March 6, 2007 – Gymnasium

Opening
The meeting began at 7:00pm.

Ms. Griffin Introduction
Mr. Rose introduced Ms. Griffin, the Interim Vice Principal. She will be with us for the next 10-12 weeks. Ms. Griffin addressed the group and mentioned that she enjoys working with Mr. Rose and looks forward to helping meet the needs of the school.

Year Round Process
Mr. Rose mentioned that Track Assignment letters are being sent home to students tomorrow.  He stressed the difficulty in ensuring that track assignments result in well balanced classrooms.  There are many issues to consider:  gender balance, ethnicity balance, siblings, students coming back to Vance from a year round school, etc. Mr. Rose directed parents to utilize the appeal process described in the letter. The Steering Committee continues to meet at least monthly to address Year Round issues/concerns.  

Mr. Rose also mentioned that he is working with several agencies in the hopes of having an on-site before and after school program next year.  Perhaps a Track Out Program option may be available via the agency conducting the before and after school program – allowing students to be bused to Vance and then off-site.  More information will be available once negotiations are confirmed.

Pennies for Patients
Ms. Mize informed parents of the Pennies for Patients assembly the children had today.  The campaign is a fundraiser for Leukemia and Lymphoma and will run for the month of March.  Ms. Mize played a short video and informed parents that a letter will be sent home this week with more information.  The class that raises the most money will have a Pasta Party.  Children will be able to write letters to a local child inflicted with these diseases to add a human quality to the cause.

Nominating Committee
At the moment, we do not have interested parties for two VP positions and the Treasurer position.  Interested parents are being asked to contact Vicki.

Book Fair Update
The Book Fail will begin on March 14.  Volunteers are still needed.

Read-a-thon Update
Although the goal was not met, approximately $7,000 was raised.  Students were given awards. 

New Logo/T-shirts
The children voted for their favorite logo.  The cost for the shirts will be $10 for adult size, and $9 for child size.  Order forms will be sent home in a few weeks.

Change to By-Law
The By-Laws will need to be changed to reflect the new PTA positions to accommodate the year round schedule. 

Track Out Fair Update
The Track Out Fair went well.  Twenty-five vendors were present to inform parents of available programs.  We may consider having another fair in the fall.

International Fair Update
The International Fair was held during the school day last week and went well.  (I would like to add a little more verbiage - ???)

Approval of February 2007 Meeting Minutes
The minutes from our February meeting were approved.  A motion was made and seconded; the group was all in favor.

Upcoming Calendar Events
Vicki reminded the group of the upcoming calendar events.

Closing
Meeting adjourned:  7:20pm
Minutes submitted by:   PTA Secretary, April 16, 2007.