2006-2007 School Year:
Gwynedd Square Home & School Association Meeting Minutes - Compiled
Gwynedd Square Home and School
Meeting Minutes
April 24, 2007
I. Call to Order
Debbie Rosenblatt called to order the Gwynedd Square Home and School meeting at 7:07 pm on 4/24/07
in the Library.
II. President’s Introduction
Debbie welcomed everyone present and introduced the Executive board, Mrs. Justice, and Mrs. Mattes.
Debbie also thanked the volunteers who chaired events and offered special thanks for the Volunteer
Appreciation refreshments before the meeting.
III. Approval of minutes from last meeting
The minutes from the last meeting were distributed to those present and were approved as submitted.
IV. Principal’s Report
a.
Mrs. Justice began her report by welcoming all present and noting that it is a busy
time of year. She also stated that her report includes little updates such as her work with
the Friendly School Initiatives and that the website lists the days of school activities.
b.
Mrs. Justice informed us about the May 1st Fourth Grade pilot PSSA test, as well as
other upcoming events: A Midsummer Night’s Dream performance (in conjunction with
the author in residence), and Teacher Appreciation week.
c.
Membership was reminded that any requests needed for classroom assignments
should be submitted in writing soon.
d.
Mrs. Justice let us know that she met with the Upper Gywnedd Police about safety
issues: there will be a lockdown drill on May 11th, an in-service day. The officers will be
patrolling the school building, keeping a presence for the safety of the community and the
school.
V. Teacher’s Report
a.
Mrs. Mattes gave membership the news and events from each grade level as follows:
Kindergarten will have their field trip to Peace Valley on May 10th; First grade’s field trip
to the Keswick Theater will have all see the stage presentation of “Charlotte’s Web” on
May 10th, and they are getting ready for their RIF day; Second grade will be traveling to
the Roth Living Farm museum in early May for their field trip; Third grade will be going
to the DaVinci Center in Allentown for their May field trip; Fourth grade is working on a
science unit on structures and their PA Day (June 1st). They are also preparing for their
upcoming field trip to Harrisburg; Fifth grade is completing a unit in weather, and Mr.
Ryan’s class is taking part in a nationwide weather gathering program; Sixth grade is
studying their two week Shakespearean program, which will culminate in a performance
of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. They are also working on a solar energy unit in science.
VI. Treasurer’s Report
a.
Anna Wright explained the cash flow statement, balance, the checks written, and the
deposits.
b.
As far as the year to date revenue, Anna revealed that at this time of year there is a lot
of financial activity and that half of the expenses still need to be paid out. She informed
c.
us that H&S paid out its last mini grant and some of the 6th grade party. And, as far as the
revenue is concerned, we are doing well.
There was a general reminder to membership that if anyone has any questions about
the report, they should let Anna know.
VII. President’s Report
a.
Debbie began her report with the announcement that discussion of the new
playground plans will be moved to the end of the meeting. Some new business: a
Membership votes on the Fundraising Plan and the 2007-2008 H&S Schedule of Events.
b.
Debbie moderated the general discussion surrounding both new plans. There was
information concerning a new vendor for H&S’s fall fundraiser, as well as the
implementation of a straight donation to GS and an ‘opt-out’ program (a one time
monetary contribution in lieu of participation in fundraisers). The schedule of events was
reviewed with the proviso that some of the events may be changed due to chair
availability. Membership voted unanimously to approve both plans for next year.
c.
There were also two remaining Membership votes: a request of $250 for the Variety
Night chairs to hire a DJ and a request to cancel the H&S June meeting. Both requests
were approved.
d.
Debbie informed Membership about the Nominating Committee for Executive Board
positions—and that we have added a new co-President position.
e.
Christie Clemens gave Membership a Coordinating Council update as well as a Home
and School Correlate update. CC news: Christine Liberaski spoke on communication
throughout the district and there was information concerning the community service audit
results. CC is also still seeking a Vice President and co-Treasurer. Home and School
Correlate is working on the Volunteer Tea on 4/27 and the Family Friendly Schools
Conference.
f.
Maryann Bogart gave an update on the School Board about NP’s lockdown procedure
and the Odyssey of the Mind program. Also, there was some discussion of the upcoming
May 15th vote on Property Tax Relief—NP is sending out a mailing concerning it for
everyone’s review. Maryann also informed us of the end of the Spirit Wear sale.
g.
Nicole Putman gave Membership an overview of the Box Tops for Education
program and how GS can get involved via clipping tops and via the internet. She
promises fun challenges for GS to get motivated to participate in collecting Box Tops
h.
Kate Thorson showed to Membership the two books that will be dedicated to Mrs.
Fox, as she is retiring this school year.
i.
There was a general announcement that the 2007-2008 H&S Budget will be worked
on soon. Any Member with feedback or input on budget items and amounts, please email
Anna.
j.
The playground plans were discussed, as well as how much money GS can be
approved for the first phase of the playground ($22,650 will be voted on by the NP School
Board in May).
k.
The facilities supervisor was present to answer Members’ questions, display pictures
and schematics of the proposed equipment, and describe the plan for building. Little
Tikes is the equipment company GS will have for its playground, and there are three
phases of equipment that can be added on, each phase costing a different amount of
money. If GS wants to add on phase 2 and 3’s equipment, there needs to be fundraising
for the additional amount. There was discussion of a possible nomination of a Playground
Committee Chair to begin fundraising for the extra equipment in phases 2 and 3.
VIII. Adjournment
Membership was invited to peruse the playground plans as the meeting was adjourned and prizes were
given out at 8:43 pm.
Gwynedd Square Home and School
March Meeting Minutes
March 27, 2007
I. Call to order
Debbie Rosenblatt called to order the Gwynedd Square Home and School meeting at 7:02
PM on 3/27/2007 in the library.
II. President’s Introduction
Debbie welcomed everyone present and introduced the executive board. She reminded everyone of box tops
and ACME receipts. She thanked Joe Rosenblatt and Dennis Wendt for the liveliest Science Night at
Gwynedd Square. She also thanked Jennifer Trippetti and Tish Grande for their great work on the Gertrude
Hawk Fundraiser. Maryann Bogert for all her work with the Young Author’s conference being held March
31st. And Ken Bezar and Mrs. Buckner for the great success of Gwynedd Square’s first ever Fitness Night
held at the school. She also thanked Sandy Friday for chairing the first ever Pottery Night scheduled for
March 30th.
III. Approval of minutes from the last meeting
The minutes from the last meeting were distributed to those present. The minutes were approved as submitted
by Ken Bezar and Jennifer Trippetti.
IV. Principal’s Report
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Mrs. Justice began her report by thanking everyone for a fantastic Science Night. “We had a
terrific turnout and the children enjoyed themselves very much.”
She also thanked those involved with the Fitness Night and encouraged us to continue with
the tracking slips as we are still in second place. Contest ends April 13th and we are 15,000
miles behind first place.
She reminded everyone to come out for our first Pottery Night – a relaxing therapeutic
activity.
She stated how proud she was of our Reading Olympics 5th grade team for being awarded a
blue ribbon and our 6th grade team who were awarded a red ribbon. Kudos to all our readers.
Mrs. Justice is trying to encourage more attendance at Home and School sponsored activities.
She will be giving “No Homework” passes at future events. She also has asked her teachers
to refrain from homework assignments during H&S activity nights.
Dates to Remember:
March 28 - Kindergarten lunch practice takes place.
April 16 until April 27 – Author in Residence Diane Herr is with us.
April 20 - Father’s Day Breakfast 8am
April 21 – International Spring Festival at NPHS
April 27 – Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast 8:15am
 May 7 – May 11 – Teacher Appreciation Week
Mrs. Justice also stated she would be in Seattle at a North American School Principals
Convention in April.
V. Teacher’s Report
Mrs. Mattes stated that starting with the April newsletter of “Around the Square” a new segment called “Paw
Prints” would be introduced. It will include highlights of activities taking place in each grade.
Mrs. Mattes also encouraged all volunteers to please come to the Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast on April
27 from 8:15AM to 9:00AM. It will be held in the library and babysitting is available – even for pre-school
children.
VI. Guest Speakers – The Music Department
Mr. Jeffrey Miller – Band thanked the GS parents for making the learning environment so positive and the
school for their support of the music program. He stated the band department was well equipped due to past
contributions. Mr. Miller reviewed some of the things the music program is doing this year:
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the annual Winter Concert – Dec ‘06
gearing up for the Spring Concert at Inglewood April 25th
Jazz Band performance April 16th at Pennbrook and at Gwynedd Square in May
Performance the last day of school at the Gwynedd Square Awards assembly
Band is open to all students in 4th through 6th grade
Jessica Davis – Strings/Orchestra divides her time between Gwynedd Square and Inglewood. She is the
strings instructor and stated the 4th through 6th grade strings are flourishing here at Gwynedd Square. Ms
Davis stated that the Advanced Orchestra consists of 67 students from both Gwynedd Square and Inglewood.
There are 20 elementary students in the Chamber Group this year playing music at a middle school level.
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String Lessons begin in 3rd grade with the violin, viola, cello, viola, through a lease/purchase plan.
Suzuki Violin Program is available at the kindergarten level. Currently there are 13 students in this
program from kindergarten through 6th grade. The Suzuki concert is scheduled for May 17th.
Jill Swavely – Vocal Music Instructor heads up the various choirs including:
The Chorus - consisting of 75, 4th through 6th grade students. There is no audition to join the chorus as all
students may join. The chorus practices Tuesday mornings at 8:15AM-9:00AM.
Select Chorus – consists of 32, 4th through 6th grade students. This is an auditioned group of students who
are chosen for Select based on tone quality and pitch to make up a perfect blend of voices.
The Chorus Concert and Orchestra Concert is May 1.
In February 50 students went to the Kimmel Center in Center City Philadelphia to see the Philadelphia
Orchestra perform a student concert, thanks to an Education Grant. Mr. Miller’s group went to the Academy
of Music in Philadelphia earlier this year. The children were wowed by the professional musicians.
*At the conclusion of their talk, Mrs. Mattes commended these three instructors for sharing their love
and enthusiasm of music with the students. She finds them to be exceptional role models for the
children of Gwynedd Square.
VII. Guest Speaker – Author in Residence
Diane Herr – Kid-Friendly Shakespeare - Ms. Herr's interactive workshops use language skill learning and
activities to teach children about the life and times of Shakespeare. She presents workshops at Philadelphiaarea elementary schools to help kids become comfortable using the language of Shakespeare.
Ms. Herr believes that young children can learn Shakespeare with greater ease because they’re “superb
mimics and so much less inhibited than when they get older.” If students are introduced to these works in a
spirit of fun, she says, they will be less intimidated later on when they have to read an entire play.
Ms. Herr advised that we still do speak Shakespeare’s language in our everyday language. She shared a lot of
interesting Shakespeare information such as how much he contributed to the language borrowing words from
other languages and making up words. She will be doing various activities with the students to have “Fun
with Shakespeare” so they aren’t afraid of it. Diane has introduced Shakespeare to other elementary schools
in the NPSD and is looking forward to bringing that same level of excitement and enthusiasm to our school.
Gwynedd Square is fortunate to have Ms Herr spending two weeks with our 5th and 6th grade students
introducing Shakespeare into their lives starting Monday April 16th through Friday April 27th.
Mrs. Justice asked for help from the parents to totally immerse the school in Shakespeare. She is getting all
grades K-6 and all faculty members involved. There will be a performance assembly of “Midsummer Night’s
Dream” on April 27th for the students as well as an evening performance at 7pm.
VIII. Treasurer’s Report
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Anna Wright reviewed the cash flow statement, balance, and checks
written.
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We just received the last check from Target for $683 – meeting our goal.
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A reminder to designate Gwynedd Square on your Target charge account.

Christie Clemens pushed Wawa coupons again.
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Anna stated there was $28,000 in the account but we still have $18,000 to expense; therefore, the
balance will decrease by the end of the school year.
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The budget was approved and seconded by Ken Bezar and Noelle McLaughlin.
IX. The President’s Report
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Paper recycling bin is here. Information coming home to explain the program to parents. We need 2-3
volunteers every Wednesday at 9:30AM to get the program started. Perhaps a backpack Wed volunteer can
assist. Parents can bring their own paper to the bin.

Membership Vote: Request for $414 by Mrs. Swavely to purchase additional sound system
equipment since we borrow extra equipment from the high school during concerts. Sometimes there are
conflicts; therefore we need our own. This cost has already been negotiated down by more than $100. Vote
taken/ all approved the $414 request.
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Gwynedd Square Volunteer Breakfast – Friday April 27.
8:15AM – 9:00AM. Library. Babysitting available for all children regardless of age. Spread the word, it is
a lovely event for ALL school volunteers.
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Maryann Bogert spoke of the Young Author’s Conference for 4th and 5th grade students at North
Wales Elementary Saturday March 31 from 8:15AM -12:30PM. 17 young authors are representing Gwynedd
Square. Maryann thanked the H & S for the funding for the book holders.
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Maryann advised that so far 312 items were sold during the Spirit Wear Sale. Orders are being taken
through 3-30. Gwynedd Square Paw Print Car Magnets are available for $4.00/piece.
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Earth Day Celebration – A local group of children are holding an Earth Day celebration on Sunday
April 22nd from 2:00PM-4:00PM in West Point. Community donations have come in. See their website at
www.KIDSFACE.org (Kids for a Clean Environment) There will be displays about recycling and activities.
This is a free event.

Calendar of Events – there will be a survey coming home looking for feedback regarding the calendar
of events for the 2007/2008 school year. Feel free to email Debbie Rosenblatt with suggestions. Talk to your
kids as well. We want your feedback.

Ken Bezar gave a brief talk on the second Family Fitness Challenge night scheduled for Thursday
evening April 12 at Total Body Fitness for GS children and adults.
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Debbie stated that Family Game Nightis on Friday April 20 at 7:00 PM. Please RSVP. Doors open at
6:15PM.
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Math Night for parents – given by the teachers - is scheduled for Thursday evening April 26th at
7:00 in the library. This pertains to Math for grades K through 3.

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7th through May 11th. Once again Sharon Patterson is chairing
this event and is looking for volunteers to collect donations from local businesses. Also – she is accepting
donations from local home consultants as well – i.e. Mary Kay Cosmetics, Tastefully Simple, etc.

Gertrude Hawk fundraising event. Jennifer Trippetti spoke about the event and how we made over
$3500.
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Next Month’s Meeting – Tuesday April 24th – 7:00PM – library. We will vote on the calendar of
events and discuss fund raising plans and see details of the new playground equipment.
X. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 8:32 P.M.
Gwynedd Square Home and School
February Meeting Minutes
I.
Call to order
Debbie Rosenblatt called to order the Gwynedd Square Home and School meeting at 7:06
PM on 2/27/2007 in the library.
II.
President’s Introduction
Debbie welcomed everyone present and introduced the executive board. She thanked our
volunteers for Family Fun night including Chris Kohler, Donna Gallagher, Sherri Helt, Lisa
Channon and Mark and Joy Stover.
Debbie thanked Mrs. Fox for her nine years of service at Gwynedd Square and wished her
best of luck in her retirement.
III.
Approval of minutes from the last meeting
The minutes from the last meeting were distributed to those present. The minutes were
approved as submitted by Barb Bezar and Jennifer Trippetti.
IV.
Principal’s Report
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
V.
Mrs. Justice began her report by announcing the building renovations will be taking place
during the summer months and that they will be fixing the humidity problems in the school.
All the work will be completed in time for the new school year in the Fall.
The tentative budget for new playground equipment is $22,650 and is contingent upon
approval of the school board.
Grades 3-6 will be taking the PSSA tests in 10 days
Dates to remember: 3/5 Family Friendly Conference at NPHS with Dr. Constantine as
speaker
3/12 PSAA kick-off, free breakfast for grades 3-6
3/15 Weather drill
3/26 Reading Olympics at NPHS
3/30 End of Marking period
Staff update: Maryanne Buzzard will be replacing Mrs. Fox as Reading Specialist in
interim. Mrs. Justice will interview candidates for the position for next year.
Teacher’s Report
Mrs. Mattes gave a progress report on all the grades as follows:
Kindergartens are learning about money in math and they are continuing to work on blending
and making words. First grade is studying penguins and doing four square writing activities
related to the topic. You can take a peek at happy feet in the hallways. Second grade
recently completed their standardized testing and did well following the procedures. It has
been an exciting time because we received new books in both math and reading. Third grade
recently traveled to the planetarium and discovered what a planet needs for humans to be able
to survive on it. They are also experimenting with light bulbs and circuits in order to learn
about how electricity works. Fourth grade is doing a plant growth unit in science and is still
studying Colonial PA. Fifth grade is working on Ecosystems. They are learning about food
webs, food chains and pollution’s effects on the environment. Sixth grade is enjoying their
study of Greece and their unit in Science on Light. They are investigating how light rays
impact their eyes.
VI.
Guest Speaker
Chris Crawford - NPSD Special Education Supervisor spoke to membership about programs
available within our school district for Exceptional Children or students with disabilities. Ms.
Crawford explained that the school district is responsible for educating all children between the ages
of 3 and 21 with a disability. She further explained that there is a Comprehensive Evaluation Process
for children suspected of having a disability. A teacher or parent can formally request in writing to
Mrs. Justice that the child be tested. Once the parent grants permission, the school district has 60
days to conduct the proper testing to determine the specialized support and instruction required for
the student.
Chris went on to explain the various levels of support available within the school from the least
intrusive type to full time support where a child would receive all of their academics in a special
education classroom. Chris went into further detail of the Special Education programs available at
Gwynedd Square such as:
Speech & Language Support
Learning Support
Autistic Support
Emotional Support (MCIU)
Blind and Visually Impaired Support
Deaf and Hearing Impaired Support
Physical Support
VII.
Treasurer’s Report
a.
Anna Wright reviewed the cash flow statement, balance, and checks
written. She
reviewed the expenditure for Wawa coupons and explained how the fundraiser worked.
b. The budget was approved and seconded by Ken Bezar and Sandy Friday.
VIII.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
IX.
The President’s Report
Debbie announced that Mr. Rein and Christina Hazzard will organize the paper recycling
initiative and that the school will receive a bin and instructions in the future.
A handout was provided answering the nutrition questions that were posed at last month’s
membership meeting. Any future questions should be forwarded to Christie Clemens and she
will get the answers for us.
A handout was provided for the Wise Snac program. The goal of Wise Snac is to promote
healthy eating and physical activity among children, families, schools and community.
Please fill out the online survey at www.npenn.org.
The executive board gave individual reports on their job descriptions and duties in order to
spark interest in upcoming elections for next year.
Christie Clemens gave a coordination council update and noted that a description of the
field trips and assemblies should soon be available on the north penn website or in a hard
copy form.
An announcement was made concerning April 21st at NPHS the Spring Festival will take
place, admission is free and Gwynedd Square will be represented.
Dennis Wednt spoke about the upcoming Science Night, which is on March 6 from 6:308:30 with the show from Mad Science starting promptly at 6:45 PM. The evening is open to
all ages and you do not have to create a science project to come. Volunteers are also needed
to help out.
Debbie stated that Pottery Night is on March 23 and RSVP’s are due by next Wednesday,
March 7.
Maryann Bogert gave a short presentation on the upcoming Spirit Wear Sale. She said that
there are new colors for Spring, including tye-dye and sweat shirts, t-shirts and hats will be
available with the Gwynedd Square logos on them. Flyers will be going out in next backpack
Wednesday with sale information.
Debbie announced that the Author in Residence, Diane Herr with be at Gwynedd Square
for two weeks in April and will present a Shakespeare theme with a play at the end of the two
weeks. The play will involve the 5 and 6th graders and we need parent volunteers to help out.
Ken Bezar gave a brief talk on Fitness Challenge nights planned for GS children and adults.
On March date will be scheduled at GS and 4/5 at Total Body Fitness in Lansdale.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 P.M.
Gwynedd Square Home and School
Meeting Minutes
November 28, 2006
I. Call to Order
Debbie Rosenblatt called to order the Gwynedd Square Home and School meeting at 7:06 pm on
11/28/06 in the Library.
II. President’s Introduction
Debbie welcomed everyone present and introduced the Executive board, Mrs. Justice, and Mrs. Mattes.
Debbie also thanked the volunteers who chaired events and those volunteers who chaired recent activities:
Book Fair, Ice Cream Social, Decorating Chair, Fall Fest Chairs, Fall Fundraising, Hospitality Fair,
Family Directory Committee. She also reminded membership that there would be no December meeting
and that there are Cash Back programs (Box Tops, ink cartridges, and Acme receipts) still that we all can
participate in year-long.
III. Approval of minutes from last meeting
The minutes from the last meeting were distributed to those present. The minutes were approved as
submitted.
IV. Principal’s Report
a.
Mrs. Justice began her report by welcoming all present and by describing her Data
Walks, which continue to take place in order to observe teachers in their classrooms. She
will be working with a consultant to learn how to organize and utilize the data collected.
b.
Mrs. Justice informed us about a Montgomery county summit about safe schools,
which opened her eyes to a lot of issues concerning safety and partnerships with local law
enforcement officers.
c.
Membership was updated about Field Trips: Kindergarten (Peace Valley Sensory
Walk), First (Keswick Theatre to see Charlotte’s Web), Second (Roth Living Museum
(Social Studies/Colonial Life), Third (DaVinci Discovery Center—electricity workshop),
Fourth (PA Capital), Fifth (Peter Wendt Museum (Social Studies/Colonial Crafts), Sixth
(Glen Carron Museum/Ancient civilizations).
d.
Mrs. Justice let us know that she will be attending a workshop/conference about
Family Friendly schools.
e.
At the conclusion of her report, she passed out information about the PA Grow
network and website.
V.
Teacher’s Report
a.
Mrs. Mattes began her report by thanking H&S for making American Education
Week such a success.
b.
Mrs. Mattes gave membership the news and events from each grade level as follows:
Kindergarten hopes that everyone liked their Thanksgiving books they prepared this year;
First grade is working on their parent calendars and had a fun RIF day; Second grade is
studying a Science unit on the three states of mater, working on observational skills in
Math and writing and reading stories and poetry; Third grade is working on simple
machines; Fourth grade is completing a unit in Science on rocks and minerals, as wells as
writing ‘how to’ essays; Fifth grade is thoroughly working on their DARE program with
Officer Lynch, learning about motion and design, and using K’NEX with Newton’s three
laws of motion; Sixth grade is working on magnets and motion, homophones, and they are
reading Old Yeller and Number the Stars.
VI. Guest Speaker
a.
Officer Fred Lynch, Upper Gwynedd policeman and DARE Crime Prevention
Officer, spoke to membership about GS’s DARE program and child and school safety.
b.
The DARE program is a nine lesson program for Fifth grade, which instructs students
about the dangers of drug abuse and about resistance education. The DARE acronym
stands for define, assess, respond, and evaluate.
c.
The DARE program celebrates the completion of the program with a graduation and a
party. The DARE program is nation-wide and works when children/teens make informed
decisions about avoiding drugs and peer pressure.
d.
At the end of Officer Lynch’s presentation, he passed out some magnets, pens, and
pamphlets on internet safety. He also fielded some questions from Membership about the
cutting of DARE funds from the state, gun safety in the home, and safety tips during the
holidays.
VII.
a.
b.
c.
VIII.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Treasurer’s Report
Anna Wright explained the cash flow statement, balance, the checks written, and the
deposits.
As far as the year to date revenue, discussed were some matters of some accounts
closing and some being left open until all sales are in (Kidstuff is still not closes and
Keystone is now closed.). As of this month, we are doing well with donations and
membership.
There was a general reminder to membership that if anyone has any questions about
the report, they should let Anna know.
President’s Report
Debbie began her report with some new business: a Membership vote of $345 for
aluminum enclosed display boards, requested by H&S executive board. The vote was
held because Ken Bezar mentioned he might have such a display board to donate to H&S.
Debbie continued by moving on to updates from some events/fundraisers’s chairs.
Linda James spoke of the Book Fair and its success of operating during AEW and during
the school day. She asked for any input on the issue of having the Book Fair on this very
busy week. Sherri Helt spoke next about the Keystone fundraiser: the shortages are now
in and she informed us that H&S came in slightly under budget with this fundraiser. She
also mentioned that the Pig races will be held and that prizes will be given out. Barb and
Ken Bezar spoke next about GS’s Winter Festival, which will be a one-night event this
year with a lot of interesting baskets, donations, volunteers, crafts, and vendors. There
was a plea for more volunteers for the Secret Shop by Nicole Daly. Wrapping up the
events, Debbie mentioned that the Roller Skating event would be cancelled if a chair was
not found.
Debbie moved on to speaking about the Board and Chairpersons for next school
year—Membership should start thinking about candidates for these positions.
There was a general reminder about the conduct statement that is supposed to appear
on all flyers of H&S events.
Debbie took an ‘on your mind’ question about why no field trips have used
Philadelphia more for educational reasons. Mrs. Justice reminded us about the NP district
approved list of field trip places—Philadelphia is one of them—and that it is up to the
teachers to decide the field trip places according to their curricula.
f.
Debbie asked Membership if there were any suggestions about presenters at the H&S
meetings. Anyone with ideas are to email Debbie about them.
IX. Adjournment
After the goody bag giveaway, the meeting was adjourned at 8:28 pm.
Gwynedd Square Home and School
Meeting Minutes
October 24, 2006
I. Call to Order
Debbie Rosenblatt called to order the Gwynedd Square Home and School meeting at 7:03 pm on
10/24/06 in the Library.
II. President’s Introduction
Debbie welcomed everyone present and introduced the Executive board, Mrs. Justice, and Mrs. Mattes.
Debbie also thanked the volunteers who chaired events and those volunteers who are chairing ongoing
activities.
III. Approval of minutes from last meeting
The minutes from the last meeting were distributed to those present. The minutes were approved as
submitted.
IV.
Principal’s Report
a.
Mrs. Justice began her report by speaking of Red Ribbon Week, which is ongoing at
present. She also mentioned that GS has received a NP Community Health Foundation
grant which provides support for programs on healthy topics and avoiding substance
abuse.
b.
Membership was informed that GS will begin Benchmark testing for students to
enable them to practice PSSA testing.
c.
Mrs. Justice informed us GS will be showcased as one of the schools in NP’s Bus to
the Future program. On November 9th, 100 or so guests will arrive at GS to tour and to
learn about our school.
d.
At the conclusion of her report, Mrs. Justice let us know that she will be working
with our guest speaker, Mr. Stein, this week on the new GS security camera system.
V.
a.
Teacher’s Report
Mrs. Mattes gave membership the news and events from each grade level as follows:
Kindergarten is beginning writing skills and displaying their fall artwork in the hallway;
First grade is working on fall writing, fire safety strategies and the new language arts
series, Trophies; Second grade is studying a Science unit on balances and weights, visiting
their Kindergarten buddies, writing (using the 4 Squares method) and writing pumpkin
poems, and doing a Frog and Toad play; Third grade is ‘harvested’ a good book and
completed a book report as well as decorated a pumpkin; Fourth grade is completing a
unit in Science on land and water, working on PA information in Social Studies, and
learning about elevation and climate; Fifth grade is thoroughly working on their DARE
program; Sixth grade is working on their literacy centers, on a Science unit on time, on a
Social Studies unit on the beginning of human societies, and is preparing to visit the
Planetarium and the High School.
b.
VI.
Mrs. Mattes concluded her report by informing us on some musical news from Mrs.
Swavely: Children across the grade levels are working on seasonal songs (Halloween
songs, games), playing with instruments and rhythms, and having fun with Suzuki tone
chimes, dulcimers, and other instruments. Mrs. Swavely also is busy preparing for the
November Veterans’ Day Show, as well as the Chorus’s annual Holiday Concert.
Guest Speaker
a.
Mr. Mark Stein spoke to membership about GS’s new CCTV system which will be
set up at the school in the near future.
b.
Mr. Stein gave us a system overview of the fixed, domed cameras which will cover
the school’s exterior and doors. There will be eight pan cameras and three fixed cameras.
The wiring in the GS office has begun, where the administrative staff will be able to
monitor and control the cameras. The system would be up and running within two to
three weeks.
c.
A live feed demonstration of the High School cameras was given, where membership
observed internal and external cameras. Mr. Stein explained that there will be no interior
cameras at the Elementary Schools—only exterior ones. This camera decision for the
Elementary schools was made at the Board level. There will be information posted on
GS’s property which states that security cameras are present.
d.
At the end of Mr. Stein’s presentation, Mrs. Justice informed us that there will be a
day of training by police for the administrative staff and their use of these security
cameras.
VII.
Treasurer’s Report
a.
Anna Wright explained the cash flow statement, balance, the checks written, and the
deposits.
b.
Discussed were some matters of some accounts closing and some being left open
until all sales are in (Kidstuff).
c.
There was a general reminder to membership that if anyone has any questions about
the report, they should let Anna know.
VIII.
President’s Report
a.
Debbie began her report with some old business of a previous membership discussion
on the GS security measures for parent pickup. Parent Pickup monitors have begun
requesting ID from unknown people. Mrs. Justice affirmed that she will look into more
safety measures to the Safe and Orderly Correlate.
b.
Debbie continued by moving on to new business. Christie Clemens gave some
Coordinating Council updates; there were reminders that some seats are still available on
the Bus to the Future. Also, there is a community forum on November 20th with Dr.
Steven Constantino, and there will be babysitting provided, as well as a 5K walk/run that
will be coming up soon for anyone interested to put in an application. Sandy Friday also
reminded membership that Dr. Hassler’s blog is up and running and can be checked out.
c.
Sandy Friday updated membership about an important item from Coordinating
Council: every NP district policy is now found on the district website.
d.
Kate Thorson gave us a fundraising update—there are still some Kidstuff books left,
and Mrs. Sell’s class sold the most books. Also, the Market Day order cut off is
November 3rd and the pick up is November 10th.
e.
Debbie alerted Membership to the upcoming H&S events, highlighting Fall Fest,
Friday at 7:00 pm, where there will be a pumpkin carving and decorating contest. Prime
Time Reading, focusing on Shel Silverstein’s works, will be held on November 2nd. Linda
James also spoke enthusiastically about the Scholastic Book Fair, which will be held
f.
g.
h.
during the week of American Education Week. Debbie also reminded membership that
the Winter Festival is not that far away and that the organizers are looking for craft tables
and items for the basket raffles.
Christie Clemens spoke about the news from the H&S Correlate: there is a pretzel
sale for the United Way (this sale is under the Helping Hands umbrella); there will be a
Veterans’ Day drop off box for families impacted by the conflict in Iraq—one can either
assemble a care package box or buy a box that is pre-supplied with items.
After Debbie reminded membership of GS’s cash back programs, such as with
Target and Box Tops, she drew for a goody bag giveaway and asked for any volunteers
who might have interest and availability for the Bus to the Future event.
The “What’s on Your Mind” questions yielded three for discussion: about the
sanitary procedures in caring for shared headsets at the computer lab (headsets are wiped
down), about how drug abuse is being described for Kindergarteners and First Graders
(poison examples are given and Mr. Yuk stickers are employed to show what is unsafe),
and about if there is a consistent GS homework assignment policy on deficiencies
(deficiencies are determined per grade level and teachers should communicate those
policies in writing as to what they are).
IX. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.
Gwynedd Square Home and School
Meeting Minutes
September 19, 2006
I.
Call to Order
Debbie Rosenblatt called to order the first meeting of the Gwynedd Square Home and School for the 0607 school year at 7:05 pm on 9/19/06 in the Library.
II.
President’s Introduction
Debbie welcomed everyone and introduced the Executive Board. Many thanks went out to volunteers of
several beginning-of-the-year activities: Green Folder Day, Back to School Orientation. There were also
general reminders about some of the materials out for membership to look at: Fall fundraiser preview,
Cash Back information, and the goody bags.
III.
Approval of minutes from last meeting
The minutes from the last meeting were distributed to those present. The minutes were approved as
submitted.
IV.
Principal’s Report
a.
Mrs. Justice began her report by thanking the parents and the Board for such a
wonderful turnout for this meeting. She also thanked all of the volunteers who made the
first day of school go so smoothly with the hand marking for the bus riders.
b.
Membership was made aware of a recent assembly: YoJo and Scout, a program
devoted to exercise and healthy eating.
c.
Mrs. Justice informed us of some of her duties as principal and distributed some
handouts for our perusal concerning the seven different correlates. She is also involved in
Professional Learning Communities with the staff, at which she meets with each grade
level each month to work on creating strategies for student success. And, Mrs. Justice will
conduct weekly Data Walks where she may observe each classroom in the school in order
to insure the high level of instruction at Gwynedd Square.
Mrs. Justice reminded membership of GS’s excellent PSSA scores, and that they can
be viewed at the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s website.
e.
Mrs. Justice concluded her report with a preview of Red Ribbon Week, October 2327, and thanked H&S for its financial support of it.
V.
Teacher’s Report
Mrs. Mattes was unable to attend the meeting, and H&S moved on to the next agenda item.
d.
VI.
Guest Speaker
Mr. Jeff Eshelman, Librarian of Gwynedd Square, came to speak to membership
about some of the features and aspects of GS’s Library.
b.
He made us aware of donating books/birthday books in honor of your child. Also, the
Library gladly accepts other books as donations that parents would like to purchase or
recommend.
c.
Mr. Eshelman reminded us of how the Library is used by the students: they hone their
library skills, research skills and reading literacy. Every grade comes every week for book
exchange. There is also a magazine section and one shelf of those is for Kindergarten and
First grade. The Accelerated reading program is found at the Library, and students can
take the program’s tests for some books that they read.
d.
At the end of Mr. Eshelman’s presentation, there was a general question-answer
period, in which Mr. Eshelman informed us that the Library has a wish list and can be
accessed at any time during the school day by parents.
Treasurer’s Report
a.
Anna Wright explained the budget that we have for this new school year—that it was
devised by the Executive Board last Spring and voted upon by membership. The budget
itself expresses the amounts we are trying to raise this year and the ways in which we will
spend the money.
b.
Anna also directed our attention to the other sheet of financial information—the
beginning balance, cash flow statement, the checks written, and deposits. She also
explained the holding accounts H&S keeps for other school groups.
c.
The Treasurer’s Report was approved as submitted.
a.
VII.
VIII.
President’s Report
a.
Debbie began her report with a membership vote for some GS needs: Mrs. Justice’s
request for $330 (a walkie talkie for the front of the building); Mrs. Swavely’s request for
$330 (concert T-Shirts for a November 9th show concerning Veterans and good
citizenship). Both requests were approved unanimously.
b.
Debbie continued by discussing the Fall Fest and its rescheduled date of 10/27. She
reminded membership that if a chair or co-chairs are not found by Friday, Fall Fest will be
cancelled.
c.
There were general updates given by a couple of event chairs: Kate Thorson
(Kidstuff) told us that the sale was behind in its numbers and that the orders are due back
next Tuesday. Sherri Helt (Keystone Fall Fundraiser) gave us a preview of the sale
(starting October 4th) and hopes to raise $6,000 in profit.
d.
After Debbie paused for a goody bag giveaway, she spoke of the need for
volunteers—especially Market Day (unpacking, organizing, ordering) and the Yearbook
(helping to research quotes for vendors). Also, there are still open chair positions for the
Winter Fest.
e.
The Anthony Caldera Memorial was discussed—Mr. D’Elia donated a tree of life and
a plaque for the dedication (October 20th) has been ordered.
f.
g.
h.
Debbie alerted Membership to some other announcements: Fall Fest and Math Night
have dates that have been changed; the Cash Back Programs are still a viable source of
income for GS.
The “What’s on your mind?” questions yielded three queries: about flip flops at GS
(there are none allowed because of the safety issues), about when will parents gain access
to student’s PSSA scores (they were mailed today from the ESC); and, about GS’s
security monitoring of the front door and the visitors it allows through it (a new security
system will hopefully make GS as secure as it can be).
Sandy Friday mentioned the Coordinating Council’s sale of North Penn magnets—all
proceeds will benefit an adopted LA school.
IX.
Adjournment
After another goody bag giveaway, the meeting was adjourned at 8:23 pm.