PTO Meeting
November 2 , 2022
8:40am
PTO Board Members in Attendance
Colleen Garbe, Paula Strozak, Pam Byerly, Valerie Nugent, Jeni Graham
Updates from Administration and Board Members
Mrs. Read provided a written update to the PTO Board. She reported that the district wide Sock Hop at Gurrie is scheduled for January 27th, 6:00-7:30 pm. All of the PTO Presidents are aware of the event and they will be working to get at least two (2) volunteers from each of their schools. Additionally, The annual Hearing and Vision screenings are tentatively scheduled for December 5th & 6th, with rescheduling scheduled for December 19th & 20th.
With Veterans Day quickly approaching, Spring Ave. has welcomed service members to record the Pledge of Allegiance and be guest speakers in classrooms. Also, students were asked to decorate stars for the “Honor Wall” that will be on display to highlight Veterans and their service. Mrs. Read’s final update was in regards to the ongoing research and planning for an outdoor classroom at Spring Ave. At this time they are researching architects to work with and trying to determine the cost.
Colleen Garbe shared that the updated School Directory (pink cover) went home with students. The Board is looking into the possibility of an electronic version of the directory. The possible electronic version would only include parent(s) phone/email address. Dr. Ganan is looking into the possibility and weighing concerns that an online version would cause an increased security issue. Updates will be provided when available. The Board is also brainstorming new ways to gather new Kindergarten families directory information.
Colleen also brought up the idea of gifting the non teaching staff at Spring with a “We are Thankful for You” gift card to show our appreciation for everything they do for the students, parents and fellow staff.
Paula Strozak will be sending out the “favorite things” survey to teachers and once compiled, room parents will send it out to parents via Parent Square. Paula reported the classroom Halloween parties were successful and the parade was fun for all. The new safety protocols for visitors entering the building caused a bit of a delay to the start of the parties, but parents and teachers were understanding as everyone adjusts to the new process.
Parent Teacher conferences are coming up and Paula noted that the soups for the teachers are being planned and that Mrs. Read and Ms. Skala will provide crackers and dessert. The Run Club for grades 3-6 has been successful this year and they are working to finalize volunteers for the last few weeks.. The last day will be a hot chocolate celebration and the PTO is looking into getting t-shirts for the participating kids.
Erin Schreiber was not in attendance, but provided the update that the After 3 Programming is going well. There will be holiday themed After 3 classes and the registration date/time will be announced. The next Fun Lunch is January 20th. Parents will have the option to donate to the PTO again if they wish.
Pam Byerly shared that the Oktoberfest was a success and the Board agreed it was well received by the Spring Ave community. The Book Fair is coming up and volunteers are still needed. The volunteer sign up went out via Parent Square. Pam is in the process of finding a venue for the Adult Social, and the date is being finalized. She shared that Trivia Night has an updated date of February 10th. The Spirit Wear committee is finalizing the offerings and items will be available for purchase soon. Additionally, the Retail Fundraisers are being organized, and the first is scheduled for Tuesday, November 8th with Billy Bricks Wood Fired Pizza.
Jeni Graham is working to organize the YearBook. She mentioned that it is easy to upload pictures for the yearbook directly from the PTO website. Simply visit springavepto.org, and visit “Yearbook” under the “Info” tab.
Spring Ave teachers were thankful for the classroom grants they received from the PTO. The PTO has followed up with teachers who have not yet cashed their checks.