ST. MARYS CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SYSTEM PTO GENERAL MEETING 16 September 2009 PRESENT: Mark Hoffman, Lisa Daghir, Sandy Hoh, Jill Kaul, Bob Ordiway, Ann Caskey, Kimberly Kim, Laura Gerber, Donna Keller, Darlene Buttery, Mary Beth Schaut, Mary Agnes Marshall ABSENT: RoseAnne Johnson, Cathy Zimmerman, Carmen Kamats EXCUSED: None The meeting began at 6:40 with a prayer led by President Hoffman. This was the first meeting of the new school year and was well attended. Mr. Ray Knight, ECCHS Band Director, was our guest speaker. He explained the band program and how it is a worthwhile program that benefits the students well into adulthood as well as forging friendships that last. He introduced Tara Witter, Market Day representative, who was present with some goodies for us to try. M. Hoffman filled us in on the final details for the upcoming Family Picnic to be held on the 20th of September. The picnic is a-go and everything seems to be in order. The upcoming Kristen Fisher Christmas concert was discussed. The plans still need to be finalized and will be shared when we have details. The next movie night will be the 23rd of October. The movie has not yet been decided D. Buttery informed us of the plans for the Halloween party to be held at the middle school. The party will be on the 6th of November so that it doesn't interfere with trick or treating in town. The 6th, 7th and 8th grade students from St. Leo's will be invited. M. Hoffman explained a little on the Volkssport/Volksmarch that is being planned for our area. He wants to have a mini Volksmarch for the students. M. Hoffman also touched a little on some other upcoming PTO events such as engineering day and another spelling bee since it was so well received last year. We also heard about homeroom parents and an upcoming art project for the students. TREASURER'S REPORT: B. Ordiway reported that 2008-2009 was a good year, partly due to the Gala in April. We met our goal and had a little to spare. The family picnic is the result of that surplus. We are trying to become more efficient but we need help with the upcoming projects. Our goal is to eliminate our spring fundraiser. FUNDRAISING: Ann Caskey was thanked for the Bi Lo certificate program. It's a win-win situation, 5% for the school and 5% for tuition. A. Caskey thanked all of those who volunteer on the weekends. We may sell Bi Lo certificates at the Sacred Heart Bah Humbug festival. We are no longer going to sell Zap-a-snack products. We have contracted with Uno pizza through Market Day. The Sheetz coupon booklets are again for sale. There is no price increase, it is still $4.00 per coupon and $40.00 per book. PRINCIPALS REPORT: Mrs. Marshall reported that tomorrow night is parent night at the middle school. Mrs. Marshall and Mrs. Schaut addressed the germ issue that is affecting us all. Hand sanitizers are being installed. The middle school has paper cup dispensers at the water fountains now. More attention is being paid to sanitizing desks and other areas such as computers. Mrs. Schaut reported that grades 1 - 2 and 3 are getting a new report card. A sample will be sent home soon. Thanksgiving lunch will once again be served with all the fanfare as in prior years. Lynn Pistner will again take charge. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15. The teacher award was won by Laura Kuntz. The tuition voucher was won by Ann Marie Brennen. The next meeting will be at the middle school on November 18th at 6:30.