Minutes from November 20

Here are minutes from the November 20 meeting.  December's meeting was cancelled, and not rescheduled due to the busy weeks preceding school break (concerts, etc).  The next meeting will be Thursday, January 8, 2015 at 6:00pm.

Last names and full details on financial balances were omitted due to the publicity of cyber-space.  For full minutes and/or dollar amounts, feel free to email the PTA at woolwichptc@yahoo.com

Happy Holidays!

Meeting Minutes-Woolwich PTA

November 20, 2014      6:00PM In attendance-Lorna, 

Sarah, Beth, Jamie, Dena, Mona, Karen, Stacey, Kristen, Debbie

Old Business-

•        Deb reported that PTA members helped out with Grandparents Day which was very well attended this year as well as the Dental Clinic which treated approximately 30 students. Thank you volunteers! •   Close Buy-The final sale’s number for Close Buy was XXXXX including the online sales. We are waiting on final information from Close Buy to see who the top 3 sellers were in our school. Close Buy awards a prize for these students.

Treasurer’s Report- As of October 31st we have a balance of XXXXX in the PTA account. •         Scholastic was paid $1339.00 •           Close Buy Checks deposited in the amount of XXXXX •     Last minute logo - wear orders $117.00

•        $1110.31 paid out for 3 field trips.

Wellness Committee- The ice rink construction is underway. Boards have been placed for the perimeter of the rink and the mat is set to be laid in the next week so the Fire Department can come to flood it. The Wellness Committee is planning a rink opening ceremony where families can come and skate and have hot cocoa. They are looking for donations of outgrown skates to have on hand for kids that don’t have them. FAN Night- Family Activity Night is being planned for the end of January. Date TBD.

Shop Til U Drop Craft Fair

•        December 6th 9-1 •       30 Tables will be on loan from the RSU and 30-40 are needed additionally. Karen would like funding for 30-40 additional tables. Vote-All in favor of funding up to $100 for table rental-APPROVED •        Punch Card-Last year was the first year we participated along with the Phippsburg and West Bath PTA in a punch card that when punched (or daubed with a bingo dauber) at all three fairs enters you for a chance to win $100.00 cash. Vote-All in favor to fund

$33.00 towards the prize-APPROVED •          Hot Cocoa Bar-Last year the 8th graders food sales in the cafeteria during the fair was not successful. This year, Karen would like to try a hot cocoa bar as you come through the entrance of the school. We will need to look for urns to borrow and volunteers to

man the station, we will also need marshmallows, candy canes and other toppings. Stacey will talk to Starbucks and or Dunkin Donuts to try to get the hot cocoa donated and Dena will talk with owners at Café Crème to see if they are able to help out as well.

•        Seasonal Stroll/Donation of canned and dry goods-If you bring a donation of a food item to the craft fair, you will be entered into a drawing for a $25 Gift Certificate.

•        Advertising-The Craft fair will be advertised in the Coastal Journal in the Craft Fair Section. It will also be listed in the Main Street Bath E-News and web site. Next year we are on the list to be included in the published copy of the Old Fashioned Christmas in Bath flyer. Karen will add in the food donation detail for the CJ article for Dec. 4. STUD is also advertised in the school newsletter as well as the marquis out front. The banner we invested in last year has been patched up and will be hung this week. We have also been plugging it on the PTA FB page. As an investment for years to come Karen would like to invest in more signage to put around town. Home Depot has some options that will stand up to the weather and Lorna will check with Staples about a printing discount through her business. Vote-All in Favor of investing up to $150 in signage-APPROVED

•        Goody Walk-Debbie will handle the Goody Walk and has given Betsy the info to add into the school newsletter as well as a flyer to go to all students looking for goody donations. Mr. Lucas got us connected to Applebee’s who donated 130 containers for patrons to put their goodies in.

•        Live Entertainment-We are excited to add in Christmas Carolers this year! The students will be set up in the main hallway, next to the wreath table.

Book Fair- The Book Fair will run from Dec. 1-6. We will need volunteers and two would be useful during the craft fair. We would like teacher’s to give us a wish list in case parents want to donate a book to the classroom. 3-4 baskets will be made using scholastic dollars for a raffle. We would like to give teachers scholastic dollars ($5-10) to spend at the book fair.

Amazon Smile-Dena has been in contact with Amazon and the IRS. She found out that it will take 8 weeks after our re-instatement for our status to show up on the data base of non-profits.

*Upcoming School Board Meeting here at WCS on November 24th. Meeting Adjourned-7:15

Muscles and Bakers Needed....

December 2.  How did that happen?  One day we're batting mosquitoes the next we're searching for a matching pair of mittens.  It seems impossible that we are already staring down one of the busiest times of year.

For the PTA, this is one of our busiest fundraising weeks since Fall.  We have Close Buy orders being delivered via a very large truck Wednesday AM that need to be checked, sorted and delivered to classrooms.  Our Holiday Scholastic Book fair is underway, through Saturday, which we are trying to staff with two shifts throughout each day, 9-3.  61 8-foot tables need to be set-up Friday afternoon which we are renting to vendors for our biggest Shop Til You Drop Craft Fair yet, (running from 9 to 1 on Saturday).  And we are seeking donations for baked goods for the Goodie Walk which will be going on at the Craft Fair (similar to a cookie swap, where patrons fill a container for $3 - a great gift idea or easy way to contribute desserts to upcoming Holiday parties)

It all seems pretty ambitious, doesn't it?  On the other hand, from years past, the positive feedback we have received in the process has encouraged us to keep delivering.  Although there is so much work behind the scenes, what we can promise as a result is that Saturday will be one of the most festive, community-driven days of the year, with Woolwich Central School at the heart of it all.

But there is still more work to be done.  We desperately need some assistance setting up some tables in the gym and cafeteria on Friday afternoon at end-of-day.  (around 3 or later)  Are you coming to pick-up your child/children on Friday?  Can you give 15 minutes to move a few tables?  Do you know someone who can?

Can you drop-off some baked goods at the school on Friday for the Goody Walk?  This means of help  is hopefully one that conflicts the least with work.

While it is the goal of the PTA to shed the image of the organization being solely a "fundraising entity" there are those times of year where it's necessary.  We are really excited that we recently approved and were able to fund transportation for the new Civil Rights team, and B-Team transportation for basketball (nearly $1500)  Perhaps your children have already benefited from this or will in the future.

This is one of those weeks where a handful of six parents can't make it all happen (though don't tell any of them I said that;)  It takes a village and if there is even 10 or 15 minutes of spare time for any Wildcat parents out there for moving tables, or an opportunity for some baking, please reach out by email at woolwichptc@yahoo.com.  We promise it will be worth it!

Wishing you a happy, healthy Holiday season.

Lorna Ryan, President

Parent Teacher Conferences

Last Friday was the close of the quarter, report cards have gone home, the awards ceremony is over, and Parent Teacher Conferences will begin Thursday, November 13, and conclude on Friday, the 14th.  What a great opportunity for all parents or caregivers.

Every parent is different when it comes to expectations for those treasured 15 minutes of face time with a child's teacher.  For some, there are no surprises - reports cards have provided all the information necessary and there are no questions or concerns.  But in this case, should we just assume  "all is well" ? Or, could we take the opportunity to build rapport with the teacher - maybe even offer some positive feedback from base camp?

For others, gathering thoughts or knowing what to say does not come easy. It may even seem

daunting.  Add the new jargon of Proficiency Based Education or Smarter Balanced testing, and one may not know where to begin.

It could be your communications with school leading up to conferences have already been frequent - and that another meeting may seem overkill.  But, again, this is your opportunity to advocate for your child, or brainstorm towards goals that can carry over from school into the home that make positive influences on your child's school experience.  You may hold one small nugget of information from home that could greatly benefit both teacher and child alike.

Truly at a loss for words? Think about what you talk to your spouse or partner about, or talk to other parents about at games and other social time.  Homework woes? Curriculum? New assessments?  Report card lingo? Successes you have seen?

This is a link that may offer some guidance and provide a framework for maximizing the time allotment in conferences.

http://www.npr.org/blogs/ed/2014/09/18/349337543/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-10-minutes-with-teacher

If you have not had an opportunity to sign up, the link is here on the WCS website: http://www.woolwich.rsu1.org

The goals of the WCS PTA will continue to be one of support - for both staff and parents.  As always, email the PTA with thoughts or questions at woolwichptc@yahoo.com

PS

And don't forget to look over the Lost and Found while at conferences!  There is a mountain of clothes, coats, shoes and lunch boxes that will be donated to Goodwill if not claimed.

 

Loving our Grandparents

It's October 31, which not only means it's Halloween, but also signals the official beginning of "Holiday Season".  A stroll through any department store inundates us with this reality, and it won't be long before holiday songs will be streaming 24/7 from all frequencies.  But one holiday that Woolwich Central guarantees is not lost in the hysteria over others is Grandparents Day.

M.J. Ryan, with "Mammie"

Next Friday, on November 7, Woolwich Central opens it's doors to Grandparents - starting with an in-class activity, then serving a yummy lunch of Italian sandwiches with their favorite Wildcat(s). Last year WCS welcomed over 200 Grandmothers and Grandfathers, and this year we hear some are visiting from as far away as Virginia!

Woolwich has been hosting the event since 1993 which began as a BBQ in May.  Over the last 5 years, it was moved to Fall as an inside event.  It's a wonderful opportunity to recognize the value of contributions, love and support that Grandparents provide our children and our community.  All students have a chance to practice RESPECT, one of the keystones to the Woolwich Way.

We know that Grammy may allow more T.V. and sweets, but in many cases, Grammy has more patience and a "drop everything and help" mannerism that some over-committed parents are not always able to muster.  From rides to soccer, overseeing homework, cooking a hot meal, chaperoning on school trips, our Wildcat Grandparents keep us steady.

So, thank you, Nana, Papa, Binky, Mammie, etc. We love you!  For more information on signing up for Grandparents Day, go to the WCS Website, and click on "Grandparents Day"

October Minutes

Here are the October 9, 2014 minutes.  Due to the publicity of our blog, last names and some financial figures were omitted from this copy.  However, our secretary maintains a full copy, and any inquiries on further detail can be submitted to woolwichptc@yahoo.com.  These minutes will be reviewed for amendments and voted on in November.

Meeting Minutes-Woolwich PTA
October 9, 2014 6:04PM
In attendance- Lorna, Karen, Sarah, Kristen, Laura, Jason, Beth, Stacey, Alane, Debbie, Romy, Mona, Kyle & Dena.
Treasurers Report-

• Sarah reported a balance of xxxxxxxxxx as of 8/29/2014 and xxxxxxx as of 9/30/2014
  
• PTA Insurance and dues have been paid in the amount of $101.50.
  
• We currently are fulfilling approximately xxxxxxxx in funding requests.
  Well over what we approved in the entire school year of 2013/14.
• Vice President- Jeannie has had to step down as the vice president of the Woolwich PTA. She is extremely busy with her job, children, coaching and church and had to minimize her commitments.
  
• Debbie has come forward to fill the position, those in attendance were asked if there was anyone else with interest. A motion was made to nominate Debbie as Vice President. Vote-All in Favor 
• Tax Exempt Status-Lorna reported that because of an oversight in previous years, the 990n was not completed, and our 501C3 status was revoked. The appropriate paperwork has been submitted to the Internal Revenue Service along with a check in the amount of $400.00 to get us current. 
• Close Buy Fundraiser- We had a total of $7483.30 in sales for Close Buy with paper orders still being tallied. This fundraiser was met with enthusiasm and the online promotions proved to be successful. Would like to get more feedback from parents and staff. Next year we would like to have the sample items on display a bit longer.
  Box Tops for Education- 
• Stacey has coordinated with WCS Lifeskills students who, (as part of their community jobs project,) continue to collect,count and submit the Box Top labels, along with Labels for Education.
• Terra Cycle- Kristen would like to include a drive for the GoGo squeeze applesauce waste along with the juice pouches. She will put a sign on receptacles alerting students that these can be recycled now. Terra Cycle offers .01cents per applesauce pouch with a minimum shipment of 120 accepted.

Funding Requests-

• Laura asked the PTA for $100 seed money for an academic motivation/behavior modification pilot program for kids who have trouble with motivation in the classroom. She would like to purchase model car kits for these students. This would be a reward for good behavior and a motivation tool. It would also teach them 3D Art, Math and Chemistry.
  Vote-All in Favor to contribute $100. to Laura's project-Approved Laura would also like to put on our radar for the future that she is in need of bulletin boards in the hallways to display children's art.
  
• Mr. Beeton and Mrs. Fisher are asking for $289.38 to cover transportation costs for a group of 10-15 7th & 8th graders to attend Civil Rights Training through the Maine Attorney General's Office in Augusta. This training would be for a Civil Rights Team that would raise awareness for bias based bullying and harassment in our society, school and involving current events. Mr. Libby and Mrs. Buchan will make this an age appropriate activity. Mr. Libby also see this as a way to keep our "Woolwich Way" going into the middle school grades. Mr. Beeton would like to guide the team in activities that would involve the entire school (no name calling week). Vote-All in favor of funding the transportation costs of $289.38. Approved
  
• Mrs. Simpson is requesting $75-$100 to purchase hoops, balls & sidewalk chalk for the playground. Because of the amount of requests we need to measure to our mission, with an eye on our budget a motion was made to approve $50 for this cause. Vote-not enough votes to approve. Karen suggested someone approach the manager of Wal-Mart to donate these items. Mona (who's husband works for the distribution center) will contact Wal-Mart with our EIN# for the donations. 

• Mrs. Harrington, Mrs. Emerson & Ms. Elwell have asked the PTA to approve $1000 for the creation of an A team and B team for WCS middle school basketball because of the projected number of kids wanting to play. This cost would cover the transportation for the extra boys and girls teams. Vote-Approved
  
• Mrs. Pols & Mrs. Vice are requesting a total of $956.00 to cover the Fall and Spring "Birds of Prey" display presented by Chewonki ($303.00 X2) as well as a 1st and 2nd grade trip to Reid State Park in the Spring. Vote-Approved
  
• Mrs. Buchan has requested $280.00 for transportation costs for the 7th graders to attend the National Guard Ropes Course that educates on drug awareness and promotes team building. Vote-Approved
  
• Mr. Turner is requesting $250.00 to cover registration costs for the 7th & 8th grade Math Team. Vote-Approved
  
• Mrs. Perkins, Pre-K coordinator is asking for our help with a Phonological Awareness Night slated for January 2015 for Pre-K families in the RSU. This is a parental outreach program that she would like us involved with. Possibly by helping her put together kits for families or helping with parent involvement. We will wait to hear specifically what we can do to help.
  
  
• Note-The $300 approved in our September meeting to go towards the kick board was fulfilled through donations from local businesses.
  
  
• STUD-Shop Till You Drop Craft Fair-
  Karen reported that she has 26 vendors confirmed. She has requested 50 tables from RSU 1 and was granted her request. She is still going to be ready to rent tables as historically all the tables are not available as the fair gets closer. Dena reported that the Arrowsic Fire Department is willing to loan us some tables if needed. 
• Karen also requested a chairperson to handle the Goody Walk at the fair this year. This would involve finding 7th & 8th graders to help out at the table, create a flyer to send out announcing the event, soliciting for goody donations as well as coming up with a container for patrons to put their goodies in. Debbie volunteered to take on this task.
• Book Fair-Karen has agreed to be an interim book fair chair for December but we are looking for a co-chair to help her manage it as this is her last year at WCS. This person would be someone who would like to take over the fair responsibilities next year. We also discussed that instead of giving our profit as a 25% discount at point-of-sale, we use the proceeds from the Book Fair to go towards more programs for the kids. We are still able to use our banked scholastic dollars (approx. $3000.00) to find ways of getting books into the hands of children who need them the most. We discussed the small but consistent issue of some theft of books and trinkets, and the fact the fair is in a high traffic area, and she suggested we purchase 8 padlocks with one master key for the book crates to keep them secure when the book fair is closed. (apparently the PTA did this in some past years) To assist volunteers, she has created a daily tally sheet to efficiently balance the register drawer at close of day. In our discussion we decided that we would like to bump the date of the fair to coincide better with STUD (end on day of STUD) and to limit the fair to just one week. In previous years it has run longer but lately it has been harder to staff with volunteers. Vote to bump dates of the book fair and limit it to one week-Approved
• Logo Wear- Stacey reported approximately 25 WCS logo-wear orders with more to be picked up from the office.
• Square Art- We will replace Pure Art with this company to offer more variety. Mrs. Devon was provided samples of the products, and guidelines for the artwork will work on art with students to be ready for fundraiser to go out in March and be ready for delivery around Mother's Day.
• Amazon Smile- Dena would like to sign our school up for Amazon Smile which would contribute .5% of your Amazon purchases back to our school. The only marketing that is allowed for this program is digital marketing. Dena will handle getting us signed up.
• Amending Bylaws- In a future meeting we will be amending our bylaws to state that the annual review of the books will be done prior to the end of the school year. Our fiscal year ends June 30 so we will endeavor to get all records ready including any payments and receipts documented prior to that time.

• Meeting Adjourned-7:55PM