Notes from the PTA Executive meeting

The PTA executive board met on August 26 to discuss  and plan for the first few months of this school year.    In attendance were Mimi Laver, Mary McLaughlin, Jen Sweeney, Katy Youel-Page, Beth Mailley, Kevin Youel-Page, Molly Evans, Erik Warga, Diane Terrell, Andrea Gross , Jennifer McLennan, Anastasia Miller, Ginger Jacobs, Kathy Strauss and Dr Cuthbert.

Dr. Cuthbert  talked about things getting off to a great start.  The intercom system will be installed soon and bike racks should be in place shortly.  The fire drill Tuesday went well and the staff is still working on smoothing out dismissal/drop off procedures.  The search continues for a floating Aide for the upper grades.  Funds from the PTA are being spent by the teachers and faculty to ensure that every classroom has what it needs. 

  Having high expectations for our school, teachers, parents and students is important to all.  In order to help the teachers get their day started promptly and for our kids to get the most from their school day there will be a focus on having everyone be on time and ready for school at the appropriate time. 

Discussion is ongoing about playspace on school grounds.   Behind the school, grass will be ready for play after Labor Day.  Meanwhile, there is an area next to the parking lot that may be used as well and investigation is underway about woodchips and/or paving for an additional play area.

The PTA spent alot of money last year (more than we took in!).   The priority for this year’s spending will be recreation and making the current space the best it can be.   The teachers will be allotted additional funds to purchase indoor games and activities for their classrooms since more time will be spent inside this year.  Ways were discussed to increase participation among families at our school.  The PTA is for everyone regardless of any monetary contribution but it is that money coming in that allows us to fill in the gaps for our teachers and kids where DCPS falls short.  

The new website is spectacular and seeing lots of traffic.  Hopefully it will become a valued resource for Stoddert families to get the latest school information.  Weekly email updates will be sent out  and discussion is underway about having a monthly newsletter with some content produced by alternating classrooms. 

There are still ways for parents to get involved.  On the Executive board there is an opening for a LSRT representative and that is an elected position.  The election will be held on September 17 so if you’re interested speak up now!  The PTA also needs someone to help organize the Fun Fair,  Hospitality, Open House,  Big Chili and more.  There is something for everyone and everyone is welcome!