Blog-Beiträge

November Minutes

11/12/2015

Call meeting to order: 07:10 pm Emily L. 2nd by Stacey B
Introductions: Emily L, Allison H, Caitlin C, Brittany D, Tina S, Jennifer Oliver, Chris C, Angela H, Stacey B. and Jenn Hale
Secretaries Report- motion to approve meeting minutes from 10/2015 by Allison, second by Stacey B.
Treasurers report, previous report approved by Brittany and second by Allison
1. School PTO taxes sent to accountant, needed to file for PTA and PTO this year, will not need to next year
2. Halloween Happenings raised over $2400.00. Cards are still good until 11/31/2015
3. Opt out is at $3500.00 already which is our target goal. Approx. 70 families have opted out so far.
4. $644.00 in box tops for October – reminder to check expiration dates and trim edges before sending in.
5. Please spread the word about Amazon Smile- we raise 1% of any money spent on site when parents sign up our school.
Committee reports
1. Halloween happenings- successful activity overall and well attended.
2. Book fair - Conferences and book fair will be held 11/18, 11/19, 11/20, still need volunteers for this at SES and people can sign up on Facebook or website. MBA did very well this year, awaiting final numbers. Raffle at MBA brought in approx. $495.00 without expenses, still need raffle basket volunteers. Will need to get some cash for cash box from Chris approx. $200.00 to make change, also will provide some funds for raffle. Some proceeds will be going toward children who need financial assistance for books, also two new teachers have asked for some money from book fair to assist with classroom book purchasing. Lastly, all proceeds from this go back into the classrooms to buy new books for classrooms. Per Mrs. Oliver, noted that the classrooms cannot double book time in order to provide more organization for kids during book fair.
3. Cultural enrichment report
  1. Discussed need to make sure to blast reminder when the children have attended a PTO sponsored event during school day to increase PTO visibility.
    1. Angela H will continue on as chair of this committee until someone is willing to take over and she is happy to help train someone. She will meet with principals regarding dates and needed programs.
    2. Kate Hanscom came for K to 3rd grade, very well received. She does not charge and this is free to the school. She received a Copperhouse Tavern gift card as a thank you for her time.
    3. Painting Artist Rob S coming 12/10/15 for K-5th grade – speaks about famous people in his “Be Somebody” program
    4. 2/15 K-2nd grade with see the Lolipop Orchestra perform “The Three Little Piggies”
    5. Jacqueline Davis author of the “Lemonade Wars” will be coming to do 4 presentations for K to 5th grade
    6. Theater Works – “Freedom Train” for 3rd grade to 5th grade
    7. Looking for a new musical performance if anyone has suggestions – someone mentioned for MBA “The Brain Game” and someone mentioned the acapella group “Ball in the House”, Angela/Stacey B will check into
    8. Looking for end of year cultural enrichment program for all of MBA and SES like the bike program last year approx. $2000.00 budget for this.
Fundraising

   a. Opt Out – still getting some in.
   b. Tastebook – this was approved as a fundraiser this year. PTO makes a good profit from this book. They cost $25.00 and the PTO gets back $12.50/book if we sell at least 100. Excellent coupons are noted to be in the book, Big Y, etc.
   c. Square One art project – parents will purchase items with their child’s original art and 35% of cost goes back to PTO. This is being supported by art teachers. Going well at SES and not started at MBA may have kids bring home and complete if interested at MBA.
   d. Box tops- continue to be worth while to do. Lisa F volunteered to count these at MBA and will contact Diane J to set up a video reminder for MBA students to collect them. Pat Clark is counting them at SES and always looking for more volunteers to help.
   e. XL center- Uconn tickets done selling today sold 26 for men and 26 for women’s games- $5.00 profit for PTO with each ticket sold, so far 17 tickets for hockey, 14 for Disney and this needs to be purchased by 12/15/15.   Will send out monster truck flyer after holidays
f. Gift card fundraiser again this year as this has been popular in the past- deadline is 12/3/2015.
   g. Still looking for spring fun run chair person.

General discussion:
1. Many open positions still remain on PTO for board members and committee chairs. Emily L will remain acting president until 1/2016 or sooner if someone is interested. Cultural enrichment needs a chair person still. No interest has been received for these positions as of yet.
2. Idea to include a celebration of learning at the PTO meetings and this has been successful in the past elsewhere.
3. Concerns raised over the management of the bus routes this year. Specifically in regard to the condition of the buses, safety concerns when buses are running late for pick up, lack of communication when buses are running late as well as lack of communication when routes are being changed. Any bus related concerns should be brought to Bill Beltwell as he is the liaison for the First Student company and the school.

NO December Meeting - Next Meeting at SES Media Center on 01/13/2016 2nd Wednesday of the month 7pm.

Respectfully submitted by Jennifer Hale

OCTOBER MEETING MINUTES

10/14/2015

1. Meeting called to order by Emily at 7:02.
2. Introductions: Jennifer Oliver, Becky Leiphart, Brittany Dwyer, Allison Hill, Stacey Brown, Rob Kapner, Chris Castonguay, Emily LeTourneau, Jennifer Hale, Caitlin Cooke, Kristin Gallacher, Andrea Balestriere, Erin Grimes, Pat Clark
3. Secretary's Report: Reading of last meeting’s minutes. Motion to approve minutes by Stacey. Seconded by Allison.
4. Treasurer's Report: by Chris Castonguay. Not a lot of out-go this month. Monies are coming in for the opt-out. Motion to approve by Brittany, seconded by Stacey.
5. Committee Reports
New Business: none
Upcoming events:
•Book fair is all set.
•Halloween Happenings event. Reported by Erin Grimes. At Sonny’s this year. 10/22, (10/29 raindate) Separate times for SES and MBA students. Sonny’s passes are available for purchase, but not necessary to attend. $20/card, PTO gets $6. School will get a percentage of all food/beverages sold as well. High school volunteers needed for “Trick or Treat” street. Students can wear costumes.
Fundraising:
•raffles will be during parent conferences: Stacey is organizing this.
•gift cards: Brittany Dwyer reported out that much of it is available online this year, including payments. There will be one date: Due 11/20, distributed 12/15ish. $25 gift card will be given to top 2 selling students at both SES and MBA
•opt out (see above),
•XL center : Brittany Dwyer has been working with Ted, the IXL center rep. Disney On Ice tickets will be available for $23.50. January 14th is the first one. Monster Jam will be the second one. UCONN Men’s basketball tickets will be available for $20, Women’s at $10, and Hockey tickets for $8. One flyer will go out with all the sports choices.
•coupon books (deadline will be around Thanksgiving) $25 gift card will be given to top 2 selling students at both SES and MBA
•square one art: Erin is working with Liz McEvoy and Paul Dailey to complete this project for parents to purchase.

•Box Tops: Top class in October will receive a fall craft kit. The top 3 students from summer collection received a $10 certificate to spend at the book fair.
MBA is looking for volunteers to help with the scarecrow project: 10/21 during 8th period. Parent volunteers are needed to take pix and help put them in the ground.
Cultural Enrichment : “Be Somebody”: Rob Surette and His Amazing Hero Art,
ZuZu Aftrican dancers? Jennifer will contact Angela about this.
SES Author visits: Kate Hanscom on 11/9 for grades K-3,Teresa Pelham for grades K-5 (Roxy’s Forever Home, about rescue dogs) sometime in January. Jacqueline Davies has been contacted for grades K-5 (Lemonade War series)
6. General Discussion: No takers on officer positions. Information will be going home asking for volunteers.
Next meeting: November 12 at 7:00 at SES.
7. Motion to adjourn at 8:12 by Emily. Seconded by Jennifer.

Respectfully submitted by Pat Clark
10/15/15

SEPTEMBER MEETING MINUTES

9/23/2015

Call meeting to order: 07:05pm Emily L.
Introductions: Best turn out for new members in a long time! Attendees: Emily L, Khalid W, Jennifer H., Carla P., Andrea B., Kristin G., Lisa F., Angela H., Tina S., Caitlin C., Erin G., Mandy S., Stacey B., , Brittany D., Jennifer O., Chris C., Allison H., Clay K.
Secretaries Report- motion to approve meeting minutes from 8/6/2015 by Erin G., second by Chris C.
Treasurers report
1. Review budget for upcoming year, approval for budget to change from $13,000.00 to $12,838.00. Approval also granted for cultural enrichment budget to stay similar to last year. Fundraising raised approx. $6000.00 total with butter braids bring in close to $4300.00
2. Discussed need for PTO to assist with the 5th grade field trip transportation costs which will be supported by PTO fundraising this year.
3. Discussed cost for 8th grade field trip bus is around $800.00.
4. Issue of debit cards for school lunch programs discussed. Per Mrs. Oliver, interested parties will need to bring this to Administrative Council level as there are budget implications.
5. Please spread the word about Amazon Smile- we raise 1% of any money spent on site when parents sign up our school.
Committee reports
1. Halloween happenings
  1. Erin G presented a plan for a change to this. Many details discussed. Motion approved for this event to be held at Sonny place this year. Will have trick or treat street, Dj and then a 20.00$ per child card could be purchased which will give access to go-carts, zipline, arcade, etc. More details to follow. Erin G has a draft handout for principals to view before sending out. Emily would like opt out info to go out first then flyer for Halloween happenings. Discussion in regards to candy safety for this event ensued.
  2. Book fair
    1. Conferences and book fair will be held 11/18, 11/19, 11/20, still need volunteers for this at SES. All set for MBA volunteers as it is much smaller.
    2. Raffles were successful last year and will do again this year if possible. Allison volunteered to co-chair this committee.
  3. Cultural enrichment report
    1. Had first program on anti-bullying yesterday thru 5th grade and was well received.

Discussed need to make sure to blast reminder when the children have attended a PTO sponsored event during school day to increase PTO visibility.
Angela H will continue on as chair of this committee until someone is willing to take over and she is happy to help train someone. She will meet with principals regarding dates and needed programs.
Meanwhile will begin lining up events now that budget has been approved
Angela to look into a program regarding disabilities suggested by Emily L.

6) Fundraising
   a. Opt Out – flyer going out this week
   b. PTO notepads will be given out to those who opt out. They were $497.00 for 300 of them to purchase. Approved to purchase
   c. Tastebook – this was approved as a fundraiser this year. PTO makes a good profit from this book. They cost $25.00 and the PTO gets back $12.50/book.
   d. Square One art project – parents will purchase items with their child’s original art and 35% of cost goes back to PTO. This is being supported by art teachers.
   e. Box tops- continue to be worth while to do. Lisa F volunteered to count these at MBA and will contact Diane J to set up a video reminder for MBA students to collect them. Pat Clark is counting them at SES and always looking for more volunteers to help.
   f. Sonny’s event is also fundraiser. Cards cost $20.00 and PTO gets back $6.00/card sold.
   g. XL center representative, Ted, came to discuss fundraising options with them. They have a program where we can get discounted group tickets with no minimum tickets sold, no online fees, need to pay a $5.00 group order fee and a $5.00 fee to mail tickets then the PTO can determine the amount tickets should be after they consider the cost to cover the expense for XL center. They will also create flyers for us if needed and then we can print and distribute. Tickets available for Harlem Globetrotters, Marvel Universe, Disney Live and on Ice, Hartford Wolfpack, etc. PTO will continue to explore this as an option. Brittany Dwyer to chair.
   h. Voted to do the gift card fundraiser again this year as this has been popular in the past. Brittany Dwyer & Caitlin Cooke to co-chair.
   i. School spirit shirts- PTO approved this fundraiser to occur earlier in the year. Lisa F. to help chair/facilitate this. Mrs. Oliver to determine color of grades for the field day now. Parents can order their school spirit shirt and have the correct color for the whole year.
   j. School carnival in the spring was a success, will consider making this a fundraiser as well
   k. Still looking for spring fun run chair person

General discussion:
1. Many open positions still remain on PTO for board members and committee chairs. Emily L will remain acting president until 1/2016 or sooner if someone is interested. Cultural enrichment needs a chair person still.

**Congratulations to Andrea B who won our raffle at tonight’s meeting for attending!!!****

Next Meeting at SES Media Center on 10/14/2015

Motion to adjourn: 8:46pm by Emily LeTourneau, 2nd by Lisa Forest

AUGUST MEETING MINUTES

8/6/2015

Call Meeting to Order – Emily LeTourneau

Introductions: Attendees: Emily LeTourneau, Heather Modzelewski, Erin Grimes, Chris Castonguay
Secretary’s Report
1. Reading & Approval of Minutes – June (approved by Emily LeTourneau/ 2nd by Erin Grimes)
Treasurer’s Report
1. Review & Approval of Monthly Reports
2. Budget – Discussed Plans for next year, see reports. To be reviewed and voted on in September 2015. Need to discuss with Principals where needs are (i.e. Field Trip assistance, cultural enrichment, etc.)
Committee Reports
1. New Business – discussed how to get people to come to monthly meetings. Erin mentioned that she has some left over raffle prizes from the year prior and we could use a gift certificate for incentive at the September meeting. $50 to Plaza Azteca will be raffled off for those who attend.
2. Events/ Programs (upcoming)
  1. Fall Event – Halloween Happenings or something new? – Potentially Sonny’s Place/ benefit that not as many volunteers are needed.
  2. Coffee Hour with the Principal – discuss with Mrs. Oliver
  3. Pancake Breakfast – can we do something with the Fire Department/ get to know your community.
3. Cultural Enrichment – will discuss with Angela Hewitt in September.
4. Fundraising Ideas –
  1. ButterBraids – great fundraiser, but with nobody to run it/ not doing it for 2015 year.
  2. Opt Out – Chris/ request a minimum per child/ raise to $30?
    1. With Opt Out offer Note to School Notepad – Emily to send in a quote to MinuteMan Press – suggestion of printing company since that’s who SES uses.
  3. Coupon Books – to be discussed
  4. Raffle at Parent Teacher Conferences -
  5. Square One Art – Erin will contact the school to discuss logistics
  6. Spring – run/ would love to get that going but we need volunteers to run the program.
5. Discuss fundraising needs with Principals – what are we fundraising for this year. Cultural Enrichment planned events/ Field Trip assistance. Discuss $ amounts at September meeting.
General Discussion
1. Review committee open positions – many open positions. Emily will stay on as Interim President/ but would like to find replacement by 12/31/15. We will need to decrease events/ fundraisers due to lack of participation.
2. Questions/ Suggestions
3. Next Meeting date – updated to Wednesday 9/23/15.
Adjournment

JUNE MEETING MINUTES

6/10/2015

Call Meeting to Order by Emily at 7:09

Introductions: Present: Chris Castonguay (secretary), Allison Hill, Jennifer Hale (co-secretary), Angie Ray-O’Brien (co-president), Emily LeTourneau (co-president), Clay Krevolin (MBA principal), Pat Clark (co-secretary), Angela Hewitt (chair, cultural enrichment), Heather Modzelewski
Secretary’s Report
1. Reading & Approval of Minutes, motion to approve by Angela, seconded by Heather.
Treasurer’s Report
1. Review & Approval of Monthly Reports: Chris submitted deposits/expenses report.
2. Budget – plan for completion and voting: Clay discussed MBA fieldtrip needs: Several 8th grade students have a financial need for the High Meadows fieldtrip. They are requesting $500. Approved unanimously.
Committee Reports
1. New Business: 6th grade Orientation night was very successful. Great turn-out and thank you to Cathy Manning for “goodies.” Emily and Heather will be meeting with Mr. Krevolin and Mrs. Oliver over the summer to discuss fund-raising needs.
2. Events/ Programs (upcoming): Field Day is Friday. There are about 9 parent volunteers to help with lunch.
3. Cultural Enrichment: Angela will serve as interim, until a new chair steps forward. No more programs for this year. BMX show was a huge success. Message of wearing helmets was reinforced. School opening will be Brian Chevalier, with his anti-bullying song writing. Mr. Krevolin suggested bringing in Scott Driscoll to discuss Internet safety with parents, prior to passing out iPads to students.
4. Fundraising: Ideas for next year: Discussion of a “paint night.” Charge is about $32, with $14 going to the school. Could have a parent night and a staff night. Smile.amazon gives 1% to our school. Reminders need to be sent out so that more people are aware of it. It’s an EASY way to earn money. A photo booth might be an option—maybe added to MBA dances/ice cream social. Having a run (5K?) starting from Connor’s Park. Erin Grimes had talked about asking art teachers to do an art project that could be printed on cups/t’shirts, etc. to be used as gifts. Opt-out option will be available. Maybe do a spring/fall opt-out? A “Somers” water bottle might be an option. Butter braids will not be a fund-raiser next year, as the distribution was extremely time-consuming. The Carnival was a huge success—maybe charge an entrance fee? Perhaps do an evening BMX show? An outdoor movie night at the park? These are all great ideas, but need someone to take each responsibility on.
5. Set up meeting with Principals to discuss next year’s goals: Emily will set up an August meeting to talk about fund-raising needs for next year.
  1. Unanimous decision for Emily to purchase a PTO banner. Will be about $100.
  2. Ideas for next year—see above
  3. Other? Still a concern about the lack of participation in the PTO. This organization provides terrific programs and support for our school, but less than 1% of parents attend meetings…
  4. General Discussion
6. Next Meeting: week of August 10th. Emily will send out email.
7. Questions/ Suggestions
Adjournment at 8:20. Motion by Emily, seconded by Angie.

Respectfully submitted by Pat Clark

may meeting minutes

5/13/2015

1.       Call Meeting to Order at 7:03 by Emily.

2.       Introductions: Jennifer Oliver, Clay Krevolin, Jenn Hale, Emily LeTourneau, Angie O’Brien, Caitlin Cooke, Allison Hill, Stacey Brown, Pat Clark

3.       Secretary’s Report

a.       Reading & Approval of Minutes, motion to approve by Angie, seconded by Stacey

4.       Treasurer’s Report

a.       Review & Approval of Monthly Reports: Spreadsheet of expenditures and profit shared.

b.      Fundraising Totals: see spreadsheet

5.       Committee Reports

a.       New Business

b.      Events/ Programs (upcoming)

                                                               i.      Carnival – recap: A HUGE success!! Lots of organization, but the community loved it…! Profit of $1850. Lots of donations.   Chaired by Erin Grimes. Thanks to everyone who volunteered for this amazing event.

                                                             ii.      Teacher luncheons –Chaired by Tina Saunders. Everyone loved it—Copper House food, parent donated desserts. Teachers and staff were very appreciative.

                                                            iii.      Field Day - June 12th, NO RAINDATE, due to the timing. Caitlin reported that she had 7-9 volunteers for serving. Mr. Tarpinian will be sending out sign-ups for activity volunteers. Times are as follows: 9:15-11 K, 1, 2 1:10-3 3, 4, 5

                                                           iv.      Geissler’s is slicing and delivering watermelons.

                                                             v.      6th Grade Orientation: May 27th: incoming students/parents will be coming into MBA to become familiar with the building and teachers. Scavenger hunt to complete, raffle with school supplies. Q & A: What to expect in a transition, expectations. Cathi Manning is chairing this.

                                                           vi.      Interskate: Chaired by Stacey Brown. Participation was not great: 5 from MBA, 70+ elementary school students. Total of $114 profit. Timing?

                                                          vii.      Cultural enrichment: BMX presentation for SES and MBA is June 4th

                                                        viii.      MBA has fieldtrips coming up for each grade level

                                                           ix.      8th grade farewell is the 17th

                                                             x.      5th grade Farewell Ceremony is the 16th

                                                           xi.      Book Fair BOGO is next week at SES—Tues./Wed./Thurs. Set up will be Monday after school, take-down Thurs. after school.

                                                          xii.      Meet and Greet for SES students 8/28, Kdg. orientation/bus ride next year!!

c.       Fundraising

1.       Spring – Fun Run/ Walk for kids (postponed to 2015/2016 year): will be on a weekend.

2.       Spirit Wear: Lisa Forest has placed this order, forms are in

3.       Fundraising Night?

4.       Set up meeting with Principals to discuss next year’s goals

5.       Ideas for next year: art work on cups for holidays, wreaths, gift cards

6.       School Kidz Program: We will try to plan for this for next year. It is a Staples program. Emily will follow-up with Leigh Anne Litz.

7.       Rob Wilson has met with the vendors for the permanently mounted retractable screen for the SES auditorium. Final pricing will be presented next month.

6.       Board Nominations

a.       Have any come in? None for the president/vice president.

b.      Thoughts/ Discussions on how to handle next year.

c.       Nominations / Voting: Nominations for secretary: Jennifer Hale and Pat Clark, treasurer: Chris Castanguay, Approved by all. Emily LeTourneau has offered to stay as Interim President for next year.

7.       General Discussion

a.       Next Meeting – Wednesday 6/10/15 at SES

b.      Questions/ Suggestions: Review budget for next year.

c.       Cultural Enrichment suggestions for next year… contracts signed?

d.      Monies needed for SES auditorium screen, DVD/Blu-ray player, locking cabinet

e.      Need a sign that says “Sponsored by the PTO”

f.        How to generate more interest in participating in the PTO

8.       Adjournment at 7:50. Motion by Emily, seconded by all.

Respectfully submitted by Pat Clark

APril meeting minutes

4/8/2015

1.       Meeting to Order at 7:05 by Emily L

2.       Introductions- Emily L, Chris C, Clay Krevolin, Heather M, Tina S, Mandy S, Angela O, Leigh L, Angela H, Lisa S, Cheryl H, Pat C, Meghan E, Jenn H

3.       Secretary’s Report

a.       Reading & Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve Angie, seconded by Angela

b.      Pat Clark announced that the Somers Education Foundation approved to fund $6,000.00 for the drop down projection screen, previously the PTO had allotted money to purchase a DVD/BlueRay player.

4.       Treasurer’s Report

a.       Review & Approval of Monthly Reports- Motion to approve Angie

                                                               i.      Chris suggested we advertise collecting box tops, maybe on Facebook, as this is all free money. So far this year totals approx. $2300.00. Box top committee chair will be open next year. Grocery store sign up chair will also be open.

                                                             ii.      Grant payment was made to Mrs. McEvoy for the Hover Cam.

                                                            iii.      New Theaterworks check was sent out.

                                                           iv.      Carnival –Chris reminded everyone that if needed he can send checks directly to vendor so people do not need to wait to be reimbursed.

b.      Book Fair/ Fundraising totals-lots of fundraiser activities discussed today such as:

                                                               i.      Book fair did well, awaiting final numbers. Historically this is run by PTO but all profit gets reinvested into buying books for the school. This committee chair will be open for next year.

                                                             ii.      SES raffle during conferences did very well approx. $1400.00. This has very little expense as most (if not all) of the items are donated. Noted a lack of volunteers to sit at table for this event.

                                                            iii.      Interskate event – still awaiting info back on how well this did.

5.       Committee Reports

a.       New Business

                                                               i.      School Kidz Program (Leigh Anne Litz)- Leigh L came to inform us about the Staples SchoolKidz program which provides an opportunity for fundraising and also school supply prep for parents. Available for K-8 parents can customize a box of school supplies that will be given to their child on the first day of school. The box is prepared also with the teacher and/or grade level supply list then parents can add on or change. Discounts are offered on supplies, ordering is online. Staples gives lump sum money back to school, as well as 3% of sales. Cost is around $25.00/box for older kids. Emily, Leigh and Mrs. Senecal may meet to discuss this as an option next year. Question arose whether this can be used to fulfill a teacher’s wish list as well. Leigh will also email Mr. Krevolin and Mrs. Senecal.

b.      Events/ Programs (upcoming)

                                                               i.      Spring Carnival – May 1st (rain date May 8th)- moving forward quickly and coming together. Lots of donations coming in. Bounce houses, photo booth, crazy hair station. Home depot supplying craft station and manning it, princess will be coming for photos. Soccer school – discussed need to try and borrow balls from recreation department, basketball with Kara W, food, each child will leave with goodie bag, Chuckie Cheese donated some items. Donation check received today for event $750.00 and over $2000.00 has been received in sponsorship money. Fire department will be coming, teacher dunk tank- many have signed up to help with this in a ½ hr slot, magician and clowns. Still need some volunteers for set up and clean up. Need to bring/purchase towels for dunk tank. Also need some ball pit balls still for a game.

                                                             ii.      Teacher & Staff Appreciation (May 6th MBA; May 13th SES)- This is historically a very nice event and much appreciated by the teachers. Discussion ensued about who this should be catered by. Some ideas were the new Copperhouse tavern, the other restaurant owned by Copperhouse owner or Moe’s who did a nice job in the past. Budget for this is about $1200.00. Still in need of donations for this – preferably fresh fruit, desserts. Emily to ask for blast email to parents to help with this. Someone mentioned doing daily teacher surprises like bring a flower on Monday, card on Tuesday, etc. Angela H suggested need to include specials teachers in the appreciation activities as well. The committee decorates in the teacher lounge as well as the school entry areas for this event.

                                                            iii.      Teacher Appreciation Week May 4th – 8th

                                                           iv.      Field Day - May 29th. Brittany and Katlyn are working on this.

                                                             v.      Other updates/ Questions –

1.       Last day of school is 6/18/2015

2.       Mr. Krevolin announced a new 6th grade orientation program on 5/27/15 from 6:30-7:45p. There will be a welcome, scavenger hunt, 6th grade presentation, student council to assist with tours, teachers will be present. Mr. Krevolin asked for PTO support with possibly ice cream and coffee. “Step up day” will still be 6/17/2015.

c.       Cultural Enrichment

                                                               i.      Musical performance was cancelled due to the inclement weather and scheduling difficulties. May come next fall but need contract by 6/13/15. Budget has already been approved. PTO voted to move forward with this for fall 2015. Angela will get contract signed.

                                                             ii.      Will need committee chair for this as Angela is stepping down but she is more than willing to help the new person get organized. She has been chair for three years.

d.      Fundraising

1.       Spring – Fun Run/ Walk for kids

a.       SES – Friday 5/15/15 during recess and at the high school track. Emily was exploring ways to get the children sponsored online. Looked into program called “Get Moving” but has expensive start up costs so not an option. Trying to get donated pedometers for this event. Emily to contact Dicks’s and Chris will try Cigna.

2.       Sprit Wear-Lisa F is helping with this and it is moving forward. Order form will come out next week.

3.       Red Robin Fundraising Night – to benefit MBA field trips. Still in the work with this. They are also doing a safe grad event here on 4/29/15 so possibly need to change to another venue. Someone mentioned Chick A Filet as an option.

4.       Macdonald’s in Ellington has a fundraiser event where the teachers can go and serve drinks for the evening. They get 40% of the profits that night.

5.       Artwork fundraiser – art teachers can help with this project as the kids could create art and parents can buy it as mugs, garden flags, throws, etc. Erin volunteered to help organize this.

6.       Amazon smile- choose Somers PTO link on Amazon when purchasing online for money back to schools.

7.       New Middle school Fundraiser Chair position - Emily would like to see this for next year. Heather volunteered but would like to co-chair this with someone.

6.       Board Nominations

a.       Mandi and Carla P are interested in board positions. Pat C and Jenn H are willing to stay on as co-secretaries. Chris C is willing to stay on as Treasurer.

b.      Thoughts/ Discussions on how to handle next year. PTO can change times and frequency of meetings, offer more babysitting during meeting.

c.       Elections will be next month for a June 2015 turnover.

7.       General Discussion

a.       Next Meeting – Wednesday 5/13/15 at MBA

b.      Questions/ Suggestions

8.       Adjournment- 8:45pm by Emily, seconded by all.

Respectfully submitted by Jenn Hale

March meeting minutes

3/11/2015

1.       Meeting called to order by Emily at 7:05.

2.       Introductions: Chris Castonguay, Emily LeTourneau, Rob Kapner, Erin Grimes, Stacey Brown, Nancy Barrett, Tina Suter, Clay Krevolin, Charlene Case, Heather Modzelewski, Pat Clark

3.       Secretary’s Report

a.       Reading & Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve by Nancy, seconded by Stacey.

b.      Additions: PTO has made a commitment to fund a retractable screen, DVD/blu-ray player, locking cabinet and necessary cables for the elementary school. A grant has also been written to the SEF to supplement this funding.

4.       Treasurer’s Report

a.       Review & Approval of Monthly Reports: Motion to approve by Stacey, seconded by Emily.

b.      Suggestion was made to give $2,100 to MBA to supplement fieldtrips, $700 per grade level. Motion to approve by Nancy, seconded by all.

5.       Committee Reports

a.       Review of Committee List/ Need for volunteers: List went out, response has been minimal. Nominations for officers are due in April, will be voted on in May. President and Vice President positions are open, in addition to committee chairs. Looking for ideas to increase PTO participation. Raffle tickets? Student presentations? Prizes for the class who gets the most participation? Offer babysitting from students who need community hours? Tina will look into using the gym at SES for babysitting and also into getting high school students to babysit.

b.      Communications: volunteer needed

c.       Events/ Programs (upcoming)

                                                               i.      Spring Carnival – May 1st (rain date May 8th) at Connor’s Park: 5-7:30. Erin Grimes reported. No police presence is necessary. A Certificate of Insurance is necessary. Hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, beverages. SERT has been contacted for emergency services—parking, etc. Again, maybe Beta Club or Honor Society may be able to help with this. Maybe a photo booth, bounce house, game booth, dunking booth, popcorn machine, games, craft under the Pavilion, DJ, magician, Dr. Wald (magician). ShopRite is donating hot dogs, Movie theater is donating popcorn machine, cotton candy. Big Y--$100 donation and a few other companies… Small prizes in perhaps a goodie bag on their way out. Lots of excitement has been generated!

                                                             ii.      Interskate Fundraiser: Sunday, 3/22: 11-4: Stacey has organized this. For every child who attends, they get a $4.00 discount and the PTO gets $1.50.

                                                            iii.      Book Fair (March) is all set.

                                                           iv.      Teacher & Staff Appreciation (May)

                                                             v.      Field Day - May 29th

                                                           vi.      Other updates/ Questions

d.      Cultural Enrichment

e.      Gayle DeBortoli Grant (Lisa Forest & Nancy Barrett)

                                                               i.      Review submissions & vote for MBA recipient: Clay talked about “MBA ROCKS”, perpetuating a positive behavior message. Also a submission from the Drama Club, who needs a storage space and materials. Nancy made a motion to approve the submission from the Drama Club, seconded by all.

f.        Fundraising

1.       Spring – Fun Run/ Walk for kids

a.       Schedule a date & location: Will be held on the high school track. Permission slip and donation form—no minimum donation: This fund raiser is specifically for the SES projection screen.

2.       Sprit Wear—Need to check with Lisa Forest about how this runs

3.       Other: Jennifer Oliver’s husband has recently had major surgery. There was a motion to approve a $50 gift card for restaurants for her family during this time. Nancy seconded.

6.       General Discussion

a.       Next Meeting – Wednesday 4/8/15 at SES

b.      Questions/ Suggestions: Clay Krevolin discussed the possibility that Scott Driscoll come back for a parent night about Internet safety, specifically in light of the 1:1 iPad program.

7.       Adjournment: Motion to adjourn at 8:16 by Pat, seconded by all.

Respectfully submitted by

Pat Clark

February Meeting minutes

2/11/2015

Call Meeting to Order by Emily at 7:05.
Introductions Present: Jennifer Oliver, Clay Krevolin, Emily LeTourneau, Allison Hill, Chris Castonguay, Heather Modzelewski, Tina Suter, Caitlin Cooke, Erin Grimes, Pat Clark
Secretary’s Report

Reading & Approval of Minutes. Discussion of Internet Safety at both SES and MBA. Motion to approve by Emily, seconded by Allison.

Treasurer’s Report by Chris Castonguay

Review & Approval of Monthly Reports : fund raising, income & expenses. Discussion of monies for MBA’s 8th grade trip to Boston. Final numbers will be given at the next meeting. Motion to approve by Heather, seconded by Tina.

Committee Reports

Review of Committee List/ Need for volunteers: Emily will be sending out a list of openings for next year
Communications
Events/ Programs (upcoming)

Winter / Spring Themed Party – Erin Grimes, Stacey Brown & Rachel Martin: possible date 4/10: perhaps tie it in with Earth Day—crafts, fruits and vegetables, science experiments? Erin will look into donations and possibly a nominal entrance fee
Movie Night (TBT): postponed at the moment
March into Spring Party – See Above
Book Fair (March)
Teacher & Staff Appreciation (May) – updates on donations?
Field Day - May 29th: Caitlin will be planning this.
Other updates/ Questions

Cultural Enrichment: contract for Jane Sutcliffe came in. Emily will sign it so that it can be returned to Jane.
Gayle DeBortoli Grant (Lisa Forest & Nancy Barrett)

Review submissions & vote: Hover Cam Solo wireless camera submitted by Liz McEvoy is approved. MBA vote is deferred, as there is one more submission not available at this meeting.

Fundraising

Spring – Fun Run/ Walk for kids

Will track be available? Emily will check with high school. Erin and Tina offered to help with this. MBA could walk the bus loop instead of the track (great idea, Jennifer!)

Sprit Wear
Other?

General Discussion

Next Meeting – Wednesday 3/11/15 at MBA
Questions/ Suggestions

Adjournment. Motion to adjourn at 8:00 by Emily, seconded by all.

January Meeting minutes

1/14/2015

Meeting called to order at 7:05 by Emily LeTourneau.
Introductions: Those in attendance: Megan Emrick, Emily LeTourneau, Chris Castonguay, Tina Saunders, Allison Hill, Jennifer Oliver, Clay Krevolin, Angela Hewitt, Angie O’Brien, Pat Clark
Secretary’s Report

Reading & Approval of Minutes (from November 2014/ no December meeting) Motion to approve by Emily, seconded by Angela.

Treasurer’s Report from Chris Castonguay.

Review & Approval of Monthly Reports: Motion to approve by Megan, second by Angela.
Future monetary requests: Fieldtrip monies to offset 8th grade trip to Boston, electric screen for SES auditorium

Committee Reports

Review of Committee List/ Need for volunteers: ALWAYS!!
Communications
Events/ Programs (upcoming)

Winter Themed Party – Erin Grimes—to bring families together in the schools
Movie Night (TBT)—Charlene Case--?
March into Spring Party – or replacement?
Book Fair (March)
Teacher & Staff Appreciation (May)—Tina Saunders—lunch at both schools. In the past, parents donate desserts, PTO purchases food. Since we are now a PTO, we can ask for local business sponsors.
Field Day at SES Friday, May 29th
Other updates/ Questions

Cultural Enrichment from Angela Hewitt: Brian Chevalier will be at SES for 3 days in February to write songs with students, ending with an actual recording of the songs (2/10-12). Author Kate Hanscom will be presenting to grades K-3 on 2/24. She has offered to present at no charge. Scott Discroll will present on Internet Saftey for middle school students on March 2nd. Diane Jennings will be presenting an iPad workshop for parents –open to all parents, not just MBA. The Ugly Duckling Bright Star Theatre will present to K-3 on March 23rd. Funding is now available to book Jane Sutcliffe (biographer) for April. “I’m Special, You’re Special” Kaleidoscope Children’s Theater will be on May 19th for grades K-5.
Gayle DeBortoli Grant (Lisa Forest & Nancy Barrett): Information has been sent to all teachers
Fundraising

Spring – Fun Run/ Walk for kids This will occur during the school day. Students will be sponsored to walk the track. Tina Saunders and Allison Hill have offered to assist with this.

Will track be available?

Spirit Wear for 5th graders: t’shirts will be provided for end of year
Other?

General Discussion

Next Meeting – Wednesday 2/11/15 at SES
Questions/ Suggestions: Response to phone alerts has been extremely positive
Positions for officers of the PTO will be posted for next year: President, Vice President, Cultural Enrichment… Other positions will most likely be open as well.

Adjournment. Motion to adjourn at 8:05 by Megan Emrick, seconded by all.

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