Blog Posts

May minutes

5/11/2016

Call Meeting to Order – by EL 7:10pm
Introductions – attendance: Emily LeTourneau (EL), Tina Saunders, Allison Hill, Many Shonak, Chris Castonguay, Erin Grimes, Holly Martello, Heather Modzelewski, Stacey Brown, Kathy Hoague, Tina Suter, Clay Krevolin, Lisa Horan, Brittany Dwyer.
Secretary’s Report
1. Reading & Approval of Minutes – read & approved by Allison Hill, 2nd by Mandy Shonak
Treasurer’s Report
1. Review & Approval of Monthly Reports – attach report; reviewed & approved by Stacey Brown, 2nd Allison Hill.
  1. New report presented by Chris Castonguay; will do recap ½ through school year and end of school year. “Somers PTO Budget Analysis”.
  2. Budget for next year will be reviewed with outgoing and incoming President(s). Will then bring to all members for approval.
2. Field trip assistance form – possibly for next year
3. Surplus year – idea from Emily L to use the surplus from this year to fund 16/17; then funds from 16/17 to fund 17/18..so on and so forth so that President’s/ Principals can plan in August in terms of available funds for the school year.
4. Chris mentioned that these past few years have been the first years in a long time with a positive budget. Thanks to those who fundraise and to all committee chairs that help keep costs low.
Elections
1. Nominations:
  1. Co-Presidents: Mandy Shonak & Erin Grimes; voted/ approved by All.
  2. Co-Vice Presidents: Tina Suter & Tina Saunders (Tina & Tina stated that they did not have time to take a board position next year and did not want to be included in the election) or Heather Modzelewski & Stacey Brown; voted/ approved by All.
  3. Treasurer: Chris Castonguay; voted; approved by All.
  4. Co-Secretaries: Jen Hale & Pat Clark (Pat for the 1st ½ of the year only); voted/ approved by All.
  5. Any additional nominations from the floor? – N/A
  6. Voting – all approved.
Committee Reports
1. New Business
  1. Town Budget passed yesterday per Clary Krevolin – wonderful that all that work has been done. Support from the community is great, a lot of a less painful process than prior school districts. Very small voter turnout. Per Lisa Horn/ severe cuts back in 2009 and one teacher per grade were lost. Citizens for Somers Educational Excellence formed after that and have been spreading the word since. Much education went into getting it to the point that it is in now.
2. Events/ Programs (upcoming)
  1. Book Fair – BOGO only at SES– next week; Allison sending up sign up for volunteers to help. Need volunteers during the day. Starts Wednesday; Chris to provide cash boxes.
  2. Carnival – Erin Grimes praying for no rain/ most of the vendors cannot come 5/21. Friday 5/20 5:30 – 8:00. Need more middle school teachers for dunk tank volunteers. Emily will help with Erin on sign up genius.
  3. Field Day lunch – Brittany Dwyer will change slightly. Less hot dogs, popcorn only – Smartfood, more watermelon, ice pops are in the freezer. Need additional volunteers ; have 7 now; need 10. Brittany will get the word out.
3. Cultural Enrichment – new committee chair: Christina Krzywicki
4. Fundraising
  1. Field Day t-shirts – late this year, trying to gather all the orders. Can we do this earlier this year? All orders need to be in by Friday. Lots going on, very hectic! We need to change approach next year. Thank you Brittany!!!
General Discussion
1. Thank you’s from teacher appreciation weeks. – Thanks to the teacher luncheon and teacher appreciation committees. Thank you to Erin Grimes & Tina Saunders for all that they did.
  1. Donations from Hallmark were much appreciated. – Thank you Erin, Stacey & Linda Ford!
2. E-mails (Emily took the time to add to the agenda so that everyone could share in the appreciation): - many appreciated Tina for her efforts.

Please be sure to thank everyone for all the efforts that went into Teacher Appreciation week and tokens of appreciation all week that were shown by students and parents to our teachers, paraprofessionals and tutors. In addition, please thank all those who helped with the luncheon. It was greatly appreciated by all who partook in the delicious food. Best – Jennifer Oliver

On behalf of our Sixth Grade Team, and my colleagues here at MBA, I'd like to thank the PTO for your beautiful and unexpected gift bag. Teachers are abuzz with the thought of delivered supplies to our boxes! Thank you again - Mr. M~

I wanted to thank the PTO for the wonderful lunch that was put together for the teachers at MBA. There was a lot of thought and effort and time put into this lunch from the decorations to the food as well as the homemade desserts. Everything was outstanding! Please send my thoughts to all of the parents that worked so hard to prepare this beautiful lunch, it was appreciated by all. Thank you again, Sue Koulisis, art teacher-MBA

Hello - I just wanted to send a quick thanks for putting together a great lunch yesterday. It was a nice treat! John Gieras!

Thank you so much for the amazing lunch spread you put together! Teacher's morale makes a tremendous difference on student learning. The positive and supportive environment here is to be treasured! And the food was tremendous too. – Marika Kraus

Thank you so much to all the ladies for the amazing lunch yesterday! There was so much we had leftovers today! So yummy, Christine Hillebrech

On behalf of my fellow colleagues I would like to extend a sincere thank you for the PTO's show of appreciation for teachers this afternoon. The delicious spread of savory dishes and mouth-watering desserts were simply sublime. I personally am about to mow my lawn (push mower) twice just to fit into my new suit for my daughter's wedding. As for your support for Stargirl, the show is only days away and I know we couldn't have done it without the PTO's generous donation and support at a recent SEF meeting. Thank you for all that you do! Best - Mark Maciolek

1. Questions/ Suggestions
  1. Facebook – Emily updated Editors and Admins to those Board members and committee chairs who had requested access.
  2. Teacher luncheon – Tina Saunders will not be volunteering next year/ need new committee chair. Tina also stated there was confusion over the budget. Tina thought the budget was $1500, but stated that Emily confirmed at a “late date” that it was $700. Tina asked about the budget at the last PTO meeting, and the information was not available so Emily confirmed 2 days later via e-mail. Emily noted for future reference the budget is always approved early in the year. Chris C’s new report should help to keep all committee chairs on track. Tina was able to stay within the $700 budget with food and monetary donations. Tina noted her concerns about keep the lunch and making it great for all SES & MBA teachers…all in attendance could not agree more.
  3. Committee Chairs – all committee chairs should be contacted and confirmed that they will be committing for 16/17 school year. Brittany Dwyer, Emily LeTourneau & Caitlin Cooke will be chairing fundraisers.
  4. Used stuffed animals being collected – collecting in the SES main office.
2. Next Meeting Date – June 8th? – confirmed.
Adjournment – Stacy Brown, all adjourned.

Respectfully submitted by Emily LeTourneau

april minutes

4/13/2016

Meeting called to order by Emily Letourneau at 6:05.
Introductions: Rob Kapner (MBA asst. principal), Jennifer Oliver (SES principal), Emily LeTourneau (president), Chris Castonguay (treasurer), Holly Martello, Erin Grimes, Mandy Shonak, Stacey Brown, Tina Saunders, Brittney Dwyer, Jennifer Hale (co-secretary) Pat Clark (co-secretary)
Secretary’s Report
1. Questions/ Approval of Minutes (found on www.somerspto.org) Motion to approve by Mandy, seconded by Holly.
Treasurer’s Report
1. Review & Approval of Monthly Reports—submitted by Chris Castonguay. Motion to approve by Erin, seconded by Holly.
Committee Reports
1. Funding request: A request was made by 5th grade teachers for monies to help defray the cost of the trip to Plimoth Plantation. Transportation costs have risen dramatically. $650 is requested ($6.50/student). Motion to approve: Emily. Seconded by Holly. Unanimously approved.
2. Funding request: Rob requested funding for upcoming MBA events: Fieldtrips for each grade level, $500 per grade level. Motion to approve: Tina, seconded by Holly. Unanimously approved.
3. Book Fair: Extremely successful, raising $6,731.29.
4. Cultural Enrichment: Jacqueline Davies, author of The Lemonade War series presented to K-6 students on 4/6. Her 4 presentations were very well received by students and staff. Comments from staff are attached.
5. T’shirts: report by Jennifer Hale: Spartan, field day, 5th grade. ($10 per shirt, with $5 profit for the PTO)
6. Carnival: Report by Erin Grimes: Fri. 5/20, raindate Sat., 5/21 5:30-8. Dunk tank will be borrowed from high school. Middle school teachers will be included this year. Volunteers from SES: Barb Anderson, Becky Leiphart, Jessica Sharpe, Colleen Meier, Tenley Stoltz, Andy Phillips, Mike Clarity, Kristin Baber, Stephanie Toney, Mike McDonnell, Joe Tarpinian. Manning the dunk tank: Dina Senecal, Jennifer Oliver. Cheerleaders: Lori Polis, Pat Clark. MBA Volunteers: Amy Avery, Rob Kapner. Several sponsorships have been received. Big Y is donating hot dogs and buns. Hallmark donated plush animals to give. Children’s librarian, Marie, and the fire department are manning a table. “Once Upon a Fairy Tale” characters will be here. Kara Walters will sponsor an activity—face painting. Two clowns will be performing. Middle/High school students will be asked to assist, although it is Prom night!
7. Teacher appreciation luncheon: 5/4 (SES), 5/10 (MBA) Tina Saunders is chairing this. “Cold” luncheon this year, donations for dessert. Suggestion will be made for students to participate in this teacher recognition week.
General Discussion
1. Review committee open positions - Nominations for Co-President: Mandy Shonak and Erin Grimes. Vice President: Tina Suter and Tina Saunders Co-secretary: Jennifer Hale/Pat Clark Cultural Enrichment: Jennifer Oliver and Dina Senecal will handle this for SES. Pat Clark will handle authors. Fundraising: Brittney Dwyer, Emily LeTourneau. Voting will be at next meeting.
2. Questions/ Suggestions: none
3. Next Meeting Date – 5/11/16 at SES, 7 PM
Motion to adjourn at 7:05 by Emily. Seconded by Tina.

                           Respectfully submitted by Pat Clark
                           4/13/16

March minutes

3/9/2016

Meeting called to order by Emily Letourneau at 7:07.
Introductions: Rob Kapner (MBA asst. principal), Clay Krevolin (MBA principal), Stacey Brown, Mandy Shonak, Brittany Dwyer, Tina Suter, Caitlin Cooke, Emily LeTourneau (PTO President), Jennifer Hale (PTO co-secretary), Tina Saunders, Erin Grimes, Mark Maciolek, Chris Castonguay (PTO Treasurer), Pat Clark (SES Media Specialist, PTO co-secretary)
Secretary’s Report
1. Questions/ Approval of Minutes (found on www.somerspto.org) Motion to approve by Tina Suter, seconded by Brittany.
Treasurer’s Report
1. Review & Approval of Monthly Reports—submitted by Chris Castonguay. Motion to approve by Jennifer, seconded by Tina Saunders.
Committee Reports
1. New Business: None
2. Events/ Programs (upcoming): Rob Kapner discussed an upcoming event: Bill Corbett: “Raising Capable and Independent Kids” will be presenting to staff at 4/5 staff meetings and again to parents on 4/6 in the evening. Babysitting will be provided by the high school Honor Society. Donations of canned goods for the food pantry will be collected.
3. Clay requested funding for upcoming MBA events: ice cream social during the day (last 2 periods of the day) for 6th graders--$300, plus volunteers?? Unanimously agreed to fund. Emily will create a sign-up genius asking for volunteers to help serve. Also asking for parent chaperones for the 7th and 8th grade dance… He will also be looking for funding for upcoming field trips.
4. Book Fair: Tina Saunders reported. Classroom teachers only will be getting a $30 voucher. Chris will provide a cash box. Stacey will be doing a raffle during conferences. She will be looking for volunteers to help man the table. Wed./Fri. afternoon and Thursday evening.
5. Cultural Enrichment: Jacqueline Davies, author of The Lemonade War series will be presenting to K-6 students on 4/6. Book pre-order forms have been sent home and are due on 3/11.
6. Field Day: June 3rd. Possibility of t’shirts?
7. Carnival: Report by Erin Grimes: Fri. 5/20, raindate Sat., 5/21 5:30-8. Dunk tank will be borrowed from high school. Middle school teachers will be included this year. Perhaps this year, vendors could come in to sell food or maybe the food service students from the high school? Utilize community and high schoolers to man events
General Discussion
1. Mark Maciolek presented an iMovie about his upcoming MBA plays, “Stargirl” and “A Pirates Life For Me”. He would love to have some funding for the drama program. It is a cultural enrichment opportunity for our students, as well as a learning experience for all of the students involved. Over 85 students participate. Suggestion was made to fund $500 for this year. Unanimous approval.
2. Review committee open positions - need volunteers for President/ Vice President/ Cultural Enrichment, Spring Carnival. Nominations/voting will be at next meeting.
3. Questions/ Suggestions: none
4. Next Meeting Date - 4/13/16 at SES, 7 PM
Motion to adjourn at 8:25 by Emily. Seconded by Brittany.

                           Respectfully submitted by Pat Clark
                           3/10/16

1. Meeting Called to order: by Emily LeTourneau at 7:11.

2. Introductions: Emily LeTourneau (president), Jennifer Oliver (co-principal), Allison Hill, Tina Suter, Caitlin Cooke, Naomi Paxton, Chris Castonguay (treasurer), Brittany Dwyer, Janelle Bohonowicz, Rob Kapner (asst. principal)

3. Secretary’s Report
   a. Questions/Approval of Minutes: Minutes on website… we are going paperless!! Move to approve by Brittany, seconded by Allison.

4. Treasurer’s Report
   a. Review & Approval of Monthly Reports: by Chris: We are doing very well with our fundraising efforts. Profits to date:
Taste Books: $1,200
Gift Cards: $919.00
UCONN/Disney: $949.50
SES Book Fair: $802.00
Box Tops: $2,315

Move to approve by Allison, seconded by Tina.

5. Committee Reports
   a. New Business: None
   b. Events/Programs (upcoming): Book Fair is all set. Gayle DeBortoli Grant will be coming up.
   c. Cultural Enrichment: Teresa Pelham, author and dog rescuer visited all students at SES on 1/12. Very well received.
   d. Fundraising
       1. Spring Raffle: During parent conferences—Stacey Brown.
       2. Carnival: Erin Grimes will be asked if she wants to chair this…
       3. IXL Tickets: Hockey/Disney/UCONN: report by Brittany. Response has been positive. Discussion of doing Circus (NO!), Gymnastics (NO!), Cirque de Soleil (YES!) in June also.

6. General Discussion
   a. Review committee open positions:
President, Vice President, Cultural Enrichment… and many others! Nominations will be made in April, voting in May.
   b. Questions/Suggestions: Becky will check with Joe Tarpinian about scheduling Field Day, so that the committee (chaired by Brittany and Caitlin, supported by Geissler’s) can get started.
   c. Next Meeting Date: 2/10 at SES.

7. Adjournment: Motion to adjourn by Janelle at 7:50, seconded by Becky.

               Respectfully submitted by Pat Clark.

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

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