Minutes of MHS PTSO Meeting
March 6, 2013
In attendance: Debra Dias, Pat Wyer, Renee Hauserman, Greg Robertson, John Connolly, Suzanne Monkemeier, Anne Meyer, Linda Finelli, Mary Beth Heck, Mary Thomas and Nancy Brzozowski.
Co-Presidents Report
Deb Dias called the meeting to order.
Principal’s Report
· Mr. Robertson reported that the new teacher evaluation system to be implemented will be a radical change in NJ education. The new system rates teacher’s performance based on student achievement and teacher instructional practice.
· Mr. Healy will be out for the balance of the year due to personal family obligations. We are very close to hiring a permanent substitute.
· It is very likely that the water fountains advocated for by Project Aware will be installed by the end of the school year.
Students/Class Parents Update
Class of 2013: Mary Thomas reported that the class is hosting the Harlem Wizards next Thursday with all of the proceeds dedicated to the Graduation Gala. The Talent Show is scheduled for 4/18. The class has raised $37,000 to date.
Class of 2014: Nancy Brzozowski reported that the class held a very successful rummage sale and are planning a spring flag football tournament. They are also considering hosting a wine tasting.
Class of 2015: Raised $450 on the Irish Soda Bread sale and will be holding an Adult Social in April.
Class of 2016: The class is planning an apparel sale. Sarah Wong is finalizing the designs.
Student Council Report
Emily, student representative, and Susan Monkemeier reported the following:
· A Class Clash is being planned as part of Spirit Week. Each class will have a unique t-shirt. The shirts are being sold for $15 and the proceeds will help fund the school compost project.
· A volleyball tournament is scheduled for 5/29.
· On 4/17 our student council will be hosting other student councils from nearby schools to share ideas and best practices. A member of the PTSO board will attend and the PTSO will help with refreshments.
Vice President’s Report
Mary Beth Heck shared that Chris Colby has agreed to a position on the board for next year. We are still looking for an additional 2 board members.
Assistant Principal’s Report
· Jostens will be sending him 2 graduation gown samples in an effort to reduce costs. However, he cautioned that there will not be a huge amount of savings, possibly $1-$2 per gown. Renting is 50 cents cheaper but the gown is made of a heavier material which is not a good choice due to heat. Mr. Connolly felt the extra cost was not worth the trade off of the heavier material and added tasks (i.e., collection, dry cleaning, storage).
· Jostens did feel that a pendant choice in place of a ring is doable. The rep will provide Mr. Connolly with some samples.
· Mr. Connolly reviewed the school calendar for March and April.
Treasurer’s Report
No report
Minutes Approval: The minutes from the January 2013 PTSO meeting were approved.
Committee Reports
Beautification: Purchased new planters that are in front of the building. Upcoming plans include service day participation and removing the holiday decorations. Sue will be looking for a replacement to take over this committee for next school year.
Newsletter: Deadline for submissions for next release is 1/31.
Hospitality: Hospitality is all set for the teacher luncheon. Debbie Luttinger and Mia Scavone will be stepping down at the end of this year.
Web Page: PTSO Bylaws were posted. Renee will need to be replaced for the next school year.
Booster Clubs:
Bullpen: Beefsteak dinner at the Elks on Saturday.
Hockey: No report.
Soccer: No report.
Marching Dodgers: Pancake Breakfast was held at the Elks on 1/27.
Tip In Club: Pancake Breakfast was held at the Elks on 2/20 and the banquet is scheduled for this week.
Diamond Club: Beefsteak Dinner was held at the Elks on 2/9.
PTSO Liaison Reports
Board of Education: MHS administration was asked to review a request that allowed student athletes participating in a sport to opt out of physical education class. Our administration recommended to the Board that this not be implemented. The Board agreed with the administration’s position that there are a lot of benefits derived from the physical education program in addition to athletics
Harding: No report.
MMA: Anne Meyer reported the following:
· Cast Cabaret to be held 3/7 in the Chase room at the library.
· The Marching Band is participating in the Morristown St. Patrick’s Parade this Saturday.
· Tickets for Music Man are on sale 3/21-3/24.
· Arts Matter concert is 4/3 and tickets will be sold at the door.
MJS: No report
Old Business: None
New Business: None
The meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Pat Wyer, Secretary