The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m.
Dave Murray introduced Jeff Carlson and Mary Panke
who are members of the VOICE Group. They presented to the PTO a power
point presentation showing us pictures displaying some of the repairs that need
to be addressed and fixed to improve the Vernon Public Schools and how
important it is for the bonding package to be voted on and passed so that these
improvements to the schools can be made. They also presented us with a
handout explaining the Town of Vernon School Bond Referendum package.
President’s Report:
Ellen Skoly thanked everyone on the VOICE Group for
all their hard work in trying to educate people on the bonding package.
January 2005 Minutes:
Ellen Skoly made a motion to pass the January
minutes.
Ellen also informed us that we received the $800
from Bolles Motors.
Treasurer’s Report:
The budget report was presented.
Kidstown Fair: Paula Baran informed us that three people attended the meeting.
The Committee is still looking for volunteers to help the day of the
fair. The date of the fair has been changed. The fair will be held
on March 19th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Committee was
informed that some teachers had a conflict with the date change but any help
the Committee can get would be appreciated. A flyer was sent home with
the students about the upcoming fair and asking for volunteers.
Silent Auction:
The Committee informed us that a letter will be coming home with the students
looking for donations for the themed baskets and for volunteers to help
organize the class baskets.
Playscape: Julie Marcotte stated
that the committee has scheduled a meeting on February 17th at 7:00
p.m. in the cafeteria looking for volunteers to help with the playscape installation. At the meeting, they are
going to put together subcommittees to help with the installation. The
installation date is scheduled for Saturday, April 30th. A
form will be sent home with the students prior to the meeting.
The Committee also spoke about the upcoming Bubblemania
fundraiser which will be held on April 1st. More information
about this event will be sent home with the students. In mid-April Linda Correia will be hosting an Avon fundraiser.
Education:
Jennifer DiTommaso spoke about the upcoming February
activities: (1) a Magnet program for the 1st graders; (2)
Hamilton Sundstrand Space program for the 3rd graders; (3) a
weatherman visit for the 3rd graders; and for the 4th and
5th graders a “This Old Hat” event.
Board of Education:
Dean Houle informed us that the budget for this year
has been submitted.
Teacher’s Report:
Mrs. Barry and Mrs. Sinacola informed us of the
upcoming events happening in the school by grade level.
Principal’s Report:
Mr. Testa informed us that the 4th and 5th
graders will begin their foreign language classes soon. LSS is offering
two Spanish classes and one French class and there will be 15 students per
class. LSS might offer another foreign language session if more students
are interested.
Mr. Testa also told us that he recently sent home
with the students a letter allowing the students to exchange peanut-free candy
along with their Valentine Day cards.
Mr. Testa told us that there is a new rule in place
during lunch time in the Cafeteria. The last five minutes of the lunch
time, the lights go off and there is no talking to allow the students to finish
eating.
Mr. Testa presented us with a handout regarding
families and schools working together to give our children every opportunity to
succeed in life and achieve high academic standards.
New Business:
There was a lengthy discussion on food allergies and the need for food
consistencies due to the allergies throughout the school.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:22 p.m.