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December
19, 2011
Dr.
Cathie Allain, Donna Kelly, Mara Murphy, and Nancy Sweener were present.
Minutes
of November 21, 2011 were submitted by Mara Murphy
Treasurer’s
Report: Nancy Sweener reported that we now have
$2,496.62 on hand. She deposited $114.50 from the snack cart and convinced
Bank of America to waive fees. Jen reported that she has $126.00 to deposit
from the band concert bake sale. Cupcakes were well received.
President’s
Report: Mara relayed Jen’s notes: Thank you to Donna Kelly for calling the
volunteers and thank you to the volunteers for baking or sending in soda.
Jen
noted that we could use more volunteers for the snack cart. Dr. Allain notes that she is going to propose that students
who need community service hours for Government class be asked to volunteer;
she will look into this possibility after the Christmas break.
Principal’s
Report:
Dr. Allain noted that the bond vote had passed.
On
Dec 21, the high school will be hosting a cookies and cocoa get-together for
graduates. Invitations were sent to the last 4 graduating classes. The alumni
will also be surveyed about information they would like to pass on to current
students.
Midterms
will be required this year in all classes in grades 6-12. They will be given
during Regents week, the week of Jan 24. This is part of the district’s plan
to create a method for teacher accountability. End of term finals will also
be required, even if the course requires a Regents exam.
PBIS
(Positive behavior intervention strategies) is now in its second year. This
year, the goal is to create effective classroom management strategies. Over
1000 tickets have been handed out so far. All PBIS tickets turned in, even
those pulled for weekly prizes, will be included in the final grand drawing.
The
next PTO meeting will be Monday, January 23 at 6:30 pm in the high school art
room.
Note:
this meeting is not on the BCSD school calendar.
Submitted
by Mara Murphy
Minutes
of Berlin Middle School-High School PTO
November 21, 2011
Dr. Cathie Allain, Jason Breh, Jen Burhans, Donna Kelly,
Mara Murphy, Nancy Sweener, and Dr. Stephen Young
were present.
Dr Young gave a presentation on his vision
of BCSD as a 21st Century Learning Community. He began by discussing the
guiding principles of high-achieving districts. He went on to discuss the
2011 BCSD achievement results, 21st Century teaching and learning, his ideas
on improving achievement in BCSD, and his belief that we are all in this
together.
Dr. Young segued into a presentation on the
Facilities Renovation proposal by reminding us that one of the guiding
principles of high achieving districts is having infrastructure that supports
learning. The Facilities Renovation proposal aims to maintain the existing
buildings and address major deficiencies identified in the Building
Conditions Survey without raising the tax levy. It will be funded by $1.8
million from the existing Capital Reserve Fund and $5.1 million in State
Building Aid. There will be a public hearing on the Capital Improvement
Referendum on Dec 5 at 8:30 pm, in the MS/HS auditorium. This will follow the
7 pm town meeting with Superintendent Young in the auditorium. The vote will
be held December 13 from noon to 9 pm at BES.
You can view the thought provoking 21st Century
presentation and see details about the facilities renovation proposal at
http://www.berlincentral.org/superletter.pdf
Treasurer’s Report: Nancy Sweener
reported that we now have $2,382.02 on hand. Our receipts included $278 in
snack cart sales, $150 in Fall Fest cookie sales, and a $20 donation. The
report was accepted as moved by Donna and seconded by Jen.
President’s Report: Jen Burhans
would like to acknowledge donations of food to the snack cart by Karen Day, Cindi Krumenacker and Maureen Seel; and donations of time by Biffy Cahill, Sherri Kellar-Willis, Mara Murphy, and Pam DeShane.
Jen expressed concern about the availability of volunteers going forward. Since
we are well stocked, Mara would like to continue at least to the end of the
week.
Jen also thanked the Hover family for their
donation. She suggested we try mailing a PTO volunteer sheet in the next
school mailing.
The band concert will be December 14th. Donna Kelly
will call volunteers for refreshments to sell.
There will be no pizza sales this year; no one
volunteered to sell the pizzas.
The next PTO meeting will be Monday, December 19 at
6:30 pm in the high school art room.
Submitted by Mara Murphy
Minutes of Berlin Middle High School
Meeting
September 19, 2011
Jen Burhans, Biffy Cahill, Karen
Day, Mara Murphy and Nancy Sweener were present.
Minutes of June
6, 2011 were accepted.
Treasurer’s Report:
SC Riddering brought in the treasurer’s information
for the new treasurer. The current balance is $1946.28. SC pointed out that
Bank of America is now charging $3 for each check image, a service we can
decline.
Old Business:
School Toolbox:
We did not participate this year. Several were leftover last year; 2 were
sold this fall.
Principal’s Report:
Dr. Allain was unable to attend, but sent
information about the kick-off assembly on Sept 30 for PBIS (Positive
Behavioral Interventions and Supports). TRACS is sponsoring trick bicyclists
for the assemblies. Youth to Youth is providing refreshments for the evening
assembly. Dr. Allain asked if the PTO could provide
refreshments for students during the school assembly. Jen suggests popcorn
and a drink for each student (429 students). Mara motions/Biffy seconds to
provide snack and drink at assembly. Karen will try to locate popcorn
machine; others will ask Price Chopper to donate paper cups.
New Business
Superintendent Stephen
Young stopped in briefly to introduce himself and expressed interest in
attending a meeting. We’ll send an
invitation to the next meeting.
Snack Cart:
Biffy has prepared a shopping guide for the snack cart, with the maximum
price we can pay for items and still make some profit at the prices we sell
for. Because of the high purchase price, Vitamin Water price is raised to
$1.50. Sales have been good at the
cart, but we have not been able to deposit any funds since we keep spending
on restocking.
Sherri Kellar-Willis and Wendy
Sheehy are helping to staff the cart, and Cindi Krumenacker has been donating homemade granola bars.
Fall Fest will
be Sat, October 15. Jen will ask Donna Kelly to contact volunteers to donate
cookies. We think the pricing was $3 for a dozen; $5 for 2 dozen. Donna
helped SC run the cookie sale last year; Jen will ask if she is available to
staff the sale this year. Need plates and plastic bags.
Volunteer sheets
can be handed out at Open House on this Wed 9/21, and sent home with interim
reports. Monica offered to type up a revision.
The following slate
of officers was approved: President-Jen Burhans;
Vice President-open; Treasurer-Nancy Sweener;
Secretary-Mara Murphy.
Next meeting: Monday, October 17, 2011.
Submitted
by Mara Murphy
Minutes of Berlin Middle
School-High School PTO
April 25, 2011
Jennifer Burhans, Mara Murphy,
and SC Riddering were present.
Treasurer’s Report:
SC Riddering reports that there is $2364.82 in the
account. The insurance bill of $472.00 is due. $89 from the snack cart needs
to be deposited.
SC notes that there is still a check from the Tools for
School kits that we have not been able to cash. Jennifer will look into this.
There are 3 kits that were never sold.
New Business:
PTO Scholarship-
Jen asks Mara to forward scholarship application to Guidance. Due date should
be before the May meeting on May 23. Jen will invite other parents to attend
the meeting to help award the scholarships.
Band Concert-
there will be an intermission; PTO can sell refreshments.
Chorus Concert-
will be short, no intermission.
Old Business
Snack Cart-
Biffy is willing to help with running the snack cart. She has been putting
TRACS sponsored stickers that are anti-drug, -alcohol, and -tobacco on the
snacks.
President’s Report:
The PTO will need a new treasurer next year since SC
will be graduating. Jen has been trying to recruit a new treasurer.
Next
meeting: Monday, May 23, 6:30 pm in high school art room.
Submitted by Mara Murphy
March 21, 2011
Cathie Allain, Jen Burhans, and Mara Murphy were present.
Correction to 2/14/2011 minutes: the next meeting is on
March 21, not March 14.
Treasurer’s Report: none available. Insurance bill will be
due soon. Remind SC to write check for donation to Christmas craft project.
($35 as approved on 11/15/10).
President’s Report:
Jen Burhans reports that
Jennifer Morris and Lauren Nichols would like to speak at the next PTO
meeting about co-teaching. Jen Burhans asks that
Mara send the PTO scholarship forms to guidance. The return date should be
before the May 23 meeting.
Principal’s Report:
Dr. Allain reports that the Lion
King trip went well. The Drama Club production of Grease was well received
and well-attended by a good cross-section of the community.
Old Business:
School Toolbox: will not be offered this summer for Fall
2011.
Snack Cart: was on a week’s hiatus after February break,
but is now open on a regular basis, when volunteers are available.
New Business:
Dr. Howard stopped in to encourage parents to attend Board
meetings. Due to cuts in state funding, the budget will be difficult to put
together, and will involve difficult choices.
Next meeting: Monday, April 25 at 6:30 pm in the high
school art room.
February 14, 2011
Cathie Allain, Jen Burhans, Sandy
Honsinger, and Mara Murphy were present.
Treasurer’s
Report: $2682.83 in account. Deposits included $157 from the snack cart
sales, $135 from sales at the band concert (in December) and $159.75 in pizza
sales.
Guest speaker Sandy
Honsinger, physical education director, explained that in 2008, Charlotte Gregory and Eileen Lefler submitted a grant in partnership with Troy City
School. The schools
partnered because they have a similar profile in income qualification. The
schools received a three-year grant from the Carol M. White Physical
Education Program
The grant
has been used for professional development, and for equipment and supplies
for physical education classes. Phys ed was targeted rather than sports, because all students
participate in gym class.
During
the first year, the grant funded professional development. Teachers learned
to emphasize movement and activity rather than sport skills. Students fill
out activity survey four times during the year, to assess amount of time they
are active. We have seen an increase in the minutes active in gym class, from
18-20 to 20-24. Unfortunately, many students record little activity outside
of gym class.
Equipment was also
updated during the first year. For example, good quality cross country skis,
snowshoes, badminton racquets were purchased. Better equipment has raised
level of play.
During
the second year, a wellness center has been installed at the Middle High School. A climbing wall will be
installed at both schools over February break. The wellness center is filled
with equipment for individual use, such as treadmills, weight benches, etc.
It has started to be available after school for student use. Currently the
room is available to students Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 4 pm, and to staff
on Mondays and Wednesdays. The goal is to be open to students 4 days a week
and to community members from 4 to 6 pm; qualified staff must be available to
supervise.
Four
classrooms have also been wired with direct TV hookup to serve as locations
for exercise programs. We have purchased DVDs with fitness programs such as
yoga, zumba, P 90X.
This
spring, hope to bring in a speaker on “Feeding Your Athlete”.
Next
year, the third year, the plan is to purchase playground equipment for Berlin Elementary School, with a budget of
approximately of $50,000. The goal is to find equipment that is fun and
develops upper body and core strength, a weakness in school population. Sandy will also develop
the education component regarding wellness and nutrition, and educate
students on how to use the weight room. Sandy
notes there is information on the Fitness
Center on the school
website, berlincentral.org, click on high school.
President’ Report:
Jen is pleased with fund raising success. 7 families participated in the
pizza sale. The PTO would like to be able to help the principals in their
efforts to recognize academic achievement; Jen suggests Stewart’s community
grants as a possible source of funding.
Next meeting: Monday, March 14 at 6:30 pm in the high
school art room.
Note for agenda:
School Toolbox program to be continued?
December
Minutes:
Minutes of Berlin Middle
School-High School PTO
December 20,
2010
Cathie Allain, Jen Burhans, Darci Love, and Mara Murphy were present.
Treasurer’s
Report: Jennifer
reports that the burrito dinner cleared about $195 on the night of the Chorus
concert and an additional $175 the following day, when Karen Day prepared
burritos for staff members. Many parents donated food to make the dinner
possible. Thanks to Karen Day for her cooking talents and to Michelle Baldwin
for the use of her room.
Secretary’s
Report: Mara Murphy
submitted the minutes for 11/15/2010.
Principal’s
Report: Cathie Allain discussed the unsettled atmosphere in the school
in the days after the death of Tony Hindes in a
motor vehicle accident. On Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 15, a semi-lockdown was
put in place as a result of high emotions. Students were kept in the same
classroom for 8th and 9th periods, and hall access was
limited.
President’s
Report:
- Band concert was rescheduled for Wednesday, Dec 22 at 7:30 pm.
Donna Kelly has contacted parents for baked good donations for
intermission sales.
- We will be doing a Joe Corbi’s frozen
pizza sale. The delivery is timed to be pre-Super Bowl, at a home
basketball game. We’ll need parent volunteers to hand out flyers at
sports games. The proceeds are earmarked for the sound system in the
gym.
- After-school snack cart does a moderate amount of business. Jen
estimates we make between $15 and $20 per week. We’d like to have more
volunteers to staff the cart. One suggestion is to ask Art Schmich to include a request in his sport schedule
emails.
- Sandy Honsinger is interested in presenting information at the
next PTO meeting about the Healthy Schools grant. Traditionally, there’s
no January meeting, so Feb 14 will be the next meeting. We hopes parents will be interested in attending to find
out about changes in the Phys Ed program.
Next Meeting:
Monday, February 14, 2011
6:30 pm in High School
Art Room
Guest
speaker: Sandy Honsinger
November
15, 2010
Cathie
Allain, Kathy Burdick, Jen Burhans,
Karen Day, Mara Murphy, and SC Riddering were
present.
Treasurer’s
Report: SC
Riddering reported that we currently have $1361.43
and noted that in order to have no-fee checking we need to maintain a balance
of $1,000. There are 2 returned checks totaling $168, which we still hope to
collect. Jen will send a letter.
Secretary’s
Report:
The minutes for 10/19/10 were submitted by Mara Murphy, and approved, as
motioned by Cathie Allain and seconded by Kathy
Burdick.
Principal’s
Report:
Cathie Allain was very pleased by the Veteran’s Day
Assembly. Local veterans were invited. Program included reciting the Pledge
of Allegiance, the Band performing The Star Spangled Banner, and Chorus and
audience singing America.
Veterans were introduced individually, to much
applause. Audience members noted family and friends who had served or were
serving. A video "What does Veteran’s Day Mean to You" was shown. This video was made by the "Supertroopers", a group of 10th and 11th
grade history students, with the help of Mr. Gould.
After
the assembly, the veterans were served refreshments by Mrs. Mosher’s catering
class. The front hall was decorated with flag artwork created by Ms Noles and Ms Hassel’s art classes. The veterans were very
appreciative of all the students’ efforts.
Jen
comments that the Band would have liked to march in the Stephentown Veterans’
Day parade. She also complimented the small middle school ineligible list.
President’s
Report:
Jen is receiving flyers for the pizza sale. She will chose a home game in late January to distribute the
pre-paid ordered pizzas. She’ll ask for sample pizzas so that we can offer
bite size samples at a home game while offering order sheets.
Chorus
Concert burritos:
Donna Kelly called for donations and said everyone was willing to help out.
Monica made flyers and posters. Karen Day has volunteered to prepare burritos;
Deb and SC will help with preparation, and Jen will have several volunteers
to serve. Suggest using art room to serve and also for seating.
Snack
cart: Darci Love, Biffy Cahill and Maureen Seel
have volunteered to help.
New
business:
Anne Lazarony requested assistance for funding an
after school art project with 20 middle-schoolers.
She expected materials would be about $100. A donation of $35 was approved,
as moved by C. Allain.
Friday
Dress-down day was mentioned as a possible fund raiser for after school
activities.
Next
meeting: Monday, December 20, 6:30 pm in High School Art Room
Minutes
of Berlin
Middle School-High School PTO
October
19, 2010
Jen Burhans, SC Riddering, Cathie Allain, Kathy Burdick, Darci
Love, Mara Murphy were in attendance.
Treasurer’s
Report:
The current balance $1477.08, as SC Riddering
explains:
$2188.10 September 20 balance
-991.02 payment to Tools for Schools*
-70.00 donation to Board Appreciation
baskets
+165.00 Cookie Sale at Fall Festival
+100.00 Tools for Schools payment
+ 85.00 Donations
$1477.08 * we still have 3 unsold kits that we have paid for; and are waiting
to collect $62 for a pre-sold kit
Secretary’s
Report:
The minutes for 9/20/10 were submitted by Mara Murphy, and accepted as
motioned by Darci Love.
Principal’s
Report:
Cathie Allain reports:
- Fall Fest seemed to go well. Jason Breh attended in the morning Cathie in the
afternoon.
- Drug Awareness Meeting and Dinner canceled
as there were no RSVPs. Cathie speculated that parents do not perceive
the problem which has been indicated by student surveys. After the 2008
survey indicated that Berlin
had the highest rate of alcohol and drug use in Rens
Co, Margaret Brennan (Community Prevention Coordinator at Rens. Co) suggested a community-based program to
address the problem. The TRAC (Together Reducing Alcohol and Drugs in
our Communities) committee was formed. A 2 year grant was obtained; one
activity funded was the presentation of Athletic Code of Conduct to
students and parents.
- Dawn Wetmore, Technology teacher,
obtained a prestigious grant from MIT to have a team of students develop
and build a project. Their project involves designing for the deaf.
- Matt Christian, Science teacher,
received a grant for his Marine Biology class.
Old
Business
Speakers
in Gym:
Jen proposes a committee to contact Art Schmich
& Cyril Grant and research what is needed to have a good sound system in
the gym, estimate costs and determine what funding is available, specifically
regarding the $2433.70 donated by Class of 2009. Cathie Allain
and Darci Love volunteer, and will report findings
in Nov.
New
Business
Brunswick
PTA
inquired if we could contribute $2,000 to cost of motivational speaker. Jen
said we were not able to contribute.
Fundraisers
Mr.
Sock:
Dianne Mosher passed on information on sock fundraiser. Pack of 3 short socks
sold for $10, 3 long socks for $12. PTO keeps 50%, minimum order of 100. No
decision reached on participation.
Chorus
Concert Burritos:
Jen proposes selling Chipotle Grill-style burritos prior to Chorus Concert on
November 17. Karen Day agreed to assist. Would need several volunteers
and donations of ingredients (hamburg meat, black beans,
rice, cases of water. Agree to try this. Need to establish time of concert
and whether performers can eat prior; then can send flyer home with chorus
students. Suggested price: $5.
Snacks for Away Games/ After School:
Provide healthy snacks after school, especially for athletes with away games.
Suggested snacks: granola bars, juice boxes, cheese & crackers, cheese
sticks, dry cereal, dried fruit, fresh fruit. Inquire if storage is available
in girls’ locker room.
Propose
a 2 week trial beginning November 8. Need volunteers to shop
and to staff snack cart from approximately 2:00 to 3:15. (Darci
and Mara are willing to help staff cart)
Next
Meeting: Monday, November 15 at 6:30 in High School
Art Room
Submitted
by Mara Murphy
Minutes of Berlin Middle School – High School PTO
September 20, 2010
Jen Burhans, Biffy Cahill,
Cathie Allain, Monica Shupe,
Kimberly French, Sherri Kellar-Willis, Darci Love, Kathy Burdick, Mara Murphy, SC Riddering were in attendance.
Treasurer’s Report:
SC Riddering reports there is $2188.10 in account.
She notes we receive free checking only if we keep $1000.00 minimum balance.
Bill from School Toolbox for $991 does not match Toolbox deposit of $650,
even after 3 unsold boxes ($129) are added in. Monica will research
discrepancy. Last spring, $150 was used for Teacher Appreciation, organized
by Cathie Allain. SC notes we will have an
insurance bill of $472 in the spring and scholarships to fund, so fundraising
will be necessary.
Principal’s Report: Cathie Allain
thanks all attending. Although few teachers are able to attend regularly,
Cathie is willing to act as liaison if needed. She complimented students and
staff, saying it had been a great start to the year.
·
Open House is this Wednesday, it’s set up
differently this year as outlined in letter home. Departments have prepared
brochures with overview of their courses.
·
Building on Character Ed program started last
year, will be introducing PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Support);
some staff are being trained.
·
In effort to encourage more fun school
activities, planning events such as Minute to Win It Night, Gleeful
Celebration (March). Several dances are planned.
·
Monthly assemblies will be held during rotating
periods. In November, will be honoring vets.
·
Fall Fest on Sat, October 16, from 10 to 3.
There will also be a Drug Awareness Meeting and Ziti Dinner, 5-7 pm, with
activities for kids.
·
Distance Learning Lab is up and running this
year. Mr. Gould is teaching a class at Berlin
on WW I that is also being shared with 2 other
schools. Calculus, Sign Language, and Poetry are also offered. No minimum
enrollment of 10 required, unlike regular classes. Classroom funded by a
grant from former Senator Bruno.
President’s Report:
Jen warmly welcomed all present and passed out volunteer info sheets. These
have been sent home with 6th graders, Jen will also distribute at
Open House. Cathie Allain suggests including in
interim reports.
Donna Kelly is willing to call volunteers again this year.
Volunteers needed for Picture Day this Friday; Kimberly and Darcie volunteer.
Next will be cookies for the Fall Fest.
Jen gave out her phone number (658-2096) and email (burhans @taconic.net) if anyone had questions or comments.
Old Business
School Toolbox: Coordinator Monica Shupe
says there were 3 unsold boxes, emailed teachers to let them know of
availability.
New Business
Fundraisers:
Jen announced the Super Bowl Pizza fundraiser. Order forms
available for interested parents, students not expected to sell. Delivered in
January. PTO receives $5 per pizza.
Fall Fest Cookie Sale:
SC and Biffy will set up, may need additional volunteers to sell.
Band Concerts: Bake Sales during intermissions. Jen
suggests pre-concert sales of food such as burritos, if we could enlist
assistance of Karen Day, as a possibility for band and chorus concerts.
New Ideas:
·
Snack cart for students staying for after
school activities.
·
Pizza for Friday home games. (Senior class is
assigned game concessions, need to consult senior advisor Dianne Mosher on
availability of uncovered games)
·
Auction of donated good and services,
donations could be by parents or businesses.
·
Cathie Allain suggests
Gleeful Celebration in March as a possible venue for auction or dinner since
judges will need time to deliberate.
·
Fund raising at games since this is intended
audience for new sound system.
All agreed it would be helpful to have a specific goal for
fundraising. The sound system in the gym was mentioned again, although the
2009 Senior Class donated funds toward it. Cathie Allain
will investigate if any work has been done.
Band and Chorus would like to purchase uniforms, but that
is a long-term goal since uniforms are costly. The band marched for the first
time this year in the Memorial Day parade in Berlin and again in the Fourth of July
parade, and was very well received.
Dates to Note:
September 21, Tuesday Board
of Education meeting, HS Library, 7:15 pm
September 22, Wednesday Open
House at Middle
School-High School
September 24, Friday Picture
Day
October 16, Saturday Fall
Festival, 10 am to 3 pm
October 18,
Monday MS-HS PTO
Meeting, HS Art
Room, 6:30 pm
.
Minutes of Berlin
Middle School-High School PTO
March 16, 2010
Cathie Allain,
Monica Shupe, Jen Burhans,
Mara Murphy, SC Riddering and Kathy Burdick were
present.
January minutes accepted as moved by
Monica/Cathie.
Treasurer’s Report: SC reports we
currently have $2122.82. Insurance bill of $472 is expected soon. PTO food
sale at Band concert made about $60. No intermission at Chorus.
School supply box: Monica is getting
quotes form 2 companies. If the supply list is in by end of April, give a 5%
incentive back to PTO. Monica will contact middle school teachers, offer it
to high school teachers. Kathy comments that the quality of the elementary
school supplies seemed better than middle school supplies. May request
sample. Orders need to be placed by end of school year.
Sports chair sale: 3 have been sold.
BES-PTO paid bill, MS-HS PTO is paying back as chairs sold.
Donna Kelly is calling for cookie
donations or water for All County Music Festival. Expect to sell from 11 am
Sat outside cafeteria to kids, then after 2 pm, move to area of ticket sales.
Music Dept is planning ziti for dinner Thursday, and hot dogs and hamburgers
for lunch on Saturday.
Ski Club: Sandy Honsinger expressed
interest. Phys Ed Dept has a health grant, may be able to fund buses for 2
years. Prefer buses to leave from school.
6th Grade After School
Activity: Jennifer asks if Running Club can be covered with PTO insurance.
Cathie Allain will check whether it needs Board
approval. Charlotte Gregory could pre-approve, but would need a written description
of the program.
PTO will be a sponsor of High School
Career Day with a $25 donation.
Minutes of Berlin Middle
School-High School PTO
January 19, 2010
Cathie Allain, Jen Burhans, Karen Day and Mara Murphy were in attendance.
Minutes of
11/17/09 available on berlincentral.org website.
President’s
Report: Jen reported that lots of
cookie donations were sent in for the band’s concert in December. She has
brought the sports chairs to 3 events but has not sold any yet. Jen will
contact Donna Kelly about calling parents for snack donations for the music
festival in March.
New Business:
Class of 2009
Donation
Class of 2009 Advisor Karen Day announced that the Class
of 2009 is donating its surplus funds. They have donated $2,433.70 to the
Berlin Athletic Association and have earmarked the funds for repair and/or
replacement of the sound system in the gymnasium. The PTO noted this generous
gift with appreciation, as the PTO has long wished to address the sound
system issue.
The Class of 2009 has also donated $500 to Matt
Christian’s marine biology class, which is trying to raise funds to purchase
a salt water “touch tank”.
Science
Presentation
Parents, teachers and board members were invited to the library
to view informational displays on science classes, grades 6-12. Many classes
are implementing project-based learning, and projects were on display. Mrs.
Walsh’s eighth grade project-based curriculum is the first in the state to
completely use this approach. Mr. Lawrence, Mrs. Vanderhoef,
Mrs. Walsh and Mr. Christian were on hand to answer any questions. Mr.
Christian had brought in a portable touch tank that was full of interesting
creatures that could be held. Last
year his class brought the tank to an education day at the Desmond in Albany.
School
Ski Club?
Jen opened discussion on whether it would be feasible for
the school to sponsor a ski club. There is currently a well-run ski club that
offers a ski program on Friday evenings at Jiminy Peak.
Jen thought it ran for 8 weeks. The advantage to school sponsorship would be
bus transportation and PTO insurance coverage. The cost of busing and the
cost of paying a school club advisor might need to be added to the cost of
the ski club. This cost would probably still be less than actually driving
one’s child to Jiminy every Friday. The school club would provide the
opportunity to ski to students whose parents cannot drive every Friday. The
school has had a ski club in the past; more research is needed to determine
if it is feasible now.
Next meeting: Tuesday, February 23 at 6 pm in the
High School Art Room
Minutes of November 17,
2009
Berlin Middle School-High School PTO
In
attendance: Jennifer Burhans, Dan Byron, Dennis Healy, Jean Kirsch, Mara Murphy,
SC Riddering
Corrections
to minutes of 10/20/09: The 8th
grade end-of-year ceremony is a Moving-Up, not graduation. Jean Kirsch is Ms.
Kirsch. SC Riddering moved to accept minutes as
corrected.
Treasurer’s Report: $2106.57 October
35.00 donations
from (5/09)
-$40.00 bus driver appreciation breakfast
(from 5/09)
_____.63_____________________________________________
$2102.20 November
Report
accepted, as moved by Mara Murphy
Jean
Kirsch and Dan Byron discussed the need for the music program to fundraise in
order to continue to develop the program. Ms. Kirsch spoke of the All-County
program: the school pays the fees and provides busing, but students are
responsible for the rest of the cost. The Chorus would like to go on a trip
this year; the last trip was 3 years ago. Dan Byron notes that he has had an
enthusiastic response from students about the idea of forming a marching
band. He is trying to create basic uniforms for approximately $50 per
student. If the band were actually a marching band, he would not have to
limit participation in parades to the number of students who can fit on the
trailer. In addition, they would like to be able to offer financial support
to students attending All-State.
The
Music department does sponsor several fundraisers with various success, such
as a Middle School Dance (about $200), Battle
of the Bands (broke even), marching in Berlin’s4th
of July Parade.
The
Music Department is willing to assume responsibility this year for the
concessions at the All County Festival to be held in Berlin March 25 & 27. Ms. Kirsch has a
detailed list of specific chores that volunteers can perform, and many band
& chorus parents will be in attendance. Chorus and Band will work
together and share any funds raised. (Tickets will be $5/$3 for
adults/students, but this revenue is kept by the county to cover their
costs.)
Traditionally,
the PTO runs the concessions as a PTO fundraiser, but the PTO agrees to cede
sponsorship of the All-County Music
Festival concessions to the Music Department for March 2010, as moved by
Mara, seconded and passed.
It
is agreed that the PTO will sell water and snacks to those waiting in line.
There was discussion about starting the line at the cafeteria or at the
entrance by Mrs. Mosher’s room.
No
refreshments will be sold at tomorrow’s concert: no
intermission.
Principal’s Report: Mr. Healy has been
reviewing student performance in relation to NYS expectations. The high
school is aiming for 90% proficiency, and is currently achieving that in
Spanish, US History, and Physics. Algebra was at 92%, it is now 82% when all
students enrolled in Algebra are included. Algebra is offered in classes that
vary in length, depending on students’ ability. In Geometry, there is a
proficiency rate of 84%
In the quarterly reports,
ineligibility rates have remained stable, maintaining the 33% decline
achieved last year. Attendance rates have been fairly stable, at 93-95%. This
is down a little from last year; one week it was at 24%, due to flu.
There have been more referrals
than last year, but for less serious infractions.
Department meetings have begun for
next year’s schedules.
New Business:
PTO purchased 30 folding sports chairs, sales at sectionals fell through,
looking for new venue to sell them. Shop on the Avenue is mentioned as a
possibility. PTO makes $5 on each chair sale.
NO
December Meeting. NEXT Meeting: Tuesday January 19, 6 pm in High School
Art Room.
Minutes of October
20, 2009
Berlin Middle School High School PTO
In attendance: Cathie Allain,
Kathy Burdick, Jennifer Burhans, Dennis Healy, Mara
Murphy, SC Riddering, Monica Shupe,
Christine Walsh
Minutes of
9/15/09 approved, as moved by Monica and seconded by Kathy.
Treasurer’s Report: $1708.53 September
90.00 donations
207.00 Fall
Fest cookie sale
39.04 School
Toolbox payment
62.00 spring
concert refreshment sales
$2106.57
$65.78 was used to subsidize purchase of school supplies
for needy students. SC Riddering noted that we will
have an insurance bill of at least $472, scholarship commitment of $300, and
need to maintain minimum balance of $1,000. This leaves approximately $300
discretionary funds. Report accepted, as moved by Mara and seconded by
Monica.
It was noted with appreciation that we have received $125
in donations from 6 families.
Principals’ Reports:
Cathie Allain reports that everything’s great. She is
working on promoting a more organized dismissal for the 4:15 bus. At times,
there are many unsupervised students in hall. Actual dismissal time, actual
departure time of bus, availability of cafeteria supervision may need to be
clarified with adults involved in after school activities.
Character ed. program is being considered for half days,
may ask PTO for support.
Dennis Healy
says that there were no incidents at the Battle of the Bands. It was perhaps less
well attended than last year, and there were lots of chaperones: teachers and parents.
New Business:
Christine Walsh,
8th grade team leader, spoke of her interest in encouraging
teacher participation in the PTO. Her idea, to have teachers take turns
attending, was warmly received. Other teachers that have expressed interest
in attending are Jason Breh, Matt Christian, and
Michelle Baldwin. She also wanted to
clarify the 8th grade team’s role in organizing the 8th
grade graduation. She will touch base in May to make sure there is a volunteer caller, and a list of parents to call.
PTO volunteers:
Add “volunteer for Picture Day” to volunteer sheet. Also, suggest parents can
submit email addresses as well as phone number. Kudos to Donna Kelly for
calling for Fall Fest cookies.
PTO email will
soon be available, expect address to be mshspto@berlincentral.org
Guidance is
sponsoring FAFSA night (in Feb?). Date may be on school website.
Chorus Concert
is November 18. Mr. Healy will check if Mrs. Kersch
is planning an intermission.
All-County Festival
will be at Berlin
this year, March 25 & 27. In the past, PTO has provided concessions for
this event, but Mrs. Kersch has expressed interest
in organizing the concessions. For this year’s event, PTO would consider
ceding control to the Music Department, but would like to talk with Mrs. Kersch and Mr. Byron about specifics. Jennifer will
invite them to the next meeting to present their ideas.
Other suggestions for fundraisers:
Concessions for
games other than varsity, which Senior Class currently cover. Mr. Healy
points out that all game concessions are granted to the senior class, but
will check with advisors and officers to see if they are interested in
sharing this year. Basketball game,
students, faculty, alumni, radio station (which one?). Difficult to organize,
but is a fun night for community in addition to fundraising.
September 15, 2009
Berlin Central Middle & High School PTO
Treasurer’s Report: SC Riddering reports that $1708.53 is currently in PTO
account. Expect to receive $104.82 from
Toolbox purchases, which will bring account to $1813.35. This is $300 less
than we began with last year.
PTO has closed its checking account because of
monthly fee ($6.50), but has a free savings account if $1000 minimum
maintained. We can write 3 checks per month.
President’s Report: Jen Burhans reports that
we’ve received 25 volunteer sheets, and a donation from one family in
response to letter sent out with schedules. She requests that a thank you be
sent. We’ll ask if we can send another request with a school mailing.
Old Business:
School Toolbox offering was well received. Monica placed additional orders.
She has received feedback for future improvements, such as better quality
zippers, different graphics on notebooks.
New Business
Volunteer
Coordinator: Donna Kelly has
offered to fill this position. Fall
Fest is soon, October 3, for PTO cookie sale. SC and Biffy will set up;
SC has gloves, paper plates, bags. Discuss pricing: $3.50 for dozen or $6 for
2 dozen.
Last year at Fall Fest, PTO made $240 on cookies and a
craft activity organized by Maureen Seel.
Vice President
position is open, if anyone is interested. Other officers are Jennifer Burhans, President; SC Riddering,
Treasurer; and Mara Murphy, Secretary.
Speakers for
PTO meetings: Jen welcomes suggestions. One possible topic is the new rules
for students involved in extra-curricular activities.
A PTO email will be set up, to facilitate communication.
In attendance:
Jennifer Burhans, Biffy Cahill, Mara Murphy, SC Riddering, Monica Shupe
Next meeting is
Tuesday, October 20 at 6pm in High
School Art Room.
June 16, 2009
Berlin Central
Middle & High School PTO
At the May meeting, the PTO
selected the recipients of its $100 scholarships:
Drama & Music: Ency Burhans
Sports: Christopher Zema
Community Service: Michael Stankus
Current officers agree to continue serving,
except Maureen Seel will be unable to continue as
Vice President. Jen checking account Burhans will continue as President, SC Riddering as Treasurer, and Mara Murphy as Secretary.
Jennifer and Monica will
put together a welcome letter to
send in the late summer mailing. We consider asking for email addresses from
anyone interested in receiving minutes or other information from the PTO. It
will include volunteer sheet and a request for donations.
8th Grade and 12th
Grade Graduations are coming up.
Donna Kelly will call for refreshments and for volunteers to help set up and
serve. Liz Miller has been organizing the graduation refreshment presentation
for years, we’ll contact her about this year.
Chorus Concert: Mrs. Kersch introduced intermission to
the spring program, and it seemed to go well. Fall concerts will also have
intermission. Next year, BCS will host NYSSMA program, refreshments may be
handled by the music program.
SC Riddering
reports that she will be closing the checking
account because of monthly fees. PTO will have a savings account; a
limited number of checks can be written each month.
In attendance:
Kathy Burdick, Jennifer Burhans, Donna Kelly, Mara
Murphy, Maureen Seel
Next meeting:
September 2009
March 17, 2009
Berlin MS-HS PTO
In attendance: Jennifer Burhans,
Dennis Healy, Mara Murphy, SC Riddering, Monica Shupe
Treasurer’s Report: $1318.10 in checking, $1034.44
in savings, for a total of $2,352.54. Deposits of $236.00, not including the
$46.23 donation that Cathie Allain received from
Target for an Honors recognition.
President’s Report: Jennifer recommends that we
send scholarship forms to the Guidance office, and consult with them as to an
appropriate due date.
Principal’s Report: Dennis Healy reports that
- The
Board is considering the 3rd draft budget. The 4th
draft will be the final budget. It appears Stephentown Elementary will
be closed fall 2009.
- He
and Mrs. Allain are considering an Honors
breakfast and possibly other recognitions.
- Tobacco
use is down (determined by a school inspection); school is receiving an
award from Coalition.
Jen Burhans comments that from a
coach’s perspective, the ineligible list seems smaller this quarter. She also
suggests that the principals consider programs that they’d like to implement
and that the PTO could help support for next year.
Old Business: Monica Shupe
reports that the 6th and 8th grade are interested in getting
a quote from the School Tool Box program, and they will be giving her a list
of supplies. She is still waiting to hear from the 7th grade.
After the estimate, we can decide if we want to participate. (Program has
been offered in the elementary school, high rate of participation.)
February 24, 2009
Berlin MS-HS PTO
In attendance:
Jennifer Burhans, Monica Shupe.
Donna Kelly, Cathie Allain, Rachel Esterly, Mara Murphy
Minutes of 1/20/09 were reviewed:
Fundraising was discussed so that the PTO can support
middle school/high school activities for student recognition. One idea was to
charge admission to (basketball) games; would need Board approval. Could
offer a “season’s pass” to Berlin students (suggested $5) and charge $2
adult/ $1 student general admission, as some other schools do.
Discussed increasing parent participation in PTO. Drafted
letter to send home with report cards, including request for donations. For
future meetings, could invite other guest speakers, such as Rob Gould (Cowee’s program), Audrey Vanderhoef
(Future Cities). Minutes are posted online, and announcements could be also.
Other ideas for website: post directions to away sports
games; make sure middle school homework is easy to find.
Principal Reports: Cathie Allain
reported that
- Scheduling
is beginning for next year.
- She
is considering how to facilitate the transition from 5th to 6th
grade. Would like to hear ideas from parents.
- Math
tests will be administered in March
President Reports: $170 in donations so far, including
one from the Kirsch Foundation.
Old Business
Ideas for increasing attendance: change time to 6:30,
serving pizza? If we leave time at 6:00 for this year, let parents know
latecomers are still welcome. Cathie Allain suggests
an online survey. She will also check on the possibility of school sending
out PTO informational emails.
Guest Speaker: Rachel Esterly,
Guidance Counselor, Grades 10-12, gave an overview of the common tasks of a
guidance counselor and a general timeline of the year.
- She
(and Anne Lazarony for Grades 6-9) meet with
every student at least once per year. Each student has a 4 year plan,
updated by hand, to stay on track for graduation. Begins year by meeting
with seniors.
- Regents
diploma vs. Advanced Regents diploma; SAT preparation
- Course
Request sheets generate ideas for electives; class needs minimum of 10
to be offered, and some classes have pre-qualifications.
- New
guidance web page!
- Participates
in 2 hour collaborative meetings with Anne Lazarony,
Kelly Kaschak, Leah Ross, Bruce Weiner, Mrs.
P-H. They will be speaking at next Board meeting about results of survey
given in 6, 8, 10, 12 grades. It shows that Berlin has higher rates of
alcohol and drug use than county average. They would like to form a Community
Coalition, such as in Hoosick Falls, to work toward lowering
rates. They hope to have a community meeting on April 1. Their next
meeting is Wed, March 4 from 2:15-4:15, in the HS guidance office.
- FAFSA
meeting Thursday Feb. 26 6 pm computer lab 118
New Business
Monica Shupe presented
information about School Toolbox, a service PTO can work with to provide
parents a pre-orderd school supply kit based on
teacher’s list. Will request a quote based on last year’s 6th
grade supply list and leave sample box for Cathie Allain.
November 18, 2008
Berlin
Central Middle School-High School PTO
In attendance: Jennifer Burhans,
Dennis Healy, Stephanie Hover, Mara Murphy, SC Riddering
Minutes of 10/21/08 were accepted
as submitted.
Treasurer’s Report:
SC reports that we have $1007.87 in checking, $1033.17 in savings, for a
total of $2041.04. No action this month. Report accepted.
President’s Report:
Jennifer reports volunteer sheets are still being returned.
An Alumni-Staff basketball game
is proposed as a new fundraiser, perhaps 2 short games, with 4 teams.
Stephanie offers to help recruit players at the elementary schools. We need
to schedule a date. Perhaps we could partner with a class seeking a
fundraiser.
PTO is interested in conducting a
“membership drive” asking for voluntary contributions as an alternative
fundraiser. Perhaps letters could be sent home with interim reports. Jen will
check with Kathy about drafting a letter.
Administrator’s
Report
Dennis Healy reports that Cathie Allain
is unable to attend PTO because she is attending services for parent of staff
member. Mr. Healy reiterated their commitment to create a positive
environment, and a consistent, reasonable approach to discipline. He noted
the following:
- The
academic ineligibility list for the first quarter was down 37% from last
year, which indicates more students are passing. For example, 95% are
passing Earth Science vs. 71.2% last year.
- Behavior
referrals are down. There were only 2 significant events (resulting in
out-of-school suspensions) in the first quarter.
- They
are using reconnection meetings between students and teachers to help
reframe their relationship if it has become non-productive.
Old Business
Chorus Concert
is tomorrow evening. Mrs. Kersch plans to keep the
no-intermission policy for this concert and reintroduce intermission at later
concerts. We’ll ask Donna Kelly to call a few volunteers at this late date
for baked goods.
Senior Grades
are not weighted; this is an issue of concern this year because of the high
number of students in internships (about 10). Some of these students will be
receiving academic grades from business mentors not academic teachers. Ideas
to address this inequality include shorter duration internships, offering
internships as Pass/Fail, requiring students in internships to fulfill
academic requirements in school. Mr. Healy points out that about 10 students
are attending HVCC and several more spend part of the day at the Career & Tech Center. The high number of senior students off-campus may not be the best for creating a
learning community at Berlin.
Mr. Healy will be meeting to discuss HVCC in the High School as an
alternative.
New Business
Budget cuts: Mr.
Healy suggests parents remain aware of proposed state education budget cuts.
PTO meetings:
December: NO MEETING
January: Invite guidance counselors; focus on 8th
grade transition into high school
February: sponsor Financial Aid Workshop in the computer
lab with financial aid counselors
from HVCC who will help parents fill out the federal form used by all
colleges.
October 21, 2008
Berlin
Central Middle School-High School PTO
In attendance: Monica Shupe, Maureen Seel, SC Riddering, Dennis Healy, Cathie Allain,
Kathy Burdick, Mara Murphy
No minutes available for September meeting.
Treasurer’s Report:
SC reported that the PTO made $239.36 ($268 less $28.64 for craft supplies)
at Fall Fest. There is $1008 in checking, $1033 in savings, totaling $2041.
Administrators’
Reports
Cathie Allain:
- Middle
School will be hosting a coffee hour, 2nd Monday of the month
from 7-8 am. Three
parents attended the first one.
- has been receiving positive feedback on school
atmosphere.
- looking for opportunities to acknowledge successful
students. 12 students were recognized for citizenship and academic
progress, had an ice cream sundae party and received a certificate.
- hopes to institute a monthly program in the evening
for students with critical needs. Would like to provide childcare and
perhaps subsidized rides. Seeking grant funding, and would like PTO to
consider funding.
- Middle
School Steering Committee’s next meeting is Oct. 30 at 2:15
.
Dennis Healy:
- have
tested revised fire drill procedures; Questar
Tech center has helped to improve communication and to track students
better
- Battle
of Bands took place. Aimed at narrow audience (~13-22 yrs), went OK.
- commends 2 seniors who took the initiative to create
a Senior Area. They had to find a space, develop guidelines and meet
with Mr. Healy
- continues
effort to improve climate for students, families and staff; positive
climate is linked to better achievement
- is also looking for opportunities to recognize effort
and achievement. Ideas include quarterly honors breakfast, pot luck
awards dinner. Would like PTO to consider helping to fund these
recognitions
- District-wide
PTO meetings are to be held on Monday, October 27, November 24, January
26, March 30, May 18 at the MS/HS library at 6:30 pm
President’s report:
PTO’s current financial commitments are $472 for insurance, $300 for senior
scholarships. SC comments that she would like the PTO to support the principals’s efforts, but new fundraisers may be needed.
Other members present agree. Brainstorm fundraising ideas:
- Teacher/student
volleyball game (dodge ball game scheduled for Thursday, 10/30)
- After-school
healthy snack offerings
- Membership
drive with voluntary contribution and email addresses for volunteers;
recruitment letter could be enclosed in school mailings.
New Business:
Winter Concerts:
Chorus is on Wednesday, Nov. 19 and Band is on Wednesday December 10. Mr.
Healy will explore reinstituting an intermission and recommends offering more
than sundaes.
Equalizing seniors’
grades, college prep courses vs. interning: Dennis Healy says that
currently the grades are not weighted according to difficulty of coursework.
Committees that could discuss this issue in order to make a recommendation to
the Board are Shared Decision and Principal’s Advisory. Both need parent
representatives.
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