CSPN Board Meeting

January 11, 2008

In Attendance: The meeting was called to order at 1:35 p.m. with Dr. Susan Copeland, Pam Rose, Claudia Lakey, Senese Duhart, Lee Meyers, Brooke Sanders and Pepper Walker in attendance. Janet Denkler joined the meeting in progress.

Minutes: The minutes of the December 14 board meeting were approved.

Bank Statement: Secretary Lee Meyers reviewed the November bank statement, initialed it and gave it to Senese for processing.

Timing of Fundraisers: The group discussed parent feedback about the fall fundraisers being too close together. Susan noted that fundraisers typically do much better during the first semester and before the holidays, so moving to the spring is not a viable option. She will talk to Diane Coleman about the timing of the teachers' fundraiser for next fall. There was some discussion about starting the Support Drive earlier to create a larger gap before the teacher fundraiser and cookie dough sale.

2008-2009 Calendar: Susan reported that the calendar for the upcoming school year will be ready in mid-February.

Balanced Calendar: Susan stated that Rebecca Scott is working with Sam Hurst from the U of M Center for Research in Educational Policy and U of M Psychology Professor Dr. Bob Cohen to evaluate the impact of the balanced calendar on academic performance.

Family Fun Night: Event chair Pepper Walker reported that preparations are well underway for this January 24 event. Pepper described plans to add a new game, “Are You Smarter Than a 6th Grader.” Pam will help Pepper coordinate volunteers.

Holiday Fair: Co-chair Brooke Sanders reported that Holiday Fair netted $532. She recommended considering alternatives to the current vendor and event structure based on her observations, experience with similar events elsewhere and mixed feedback from participants and volunteers. There were concerns about the product and pricing structure as well was the timing which was after Hanukkah this year. Brooke will look at alternatives and report back.

Yearbook: Pam recapped the committee's recommendation to work with a new vendor who will provide a higher quality bound book. There was some discussion about options for securing a yearbook sponsor to keep the price down. Ads will also be sold to help defray costs.

2008-2009 Board Officers: Pam and Claudia reminded the group that it is time to identify a slate of officers for next year. We will have openings for Vice President and Secretary. Claudia will ask teachers to recommend parents who might be interested.

Parent Question about Playground Gate: Susan responded to a parent issue that Senese brought to the board's attention: the parent asked why the playground gate is not locked during recess. Susan stated that the school is required by law to keep the gate unlocked during recess for safe exit if necessary. The teachers watch the gate to keep children from exiting during recess.

Treasurer's Report: Janet reported a net loss of $5,006.37 for the month of December, which was anticipated due to the timing of expense payments and fundraising activities. Year to date net income through December was $22,176.19.

Adjournment: There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 2:45 pm. The next meeting is scheduled for February 8 at 1:30 pm.