Orchard Ridge
Elementary
PTO Board Meeting
August 20, 2002
Lisa Kornetsky
Catherine McKenzie
Michele Hughes
Kriss Ellingson
Heather Renken
Mike Hertting
Mary Day
Mike Stone
Kriss Ellingson presented the proposed budget for the 2002-2003 school year. Two slight modifications were made at the meeting to the budget. First, it was agreed that it would not be necessary this year to do any large product sales this year, since there are sufficient funds in the budget to meet current need. The smaller fundraisers such as Barnes and Noble, Copps and Cubs and the bake sales will still take place. Additionally, all board members agreed that it would be appropriate to place $100 in a budget category of “Other” to purchase condolence cards, flowers, etc., for Orchard Ridge community members whose children have been injured, or for parents who have suffered the death of a child. With these amendments the proposed budget passed with a carry over of $16,418.16 and a projected profit for this year of $9,268.16.
Mike Hertting reported on several items. These included; 1) his concern over the large classes in 4th and 5th grade; 2) the school now has Hmong and Spanish interpreters; 3) he is writing a grant for the Dane County Cultural Arts and may seek $500 in matching funds from the PTO, and; 4) Monica Kamal will have new software for the Rainbow Review newsletter.
Heather Renken reported on the status of this year’s volunteer efforts. A few of the volunteer slots are full, such as the ice cream social, but many new volunteers are needed. The Board discussed ways to increase parent involvement including raising awareness in the Rainbow Review and having Heather person a booth on the first day of classes. A reminder that parents can help the school financially by sending in Cub and Target receipts will be put in the Rainbow Review.
The Board discussed having a permanent board position of “Web Master.” It determined that the possible Bylaws amendment would be published, and then a vote on this issue would be taken at the next Board meeting.
Mike Stone reported that there will be a web site page developed for the next Rainbow Review as well as a PTO website. Board members should tidy themselves for the day in September when their pictures will be taken for this new page.
Lisa Kornetsky suggested several ideas for programs in the coming months. These include: 1) School testing; 2) Peaceful Playgrounds; 3) the Role of Universities in training our teachers; 4) Safety/Emergency Training, along with Helping Hand Neighbors.
The Board agreed informally that it would be a good idea for a babysitter to be present at Board meetings for children of Board members or other parents who would like to attend a board meeting. The cost of the babysitter would be shared by those utilizing the babysitter’s services. Non-Board member parents could use the babysitter for $1.00 an hour.
Both Co-Vice-President positions remain unfilled.