FMS PTSA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
          January 23, 2008

 

 

Attending the meeting were Thomas Dietrich, Katie Stefanides, Angela Schuab,
John Waldren, Joan Mullene Jackie Ferguson, Angela Prater, Diane Cooper,
Elizabeth Nordi and Silvana Dice

I. Angela Prater welcomed the general membership members, and transitioned
to the president's overview. Amy Farris was excused from the meeting. Angela
gave us an updated on our membership numbers for 2007-2008. We are sitting
at 150 members thus far. We are six members short compared to last year. John
shared that a lower enrollment of 35 students, compared to enrollment numbers
in the past thirteen years might have contributed to the PTSA membership data.
Coming up activity for volunteering opportunity are snacks in the classroom for
the WASAL testing. Next year's PTSA board is being reviewed and will be up for
voting soon. The board is hoping to include income 6I grade parents.

 

II. Jackie Ferguson gave her update on the Reflections Program. There is a
showcase displayed in the commons. Two of the pieces were sent to State.
Reflections enrollment has been about half compared to last year. On the Art
side, the Art Club has been meeting once a month. They have been involved in
activities from Jazz Workshop to fabric collage banners. The WVC dance group
will perform during the lunch hour this coming Friday; They will showcase Hip
Hop, Swing and whatever time will allow. The art activities offered by the school
are free of charge for the students. Glena Valentine has expressed interest in
chairing the Art program next year.

 

Ill. Tom Dietrich updated us on treasury. Expected fundraising revenues for this
year are $ 10.000,00. We are at about $7-8.000, 00, therefore right on track
compared to last years. Copies of the treasury report were available for
distribution.

 

IV. Fundraising update was given by Jackie. Box tops rebate is $ 500, 00,
Albertson's Community Partners $ 700, 00, 2 for 1 card $ estimated revenues are
$7-8.000, 00. The implementation of the Valued Card Program stands in need of
reevaluation. Perhaps a voucher approach could eliminate the hustle of tracking
the cards. Another suggestion was offered that perhaps a two way approach for
tracking could be used. A form to log on every sale, and a check out system for
those that want the cards in big quantities. The use of the school's website to
announce fundraiser dates might be helpful. Upcoming sale date is scheduled for
March. Mrs. Hink's class won the Box Tops context. The money has been
earmarked for books. The i period was used to encourage the kids to offer gifts of
themselves, and then display them on a paper chain. Some of our teachers have
expressed an interest to have a projector mounted from the ceiling. It was shared
that the PTSA should be funding the Mark 0' Donnell refurbishing. John is still
working on the bids; He has put the word out on an email newsletter.

 

V. Angela Shuab was present to offer subsequent insights into the Eatable
Garden Project. A coordinator is needed at FMS; Angela shared that she will
help launch the project. The responsibilities of the coordinator will be to oversee
the general garden care, which entails to 1-2 hours a week. The bulk of the
activities take place in the spring. Different business can be involved in donating
for the garden project. During the Fall and Spring, two prep days are needed to
tend to various soil and harvesting activities. Clean up during the Summer
months can be a challenge.

 

VI. Angela Prater wrapped up the meeting, adding that the Culinary Club could
be started once the Eatable Garden project is in place. The garden idea could be
absorbed into the school curriculum. Tracy Faulkner might be possible placement
for the garden project. S. Lockhart will serve as the teacher rep. Silvana Dice
brought in gift certificates at Amy Earns' request donated from the Eastmont
Bowling Ally. A drawing was held, and disbursed. The Spelling Bee is in need of
2-3 more volunteers.
Meeting was adjourned, with some refreshments brought in by the board.