Shining Stars this month go to: Therese Bringham (Chicken BBQ), Sally Draina (BBQ flyers), Nichole Harrell (event navigation), Jessie Johnson (Italian Ices for Walkabout), Jessica Mack & Bethany Ference (Talent Show), Jennie Robleno & the Popcorn Team, Kim Heikes (School Banking), Tambra (Library), and Laura Munkres (Spring Fling birds of prey). We also thank Jen England, Chris Marshall, and Sally Draina as they wrap up their terms—your service has meant so much!
BOE Update: Retirees were honored, including Stevens’ own Dr. Evans, Mrs. Mele, and Mrs. Grace. NYS Commissioner of Education and President of the University of the State of New York, Dr. Betsy Rosa, and colleagues visited our high school to learn about the educational opportunities our district provides students, and joined high school students in the Podcast Studio for an interview--listen here. Discussion continues around the state’s cell phone policy, upcoming building project bids, and a proposal for bus stop sign cameras—community feedback welcomed. Thank you to the community for voting to pass the budget.
The Art Fundraiser brought in $2,500! Orders should have arrived home; ship-to-home ordering remains open.
Election results: Tina Powell (VP of School Support), Sally Draina (VP of Fundraising), Chris Marshall (Treasurer), and Building Council reps Jen Capello and Sally Draina.
Budget highlights: Current balance is just over $50,000. This year's fundraisers including the Art Fundraiser, new Penny Wars and Fun Run raised over $30K this year and will be allocated towards arts and enrichment programming, classroom support and purchasing new or replacement items for the school.
Teachers Report: Offered suggestions to use PTA funds for grade-level banners for Halloween parade, class t-shirts, poster makers, and display cases. Next year’s teacher reps will be Maggs and Vedaro.
Principal’s Report: Final week of school includes 11:30 AM dismissals and themed “Final Five” days. If the heat index is 95+, outdoor activities may be canceled. At the end-of-year assembly, students will meet next year’s teachers. Congrats to newly tenured teachers and staff -- Sherwood, Strom, Pfieffer, Valasey, Weider and Gotham.
Fifth Grade Party planning is on track, with basketball hoops and playground equipment decided on as their gift to the school.
We’re recruiting committee co-chairs for next year’s events—interested in Book Fair, Talent Show, or Family Movie Night? Let us know!
Book Fair was a big success - we were able to fill all student and teacher book requests, and purchase Scholastic magazines for next year.
And finally—huge kudos to Nichole Harrell for launching our first-ever Fun Run!
Next meeting: September
Read the full meeting minutes here via Google Docs.
