Robert Bennis PTA Meetingrbe.my-pta.org/Content/25_1/DocumentStore/0/RBE PTA...indicating a flyer was sent home with students last week with information about the ... Karen Kane reported

Robert Bennis PTA Meeting September 3, 2013 6:30 pm

RBE Art Classroom Minutes

RBE President Janelle Zerr called the meeting to order. Welcome and Introductions Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis, Nicole Wilson, Melanie Mills, Lauri Sohl, MaryBeth Bommacrubach, April Frisbee, Andrea Parliament, Seasson Vitiello, Krista Clites, Karen Heyden, Sandra Westcott, Jeff Fode, April Peterson, Kristi Harkin, Jennifer Chamberlain, Karen Smook, Nichole Mohring, Meredith Menden, Stacy Jones, Trish Stark, Carolyn Davelaar, Erin Joting, Brandi Csordacsics, Heather Bowers, Corey and Tammy Herding, Lynn Tyree, April Frisbie.

Approval of May 6, 2013 minutes

Sandra Westcott motioned to approve the minutes, Trish Stark seconded, motion to approve passed.

Guest Speaker - Superintendent Dave Pappone

Superintendent Pappone congratulated RBE staff and parents on achieving exemplary status according to Dakota STEP scores. Exemplary status places RBE in the top 5% of elementary schools in the state, ranking 3rd when compared to schools of similar size. The 1st and 2nd schools were the Sioux Falls Challenge Center and Sioux Falls All City Elementary.

Discussion was held regarding the proposed intermediate school to be located on the RBE campus. Based on enrollment projections, facility needs and triggers to address those needs were established by the Facilities Review Committee in 2007. Enrollment has exceeded the determined trigger number, 90% of capacity, which prompted the Board to begin discussions on future needs. In February 2013 a committee comprised of community members, teachers and administrators was formed to reevaluate the 2007 triggers and plan recommendations.

The current proposal for a stand-alone grade 5-6 school to be located on 20 acres owned by the school district adjacent to RBE addresses the district’s most immediate need, which is to relieve congestion at the middle school. Location was chosen based on traffic flow and future facilities needs. The district is currently awaiting results of a traffic study to identify potential challenges and solutions. Next steps include review of architectural proposals and finance planning which will involve a bond issue. Mr. Pappone expects the proposal to be ready for public vote mid to late November. A vote in favor of the intermediate school would be followed by a bid process. Construction would likely begin in the spring with completion in time for the 2015-2016 school year.

Mr. Pappone publishes a blog regularly that can be accessed from the Brandon Valley Schools website or the Brandoninfo.com website. He uses the blog to discuss current topics in the district.

Administration Report

Principal Karen Heyden reported there are several new staff members and encouraged parents to stop by to introduce themselves. Mrs. Heyden complimented staff on achieving exemplary status. Schools are ranked based on 3rd through 5th grade Dakota STEP reading and math scores as well as attendance. The PTA was asked to fund a portion of the cost to purchase t-shirts for staff in recognition of their efforts and success. Request to be reviewed.

The district will be switching this school year from Dakota STEP testing to Smarter Balanced, an online test. Details regarding the testing will be provided later in the year.

Treasurer’s Report

Liz Davis briefly discussed the annual report. Melanie Mills motioned to approve the report and Diane Sejnoha seconded, motion passed.

The August Financial Report was also discussed. The group was reminded that an Event Income Report form must be completed and submitted along with the funds to the Treasurer following the event. In order to receive reimbursement for PTA related expenses, an Expense Report must be completed and receipts attached. Both forms can be found on the PTA website http://rbe.my-pta.org/.

Discussion took place regarding guidelines for utilization of the $4000 set aside for teacher requests each year. It was determined the funds are intended for bigger ticket items that can be used to benefit the classroom for multiple years. The Audit Committee Report will be presented at the October 1, 2013 meeting. Events and Activities Update

Membership: Trish Stark reported that our current membership count is at 87 which is slightly down as compared to last school year. Another membership form will be sent home with students this week.

Open House: Diane Sejnoha reported the open house went well. The PTA provided snacks, a large volume of spirit wear was on hand and sold and the membership table was busy throughout the night.

Spirit Wear: April Frisbee reported spirit wear orders closed as of Friday, September 3. While there was an increase in sales during the open house, overall sales are down approximately 3%.

Fundraising: Diane Sejnoha reported on behalf of Karen Kane that the annual Yankee Candle fundraiser will start Monday, September 9 and run through Friday, September 23. Order forms will be sent home with students on the 9th. Parents were reminded not to send their children door-to-door, unless it is to known and trusted homes. This is RBE’s one fundraiser of the year and historically has been very successful.

http://rbe.my-pta.org/

Artist in Residence: Diane Sejnoha, on behalf of Karen Kane reported RBE will host Duane Reichert, Rodeo Clown, the week of September 23. Reichert provides a colorful, slapstick comedy routine and will be working with each grade, teaching the students all the tips and tricks of a rodeo clown. The program will conclude on Friday, September 27 with an assembly that is open to the public.

Get Fit Club: Andrea Parliament reported the Get Fit Club will kick off on Wednesday, September 4th and will run once a week for 5 weeks during morning recess. The program offers various activities such as walking and Kid Boot Camp. Participation is optional; those who participate have the opportunity to earn prizes. The program will be held again in the spring and will likely include Zumba.

Authors on the Road: Lauri Sohl reported Images of the World will be coming to RBE on Friday, September 27. Tass Thacker and Bruse Junek will return again this year to share their travels with the students. This year’s theme is African Safari. There will be two assemblies, parents and grandparents are welcome. The program is made possible with a grant from the South Dakota Humanities Council.

Scholastic Book Fair: Melanie Mills reported the Scholastic Book Fair will be held October 7 – 8 during school hours and parent teacher conferences. Classes will participate in a classroom coin challenge again this year. The challenge will take place the week of September 30. Teachers will use the money raised to purchase books for the classroom. Teachers are also encouraged to submit book requests to the PTA as there are several scholastic dollars available. Volunteers are needed for the book fair and can sign up on the PTA website http://rbe.my-pta.org/.

Reflections Art Program: Bethany Gusso submitted a report for the meeting indicating a flyer was sent home with students last week with information about the program and registration. This year’s theme is Believe, Dream, Inspire. Students interested in entering must submit an original work of art, which may include a drawing, painting, collage, music, choreographed dance, photo, film, or written piece. First and second place entries in each division will advance to the state level.

Interest forms due to the office September 16

Projects due to the office October 7

Recognition and showing is October 17 at 6 pm

Upcoming Meetings & Agenda Suggestions Future Meeting Dates (all meetings at 6:30pm):

October 1

November 5

December 2

February 4

March 4

April 1

May 5

Suggestions from the group on future guest speakers included Gay Anderson, Child Nutrition Director for the Brandon Valley School District.


New/Other Business This year Pizza Ranch has selected four dates in which they will donate 10% of all dine-in and carry-out sales to RBE from 5 – 8 pm. The first date is October 17.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:48pm.

Robert Bennis PTA Meeting October 1, 2013 6:30 pm


RBE President Janelle Zerr called the meeting to order.

Welcome and Introductions

Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis, Nicole Wilson, Jill Simon, Melanie Mills, Karen Kane, Sandra Westcott, April Frisbie, Trish Stark, Jeanne Thompson, Sherri Lindsey, Bethany Gusso, Janna Conrad, Jen Wullstein, Brandi Csordacsics, Heather Bowers, Gay Anderson.

Approval of September 3, 2013 minutes

Karen Kane motioned to approve the minutes, Diane Sejnoha seconded, motion to approve passed.

Guest Speaker - Gay Anderson

Gay Anderson, Child Nutrition Director for the Brandon Valley School District discussed national standards for the school lunch program, including current legislation regarding nutrition standards for competitive foods. Competitive foods are all foods and beverages sold outside of the federal reimbursable meal program, including a la carte items, foods sold in vending machines, and second helpings. Ultimately, schools may not be allowed to continue offering the competitive food items based on guidelines such as calorie count, nutritional value, and other factors. Gay stated the guidelines will apply from the time the morning bell rings until midnight each day, so may impact food fundraisers, after school functions and classroom parties serving food items. With the school lunch program not part of the school district budget, she expressed the importance of the a la carte sales for funding and is advocating for local control. Attendees were encouraged to express their opinions regarding the proposed legislation by contacting the USDA http://usda.gov.

In regards to nutrition standards, not much has changed since last year. A plate waste study was conducted and findings indicated approximately .48 per child was thrown into the trash each day. In response, fifth graders no longer help to serve, which allows for better portion control, and two part-time staff were hired to work with the kids on making good choices. Students must choose a minimum of a half cup of fruit or vegetable at each meal; they can take up to one cup with free seconds. It is estimated that waste per student has been reduced to .34.

Students are no longer being stamped with a dollar sign when their lunch account funds are low; teachers are sending home notification. Parents can sign up for email notification via family access. An email is generated when funds go below $10.

Gay is also responsible for overseeing a district wellness program, which must have an active committee. The purpose of the program is to provide nutrition education, physical activity and community interaction. The committee, a group of approximately 15, will include a Board member, administrator, teachers, students and parents. The committee must submit all program ideas to the Board for approval. Those interested in volunteering for the committee should contact Gay.

http://usda.gov/

Events and Activities Update

Reflections Art Program: Bethany Gusso reported that there are 10 entries this year. Art projects are due to the office Monday, October 7th. Following judging, a recognition ceremony and gallery showing is scheduled October 17th at 6:00 pm. All participants will receive a participation ribbon and certificate; first and second place in each division will advance to the state level.

Fundraising: Karen Kane reported that the Yankee Candle orders have been submitted. Although slightly lower than last year, total sales exceeded the budgeted goal. Delivery is scheduled for Monday, October 28th. Karen is looking for volunteers to help set-up and sort the orders.

Artist in Residence: Karen Kane reported Duane Reichert, rodeo clown, was unable to make it the week of September 23rd as originally planned. Karen is in the process of rescheduling Mr. Reichert’s visit.

Fall Foliage Festival: Karen Kane reported the Fall Foliage Festival is scheduled for Friday, October 18th from 6:00–8:00 pm. Several activities, including the DJ, game trailer, Mr. Twister, and the pie eating contest will be part of the festival again this year along with many others. A collection for and/or donation to the Brandon Food Pantry is also planned. Volunteers are needed to setup, tear down, and help out with the activities. Anyone able to donate one hour of their time to volunteer can sign up on the PTA website http://rbe.my-pta.org/.

Membership: Trish Stark reported that our current membership count is at 102. Parents can join at any time throughout the year.

Book Club: Trish Stark reported book club will take place one recess a week for the first three weeks of December. Information will be sent home with students within the next two weeks. Book club will be held again in the Spring as well.

Authors on the Road: Diane Sejnoha reported on behalf of Lauri Sohl that the Images of the World assemblies were well received by the students and teachers. Tass Thacker presented on their trip through Africa. This is Lauri’s last year at RBE, anyone interested in being responsible for bringing authors to the school next year should contact Lauri.

Pop & Popcorn for Parents: Diane Sejnoha reported on behalf of Kathy Kramer that Pop & Popcorn for Parents will be held during conferences on Monday, October 7th from 5:00–7:00 pm.

Get Fit Club: Diane Sejnoha reported on behalf of Andrea Parliament and Sarah Askdal. Get Fit Club started the beginning of September and has been taking place during morning recess on Wednesdays. Participants have been running, walking, playing basketball, football toss and kickball. October 2nd is the last day this fall. Students with completed punch cards will choose prizes and names will be drawn for the big prize giveaway. Get Fit will resume in the Spring for another five weeks and will likely include boot camp and Zumba.

Box Tops/Labels for Education: Diane Sejnoha reminded the group that the first quarter collection deadline for Box Tops, Labels for Education, and Land O’ Lakes milk caps is



October 16th. This will be the last collection date for Land O’ Lakes milk caps as the Save Five for Schools program is ending. Nicole Tietjen will be sending notification of date/time to those interested in helping to count the items.

Staff Appreciation Meal: Diane Sejnoha reported on behalf of Val Holmes that a staff appreciation meal will be served during conferences, Monday, October 7th from 5:30–6:30 pm. Parents are providing soups, meats, cheeses, bread/buns, and desserts.

Scholastic Book Fair: Melanie Mills and Jill Simon reported the Scholastic Book Fair will be held October 7th and 8th during school hours and parent teacher conferences. Volunteers are still needed Monday and Tuesday afternoon and can sign up on the PTA website http://rbe.my-pta.org/. Classes are participating in a classroom coin challenge this week to raise money for classroom books. Gina Woodward will collect the coin challenge jars on Friday and take them to the bank to be counted. Teachers will then receive gift certificates to spend at the book fair. The two classes with the highest totals will receive a prize. Donations to the book fair have been received from several local businesses. The donations will be divided evenly between classrooms.

RBE Skating Party: Janelle Zerr reported the RBE Carousel Skate party is scheduled October 24th from 6:30–8:30 pm. A portion of the $5 entrance fee will be given to the PTA.


There was no Administration Report this month.


Liz Davis discussed the September Financial Report.

The Audit Committee Report was provided by April Frisbie and Diane Sejnoha for the period April 20, 2012 through June 20, 2013. Findings were minor and confirmed the need to submit the proper documentation, including forms and receipts, for all event funds and requests for payment or reimbursement. Melanie Mills motioned to approve the report and Jill Simon seconded, motion passed.

Upcoming Meetings & Agenda Suggestions

Future Meeting Dates (all meetings at 6:30pm):

November 5

December 2

February 4

March 4

April 1

May 5

Janelle Zerr stated she plans to invite Marge Hauser, Director of Instruction for Brandon Valley, to speak at the November 5th meeting on the Common Core Standards.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 pm.


Robert Bennis PTA Meeting November 5, 2013 6:30 pm




Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis, Nicole Wilson, Melanie Mills, Karen Meyer, Sandra Westcott, Stacy DeBoer, Benge Reyelts, Trish Stark, Shelly Dowd, Janna Conrad, Zach Conrad, Stacy Jones, Becky Mohr, Marge Hauser, Jess Jervik, Connie Waldner, Bethany Gusso, Jen Wullstein, MaryBeth Bommersbach, .

Approval of October 1, 2013 minutes

Karen Meyer motioned to approve the minutes, Melanie Mills seconded, motion to approve passed.


Liz Davis discussed the October Financial Report and proposed budget amendments to cover the following expenses:

$2000 to help fund the cost of jackets for teachers and other staff in recognition of RBE achieving exemplary status. Karen Meyer motioned to approve the amendment, Liz Davis seconded, motion to approve passed.

$25 needed to cover expenses for the Pop & Popcorn for Parents event. Karen Meyer motioned to approve the amendment, Diane Sejnoha seconded, motion to approve passed.

$450 for recognition, which includes the cost of fruit snacks for the student body in celebration of achieving exemplary status, and gifts for the seven 5th grade parents who will be leaving the RBE PTA following this school year. Karen Meyer motioned to approve the amendment, Melanie Mills seconded, motion to approve passed.

$500 donation to the Bond Promotion Committee for assistance with printing costs related to promoting the proposed intermediate school to be located on the RBE campus. Melanie Mills motioned to approve the amendment, Bethany Gusso seconded, motion to approve passed.

Guest Speaker - Marge Hauser

Marge Hauser, Director of Instruction for the Brandon Valley School District shared facts about the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). The CCSS came about the Spring of 2009, outlining what students in kindergarten through 12th grade should know in the areas of English-Language Arts and Mathematics. The standards were written by state leaders, in collaboration with educators and subject matter experts. The purpose of developing the CCSS includes:

Clear and consistent understanding of the reading and math knowledge needed at each grade level for college and career readiness;

Global competitiveness;

Consistent expectations across the nation allowing states and districts to work collaboratively.

Currently 45 states and the District of Columbia have adopted the Common Core Standards. Each state has the discretion to change the standards up to 15%. Prior to Common Core, South Dakota has had standards in most content areas for more than twenty-five years. Brandon Valley has always based new content on state standards and reports 80% of BV graduates go on to college.

The South Dakota Department of Education adopted the CCSS in November 2010. Teachers began training on the standards during 2011-2012; all elementary teachers have participated in the training. Implementation began last year along with the SD standards.

This Spring the Dakota Step Assessment will be replaced by the computer-based Smarter Balanced Assessment, which is aligned to the CCSS. The standards are designed to take learning beyond factual recall to deeper thinking; likewise, the assessment will evaluate students’ critical thinking skills.

The district has not changed math or reading series. Marge is reviewing math curriculum this year, looking for a good foundation on the basics and keeping in mind the district’s appreciation for traditional math. With supplementation in the area of story problems, the decision may be to continue with the current curriculum. The reading series will be evaluated in the future as well.

Marge offered to answer further questions via email: [email protected]

Read the standards: http://doe.sd.gov/octe/commoncorestandards.aspx

Practice Smarter Balanced Assessment: http://sbac.portal.airast.org/practice-test/


No administration report.


Reflections Art Program: Bethany Gusso reported an art show displaying all program entries was held Oct 17 and the artwork has since been sent on to state. Expenses came in under budget.

Fundraising: Karen Meyer submitted an update via email stating the Yankee Candle fundraiser was successful again this year. Karen plans to stick with this single fundraiser until sales start to dwindle.

Artist in Residence: Karen Meyer, via email, reported Duane Reichert, rodeo clown, plans to visit RBE the beginning of 2014. Mr. Reichert was unable to make it the week of September 23 as originally planned due to vehicle problems and was then devastated by the blizzard in the Black Hills.

Fall Foliage Festival: Karen Meyer, via email, reported a great turn out for the Fall Foliage Festival on October 18. There are currently no plans to make changes to next year’s festival, but suggestions are always welcome.

mailto:[email protected]

http://doe.sd.gov/octe/commoncorestandards.aspx

http://sbac.portal.airast.org/practice-test/

Scholastic Book Fair: Melanie Mills reported the Scholastic Book Fair was held October 7-8 during school hours and parent teacher conferences. Book fair sales this year totaled $7384, down about $50 from last year. The classroom coin challenge brought in $1551. In addition, local area businesses donated $790, for a total of $2431 in donations. Each class was able to spend the amount they collected, plus an additional $25 from the business donations, on books for their classroom. Scholastic matched in books the amount of money donated – giving 2,431 books to two national charitable organizations, Kids in Need Foundation and Kids in Distressed Situations.

Book Club: Trish Stark reported Book Club will take place one recess a week for the first three weeks of December. Information was sent home and sign-up forms are due Friday. This is a great opportunity for kids to participate in discussion and the book counts towards their AR goal.

RBE Skating Party: Janelle Zerr reported 146 students attended the RBE Carousel Skate party on October 24. The PTA received a portion of the entrance fees.

Spelling Bee: Stacy Peters-Walters reported the spelling bee is scheduled for December 13 for grades 3 through 5. Information and spelling lists will be sent home with students this week.


Future Meeting Dates (all meetings at 6:30pm): December 2

February 4

March 4

April 1

May 5

Liz Davis stated Paul Lundberg, District Business Manager, will speak on the bond vote at the December 2nd meeting.

New/Other Business

Open Forum

Jen Wullstein informed the group the Brandon Valley Optimist Club is always looking for opportunities to help support kids’ organizations and activities.


Robert Bennis PTA Meeting December 2, 2013 6:30 pm




Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis, Nicole Wilson, Sandra Westcott, Ben Reyelts, Bethany Gusso, MaryBeth Bommersbach, Karen Heyden, Gina Woodward, Jeanne Thompson, Paul Lundberg

Guest Speaker - Paul Lundberg

Paul Lundberg, District Business Manager, shared site plan drawings and general information regarding the proposed intermediate school to be built on the RBE campus. The District’s significant enrollment growth has driven the need for a 5th and 6th grade intermediate school, prompting the special bond election scheduled tomorrow from 7:00 am – 7:00 pm. Mr. Lundberg addressed plans to redesign the current RBE driveway onto Sioux Boulevard in order to alleviate traffic and parking concerns. Plans for the intermediate school include a huge parking lot to aid pick-up. The two schools will share a single bus drop, separate from the parent drop-off locations; students from neither school will have to cross traffic. The proposed school will be about the same size as the current middle school – approximately 105,000 square feet. The curriculum is expected to be an elementary/middle school combination. Drawings show sixteen classrooms in pods of four, with fifth and sixth grades in separate areas; a full size gym, music room, and based on current technology trends, expanded computer space and reduced library space. If the bond vote passes, the bid process is expected to take place late February/early March, with hopes to begin construction in April for an anticipated opening of August 2015. The projected cost of the school is $14M; $6M of the cost to be financed by issuing General Obligation Bonds. Early pay-off of the Performing Arts Center allowed for the remaining $8M to be covered by the Capital Outlay Fund. Mr. Lundberg thanked the PTA for their donation to the Bond Promotion Committee and encouraged everyone to vote.

Approval of November 5, 2013 minutes

Diane Sejnoha motioned to approve the minutes, Sandra Westcott seconded, motion to approve passed.


Principal Karen Heyden reported the third grade concert will be held tomorrow at the PAC. Band and orchestra concerts are coming up on December 16. School will let out December 20 for Christmas break and will resume January 6. Mrs. Heyden thanked the PTA for the donation to purchase jackets for all RBE staff in recognition of achieving exemplary status. Janelle Zerr asked that special thanks be passed on to Mr. Fode for his efforts in holding the Veteran’s Day program.


Liz Davis discussed the November Financial Report.


Artist in Residence: Janelle Zerr reported there are still plans for Duane Reichert, rodeo clown, to visit RBE the beginning of 2014.

Book Club: Diane Sejnoha reported on behalf of Trish Stark. Book Club will start this week and take place one recess a week the first three weeks of December. There are 36 students participating and numerous volunteers willing to lead the groups. Book Club will be held again in the Spring, with plans to offer new titles either by exchanging books with Brandon Elementary or using Scholastic dollars.

Spelling Bee: Diane Sejnoha, on behalf of Stacy Peters-Walters, reported the RBE Spelling Bee is scheduled for December 13 at 2:00 pm. Grades 1 through 5 participated in the initial written test; the top two spellers in each classroom for grades 3 through 5 will participate in the oral spelling bee. Stacy is looking for two volunteers to judge. Giftcards and participant ribbons will be purchased and distributed on the 13th. An internet link has been established as a countdown to the spelling bee that students can visit and complete various activities for additional chances to win prizes.

RBE Skating Party: Janelle Zerr reported the next RBE Carousel Skate party is scheduled for Monday, January 20 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Admission is $5 per person. The PTA receives a portion of the entrance fees.


Future Meeting Dates (all meetings at 6:30pm): February 4

March 4

April 1

May 5

No January meeting.

New/Other Business

Janelle Zerr informed the group that Pizza Hut has expressed interest in offering RBE a monthly fundraiser night similar to what Pizza Ranch currently offers on a quarterly basis, donating a percentage of sales on specified dates to RBE. The Pizza Hut fundraiser will begin in January; watch for details

Sandra Westcott stated plans for this year’s Science Fair are underway. The fair is scheduled for February 24.

Open Forum


Robert Bennis PTA Meeting February 4, 2014 6:30 pm




Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis, Melanie Mills, Becky Munsch, Trish Stark, Jill Simon, Tammy Osheim, Pam Klenner, Andrea Hatlestad, Karen Heyden, Jen Wullstein, Jill Smorawske, Shelly Dowd, Val Holmes

Guest Speakers - Pam Klenner, Librarian & Tammy Osheim, Counselor

Tammy Osheim is the RBE school counselor and is a licensed social worker. She visits with each classroom every other week, totaling about 18 sessions per classroom and also does a lot of referrals, working with children based on needs. Tammy coordinates the TAT (Teacher Assistance Team), 504 Plan and IEP (Individual Education Plan) meetings for students, parents and teachers at the school. She also coordinates the mentor program with Lutheran Social Services for RBE. Tammy has been the testing coordinator for RBE; however, this could change with the change to online testing.

Pam Klenner, school librarian, is at RBE on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. She works primarily with Kindergarten, First and Second grade. In Kindergarten the focus is around how to use a library. Kindergartners are allowed to check out books for the first time this year and have had great success with this change. First graders focus on fiction and non-fiction books and how to find topics in the library, shelf markers and story time. Second graders focus on the different parts of the library and how the library is organized. Next they will start using the online system to locate books. Third, Fourth and Fifth graders come to the library for checkouts.

There is a new interactive database the school subscribes to that includes text, audio and videos. Parents and students can log on from home:

www.pebblego.com

Username: rbe1234

Password: 1234

The school is looking into the possibility of offering downloadable books to be available on students’ electronic devices. Ebook companies have a variety of specifications. There is a lot of thought and planning required before making those decisions. The librarians across the district work closely to try to make the same offerings available at all schools whenever possible.

http://www.pebblego.com/

Approval of December 2, 2013 minutes

Trish Stark motioned to approve the minutes and Jill Simon seconded; motion to approve passed.


Principal Karen Heyden reported they are getting ready for Kindergarten screening scheduled on March 10 and March 12. The Smarter Balanced Assessment is scheduled to start April 28 and will run for three weeks. RBE is the last in the district to start the administration of the tests. The time frames vary to reduce the number of students online at one time. Testing is supposed to last six hours per student; however, since this is the first time administering this assessment, we won’t know until they are actually complete.


Liz Davis discussed the December and January Financial Reports.


Artist in Residence: Karen Meyer reported the artist scheduled is not able to come to the school this year. We've hosted a variety of artists in the past. If anyone has suggestions for next year or is interested in chairing this event next year, please contact Janelle Zerr.

Spelling Bee: Janelle Zerr reported the RBE Spelling Bee had approximately 27 students participate with 4 moving on to the Regional Spelling Bee.

RBE Skating Party: Janelle Zerr reported the RBE Carousel Skate party was held Monday, January 20 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. 97 students attended which raised $25.

Staff Appreciation Meal: Val Holmes reported the next staff appreciation meal is planned for Tuesday, February 11 during parent-teacher conferences. They will be serving soups and sandwiches. There has been great participation from parents, but they are still in need of soup donations.

Science Fair: Becky Munsch reported the science fair will be held Monday, February 24. The entry deadline is February 11. Four volunteers are needed to help during the event. Student participation is looking positive.

BINGO Night: Kelly Nyhof reported BINGO night is scheduled for Friday, February 28 from 6:30-8:30 pm in the commons. Drinks and snacks will be provided. A few volunteers will be needed. If interested in helping out, please contact Diane Sejnoha or Janelle Zerr. Val Holmes suggested we consider using high school students to help volunteer at events.

Scholastic Book Fair: Jill Simon reported the spring book fair will be held April 24-25. This is the buy one get one free event. Volunteers will be needed to help at the book fair.


Future Meeting Dates (all meetings at 6:30pm): March 4

April 1

May 5

New/Other Business

Open officer positions for 2014-15: if interested, contact the Nominating Committee [email protected]

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Open chair positions for 2014-15: contact Janelle Zerr [email protected]

Artist in Residence

Reflections Art Program

Nominating Committee: Janelle Zerr reported Gina Woodward, Melanie Mills and Nicole Wilson have agreed to partner as the Nominating Committee. Diane Sejnoha motioned to approve the committee and Trish Stark seconded; motion to approve passed.

State PTA Convention: Janelle Zerr reported the state convention will be held in Aberdeen on April 5. If you are interested in attending, please contact Janelle.

Open Forum

The meeting was adjourned 7:25 pm.



Robert Bennis PTA Meeting March 4, 2014 6:30 pm




Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis, Nicole Wilson, Jill Simon, Trish Stark, Sandra Westcott, Becky Munsch, Jill Smorawske, Gina Woodward, Jen Wullstein, Sandy Klatt, Bethany Gusso, Ben Reyelts

Approval of February 4, 2014 minutes

Becky Munsch motioned to approve the minutes and Trish Stark seconded; motion to approve passed.

Guest Speaker - Sandy Klatt, School Board Member

Guest speaker Sandy Klatt, School Board Member, explained the Board’s role within the district. Concerns within the building should be addressed with Principal Heyden. Mrs. Heyden and the other administrators discuss issues collectively and prepare what the Board needs to approve. The Board represents the people by making decisions with goal of student achievement in mind.

Current projects within the district include the early planning stages of the intermediate school and a reading protocol through middle school to better identify kids who are struggling and get them help. The Accelerated Reading Program (AR), which pushes kids to read at a level appropriate to their ability, is used through fifth grade. LYNX reading is used in middle school and there are no reading classes in high school.

Sandy pointed out that the 5-year plan can be found on the District’s website http://brandonvalley.k12.sd.us/district/home.htm under Central Administration/Business Office/Five Year Plan. Each administrator is required every fall to write a 5-year plan for their building. The plans include what each administrator would ideally like to have. Maintenance and staffing requests fall under two different funds; the funds are determined by legislators. Administration then makes decisions about the requests from all buildings based on budget and need and submits the proposed budget to the Board. The Board then preliminarily approves administration’s decisions.

The Board meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, with the exception of once in July which is the annual meeting and once in December. Email questions to [email protected].


Janelle Zerr reported on behalf of Principal Karen Heyden that Ben Leber would be speaking at RBE Friday morning. Over 400 RSVPs have been received.


Liz Davis discussed the February Financial Report, including the need to amend the budget to cover an additional $80 in expense incurred for the BINGO event. Sandra Westcott motioned to approve the budget amendment and Trish Stark seconded. Motion passed.

http://brandonvalley.k12.sd.us/district/home.htm



Science Fair: Becky Munsch reported the science fair was held Monday, February 24 and was a huge success. There were 98 entries which was a 49% increase over last year. RBE, Fred Assam, and Valley Springs participated. Brandon Elementary holds their science fair separately. RBE had 46 entries and won people’s choice awards in every grade but fifth. The top three from RBE will go on to the Pavilion Science Fair.

BINGO Night: Janelle Zerr reported BINGO night was held Friday, February 28 from 6:30-8:30 pm. There was a great turnout, every seat was full. Prizes, cookies and drinks were provided.

Scholastic Book Fair: Jill Simon reported the spring book fair will be held April 24-25. This is the buy one get one free event. Volunteers will be needed to help at the book fair. Scholastic dollars were used to purchase a book for each RBE student. Books were also purchased to be given out during kindergarten screening and new titles provided for the book club.

Family Fun Night: Janelle Zerr reported Family Fun Night is scheduled for Friday, April 25.

Book Club: Trish Stark reported Book Club will be held once a week April 7–28 for grades 2 through 5. Seven new titles were ordered with Scholastic dollars.


Future Meeting Dates (all meetings at 6:30pm): April 1

May 5

New/Other Business

Open officer and chair positions for 2014-15: The Reflections Art Program and Artist in Residence chair position remains open for next year.

State PTA Convention: The state PTA convention will be held in Aberdeen on April 5. There are funds budgeted for 3 to attend. The Reflections winners will be recognized at the convention. Contact Janelle if you are interested in attending; the deadline to register is March 21.

The Jline Dance Crew out of New York has been booked to visit RBE at 2:00 pm on May 16. Cost is $800. The presentation will be an anti-bullying theme.

Brandon Health Mart will begin donating .25 to the RBE PTA for each UPC code off generic Health Mart products. Collection will be the same as the current process for Box Tops and Labels for Education.

Janelle Zerr stated there are plans to budget funds to assist in the start-up of the intermediate school’s PTA. Janelle is hoping the other PTAs plan to contribute as well.

Open Forum


Robert Bennis PTA Meeting April 1, 2014 6:30 pm




Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis, Nicole Wilson, Melanie Mills, Sandra Westcott, Jill Smorawske, Gina Woodward, Jen Wullstein, April Frisbie, Karen Heyden, Karen Meyer, Heather Bowers, Brandi Csordacsics, MaryBeth Vilhauer.

Approval of March 4, 2014 minutes

Melanie Mills motioned to approve the minutes and Diane Sejnoha seconded; motion to approve passed.


Principal Karen Heyden reported the new online Smarter Balanced testing is coming up beginning April 28. Brandon Elementary has been going through the testing the last two weeks and reports it is going well for them. The Harlem Globetrotters will be coming to RBE this Friday at 12:20 pm. Their talk will be about bullying. Field day will be on the last day of school; a letter with more information and request for volunteers will be sent home with students.


Liz Davis discussed the March Financial Report.


Scholastic Book Fair: Brandi Csordacsics reported the spring book fair will be held April 24-25 and will be open during Family Fun Night. This is the Buy One-Get One Free event, which applies to everything at the fair, not just books. Flyers will be sent home with students next week. Volunteers will be needed to help at the book fair, especially on Friday during Family Fun Night. Volunteers will also be needed to help set up on Wednesday. Open time slots will be posted on the PTA website.

Family Fun Night: Karen Meyer reported Family Fun Night is scheduled for Friday, April 25. Most of the prizes have been ordered online. Karen will purchase the remaining larger prizes at Wal-mart next Friday. The event is not successful without volunteers. Anyone can volunteer; Karen encouraged attendees to reach out to family, friends, neighbors and church groups. It was suggested to recruit high school students to help out. Karen reported she has tried in the past with no success. Plans include activities similar to last year’s event, including the jar raffles, with profits going to the Brandon food pantry. Pizza Hut will be asked to provide the food for purchase.

Teacher Appreciation Week: Teacher Appreciation Week is the week of May 5, watch for more information from Val Holmes.

Upcoming Meetings

The final meeting of the year will be held at 6:30 pm on Monday, May 5. We will elect officers and finalize the 2014-15 budget at this meeting.

New/Other Business New officer nominations: The Nominating Committee, Gina Woodward and Melanie Mills, announced their recommendations for officer candidates for the 2014-15 school year: Diane Sejnoha as President Jill Smorawske as Vice President Jen Wullstein as Secretary Amy Gienapp as Treasurer

Any other nominations that come forward will be considered. The vote for new officers will take place during the May meeting. The committee chair position for Artist in Residence/Reflections Art Program remains open at this time. Audit Committee: Fiscal year ends July 1. April Frisbie and Jill Smorawske were nominated to work with Liz Davis over the summer to complete an audit of the books and report findings in the fall. Gina Woodward motioned to approve the nominations and Karen Meyer seconded; motion passed. Review 2014-15 Proposed Budget: Janelle Zerr reviewed the recommended adjustments to the budget. The vote to approve next year’s budget will be done at the May meeting.

Open Forum


Robert Bennis PTA Meeting May 5, 2014 6:30 pm




Janelle Zerr, Diane Sejnoha, Liz Davis,_Jill Simon, Trish Stark, Karen Kane, Sandra Westcott, Karen Heyden, Becky Munsch, Brandi Csordacsics, Heather Bowers, Gina Woodward, Jen Wullstein, Nicole Tietjen, Melanie Mills.

Approval of March 4, 2014 minutes

Karen Meyer motioned to approve the minutes and Diane Sejnoha seconded; motion to approve passed.


Principal Karen Heyden reported the PTA should consider making changes to the PTA events to ensure each child has parental supervision. There was discussion around adding a disclaimer to event notifications that would include a requirement that children must be with a responsible adult at events. Additional brainstorming occurred on how to ensure parents are attending with their children.

Testing is going well this week. End of the year field trips are underway for each of the grades.


Liz Davis discussed the April Financial Report. The major revenue this month was from the book fair. Most of the income will be sent directly back to Scholastic to pay for the books sold.

Proposed budget amendments totaling $1200 for end of year activities include the cost of a DJ and inflatable on the last day of school as well as the 5th grade year-end party. This money will move from the presentation budget, which was cancelled due to scheduling conflicts. Karen Meyer motioned to approve the amendment and Sandra Westcott seconded; motion to approve passed.

Liz reviewed the preliminary annual report with meeting attendees.


Scholastic Book Fair: Jill Simon reported the spring book fair was held April 24-25 and went really well. Total sales came in at $4,830.00 which was an increase of $500 as compared to last year.

Family Fun Night: Karen Meyer reported Family Fun Night was held Friday, April 25. The event went well despite the limited number of parent volunteers. There was discussion on how to encourage parents to become more active in volunteering to assist at the events.

Teacher Appreciation Week: Diane Sejnoha provided the following update on behalf of Val Holmes: Teacher Appreciation Week is happening this week. Karen Heyden stated that she

and Terri received Edible Arrangement bouquets which were very good. Daily themes this week include a candy day, fresh fruit, root beer floats, and a taco bar. Students are also encouraged to provide a card of thanks to teachers.

Book Club: Trish Stark reported two more groups finished their book club on Friday. There were a total of 6 book clubs this spring. New books were ordered for a few of the groups.

Year End Activities: Karen Meyer reported the final 5th grade party will include laser tag, a bounce house, and other activity stations. Gay Anderson is donating frozen fruit cups for the students.

The last day of school will include field day, a bounce house and a DJ for all students.

Upcoming Meetings

Watch the PTA website for 2014-15 meeting dates.

New/Other Business 2014-15 Budget: Sandra Westcott motioned to approve the budget and Becky Munsch seconded; motion to approve passed. Open Chair Position: The Reflections/Artist in Residence chair position remains open. Election of 2014-15 Officers: The Nominating Committee, Gina Woodward and Melanie Mills, recommend: Diane Sejnoha as President Jill Smorawske as Vice President Jen Wullstein as Secretary Amy Gienapp as Treasurer

Becky Munsch motioned to approve the nominations and Brandi Csordacsics seconded; motion to approve passed. Recognition of 5th Grade Parents: Jill Simon, Lauri Sohl, Gina Woodward, Trish Stark, Nicole Tietjen, Melanie Mills and Sandra Westcott who are parents with their youngest child in 5th grade, were recognized for their PTA involvement over the last several years. Janelle Zerr was provided a PTA Lifetime Achievement Award for her work over the years with the PTA.

Open Forum


Documents

Robert Bennis PTA Meetingrbe.my-pta.org/Content/25_1/DocumentStore/0/RBE PTA...indicating a flyer was sent home with students last week with information about the ... Karen Kane reported