ST. JOSEPH PARENT SCHOOL COUNCIL MINUTES
August 20, 2007
Board Members Present: Kerri Bendele, Angi Bunn, Denice Fedewa, Krista Hallead, Teresa Kaczmarek, Juanita McCann, Sara Nurenberg, Tomi Ann Schultheiss, Laura Skriba, Lisa Suidgeest, Bridgette Voisinet, Teacher Rep: Cheryl Weiber
Board Members Absent: Deb Kohagen (excused), Deanne Purtill (excused)
Visitors: Christa Carbone, Christy Kosnik, Cheryl Nodarse, Janelle Paksi, Terrilynn Voisin
Call to Order: President, Bridgette Voisinet called the meeting to order at 6:36 with the Our Father
Approval of the Minutes: A question was raised regarding the Clubs Choice presentation at the May, 2007 Council meeting. Discussion took place following the presentation about the benefits and risks of keeping a proven revenue generator, with, at times marginal product, versus switching to a new supplier (Schwann’s) that has more delivery options, and should have better quality. Tomi Ann confirmed that, as per consensus of council members surveyed, St. Joe will be leaving Club’s Choice to try Schwann’s this year. It was clarified that we can always switch back the following year if proceeds are not adequate. A motion was made by Krista Hallead to approve the minutes as presented, it was seconded by Juanita McCann. MPC
Additions to the Agenda: Under New Business: Resignation of Deanne Purtill, 3rd Grade Representative
Treasurers Report: Denice Fedewa reported that the beginning balance is higher this year than last year. She also noted that most agenda items have come in within budgeted figures, with the exception of the Spring Musical, for which the overage was approved. A motion was made by Lisa Suidgeest to approve treasurer’s report as presented, it was seconded by Laura Skriba. MPC
OLD BUSINESS
A. Spring Raffle and Picnic
Lisa Suidgeest reported that approximately 485 people attended. While revenues were about $32 short if expected, based on the number of attendees, net profit for the event was still over $150. General comments included problem with kids riding bikes, and ideas for getting crowd to mix a bit more, but overall the event continues to be a great success.
B. Mint City Shootout
Terrilynn Voisin provided a report on this years 3-on-3 tournament. She indicated there were a few less teams and court sponsors this year, and significant time (Glen Voisin) and money was put into rebuilding all of the freestanding hoops. Even with all this, profit was just over $10,476, though that is down approximately $1,300 from last year. Gratitude was expressed to Weiber Lumber who donated some of the wood used in backboard construction. Concessions were up about $500, probably due to heat on Saturday. Terrilynn and Glenn are currently considering whether they are willing to continue coordinating the event, if they do, they will need substantially more help next year. General discussion took place about ideas to streamline work and sustain revenue, such as establishing online signup; soliciting volunteers at Spring Picnic; assigning responsibility to grade reps for producing volunteer parents from each grade; and increasing the team registration fee and utilizing more paid referees since that is the area most difficult to solicit volunteers for. Terrilynn commented that all with input, ideas and enthusiasm are welcome to attend the wrap-up and planning meeting scheduled for August 22 at 7:00 pm.
Bridgette Voisinet presented the bylaws. Juanita McCann asked about language in Article IV (A) Duties of the Executive Board indicating that members of the Executive Board must participate in PSC organized events. General discussion took place regarding the “participation is mandatory” language. It was the consensus of the group that the word “mandatory” should be changed to “expected”. Juanita McCann made a motioned to approve the Bylaws as amended, Laura Skriba seconded the motion. MPC. Bridgette commented that Bylaws will be update annually, and that a committee will be assigned at a later date to review.
D. Library Renovation
Bridgette Voisinet reported that KP Auto Body is still working on the shelves, and they may not be completed and installed before school starts. Thanks was expressed for the PSC’s willingness to approve an increased budget for the project. It was reported that sufficient laptop computers have been donated to get the library up and running. A signup sheet was passed around for volunteers to help finish up remaining work.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Walk-Through
Lisa Suidgeest passed around a signup sheet for volunteers, and explained some of the positions. A question was raised regarding the price of student planners. Terrilynn commented that the price is based on actual cost from the supplier, which isn’t known until the bill for the planners arrives over the summer. A suggestion was made to list the price of student planners as “approximate” on the supply lists to help alleviate confusion at walk through.
Brigette Voisinet read through the list of new families coming in and took volunteers to place welcome calls. Bridgette thanked council members for welcoming the families.
Lisa Suidgeest indicated that a letter soliciting nominees will go out during the first week of classes so that positions can be filled at next PSC meeting. Discussion also took place regarding the resignation of Deanne Purtill, which was tendered for personal reasons. Deanne held the 3rd grade rep position. Upon reviewing election information from last May, it was determined that Janelle Paksi was the only other person who had run for that rep position who was not currently serving on the Council in some other capacity. It was the consensus of the group that Janelle should step in as 3rd grade rep, rather than keep her name in the running for an At-Large position. In a related matter, it was commented that new board members (Kerri Bendele, Angi Bunn and Krista Hallead, so far) need to receive binders with all relevant meeting information.
D. Carnival
a. Halloween Festivities Revisited: After much consideration, we will not attempt to do another haunted house again this year. The burden on volunteers was too great to do this every year. We may try to do this every 2-3 years.
b. Theme – Students Voting: Teresa Kacsmarek will be in charge of creating and sending around a ballot of names suggested last year for the current theme this year.
c. Date: November 3, 2007. Lisa explained the choice of date is influenced by (1) start of hunting season, and (2) other events taking place in and out of school, such as basketball tournaments and occasionally college football games.
d. Chairpersons will be:
i. Prizes — Krista Hallead
ii. Kitchen — John Thelen
iii. Big Money Raffle — Sheryl Middleton
iv. Mini Raffle — Kerri Bendele and Christa Carbone will help coordinate with last years chair, Bridgette Voisinet
v. Public Relations — Teresa Kaczmarek, Angi Bunn to assist
E. Teacher Stipends
An amount for teacher stipends was included in the annual budget passed in May, so no action needs to be taken by the council. Denice Fedewa will work with Tomi Ann to complete.
F. 2007/2008 School Directory
Pam Feldpausch, Mary George and Bonnie Wohlfert have agreed to complete this task again with assistance from Terrilynn Voisin.
G. Assembly Committee Update
Cheryl Nodarse agreed to chair the committee. Angi Bunn will shadow her with the intent to become chairperson next year.
Principal’s Report
Tomi Ann reported that the retirement party for two departing teachers went extremely well. The teachers liked the party and the gifts. The stones are placed in the quiet area. Marie Weirsma is not returning this year, so we will share a computer teacher with the Middle School. However, the tech support part of Marie’s position still needs to be addressed. One more playground supervisor is needed from 11:45 to 1:30 every day. Council members were encouraged to think of people they know and spread the word.
Teachers Report
Cheryl Weiber provided the teachers report. She expressed gratitude to the PSC for all that is done for teachers. She commented that it makes a difference knowing the Council is here and supporting the teachers.
The meeting was adjourned with the Hail Mary at 8:15 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Curtin, Vice President