October 2010

Blue Heron PTO General Meeting October 25, 2010 7:02 Call to Order A motion was made to approve the September minutes (S/A) Dr. Stremick Superintendent of Schools-Dr. Stremick gave a state of the district address. He spoke on the tough economic situation last year regarding cutting of staff and services. Despite the situation, Centennial continues to do well on state- wide testing. Centennial exceeded the state average as well as area district scores. Enrollment is declining, fewer students means fewer dollars as funding is set at a per student basis. The biggest reason for this is the incoming kindergarten classes are not the same as the graduating classes, thus a decline. We have 410 students in the district who open enroll here at Centennial, which adds revenue however not enough to balance the discrepancy between K and the graduating class. The district is challenged economically. There will not be any help from the state as they have their own economy shortfall to be concerned with. With fewer students, no state funding increase, and increases in expenses the district faces a challenging economic situation. A 1.7 million dollar deficit is projected for the 2011-2012 school year. The district is looking at ways to save money through schedule changes, energy efficiency, wellness program initiatives, workers compensation savings, and another possible referendum for October of 2011. President’s Report-Kris Fredrick reported that the Sock Hop was a success. Kris introduced Ms. Gerst. Ms. Gerst is interested in helping to develop a Science Fair at Blue Heron. Amy Gerst- Ms. Gerst gave some information on adding a possible Science Fair. She would be interested in helping to head this up and get it organized for Spring of 2011. A motion was made to add a Science Fair as a Blue Heron event for 4th and 5th grade students. M/S/A Treasurer’s Report-Kristi Herbrechtsmeyer reported that as of today’s date, the net available funds balance after all reoccurring expenses is approximately $17,000.00. Recent events that have generated money: Sock Hop made $496.37 and the projected profit for fundraiser is $18,600.00. Net fundraiser profit is not available as of today’s date. Due to NSF checks, a motion was made and seconded to not allow for unpaid items to be picked up until the money is accounted for. If the items and money isn’t accounted for the board will decide what to do with the items. (S/A) Principal’s Report-Mr. Melde reported that the swings are in and operational. Halloween festival parade this Friday (October 29). Grade 5 will continue the tradition of the wax museum in the gym. All parents are welcome. Advertising in the Schools—Mr. Melde was asked by the school board to elicit a discussion regarding the possibility of advertising in the schools for the purpose of generating funding. The purpose of the discussion was to get feedback and questions from parents about this possible initiative. The process consists of a company coming into the schools and measuring usable advertising space in the school such as floors, walls, and lockers. (None of the space inside of classrooms would be used.) If we only used 10% of measured usable space in district it could bring in approximately $10,000. Money would go into the general fund. District has the final say but at this time, the school board is seeking feedback, questions, and concerns from the parents. Teacher’s Report-Mrs. Youngbauer reported that she checked in with teachers regarding large purchases, so far no responses however, she will ask again and keep us informed as to what the teachers need. Entertainment Books—Sold about 30 books. Sold at parent information night rather than open house like last year. Approximate profits were $330, however this not meant to be a fundraiser but rather a service to the parents. PTO brainstormed other possible locations/events to have the books available for purchase. Fall Fundraiser—The fall fundraiser went well. Nov. 4th is fundraiser pick up. Two shifts of volunteers will be needed to organize and hand out items. Interested parties can sign up on the PTO website to volunteer. Sock Hop—Sock Hop went well. Looking to reduce the social hour from ½ hour to 15 minutes for next year. Fall Bookfair—Tracey Strantz reported on the progress of the fall bookfair. Bookfair dates are Nov 15-18 Mon-Thurs. It will follow a similar process to past bookfairs regarding parent night events. The theme this year is Heros. Turkey Bingo will coincide with the final night of the bookfair. Turkey Bingo-Tara Johnson, Rachael Chiapetta, and Kristi Herbrechtsmeyer will co chair this event. The bingo license is already completed and in house. They will continue working on the rest of the details. Date is set for Thursday the 18th of November. Spirit Wear—Display is up, order forms are due by Friday October 29th. Conference Dinners-Went well, Denise Mortenson did a great job once again. Funding Requests A motion was made to approve $500 per grade level or $3,000 total to help in reducing the cost of field trips. (S/A) Meeting Adjorned: 8:30 Respectfully submitted, Andrea Erichsrud