Mariemont Junior High PTO
Meeting Minutes - January 21, 2015
I.
Call to Order
Nan Dill
Nan Dill called the meeting to order at 9:04am, and welcomed the board
members and guests (11 total) in attendance.
II.
District Update
Mr. Steve Estepp
Mr. Estepp highlighted a few items in the district. He discussed the literacy
strategies that are being evaluated at the high school. He encouraged families
with elementary and junior high children to attend the “Right College, Right Price”
Seminar on Feb. 5th at Mariemont Elementary.
Mr. Estepp thanked parents for attending the 4th Annual State of the School
Address titled “The Mariemont Experience: Excellent Results, Excellent
Value" which was held on Wednesday, January 15th. In the address,
Superintendent Steve Estepp showcased the priorities and accomplishments for
our district. The address has been placed online for those that could not attend.
http://www.mariemontschools.org/about/State-of-the-Schools-Address.cfm
III.
Warrior Coalition
Katherine Stautberg
Katherine Stautberg discussed the upcoming program sponsored by the Warrior
Coalition, “Hidden In Plain Sight.” This adults only program will be held on
February 25, 2015 at Mariemont Elementary. The program includes an
interactive exhibit resembling a teenager’s bedroom with many items which may
be indicative of dangerous and risky behaviors. This program covers various
topics including substance abuse, eating disorders and other challenges facing
our teens. All parents are strongly encouraged to attend.
IV.
Principal’s Report
Molly Connaughton
Ms. Connaughton announced that 92 eighth graders, approximately 75% of the
class, are signed up to attend the 3-day trip to Washington DC in June 2015.
There are 9 chaperones from Mariemont Junior High staff also attending the trip.
Further details on the trip will be provided at a later date.
Ms. Connaughton also described flexible learning spaces that are currently set
up in two classrooms (8th – Gordan, 7Th – Parr) for the next week. She is working
with Loft Furniture Company to help find flexible grouping furniture options for the
school. Research shows that students focus more when they have the ability to
move. She plans to provide more details on the furniture at the next PTO
meeting.
The Winter Musical Concert was held at the Junior High this past December. Ms
Connaughton discussed feedback she has received about the concert. The
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music teachers and students were excited to hold the concert in their home
school, showcasing the moving wall between the music room and the dining hall.
A large crowd attended the chorus portion of the concert, in which many
spectators were unable to find a seat for the concert. We discussed the benefits
and drawbacks of holding the concert at MJH, and possible options to consider
for next year.
V.
Wellness Concept
Nan Dill
Nan Dill began with an update on the Wellness Concept Initiative in the School
District. She met with Tricia Buchert & Shannon Krommer at Mariemont High
School, discussing programs currently offered at MHS and possible ways to
present this concept to the families within the district. The PTO’s from each
school will provide a Wellness Rep for the District next year.
A discussion was held about adding an additional resource on the PTO websites
of “Frequently Asked Questions” for new Junior High and High School parents.
The board will begin steps to create this resource.
VI. PTO Committee Updates
Nan Dill
Robyn Forbes discussed the parent’s night out fundraiser held in December to
raise money for the 8th grade Washington DC trip. The next fundraiser, a Kids’
Movie Night, will be held on Feb 15th. T-shirt sales and a car wash are also
scheduled for the spring.
VII. Treasurer’s Report
Sarah Grimmer
Sarah provided the attached Treasurer’s Report for review.
VIII.
Minutes / Adjournment
Upon motion by Sarah Grimmer, and seconded by Jeri Gatch, the November
2014 minutes were approved. The meeting was adjourned at 10:50am.
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