Minutes of MHS PTSO Meeting
Pending Approval
October 8, 2014
In Attendance: Martha Lewis, Christine Muggeo, Kathleen Fowler, Carla Kopenski,
Russ Batsch, Joe Cecala, Owen Matthews, Deb Wahle, John Connolly, Greg Robertson,
Denise Timmons, Margie Ticknor, Griffin Heyroch, Quinn Heyroch, Phyllis Watson,
Debra Dias, Diane Fastiggi, Diane Wallace, Jackie Young, Jodi Luppino
Chrisine Muggeo called the meeting to order at 7:05pm and asked everyone to
introduce themselves.
Principal Report: Some updates about things going on at MHS:
*For a number of years, MHS has been looking into a new LED school sign for
the front of the school. Dr Rossi and Lisa Ellis worked with the town and have now
given the go ahead to move forward with talking to the supplier about location and
brick and mortar specifics.
*MHS is now on Twitter and Facebook. It’s been a slow start getting a
following from members of the community but a parent has volunteered to help
with branding, etc, to help increase numbers. Go to the website for links for Twitter
and Facebook. Athletics has a twitter as well which notifies how the various teams
are doing.
*Renovations – The roof is being replaced on the main gym and weight room.
Also, the auditorium project is proceeding with Board approval by mid November.
*HSPA is being replaced with PARC. To ensure that educational time isn’t
being lost, the recommendation was made and approved to eliminate midterms and
start finals a bit sooner. The administration and teachers will continue to discuss
best practices on this matter.
*Summer Assignments – The administration surveyed a representative
population of students concerning summer assignments. They are finalizing a
committee to look this. There are many issues such as the amount of time to
complete and how helpful these assignments truly are. We want to maintain family
time but also challenge our students .
*Newsletter – Mr. Robertson feels the newsletter is helpful and informative
but it can be challenging to get timely information out to our families. Some other
schools use apps. Kings Road School has a terrific model for communication.
Margie Ticknor stepped forward and volunteered to assist with a monthly
newsletter. Martha Lewis also volunteered to help Margie.
Student Council: They’re off to a great start! Working hard on many things
including a fall pep rally and Fan Fest. Student Council wants to spearhead food
collection at Thanksgiving and the drive for needy families between Thanksgiving
and the holidays. More information coming. They will be heading to Randolf for a
Student Council summit. Madison will host another summit in the spring.
Class of 2018 – Brainstorming ideas for fundraisers. Planning Breakfast With
Santa. Already made some money selling baked goods at freshman sports events.
Class of 2017 – Made about $120 selling dog treats, etc., at Back To School Night.
Having a Halloween bake sale. Selling discount cards for $2.
Class of 2016 – Working the hut this year. Hosting the tricky tray which takes place
on October 23. The theme is “Fall Fiesta.” Help is needed at the Tricky Tray. Selling
spirit wear, Jets game tickets, and spaces for a driving safety course that teaches
teens (and others) to be defensive drivers. Contact Diane Fastiggi for more info.
Diane also thanked the PTSO for purchasing two coffee makers.
Class of 2015 – Busy with senior activities. Met with prom photographer. All other
prom details are booked. Hosting a speed ball tournament in Mid November. Senior
shirts are on the way.
Kathleen Fowler noted to all classes that the PTSO donates $250 per class for
attending PTSO meetings. The request form for the money is available online.
Assistant Principal Report: There was a review of calendar events which can be
seen on the website. There was a great Activity Fair held last week where students
had the opportunity to learn about the many extracurricular activities available at
MHS. There is an online form for fundraising and a Building and Use form for
activities on campus.
Treasurer Report: 390 families (46%) have paid dues so far this year. Motion to
approve budget for 2014-2015. Motion passed.
Secretary Report: Minutes from May 2014 meeting will not be approved until next
meeting as they have not yet been posted to the website.
Beautification: No report.
Directory/Newsletter: Directory is on hold right now while Madison investigates a
district wide online directory program.
Hospitality: Off to a great start! Many volunteers which will allow for more events.
Web Page: No report although a volunteer has stepped forward to chair.
Done In A Day: Chris Colby will Chair. This is a committee that will be called upon
to do quick projects when needed.
MEF: Invitations have been sent for the MEF Fundraiser. Last year 450 people
attended. This year there is a capacity of 500. There are great auction items so
everyone should attend!
SVMS Liaison: Denise Timmons stepped forward to be the liaison.
There were no other reports.
No Old Business
New Business: The Class of 2016 will be selling maroon and gold Madison plush
blankets for $40 starting in November. The blankets include logos of all sports and
arts. Contact Deb Dias for details.
Mr. Connolly stressed the importance of Class Parents staying on top of the
Graduation Gala planning throughout the year.
The PTSO is selling Madison towels for $20 and maroon and gold gloves.
Respectfully submitted,
Martha Lewis
PTSO Secretary