Liveblogging PTA Meeting 9/29

The PTA meeting convened with about 30 parents attending, including a lot of K / 1st grade parents.  Judith announced the board, including several individuals who have filled in the positions that were empty in May.  The May minutes were approved, and Judith (Pres.), Sharon (VP), Naomi (Volunteer) and Kasey (Events) were officially nominated to their board positions.  Their election was unanimous.  More after the break.

Dick Hausken began the treasurer's report.  There are $19,565 in the savings accounts, and smaller amounts in other accounts.  $1,709 made at the carnival.  $2,500 in PTA donations so far, similar to last year.  Some script amounts are coming in.  A smaller number of members at this point compared to last year.  ~169 members enrolled at the moment.  Last year, 214 at end of year.

Have spent, per May budget, about $18,300.  Dick discussed the budget, which is attached here; the file reflects slight adjustments made during the meeting.  Michael Reunert asked about the lack of a line item for Preschool Story Hour; this was a program adopted after the last effort to save Rieke in order to help market the school, and now that enrollment is higher and the volunteer interest is lower, they've decided to skip.  Discussion occurred regarding deficit spending.  Budget was approved.

Charlene report:  All is well.  Growing ~25/year.  Now another new portable; next year will be tight again unless we get another portable.  400 kids will require 3 lunch periods.  Do we need another portable next year?  We're maxed out.  This is an issue to look at.  No new transfers this year except for co-enrolled siblings.  Currently at 373 or so.  Guess is we're still at ~15-18% transfers.  About 66 first graders.  Two new students today.  How to advocate for more space at Rieke.

New hand sanitizing station at the cafeteria for older grades.  Flat screens in computer lab from RAT race.  Have some art enhancement available so will try and cover arts options to maintain level of art / music involvement for less than was used before.  Susan asked re playground status and safety issues.  May wrap into the space discussion.

Site council.  Charlene introduced the site council.  Monitors school improvement plan.  Used to be more specific to school; now it's more centrally-driven.  School satisfaction surveys.  Minutes, agenda to be published in the Rapper.

Volunteer coord -- need K Roundup; TV / Screen Free week; field day; Chinook book; international welcome back to school day.  Also need volunteer for PTA meetings at night.  Insurance says 2 adults.  Ideally 2 volunteers, which will help save money.

New Business.  Space issues.  Approved special committee -- Michael Reunert will spearhead; coordinate committee.  Sign up sheet circulated.

Discussion about program events for meetings later in the year; fundraising, playground, green school, budget issues are all possibilities.