Mark's Meadow PGG: November 2008

Mark Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)
Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday June 3, 2008
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, D. Kramer, L. Luciano-Burnett, M. Rosa, N. Yaffe, A. Melnick, K. Schendel
INTRODUCTIONS: Round table introductions and greetings
BOX TOPS: Presenter: D. Timberlake
-Thank you Ken Porter for coordinating this program for the last few years
-we have earned $152.20 this year.
TEACHER APPRECIATION LUNCHEON: Presenter: D. Timberlake
-Thank you Koren Berrio for coordinating this event
6TH GRADE GRADUATION BRUNCH: Presenter: D. Timberlake
-Monday June 16
-PGG to remind grade 5 parents to volunteer
-Coordination efforts by Lauren Caraski, Meg Ziomek, Sarah Stookey, Angie Whitmal, Angelica Castro, Mari Gray are greatly appreciated
NON PROFIT STATUS UPDATE:Presenter: D. Timberlake
-We now have our EIN (same as federal ID #)
-still need to file our non-profit status
NEXT YEARS PGG LEADERSHIP: Presenter: T. Hightower
-Farewell and thank you for your dedication to MM PGG: D.Timberlake (chair '06-'08), D. Kramer (treasurer '06-'08), and L. Luciano-Burnett (secretary '07-'08 year)
-Welcome: M. Rosa (co-chair), K. Schendel (secretary), S. Burbine (treasurer)
-Thank you to T. Hightower who will continue as chair
NEXT YEARS PGG: Presenters: T. Hightower and D. Timberlake
-First PGG meeting 9/16/08
-D. Kramer volunteered to set up a google calendar for next year
-T. Hightower mentioned the possibility of creating classroom videos to post on the blog, which may increase parents/guardians interest in the MM blogspot
-Back to school picnic scheduled for Wed 9/10
-Cards or magnets with the blogspot address to be handed out at the back to school picnic
-Parent workshop by Becca Greene-Van Horm: (Ants In their Pants: Helping kids Put Words To What's Bugging Them Without Going Buggy Yourself) to be scheduled for sometime in the fall
END OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION: June 18th, 5:30-7:30, rain date June 19th
-Bring your own dinner and a dessert to share
SGC ELECTIONS: Presenter: T. Hightower
-To be held at the end of the year celebration. So far we have received only one nomination. We are looking for 3 parents to serve either a 2 year term or a 1 Year term.
RECYCLING UPDATE: Presenter: T. Hightower
-Thank you to all volunteers that helped with collecting, sorting and packing this year
-We have about 15 more boxes to ship
-We have gotten new agreements from local companies and hospitals to help with our collections (i.e. , Jones Real Estate, Pearson formerly NES, TD Bank North and we have a parent who consistently brings cartridges in from Cooley Dickinson Hospital )
PRINCIPAL'S UPDATE: Presenter: N. Yaffe
-Modulars are going to happen next year: they are currently assessing location behind MM and the logistics of which classes will utilize this space
-Kristen Roder: has been selected for the fifth grade teaching position
-We are currently forming the search committee for the open sixth grade position
-administration and SGC are looking into a plan to focus attentions on the North Village parents to increase awareness of parental volunteer opportunities
FUNDING REQUESTS: Presenter: D. Timberlake
-Approval for yearbook funding at $354
-Yearbooks will be for sale at the end of the year celebration for $4 each
THE BOTTOM LINE: Presenter: D. Kramer
-As of June 3, 2008: PGG account balance is $6,984.63

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday September 16, 2008 6:30 p.m. Mark's Meadow Library

Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett, PGG Secretary

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Mark Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)
Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday May 5, 2008
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, D. Kramer, L. Luciano-Burnett, M. Rosa, J. Churchill, S. McQuaid

INTRODUCTIONS: Round table introductions and greetings
LIBRARY FUNDING: Presenter: S. McQuaid
-Thank you to parents/PGG for support of the library this year
-Books shown to PGG that were purchased with funds from PGG and family support
-Request to match the $1,000 annual PGG donation to the library--voted and approved unanimously
-Discussion around the budget of the library and the decreased funding for libraries by school board (5 years ago $4,000 received vs. $1,000 received this year by MM)
-S. McQuaid reports MM library is open and available to not just the students of MM, but the families as well.
-Amherst Education Foundation gave a one time gift to MM library this year of $2,500.
FUNDING REQUESTS: Presenter: D. Timberlake
Proposals:
-$80 for Bagpiper for the Multicultural Fair-voted and approved
-5th grade science museum trip: an additional $152 to cover cost for teachers-approval at April meeting for necessary funding to enable all students to attend estimated at $172
-Teacher appreciation lunch and end of the year potluck costs-voted and approved ($400 teacher appreciation lunch and minimal costs for paper goods for end of year potluck)
ELECTIONS FOR THE NEXT BOARD: Presenter: T. Hightower
-Nick would like to encourage a member of North Village to participate in the PGG/SGC as MM families in north village total 65
-Proposals for PGG seats: Katie Schendel for secretary, Meg Rosa for Co-chair--voted and approved
-PGG nominates Stephanie Burbine for treasurer, awaiting decision of acceptance or decline
-SGC elections memo out in last Friday’s memo, we have 3 open parent seats--elections occur at the end of the year celebration.
NON PROFIT STATUS UPDATE: Presenter: D. Timberlake
-Layla Taylor voted in as MM PGG power of attorney
-We are officially an organization, we have ID #
-Next step is filing our application for non-profit status ($300 filing fee-funds previously approved)
-We will know by next year of our status
-Special Thank you to Layla Taylor for seeing us through this matter as she is no longer a MM parent.
TREASURERS UPDATE: Presenter: D. Kramer
-PGG account balance as of May 5, 2008 $7,762.35
MISCELLANEOUS:
-Yearbook update: Presenter J. Churchill
-Jackie Churchill, Patty O'Brien and Catherine Stryker are hard at work on the yearbook, currently getting pictures, pricing black and white vs. color, the third week of May is the deadline for files to be ready for printing
-Graduation breakfast assistance: 5th grade parents traditionally help with this fete--volunteers needed. This year Graduation will take place on Monday June 16th.
-Teacher appreciation luncheon: June 4th
-End of the year potluck: June 18th, rain date June 19th
-MM last day of school June 19th as opposed to the rest of the District which is the 18th. The UMass bomb scare closing added another day to MM schedule.
-Child care arrangements for MM meetings/committees: Need a coordinator for this next year
-Recycling Day: Sat June 1st-last one before September, looking for volunteers. Last day for Drop Off is May 30th.
-Brown envelope Fundraiser: $2,502 ($630 through AEF)
-Box Tops for Education: $90 raised this year vs. $127 raised last year.
-D. Timberlake volunteered to coordinate this for next year as Kenny Porter is leaving MM-Thanks to Ken for your time and commitment to MM. Thanks to Debbie for taking this on.
-Stop and Shop Bonus Bucks Program: $712. 54 passively raised by MM families. Only 32 parents are signed up for this program just think what we could do if more families signed on. We have $60 Credit for a Teacher to use at Toy Box.
-M. Rosa discussed a sticker idea for families to remember MM, via small stickers placed on debit or credit cards that say "remember MM", so as to help people remember when shopping at A2Z, Atkins, Food For thought, The Toy Box, and any other participating stores, to forward their sale to benefit MM school
-Read a thon: info sent out in last week’s memo due June 6th.
-Used Book sale: drop off this spring for sale next fall-date and time TBA by Lisa Cyr.
-Becca Greene-Van Horn: Ants In their Pants: Helping kids Put Words To What's Bugging Them Without Going Buggy Yourself: discussion on a date for this workshop, unable to determine secondary to increased amount of upcoming activities in and around MM
-Second Step workshop for families to happen early in the Fall

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday June 3, 2008 6:30 p.m. Marks Meadow Library

Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett, PGG Secretary

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Mark Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)
Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday April 1, 2008
Time: 6;30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, D. Kramer, L. Luciano-Burnett, M. Rosa, N. Yaffe, A. Melnick, B. Greene-Van Horn

INTRODUCTIONS: Round table introductions and greetings
GUEST PRESENTATION: Presenter: Becca Greene-Van Horn M.A., RDT, LCAT
-Overview of "Ants in their Pants: Helping Kids Put Words To What's Bugging Them Without Going Buggy Yourself". This course is being offered by Becca Green-Van Horn to Marks Meadow Families as a part of our family education focus. This class will address/explore emotion coaching methods as it relates to the recognition of emotions, validation and empathy in parents and children's lives.
-Proposal by A. Melnick: Does PGG wish to go forward with this program proposal and a small $50 stipend for her time?
-Voted and approved unanimously
-Date and time TBA
TREASURERS REPORT:Presenter: D. Kramer
-The Brown envelope fundraiser raised $591.00 thus far (less than the previous year), there are funds that have not arrived to MM via the AEF which could increase this amount significantly (? $780).
-Reminder to families that there is still time to donate via the Brown envelope fundraiser by sending donations to school with your child, or via the AEF.
-Photography donations during the Multicultural fair brought in $270.75
-Discussion around a Family photo night done in the past at MM which brought in alot of interest from families before and earned MM additional funds
-Alisa Melnick reports possibly being able to recruit a photographer at a lower price in the future, as the Multicultural night photographer cost around $400
-Balance in MM PGG account as of April 1, 2008 = $6,284.25
SCIENCE NIGHT GRANT AND UPDATE: Presenter: A. Melnick
-AEF grant written by Alisa Melnick (Thank you for all of your hard work!) awarded to fund the MM and Crocker Farm Science programs for next year.
-The AEF will only fund half of the amount that they had approved in the past and therefore much discussion was around other alternatives to fund/organize this event for next year.
-Proposition for a possible combined science night with MM and Crocker Farm, a day time science fair, fund raising in the future all discussed
- Nick Yaffe reports his preference for increased family child relations during the evening science fairs
STATE OF THE SCHOOL ADDRESS: Presenter: N. Yaffe
-MCAS: currently happening in MM...The Dept of Education(DOE) website offers a great resource for families to view previous tests and obtain an idea of what their children are encountering
-Tracy Hightower volunteered to send an email to families with a link to the DOE to help take the mystery out of the test experience for families
-John Keins has been working considerably hard on teaching the test format and procedures to MM students
-MM staff are focusing on increased Proactive Learning techiniques in the classrooms--the goal is to motivate kids and empower them to ask questions, and investigate. Ideas to families was sent home in the Friday memo regarding reinforcement of proactive learning at home.
-Staff are thinking ahead about events next year, hope to have a calendar in advance for 2008-2009 school year
-Configuration of next years classes still to be determined, depends on student numbers, survey sent home to families for administration to gain a better understanding of the numbers for next school year.
-Basketball: Proposal for a stipend for the volunteers? Currently $198 available for the basketball program, PGG agrees that these funds are for the program and Nick can distribute as needed.
FUNDING REQUEST: Presentor: D. Timberlake
-Approval via email consensus of Susan McQuaid's request for reimbursement for costumes for Rock and Read Day ($86.01)
-Grade 6 Proposal for UN Trip: Can PGG fund the money for the trip, snacks, and tip for the driver? Letter out to families to contribute what they can and the amount received is unknown until contributions arrive. $50 per child was the estimated need for the cost of the trip and transportation.--Voted and approved unanoumously
-Grade 5 Science Museum trip Proposal: Can PGG fund estimated need of $172 toward this event? PGG voted and approved unanoumously
-Discussion around the fact that parents are asked to pay for field trips around the same time of the brown envelope fundraiser which may have had an effect on the decreased amount of donations made to the brown envelope this year. Reviewed the possibility of changing the time of the brown envelope fundraiser to the beginning of the Fall next year.
-A. Melnick concludes that teachers should be more behind fundrasing for these field trips
PGG POSITIONS AVAILABLE/SGC NOMINATIONS: Presenter: T. Hightower
-Stephanie Burbine has volunteered to replace Dan Kramer's position as PGG Treasurer for next year need to vote on her nomination.
-Positions remain open for PGG co-chair and secretary
-SGC openings for 3 parent members and 1 community member
RECYCLING UPDATE: Presentor: T. Hightower
-Very good turn out at the recent recycle day at MM
-Review needed for the amount of money earned per catridge to assess the programs current catridge collection protocol/benefits
NON-PROFIT STATUS UPDATE: Presentor: D. Timberlake
-$70 gift certificate for Layla Taylor approved for all of her efforts in helping PGG with this pursuit
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday May 6th 6:30 p.m. Marks Meadow Library

Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett , PGG Secretary

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Notes from PGG on March 4th, 2008

Chrystel Romero and Catherine Sanderson spoke with the PGG regarding their Candidacies for the School Board.

Nick Yaffe reviewed the School response to a letter found in a UMASS bathroom near Marks Meadow. After investigating the situation there was not felt to be any danger. The School will look at clarifying how the School responds to Crisis/Safety issues. Planning has been ongoing in the School system, each year a safety walk takes place with the UMASS and Amherst Police. There are different levels of response in the Schools safety plan. A Lock Down includes locking doors, remaining inside the building.

Planning for the Multicultural Fair was reviewed. 39 Countries and 25 Languages are represented at Marks Meadow. After discussing Family Photographs, concerns raised regarding the cost of a Professional Photographer and PGG’s limited resources, appreciation of the diversity of our community and the quality of the photographs. $400 was approved, with plans to ask Families for donations of $3 to 5 to help cover the cost.

Status of PGG’s Nonprofit Application: Layla Taylor has prepared the PGG Articles of Organization for filing with the State, this Document was reviewed and approved for filing. (Filing fees have previously been approved.) This is the first step towards becoming a Non Profit Organization, hopefully to be completed by the end of the year. Debbie Timberlake will fax the Document when the finalized copy is received. The Nonprofit Application has been a work in process for 3 years. PGG approved spending $70 for a gift certificate for a restaurant for Layla to thank her for the many hours of Legal expertise she has donated to seeing this project to completion. This is especially remarkable in that her Family moved from Amherst last summer!

The next PGG meeting will be on April 1st at 6:30

In the Library, all are welcome!
Child Care is provided in the Gym
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Marks Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)

Purpose: MM Open Forum: School Governance Council/ PGG meeting
Date: Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

Attendees: At least 30 families were represented

Principal Nick Yaffe opened with introduction of open forum meeting purpose, to inform the MM community on the direction of the school, and review of the school improvement plan (located in back of the MM handbook).

-Nick introduced small group discussion among the parents with a focus on what parents hopes for their children's education will be and what they value most in a MM education.

-Responses recorded by Nick and Patty Roper for further review among the School Governance Council

PGG meeting minutes as follows: Tracy Hightower presenting

AROUND MM:

-Science night: February 13th

-Movie night: March 7th, the film will be voted on by the students. Please bring in a baked goods for sale at movie night to benefit MM PGG.

-Multicultural Fair: March 19th more volunteers are needed for this event. A meeting will be held on February 7th at 2:30 in Nick's Office. If you would like to participate contact Nick.

-February 26th-Diversity Committee meetings film and discussion, all community members are invited.

-Brown envelope fundraiser to begin. The money raised from this program benefit MM PGG to fund programs/events/field trips. Celine Dassatti will lead this program.

-Two grants applied for with Amherst Education Foundation (Alyssa Melnick submitted a science club proposal which included Crocker Farm Students and Diane Mercomes and Tracy Hightower submitted a grade 5/6 yoga class proposal). If we get the funds they will be for next year's programs.

PARENT WORKSHOPS:

One idea that was present was by Linda Gianesin our schools Guidance Councilor. The Second Step program deals with violence prevention in schools. This program is now being taught in grades K-5 teachers with a proposal for a parent workshop. Also this program has a home-school connection.

Three components to the program are

1. Empathy training

2. Impulse control
3. Anger management

Parents provided input as to what type of parent workshops would be most desired: Results are as follows:

* Media: sexual images, advertisements, violence, stereotypes
* Empowering girls: social hierarchy, alternative aggression, meanness vs. physical aggression and anger management
* Identity development (social justice, how kids form identity)
* How to make kids feel good about themselves.
* Homework management and good homework practices.
* Middle school information. Creating a resource for parents of 5th and 6th graders and having a Middle School parent inform parents of 5th and 6th graders parents on what to expect in Middle School.

NEW FAMILIES:

-Looking for families to start a committee to help other families become acquainted with MM community and to report on how MM is doing around this issue.

MISCELLANEOUS:
-Felice Yeskel suggested a Community Liaison, such as a Senior Citizens community member, to pull in help for enrichment programs.
-Patty Roper helped identify a state program that provides funds for people that work for the state who volunteer for community service. It was suggested we use this state funded grant to build up our enrichment programs, like the Science Club.

-A request from Tracy Hightower for PGG Board members... treasurer/secretary/co-chair, which are needed for next year

-PGG financial will be posted on Marksmeadow.blogspot.com

Next PGG meeting: Tuesday, March 4

Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett , PGG Secretary

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Marks Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)
Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, L. Luciano-Burnett, D. Kramer, M. Rosa, N. Yaffe, A. Melnick, S. Burbine, C. Gray-Mullen, M. O'Leary

INTRODUCTIONS: Roundtable introductions/greetings

FUNDING REQUESTS: Presenters: D. Timberlake/T. Hightower

Proposal 1:

Re: Grade 5 field trip to the Museum of Science on June 12, 2008

-The cost of the field trip is $42 per student @ 35 students total. If parents are asked to pay $32 per student as they are able, then could PGG fund the balance of this trip (unknown # until funds are received from parents, teachers, and chaperones--estimated balance is from $596-$724)?

PGG Vote: Decision by majority to deny request for funding of the balance of this trip due to decrease in PGG funds. However PGG will gladly support those families that need assistance in this expense.

-Discussion around sending a letter out to 5th and 6th families expressing the need to increase parent/guardian involvement in fundraising/event organization to support their children's fieldtrips or other upper-grade activities

-Meg Rosa suggested a car wash for the older grades

-Alyssa Melnick mentioned the possibility of cheaper more local field trips as less of a financial burden on families

Proposal 2:

-Re: Grade 5 and 6 Yoga classes starting ASAP through March (Six-50 minutes sessions, and three-half hour sessions in each classroom)

-Will PGG sponsor the $500 cost of the Grade 5 and 6 Yoga instructor?

-Voted and approved my majority

-Discussion around the possibility of applying for a grant through AEF for this activity next year

VOLUNTEERS: immediate needs

1. Science night (Alyssa Melnick request): Takes place on Wed 2/13/08 6-7:30 p.m.

-seeking volunteers to run an activity (This year adults will run the activity with the children as their helpers)

-Nick suggested getting in contact with the UMASS clubs

2. Recycling (Tracy Hightower request): Need more ink/laser jet collections-if anyone can connect with local businesses to start new collections it would be very beneficial to the MM fundraising cause.

-Position to lead the MM recycling program is open

3. Movie Night/Date Night (Tracy Hightower): Currently their are 4 parent volunteers for Movie Night

-Discussion around combining date/movie night with parents paying to have their child taken care of and a film would be shown for the kids-easing the tension of baby-sitting for a large amount of children and raising funds simultaneously.

4. Basketball (Nick Yaffe): 60 kids are participating from grades 4-6

-New this year is snack/homework/game tables set up for kids in between games

-volunteers are needed to help manage the children and keep things orderly around the gym

5. Multicultural night (Nick request): To be held 3/19/08

-volunteers needed to lead this event

-all cultural and family traditions are honored/and welcome

-encouragement of the use of room parents to make requests of parents to participate in this event
-Meeting set for Jan 16th at 2:30 PM in Nick's office.

PRINCIPALS REPORT: N. Yaffe

-PGG and School Council combined open meeting proposal--to share what both committee’s goals and plans involve and to most importantly hear from the families of MM

-Voted and approved unanimously--to take place Tuesday Feb 5, 2008 -bring a dessert to share

-Administration is looking at consistency among grade levels

-Teachers are in training regarding teaching children from different linguistic backgrounds

-Guidance department is working on organizing a parent workshop around the social emotional curriculum(Second Step) being taught in the K-3 classrooms at this point- to help families understand what is being discussed/taught around this subject

-Committee for Excellence-MM is looking at how our teachers are assuring all children’s academic needs are being met

MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL SEARCH (as well as Crocker, Fort River , and Wildwood): T. Hightower

-Deadline for applications for principal positions is Friday 1/12/08

-Superintendent Hochman seeks parent volunteers for interview committee

Inquire through Debbie Westmoreland 362-1823 or westmorelandd@arps.org

DIVERSITY COMMITTEE MEETING (sent via email by R. Killough-Hill)

-Upcoming meeting dates: 1/18, 2/8, 3/18, 4/15, 5/20

-Tentative date for an open forum Tuesday 2/26---topics are still being discussed, thus far suggestions of a social time, and short documentary to later discuss in small groups are being reviewed

-R. Killough-Hill and K. Broderick have submitted a grant for multicultural, anti-racism and cultural competency training

GRANTS: (T. Hightower)

-Deadline for AEF grants Feb 8, 2008

NEXT YEAR PGG OFFICERS: For school year 2008-2009, PGG will have open positions for Co-chair, treasurer and secretary--seeking volunteers

NEW BUSINESS FOR MARCH MEETING:

M. Rosa suggests: Fresh fundraising ideas and how to get parents to lead events

NEXT MEETING: Combined PGG and SGC meeting Feb 5, 2008 at MM (room and time to be announced)

Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett , PGG Secretary

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Marks Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)
Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, L. Luciano-Burnett, D. Kramer, M. Rosa, N. Yaffe, A. Melnick, E. Bailey, J. Cuffee, S. Burbine, J. Churchill, S. Kinney, C. Gray-Mullen

INTRODUCTIONS: Roundtable introductions/greetings

SHOP AMHERST FIRST: Presenter: Debbie Timberlake

-Handout provided advertising www.shopamherstfirst.org

-Discussion around whether PGG should promote this organization seeing that it advertises support of the Amherst schools, libraries etc.

-PGG is unsure of how we would receive support, and whether we should send out information in support of this program.

-D. Timberlake will research more into the program and report back to PGG regarding the validity and promotion via MM PGG

ARMS Principle Search: Presenter: Debbie Timberlake

-Jere Hochman to discuss the search for ARMS Principal Wed 12/19 7pm at the middle school

FOOD SERVICE SURVEYS/CAFETERIA WORKERS: Presenters: Debbie Timberlake/Tracy Hightower

-Survey distributed to parents to question what kinds of foods are preferred by families: due Friday 12/14

-Nick reports the Chartwells 5 year contract is expired

-Unfortunately several of our cafeteria workers will be negatively affected by a change in food service companies

-Questions and concerns around the subject should be referred to the school committee

OFFICERS IN TRAINING: Presenter: Debbie Timberlake

-Seeking volunteers for open positions for PGG co-chair and treasurer for next year

REVIEW AND APPROVE 501 3 (C): Presenter: Debbie Timberlake

-MM PGG Bylaws reviewed, modified and updated

-Proposal by Debbie Timberlake: Do we approve suggested bylaws with changes?

-Voted and unanimously approved

-Discussion around the benefits of non profit status, and the difference between grant income and regular fundraising income

-Grants will be more accessible to MM PGG if we are a nonprofit organization

-Proposal by Debbie Timberlake: Do we approve of funding the cost for non profit filing, up to a maximum of $800.00?

-Voted and approved by majority

-Ultimately if nonprofit status proves not beneficial to MM PGG we do have the right to discontinue the nonprofit status

UPDATE ON THE DIVERSITY COMMITTEE AND SCHOOL DISTRICT REORGANIZATION: Presenters: M. Ryan/J. Cuffee

-The MM Diversity Committee

-Next meeting is on Tuesday 12/18 3:30- this committee welcomes any member of the MM community to attend

-Several committee members attended a workshop over the Veterans Day weekend on Undoing Racism-which dealt with combating institutional racism

-Currently this committee is looking at ideas around obtaining and retaining staff of color

-Surveys are being developed to assess family and staff concerns around all areas of diversity and how they are being dealt with in MM

-The School District Reorganization Committee

-Continues to discuss and research options around the possibility of reconfiguration of the Amherst Schools

-The goal is to present a list of proposed ideas to the School Committee by the end of the year

-Mary May and Meg Rosa are currently MM contacts for more information on this committee

TREASURERS REPORT: Presenter: Dan Kramer

-PGG has provided $100.00 to reserve transportation for 5th grade field trip-TBA

-Received $111.00 income from recycling and year book sales

-Currently PGG’s account contains just under $5,000.00 (please get Dan to verify this number)

PRINCIPALS REPORT/SGC UPDATE: Presenter: Nick Yaffe

-New open format assembly: to increase interest and excitement in celebrating/acknowledging what is happening in MM

-Modulars: Currently Nick has been approved for 2 modular class rooms as there is a need for additional classroom space next year with two 5th and 6th grade classes

-SGC: Developing a parent evaluation to those whose children are in mixed grade classrooms, as well as to the teachers to assess their point of view

-SGC would like to make connections in the community via a possible night with food to discuss the school improvement plan for January.

-To possibly increase parent involvement ability, Nick proposes a PGG meeting take place in the North Village Community Room

-Social Justice: During the Curriculum day Nov. 30th, the teachers and staff had A Social Justice workshop focusing on what is appropriate for teachers to introduce around the topics of prejudice and stereotyping that occur in the school and how the teachers and staff can take positive actions in dealing with these issues.

-The goal is to make MM a place where people are comfortable talking about their feelings around what is fair and just.

-MM After School Basketball proposal (Nick Yaffe): Can the PGG fund up to $600.00 until reimbursement of funds is produced by those participants that can contribute?

-Voted and approved unanimously

ROOM PARENT UPDATE AND VOLUNTEER FORM UPDATE: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-25 volunteer forms have been returned out of 138 families-If you can return these forms to your child's classroom teacher it would be greatly appreciated

-Current volunteer sign up list distributed to all present

- On Fri 12/21 abbreviated format of volunteer needs will go out to MM families

MISCELLANEOUS DISCUSSION:

-$60 in A-Z certificates received by PGG--discussion around what to utilize them on, it was decided to utilize them for Science Night

-Community Fundraising: promotion went out to families on Friday for encouragement of sign up for passive fundraising to benefit MM and the PGG
Recycle update: 17 cases of cartridges recently went out from Summer, Sept, Oct and Nov.--still more to recycle-volunteers needed to assist

Blog spot update: Do we want to add a page to MM Blogspot similar to Craig's List/Freecycle? Discussion around the benefits of more visitors to the page and how it can serve the MM community-T. Hightower to look more into this topic

Movie Night Leader: reviewed the list of 4 volunteers

-it is suggested that they form a team to help make movie night happen

-referrals of past Movie Night Leaders provided to call on for support/guidance/questions

NEXT MEETING: JAN 8TH AT 6:30 PM, MM LIBRARY

Meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.

Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett, PGG Secretary

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Marks Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)

Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, L. Luciano-Burnett, D. Kramer, M. Rosa, T. Deza, N. Yaffe, A. Melnick,K. Schendel

INTRODUCTIONS: Roundtable introductions/greetings

REVIEW FUNDING OF FIELD TRIPS: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-In grades 1,2 and 4 there were no requests for PGG funding of field trips last year

-More money was spent in the grade 5 and 6 classes

-The fear of the "squeaky wheel" syndrome affecting the distribution of PGG funds discussed

-Nick Yaffe reports that other classes in the school did participate in field trips that did not cost PGG

-Reviewed the possibility of teachers notifying PGG prior to field trip organization, so as to allow for PGG to vote on the use of the funds in as an equitable manner as possible

-PGG cannot distribute funds equitably if there is not a request made

-Alyssa Melnick suggested a letter go out to teachers to let them know that PGG funding is available

-Nick would like to put his previous request for Morse Hill field trip on hold- this has been paid for by the principals discretionary funds already and anything PGG can contribute would help to replenish these funds

FUNDING REQUESTS: Presenters: Debbie Timberlake/Tracy Hightower

Proposal: Can PGG fund childcare for Diversity Meetings and SGC?

-Voted and approved by majority

UPDATE OF THE MM BLOG: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-A counter on the website is being initiated to count the number of visitors to the MM blog

-New items on the BLOG: SGC/PGG minutes, 4-5 teachers wish lists, family-to-family

-The new family-to-family area reviewed: if people have something they would like to donate/or that they would like to request, this can be done through the guidance office

-The MM blog is not interactive--- and if wish lists from teachers have been fulfilled, or family-to-family items have been distributed, Tracy Hightower will be the one to update the blog accordingly

VOLUNTEER FORMS UPDATE AND FOLLOW-UP: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-There is a major need for volunteers especially in the area of room parents, child care coordinators, and recycling programs

-Room parents are still in need for Lindblom and Mercomes classes

-The volunteer sheet sent home in backpacks reviewed-room parents first task is to attempt to get parents to return these forms

-The volunteer forms are to be turned in to the teachers, who in turn will get them to the main office-Tracy Hightower will collect from the office

-Ideas discussed around how to promote some of the passive fundraisers like A to Z science, Atkins, Target, Stop and Shop etc.

-Meg Rosa suggested PGG come up with a small sticker that could be placed on families debit or credit cards to remind them to put their sale toward MM

-Katie Schendel suggested assigning one major fundraising task to each grade, which could be overseen by the room parents in that class--the pros and cons discussed around this issue

-It was made known that families volunteer in other ways besides the items listed on the volunteer sign up sheet

-Question as to whether we are properly reaching all families via notes in backpacks, email, open house etc.-Nick suggested that perhaps PGG could book a community room in the main apartment complexes that house a large majority of our students for an informational/pizza night to help with increasing volunteer participation

-A special thank you to Ian Boyd for a great job with the School Directory

MOVIE NIGHT PLANNING: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-Currently there are no volunteers

-An email to be sent out looking for volunteers

RECYCLING PROGRAM: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-The next recycle day is November 14th 9am to 10:30 in MM gym- please come and help out

-Looking at broadening collection and how we recycle

STOP AND SHOP BONUS BUCKS:Presenter: Tracy Hightower/Debbie Timberlake

-looking at other ways to participate in this program

-AEF will allow us to use their tax ID number, but will Stop and Shop allow this?

-AEF accepted the donated printer from Whole foods on MM behalf

PRINCIPALS UPDATE: Presenter: Nick Yaffe

-Money approved for modular classrooms for MM

-Superintendent is consulting with UMASS regarding the installation details (where and when)

-There will be two grade 5 and 6 classrooms next year

-Mix It up For Lunch Day: (Next Tuesday) Put on via our guidance office as a part of the new social justice work at MM idea: have kids eat lunch with kids they normally would not sit with

-Reflection via school assembly next Friday for feedback from the students on how they felt about Mix it up For Lunch Day

-Teachers are collaborating around the subject of literacy in MM

-The Catch A Rising Star assembly format is being reviewed by staff for ideas to possibly change and liven up the event

MISCELLANEOUS DISCUSSION:

-Volunteer needed to coordinate the community programs (publicize, check in with programs, thank programs) Currently the programs consist of: The Toy Box, Target, Atkins, Food for Thought Books and A to Z Toys.

-The proposals are due Feb 8, 2008 for the AEF grants- which help to fund the art enrichment programs (mosaic project, empty bowls project etc.)

-There is a link on the MM Blog to go to the AEF

-SGC update from Tracy Hightower: The role and charge of the Elementary Configuration Committee reviewed (looking at enrollment, the possibility of the middle school including grade 6, space, modulars)

-SGC is soliciting input on school improvement

NEXT MEETING: DECEMBER 11TH AT 6:30 PM, MM LIBRARY
Meeting adjourned at 8:04 p.m.
Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett , PGG Secretary

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Marks Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)
Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, L. Luciano-Burnett, D. Kramer, T. Boutilier, M. Rosa, T. Deza, S. Kaira, N. Yaffe, A. Melnick, I. Boyd, K. Winston, K. Lucas, F. Mednick

INTRODUCTIONS: Roundtable introductions/greetings

RECYCLING UPDATE: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-Currently Tracy Hightower is leading the cartridge recycle program, is looking for Individuals to take over coordination of this program, one of PGG’s major sources of Funding.

-Decrease in revenue from this project last year secondary to competition in the community for cartridge programs

-Volunteers are needed to aid in the review of participating organizations, solicit for new collections, sort, and pack and ship cartridges

STRENGTHENING PGG, LOOKING AT INVOLVEMENT AND PARTICIPATION: Presenters: Tracy Hightower/Debbie Timberlake

-Ideas reviewed for increasing attendance at future PGG meetings, suggestion to have a raffle for those attending.

-Staff and Teachers are welcome to come to meetings as well, Debbie will send a note out.

-Discussed room parents duties as including the encouragement of parent attendance at PGG

TREASURERS REPORT: Presenter: Daniel Kramer

-Income expense report reviewed

-Balance in account as of Tuesday 10/9/07: $6,824

INCOME: USED BOOK SALE . CONTRIBUTIONS: PRINTER FROM WHOLE FOODS

Check from Atkins, A to Z Certificates ($60): Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-Earned income from the Used Book Sale (9/8 and 9/23): $925 to benefit the MM library

-Contribution: Whole Foods generously donating a printer to the PGG

-Discussed the possibility of the printer passing through the Amherst Education Foundation, as MM PGG does not have a non profit ID#

-Local Stores contributing portions of their profits to MM via parent shopping reviewed. Tracy Hightower to post on the MM blog spot the list of local organizations participating for parent’s reference.

-Atkins Farms parent shoppers aided MM in earning $186.72

-A to Z parent shoppers earned MM $60 in gift certificates

FUNDING REQUESTS: REQUEST FROM NICK FOR FUNDS TOWARD MORSE HILL TRIP FOR 6TH GRADERS, SOCCER GOALS FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN $120: Presenter: Nick Yaffe

-Proposal: Can PGG aid in the replenishment of some of the principals discretionary funds which paid for the grade six Morse Hill Trip? Amount paid: $900

-Postponed decision, will look at overall spending on trips and classes.

-Proposal: Can PGG aid in the purchasing of field goals for the K-2 grades?

-Voted and approved by majority

NON PROFIT STATUS UPDATE/MISSION STATEMENT: Presenter: Debbie Timberlake

-Reasons nonprofit status benefits MM PGG reviewed

-PGG Mission statement provided for consultation by PGG members present

- Corrections made regarding wording under article 2: Purpose and Mission section 2.1 c

-Proposal: Can PGG adopt this mission statement as its purpose?

-Voted and approved by majority

PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAM POSSIBILITY: THERESA RUGERIO: Presenter: Tracy Hightower

-Proposal: Does MM want to support parent education programs?

-Voted and approved by majority

- Tracy will explore possibility of having Theresa Rugerio O.D., local opthamologist specializing in the effects of vision disorders in learning reviewed as a possible parent education program.

PRINCIPALS UPDATE/SGC UPDATE: Presenter: Nick Yaffe

-Friday 10/12 MM Parent Handbook to be sent home to families

-Looking for volunteers for MM Welcome committee

-Configuration Committee (superintendent’s office): looking for parent/staff volunteers to review the K-6 model/ classroom equity and consistency

-School Improvement Plan to be presented with SGC to the school committee on Oct. 16, 7pm- High School

-MM tardies cut in 1/2 this year thus far

-MM administration reviewing The Town of Amherst's Social Justice Commitment and how it can be infused into MM daily curriculum

-Public forums for the MM community are being considered as a means to discuss and solve problems within our school

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? FUNDRAISING IDEAS AND PRIORITIES: Presenter: Tracy Lee Boutilier

-Presented a new Family Fundraising Group: Families to Families -idea addressing families helping other families via donations of gently used clothing, backpacks, boots etc.

-Tracy Hightower to add to the MM blog the request for donations

-Volunteers to assist in the formation of this group: Tracy Lee Boutilier, Meg Rosa and Kate Winston

NEXT MEETING: NOVEMBER 6TH AT 6:30 PM, MM LIBRARY

Meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m.

Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett, PGG Secretary

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Marks Meadow Parent Guardian Group (PGG)
Purpose: Monthly Meeting
Date: Tuesday September 11, 2007
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Marks Meadow Library
Co-Chairs: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
Secretary: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett
Treasurer: Daniel Kramer

In attendance: D. Timberlake, T. Hightower, L.Luciano-Burnett, T. Deza, S. McQuaid, M. Rosa, S. Burbine, L. Aguilar, S. Colon, C. Stryleer, L. Cyr, K. Lucas, K. Winston, S. Kinney, J. Cuffee, N. Yaffe, P. Vickery

INTRODUCTIONS: PGG board members introduced, round-table introductions/greetings

-Announcement by Jocelyn Cuffee (Diversity Committee): First Diversity Committee Meeting to take place Tuesday 9-18-07 3:30 p.m. John Keins' office

SUMMER READATHON: Presenter: Susan McQuaid
-98 Participants
-51 contributions
-total thus far: $2,366.05 in donations to benefit the MM library

USED BOOK SALE : Presenter: Lisa Cyr
-Took place Sat. 9-8-07, Amherst Town Common in conjunction with Trash to Treasures and The Farmers Market.
-Donations of $625.00 to benefit the MM library
-Still time to donate for a repeat sale on Sunday 9-23-07 11-3 at Whole Foods in conjunction with their Farmers Market.

BACK TO SCHOOL POTLUCK: To be organized by Lynn Weintraub
-To take place Fri. 9-14 at 5:30 pm
-Kimberly Lucas and Katie Winston volunteered for name tag distribution
-Discussion of strategies for welcoming new MM families

VOLUNTEER REQUEST FORM: Presenters: Debbie Timberlake and Tracy Hightower
-Coordinators and co-ordinatiors needed for MM activities/projects
-new ideas discussed for fund raising
-reviewed current PGG Activities and Projects List, and revised as indicated
-Stephanie Burbine volunteered to co-coordinate the Savings makes Cents program

WEB NEWSLETTER AND ROOM PARENT PROPOSALS: Presenter: Tracy Hightower
-Web Newsletter (BLOG) Purpose: To inform families of MM events/activities/memos, PGG information, teacher wish lists, with links to Amherst Public Schools , town and newspaper websites.
-Multilingual capabilities
-Voted and approved by majority

-MM Room Parents Purpose: Parent liaison for PGG, aid teachers for organization of classroom chaperon needs, parent phone calls, finding volunteers for events, increase PGG involvement
-reviewed the time commitment, being 1-3 hours maximum/ month
-1:10 ratio of room parent to family
-Voted and approved by majority

Treasurers Report: Presenter: Debbie Timberlake
-Balance in account as of Tuesday 9/11/07: $5, 916.79

Principles Update: Presenter: Nick Yaffe
-Tuesday 9-18-07 School Committee Meeting: Update to be given regarding MM School Improvement Plan
-MM No Teasing Initiative-new program to educate staff, children and families of the effects on Teasing and Bullying
-3rd week of January National No Name Calling No Dissing Week
-New program this year through our guidance department: Second Step to Respect --addressing conflict resolution, social emotional skills, and peer mediation

Other Business

Child Care Plans: coordinators needed
-pay rate: for high school student $15 ($20 if only one), for college student $20

Non Profit Status:benefit: liability coverage and tax deductible donations. in process

Future Meetings: The following dates were voted and approved by majority: Oct. 9, Nov. 6, Dec. 11, Jan. 8, Feb. 5, March 4, April 1, May 6, June 3

Printing arrangements proposal: Presenter Debbie Timberlake
-Purpose: save PGG money on notices needing photocopying, usually performed at Collective Copies
-Proposal: PGG purchase toner and paper for the Timberlake family copier
-Voted and approved by majority

Yearbook plans: Christine Stryker to begin working with Jackie Churchill and Patty O'Brien

Curriculum night: Oct 3. 2007, 6:30-8 p.m. Discussed how to publicize PGG at this event

Idling Initiative: Presenter: Peter Vickery (Energy Task Force of Amherst )
-Third week of Sept. : Clear the Air Week
-Energy Fair: 9/15/07 10-5 p.m. Town Common
-Reviewed Anti Idling Initiative
-Discussed health, financial, and legal issues surrounding motor vehicle idling

Meeting adjourned : 8:12 p.m.
Meeting minutes submitted by: LaVonette Luciano-Burnett , PGG Secretary

Mark's Meadow PGG

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Presidential Inauguration

Friday, November 21, 2008

Diversity Committee Meeting

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Amherst Community Art Center/ Amherst Survival Center

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

PGG Meeting Tonight North Village Apartment H 2

PGG minutes 2007-2008

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Vote! Vote! Vote!

Mark's Meadow

Fund Raise for Mark's Meadow

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