as well as the timeline of events. They plan to have a more in depth meeting next month.
Finally, Principal Mark Triffilio thanked everyone for coming and re-iterated that parents are welcome at Orchard anytime and he hopes they will always feel welcome at Orchard. He then conducted volunteer training necessary for anyone wishing to volunteer with students. Items covered included confidentiality, student management/discipline, personal space, and the need for liability insurance when transporting students in personal vehicles on any field trips.
Megan Houston asked if there were any questions. One question was asked about room parent assignments, how they are decided and when they will be done. It was explained that sheets went home regarding room parents and once they are handed back in, decisions will be made and those assigned will be informed.
The meeting was adjourned. Next meeting will be TUESDAY, October 13th in the art room.
Page created by PTO Secretary Megan Houston and Orchard Library Media Specialist Donna Macdonald.
This page last updated: 11/08/09.