PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
March 28, 2008
9:15 – 10:30 AM
Attendance: Sue Mattice, Ravi Saulnier, Mairi MacNamara, Deirdre Lintott,
Darryl Ungar, Colleen Lee, Kristy Mcleod, Andrea Thomson, Brenda Yu (settlement worker), Sandra Khan and Chris Marin
Business Agenda:
1. Call to order: 9.20am
2. Additions/Changes to Agenda: Greening Project added by Chris Marin
3. Adopt minutes - Feb 27/08 meeting: Adopted by all present. Due to a technical
glitch last months minutes were written from memory and, as it was difficult to recall as to who said what, all comments and contributions were attributed to Deirdre! She was gracious enough to accept my version.
Old Business:
? Reminders/Announcements:
- Staff Luncheon April 4th, 11.30am. Colleen Lee, who is the organizer, is looking for contributors and volunteers. She will be contacting people.
- Parent appreciation tea is on April 25th at 1.30- 2.45pm. Babysitting will be available
- Family Dance is on May 23rd. The theme will be the 1970’s/ Hippy. Teachers will be working with students to create family portraits to put up as décor. There was a discussion as to whether we wanted to make it a fund raising event. No consensus was reached except that Andrea, Fiona and Deirdre wanted to do something to promote the Greening Project. The selling of plants and/or tie tied t-shirts was discussed - Andrea to follow up. Andrea also said that family recipes from last year’s event will be compiled onto a CD and sold to raise funds to pay for the DJ. As per last year, every family should bring an appetizer/entrée large enough to feed their family.
? Facility Air Quality Update:
Over spring break the vents were cleaned in some of the rooms in urgent need.
Work orders have gone in for maintenance – adding vents to all doors
Requests have been made for replacements of the windows, which are difficult to open and close, and also for replacement of carpets. As always, we may or may not be successful as the cost for these comes from the district’s maintenance budget, which is allocated, on a priority basis. Deirdre will keep us posted.
? Dragon Wear Update: No update available. Brian and Alisa are organizing. Those who have put in orders should get them in time for Dragon Day.
? PAC AGM: Ryna Milne is coordinating the elections but could not come to this meeting. Anyone interested in running should contact her through PAC. Kristy McCleod will be putting up posters around the school to advertise positions and draft out an announcement to go in the next Dixon News Letter. Those wishing to stand can do so right up to the time of the meeting.
? Greening Project and the Dragonfly Committee: Chris Marin gave us an update on the project.
An application for funding has been put together by Chris Pugh for a grant from Ever Green. Most of the money has already been targeted. A blue print of the works planned will go on line and anyone interested or wishing to participate can go to the school website and follow the link. The aim is to improve the area outside the annex and the Friendship Garden. Students will be involved in the gardening and planting.
New Business:
? Brenda Yu is one of the Settlement Workers employed by the District to help with the integration of new immigrant families in the area. This is a new service funded by the Federal Government to assist newly arrived families in finding their way around and settling into the community. They very often need help with finding jobs, housing and schools for their children. Brenda was very informative in helping us understand her role and how we can assist her to help the families within our own school. Dixon has about 12 families who fall into this group and it was agreed that PAC would work with Brenda to help these families to become involved in the school community
and its activities. .
Anyone interested in getting involved or needing assistance, should contact PAC through the school office or Brenda Yu at: byu@richmond.sd38.bc.ca
Cell: 778-835-0850
Financial Report:
Mairi McNamara reported our bank balance this month as $11,614.95.~ Magazine orders still trickle in but currently our profit for QSP is $2,280.
Deirdre asked if the PAC had any money the Greening Committee could use to get things started and Sue reported we still had $1,000 budgeted for guest speakers that would not be used this year.~ Motion was passed to give the Greening Committee the $1,000.
Administrator’s Report:
Deirdre reported on the following:
? Spelling Bee Competition: Wei Wei was one of the Lower Mainland finalist
? Concours: Kiran Saulnier and Paloma Pendardharkar were the concours finalists for grades 6 & 7 and will go on to represent Dixon at the District level on April 14th at McRoberts.
? The snow Geese seem to be here to stay. Everyone agrees that they are a nuisance but do not represent a health risk. However, it is recommended that, due to the large amount of goose droppings on the grounds, everyone should exercise caution and pay attention to hygiene by washing hands carefully. It is recommended that, to help keep classrooms ‘goose poop free’, students should keep a change of shoes at school. The School is taking extra measures to keep the building as clean as possible. The Health Dept was impressed with Dixon’s pre-emptive letter to parents regarding this problem and the need to be extra vigilant in terms of our cleanliness. See school newsletter regarding health precautions.
Darryl updated us on the following:
? The Track and Field meet is on Tuesday, May 20th at Minoru. All grade 3 – 7 students are encouraged to participate. However, only those students actively participating in practices will be attending.
? Staff will do an in school rotation to see who wants to do which event. This will start on April 14th through to April 28th and then everyone will practice in his or her allotted groups out of school time in May.
? Jump rope for heart will take place next week. All classes will participate in the final event, which will take place after the assembly on April 4th.
? SPC meeting today – March 28th.
? FSA results go home today.
Adjournment: 10.45 am
NEXT PAC MEETING APRIL 30, 2008 – 7:00 PM (AGM)
PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING Minutes
February 27, 2008 - 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
A brief meeting followed Deb Wheeler-Brown’s seminar ‘Web Aware’
Business Agenda
1. Call to order: 8.20pm
2. Welcome: Jacky thanked Deb Wheeler Brown for her excellent seminar on internet safety.
3. Additions/Changes to Agenda: None
4. Adopt minutes – Jan 16/08 meeting: Jacky Kane and Sue Mattice
Old Business
1. Reminders/Announcements
2. Grade 7 Grad Committee: Everything proceeding according to plan.
New Business: None
Financial Report:
Mairi McNamara reported our current bank balance for February as $13,710. ~
Administrator’s Report: Deirdre made the following announcements:
- 5th March is Walk to School.
- Basketball tournaments will take place at McMath between 3rd – 7th March and at Boyd between the 10th – 13th March.
- Concours is on March 14th.
- The Dixon grade 6 & 7 Band will be participating in the district wide performance at the Gateway Theatre on March 4th at 7pm. Tickets available for those wishing to attend.
- Parent Appreciation Tea is on April 25th.
- Staff Luncheon in on April 4th – Colleen Lee is organizing that event.
- Family Dance will take place on May 23rd and is being organized by Andrea Thomson. The theme for the event will be ‘Hippy’ in keeping with our Greening Project.
Air Quality Checks:
- Requisitions have been made to the Maintenance Dept. to clean heating vents in all classrooms and install vents in doors.
- Dixon has a new HEPA Vacuum System, which is used to clean carpets everyday.
- CO2 levels have been re-tested in all rooms and haven been found to be within guideline limits. The improved levels are believed to be linked to increases in ventilation due to windows being kept open. Deirdre has requested that the windows be replaced in the rooms where they are difficult to open and close.
Adjournment: 9pm
NEXT PAC MEETING MARCH 28, 2008 – 9:15 AM
PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA
January 16, 2008
8:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Sue Mattice, Ravi Saulnier, Mairi McNamara, Kristy McLeod, Ryna Levy-Milne, Deirdre Lintott, Darryl Unger, Lisa McMillan, Teresa Rush and Fiona MacNicol
Business Agenda:
1. Call to order 8.30pm
2. Welcome: Jacky welcomed everyone to our first meeting of the New Year
3. Additions/Changes to Agenda: None
4. Adopt minutes: Minutes Nov/07 – Jacky and Sue
Old Business:
1. Reminders/Announcements:
ß Jacky updated us on Alisa Bowman’s condition and passed around a card from Alisa thanking everyone for their support and good wishes and all the dinners that people have made for the family. The family also expressed their appreciation for the lunches that the boys, Zach and Jordan, are getting delivered from Nova Foods – they are great help as it’s one less thing for them to worry about.
ß PAC elections for the 2008/09 committee will take place in April. Ryna Levy-Milne, as past co-chair, will be overseeing the process and anyone interested in any of the positions should contact her through PAC or the school office.
ß Next two CPF meetings are on Jan 22 and Feb 19th respectively. The two events being planned at these meetings are CPF’s participation at Le Carnival on February 8th and CPF’s Teacher Wine and Cheese on March 5th which they are hoping to hold at McMath Secondary. They will be looking for volunteers to make appetizers for the Wine and Cheese evening.
ß The February 27th PAC meeting will also be a brief one as Deb Wheeler Brown, Marketing Director of Education for Microsoft Canada, will be speaking on Internet Safety beforehand.
ß Colleen Lee is organizing the Staff Luncheon on 4th April.
ß Ryna informed us that there are no other speakers planned because they are difficult to accommodate right now – she may be able to line up another speaker before the end of the school year, but cannot guarantee. There is still $1000 left in the budget for future speakers and speaker related activities.
ß The March PAC meeting will be on the 28th at 9am
2. Grade 7 Grad Committee: All proceeding as planned
3. Dixon Greening Project: Fiona MacNicol gave the following update:
ß The Dragonflies (Dixon's eco-team) are having a planning meeting with our landscape architect from Evergreen (from whom we hope to receive a $2000 grant) with the director of grounds from the school district at 8am on February 8th. We have lots of plans and are keen to get started. We have 60 intermediate students volunteered to help, and are now in need of parent help and financial support. In the meantime, we are planning on buying airtight composters for fruit and vegetable waste for all our classrooms.
New Business: None
Financial Report: Mairi’s reported as follows:
ß Balance as at December 31, 2007: $11,244.57.~
ß The last fundraiser was shop-cards and we took in $500.~
ß We are still awaiting a cheque for the clothing drive from craft night.
Administrator’s Report: Deirdre spoke on the following points:
ß Sun Run: A form will be going out to all families; those wishing to participate should consider registering through Dixon as the school will get a concession rate.
ß Dragon Wear: Brian McDermott is still willing to order if anyone interested. Jacky will contact him to obtain more information regarding ordering forms and dates.
ß Social Responsibility: A bilingual poster will be going up in all classrooms - A big thank you to all who helped to laminate the posters.
ß Student teachers from Strasbourg have arrived and will be here until spring.
ß The grade 6&7 dance will be on Feb 14th. The students are responsible for organizing it but will be overseen by Deirdre Lintott and Mme Mooney.
ß Concours, sponsored by CPF, will take place at the end of the spring term.
ß The Christmas concert was a huge success - a big thank you to Lisa Schulz,
Bobby-Jo Evans and all the volunteers for all their hard work, and well done to all the students who took part and helped to make it a special night.
ß SPC’s first meeting was on 17th January – had lots to discuss about possible agenda for this year.
ß FSA tests, for grades 4 and 7, will take place between Feb 4th and 15th. For the first time parents will actually get to see their child’s workbook. Tests are based on last year’s curriculum and the results should be available by the end of term.
ß Shannon Mooney is organizing the Spelling Bee club – more details will follow.
ß Talent Show takes place week of 28th January – all proceeds will go to Canuck Place and Zimbabwe.
Darryl Unger spoke on the following:
ß Basketball has started; there are two boys’ teams and one girl’s team (grades 6&7)
ß Air quality checks were carried out throughout the school building by the district health dept. No signs of mould were found, but CO2 levels in some rooms were high. The report is available for anyone interested in seeing it. Ravi Saulnier will be drafting a response to the report to ensure that the recommendations contained therein are implemented.
Adjournment: 9.15pm
NEXT PAC MEETING: FEBRUARY 27th, 2008
PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
November 30, 2007
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Attendance: Sue Mattice, Jacky kane, Ravi Saulnier, Mairi McNamara, Andrea Thomson, Teresa Rush, Kelly Bajwa, Geraldine Morita, Lynn Chang,
Dr. George Alexander, Colleen Lee, Elaine Fontaine, Shelly Nicholson and
Kristy McLeod.
Business Agenda:
1. Call to order: 9.15am
2. Welcome: Sue Mattice welcomed everyone to our last meeting of the year.
3. Additions/Changes to Agenda: None
4. Adopt minutes – October 24/07 meeting: adopted by Jacky Kane and Sue Mattice
Old Business:
ÿ Reminders/Announcements:
- Christmas Concert is on December 20th 7pm.
- Book Fair will continue next week until Thursday
- There will be no pack meeting in December
- There is nothing to report on RDPA as their meeting was cancelled last month
- Snow Days – please do not phone the school, if need be, consult district website or media sources. Do not assume that we are going to have a snow day, they are rare. Snow Day procedure is also on Dixon School website.
ÿ Fundraising:
-The Christmas Craft Fair was very successful; it was well organized and highly advertised resulting in greater participation and attendance. Congratulations to all organizers and volunteers for their hard work.
- The next fund raiser will be the store cards and Bonnie will organize that project.
- Because the magic show earlier this year was very successful, there won’t be much happening in December in terms of fundraising.
- John Kaplan and Jay Banks continue to make contributions to PAC funds.
- Donation Night – we only had 170 bags which were counted as 106. The event was not very successful and, as such, we need to reconsider how it is organized. It was suggested that we may want to hold it earlier, maybe in September when most people seem to recycle children’s clothes in time for the new school year.
ÿ Speaker Topics:
- Our next speaker will be Carol Saundry who scheduled for Jan. 16th. She will be talking on the new Math Curriculum.
- Parent helpers are needed to help put together the math tool kit work bee-Dec 7th done thanks.
- Bonnie Leslie has arranged for Deb Wheeler Brown of Micro Soft to come and talk about Face Book – scheduled for 20th Feb. 08
- Ryna is looking into arranging a speaker on the topic of Nutrition.
ÿ Greening of Dixon Project: Andrea Thomson and Chris Marin gave an update:
- Don Landry from the school district will be coming in to talk about ideas and how they can help.
- More parent volunteers are needed to if the project is to succeed and have a long term future.
- The project committee is still looking at ideas – planters near primary annex, vegetable garden at front of school etc. All depends on funding. The project will create great opportunities for teachers to teach science topics. Dixon has received a sustainability grant of $1000 from Evergreen and $500 from The District Sustainability Project.
- CPF: Deidre spoke on behalf of Bonnie Leslie who was unable to attend.
- There is a major shortfall of French teachers in the province. A task force has been created to look into the reasons why and to see what can be done. It has become harder to retain French Immersion teachers due higher levels of stress brought on by the lack of resources, funding and the demands of parents. New teachers need allot of support to get established.
-There are four student teachers coming from Strasbourg again in January.
New Business:
ÿ Bowman Family: Sue gave an update on Alisa Bowman – she is going thru chemotherapy. To help the family during this very difficult time, the PAC has created a Bowman Family Fund - $880 has been raised so far. It was agreed that some of this money will be used to buy lunches from Nova Foods for Zack and Jordan until the end of the year as this will help Alisa worry less about the boys and focus more on her self while she undergoes treatment.
Alisa has been a valued member of PAC and the Dixon community for many years now and is a friend to many; our thoughts are with the family and we wish Alisa an early recovery.
ÿ Grade Seven Grad Committee:
- School Year Book – the committee will be meeting on December 13th at 7pm.
- Laura McCormack is organizing the grade 7 dance for June 24th and a theme has been chosen but is being kept secret.
ÿ Andrea Thomson is organizing the annual school family dance which will be held sometime in May and is looking for volunteers
ÿ School playground – there are problems with the climbing wall – Jacky Kane and Kristy McCleod will be contacting the manufacturer to replace it. Kristy will keep everyone posted on developments.
ÿ School Renovations: Deirdre reported that the District has done an air quality check in room 8 and, as expected, the results were poor. They are monitoring the problem and have recommended the removal of all stuffed toys, mouse and compost, keep windows open and heating turned up. At present, the windows are hard to open and a request has been made for maintenance to fix.
As to what the time line is for the problems to be resolved, Deirdre was unable to say but is staying on top of the issue and will keep us informed as to what the District proposes to do.
Financial Report: Mairi McNamara provided the following details
Current Bank Balance: $11,005.59
Craft Night proceeds so far: $4812.44
We paid the school $9750.00 for the budgeted items: classroom field trips, classroom allotments, fine arts program, and sports equipment
We have received an extra $400 from the Magic Show, a commission from all the business we received due to Bonnie Leslie’s recommendation letter.~
Monies raised for the Bowman family $887.32
Administrator’s Report: Deirdre spoke on the following:
- Social Responsibility has two strands – social behaviour and resolving social issues. The traffic lights of acceptable behaviour (green – red) are connected to “paws’ which the Social Responsibility Committee uses. Children in the older grades are rewarded with tickets which they put into a draw for a ‘treat’ for the whole class such as a hat day, no homework week, board game day etc.
-The Social Responsibility Policy will be posted in each classroom once it has been laminated. Andrea is organizing this.
- Concerns have been raised regarding the ‘intervention by bystanders’ aspect of Social Responsibility. Some parents expressed concern that children were being encouraged to intervene in situations that may actually put them at risk. This will be looked into further.
- Grade 7 leadership: students love to volunteer for leadership programs. Every class is involved in a personal way to contribute on a wider scale – whatever they are passionate about.
- Grade 7 students want a school dance in January – need to think more about this.
- FSA 2007 results, for grades 4 and 7, are in. This years FSA will be in February and a letter/info will be going out soon.
- SPC will meet in January to discuss the results.
- The District is looking to employ Settlement Workers, to help integrate new immigrant arrivals into the district.
- Christmas Concert: Once On A Housetop. More volunteers are needed to help decorate on December 18th.
- Palmer Secondary – Lets Talk Health – Dec 6th 7pm – 9pm.
Chris Marin informed us that the District has provided our computer lab with 30 new computers. Some of the old computers will go into classrooms.
Adjournment: 10.30
NEXT PAC MEETING JANUARY 16, 2008 - 7:00 – 9:00 PM
DIXON PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
Wednesday October 24th 2007
7.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m.
Attendance: ~~~~Jacky Kane, Ravi Saulnier, Sue Mattice, Kristy McLeod, Deirdre Lintott, Darryl Unger, Sadie Lee, Alisa Bowman, Mairi McNamara, Chris Marin, Teresa Rush, Yolanda Booth, Lynn Lee.
Meeting Commenced: 7:15 pm
Welcome: Jacky welcomed everyone to the PAC meeting and noted that Sue Mattice will be chairing this meeting.
Additions & Changes to Agenda:~~Grade 7 grad planning
Adopt Minutes of Last Meeting (September 26 2007): Approved and adopted –Jacky Kane and Kristy McLeod.
Old Business: ~~
1. Reminders, Correspondence & Announcements:
Next meeting will be a morning meeting at 9am November 30th. Discussion around evening vs. daytime meetings. Need to assess attendance at both and or ask for input from parents.
The next RDPA meeting is November 20th (the third Tuesday of each month). Both Ravi and Sue have agreed to attend. Post meeting note, the RDPA has cancelled this meeting.
Dixon Christmas concert December 20th at 6pm.
2. Open PAC positions: currently RDPA rep position is open, discussed having parents rotate attending meeting. Ask who is available at each PAC meeting to attend next meeting.
3. Fundraising: November 15th 6:00-8:30 pm is our craft fair and donation night. There are only 2 tables left for sale, please contact Leslie Reilly if you know of anyone interested. Please try and get donations from the community for the silent auction. Letters are available from the office to give out to businesses. Each class has chosen a basket theme and parents are asked to donate to the basket. These will be raffled off that evening. There will be a cake walk, silent auction and bake sale as well. Lot’s of fun and early seasonal gift shopping too! Don’t forget to bring your garbage
bags filled with old clothes and linens for the diabetes donation drive as well. We need 100 bags to get our $3 per bag. Reminder notices need to be sent out to families for this event.
An idea that came up in discussion was that we could include a craft materials donation table or box, where families could donate any excess or unused craft items that could be used within the school. Need to propose to planning committee and include in reminder notice.
Another discussion point was around a school baking supplies area. This would be a way of pooling basic baking supplies for teachers. Could we approach Save-On and Safeway? It was decided that we would leave this for now and simply suggest that teachers ask in their own newsletters for supplies if they were so inclined to include baking in their teaching plans.
Food supplment cupboard: From time to time, some children could use a snack or lunch. We discussed using earthquake kits when time to change the stock. Also, funds could be used from the family dance to create a small ÒcupboardÓ. The use of these funds for helping families in need is at the discretion of Deirdre and Darryl, not the PAC.
4. Speaker Topics: Carole Sundry is available in January and we plan to have her at the Wednesday Jan. 16th meeting at 7pm. She will discuss the new math curriculum. Ryna is also looking into Deb Wheeler-Brown from Microsoft. Any other suggestions please forward to the PAC or Ryna.
New Business:~~~
1. 2007/08 budget:
Classroom allotments were increased by $100 per division to partly compensate for the fact that teachers/schools can no longer collect craft and/or other classroom fees. In addition, field trip allotments will also be $250 per division. The Learning Through the Arts Program will again receive $1000, $1000 will also be allocated for PAC speakers. Each division will receive $50 for sports equipment and the school will receive $500 for field trip buses. McRoberts and Boyd will each receive a $200 scholarship. $350 is allocated for gifts for departing staff, etc, $300 goes to emergency preparedness and $300 to the
Grade 7 grad, $300 will also be allocated to the Resource teachers. $200 will be spent on additions to the Red Cedar Collection. $100 will be paid to Dixon for the use of the photocopier and other office supplies for a total of $12,700.
2. Staff Wish List
What an exciting time! The staff has come up with their wish list for the year for allocating the gaming funds ($6920.00). The PAC endorses their list and makes the following approximate fund allocation:
Laminator (film is included in school budget) $2100
Die cuts $575
PE equipment (less playground balls covered elsewhere) $700
Scanner $200
Microscopes: $2000, preference to purchase higher quality ones and more could be purchased in future.
(General note that monies can be moved around a little, ie. If more die cuts are needed then take from microscopes etc.)
The mobile Macbook lab while fantastic is difficult to fund all in one year. More research into this is required, could we rent some computers or share with another school
School Wish List: PAC proposed allocating $500 to the purchase of student leader vests and $600 to the School greening project.
3. Greening Project: Nov. 6 meeting at Dixon of the Sustainability Network 3:30 – 5:00pm. Nov.7th, meeting at McNeil of the District Sustainability Showcase meeting including Grant presentations: 3:30 – 5:30pm. Nov. 20th Evergreen Workshop meeting by Delores Atkin at Dixon 3:30 pm.
4. Dixon school computer lab to be updated before December with new iMacs having new software for making movies and other great features as well.
5. PAC had general discussion around the health and safety of the school particularly the smells in many hallways and classrooms, children who are regularly ill, allergy concerns, children and teachers that seem to have prolonged respiratory conditions. Ravi is going to draft a letter to the new superintendant Monica Pamer as many families are concerned about the indoor air quality and the concerns previously listed.
Financial Report:~~~~~~~Mairi McNamara reported: Our receipts for October totaled $4,630.55. But costs for food day haven’t been invoiced to us yet. Our current bank balance for October is $13,933.03.
Administrator’s Report: ~~Deirdre Lintott spoke on the following:
Please provide/review
Social Responsibility:
School working on this area including priorities of: solving problems in peaceful ways and rights & responsibilities.
Paws program in place – Committee member Lynn Lee (contact her if you wish to help)
Worm composting – Committee member Andrea Thomson (contact her if you wish to help). Also, committee member Brian McDermott.
SPC – school planning council. Three parent reps are: Sadie Lee, Kristy McLeod, Ravi Saulnier. These folks will meet with Deirdre and Darryl soon. Anyone is welcome to attend meeting, teachers do not attend this meeting.
FSA results have just been mailed out from the spring writing. If you have questions contact the teacher or administration. This year the FSA will be conducted earlier in February. There was discussion around preparing students for this specifically trying to minimize the stress that some feel at this time. Perhaps by explaining it, showing previous tests, etc.
Discussion about School support activities: Jump Rope for Heart, Twoonie Talent Show (Children’s hospital), Wheels in Motion, Terry Fox). Deirdre to find out if we could do a coin drive for the Jump rope for heart instead of donation sheets.
December 20th Dixon evening Christmas Concert.
District Let’s talk event Dec. 5th re. food and healthy living.
Volleyball underway until end of November.
Staff feedback that very happy with shortened lunch hour, working out very well. However, parents raised concerns that children not having enough time to eat and being rushed out. It was stated that the children can take as long as they need to eat, the bell is to allow those that have finished to go outside. Request by PAC to remind PALS, teachers and duties to allow children the time they need to eat.
Grade 7 dance, yearbook etc. (Mrs. Kay organizing hoodies), need to move forward.
Physical Plant update: No $$ for any capital improvements to schools. PAC questioning why window replacements and other items were not completed, some year(s) we got nothing on our list. We need a meeting with the new area superintendant. PAC exec perhaps to meet with her with or after Deirdre finds out where Dixon is in the renovation cycle.
50/50:~~ ~Congratulation to Kristy McLeod who won the 50/50 draw of $24 which was shared with the child -minders.~~~~~~~~
Thanks to the student child-minders:
Meeting ends: 9.15pm
Next meeting – November 30 at 9am
PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
Sept 26, 2007
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Ravi Saulnier, Sue Mattice, Mairi McNamara, Sadie Lee, Maki Manizano, Ryna Levy-Milne, Alisa Bowman, Leslie Reilly, Kristy McLeod, Lynn Chang, Fiona MacNicol-Clarke, Deirdre Lintott, Darryl Ungar, Colleen Lee, Marnita Gilmour, Bonnie Leslie,Yolanda Booth, Yumin Yang and Nicole Hawthorne.
1. Call to order: 7.10PM
2. Welcome: Jacky Kane welcomed everyone to our first PAC meeting of the year.
3. Additions/Changes to Agenda: Ryna – Speakers and Alisa – Dragon Wear
4. Adopt minutes – May 23/07 meeting: Alisa Bowman and Ravi Saulnier
OLD BUSINESS
1. Reminders/Announcements:
a) Volunteers are needed for Craft and Donation Night.
b) Spots are still available for the Family Photo Night.
c) There is a memo from Bruce Beairsto on the notice board which gives an over view of the school district’s plans for the coming year.
d) Speaker topics: There are a couple of seminars coming up which were offered free to Ryna Milne – anyone interested in attending please see notice board.
e) Further discussion is needed regarding the alternating of PAC meetings between day and evening. It has been agreed that when there is a Speaker, the meeting should be in the evening as more people are likely to attend.
2. Open PAC positions:
Most positions have been filled but the RDPA Rep. is still open and will be done on a rotation basis until it can be filled. Alisa Bowman will be attending the meeting in October. Anyone interested in becoming our rep at the RDPA, should contact PAC.
3. Fundraising: Jacky –A proposal was made for PAC to ask parents to make a cash donation towards PAC funds. The suggestion being that if parents were to make an annual cash donation PAC would then not have to do so many fundraising activities every year. This approach has been used in other schools with great success. While most members at the meeting seemed to be in favour, it was agreed to table the motion for further discussion.
4. Speakers Topics: Ryna – there are basically three topic areas that people seem to be interested in:
a) Social Responsibility: There is an interest in having Deb Wheeler-Brown, Education Director of Microsoft Canada, come and do a session again on internet safety. Her seminar, ‘Be Web Aware’, now has two components, one for parents and one for students. Ryna will be looking to make a booking and further information and dates will follow.
b) Health: Sexual growth/development and Nutrition and Diet. Ryna will be looking into booking Saleema Noon sometime in the New Year to talk on sexual growth – to parents and students.
Nutrition and Diet – we need to decide the format and intended audience for this topic – parents or students. Ryna will explore further.
c) Curriculum – Carol Saunders will be talking to parents about the new math curriculum. We are hoping that she will be available for the next PAC meeting in October.
NEW BUSINESS
1. CPF: Bonnie Leslie and Mairi McNamara are the new President and Vice President respectively. Bonnie is attempting to give CPF a face lift and a new lease of life by making there meetings less formal and more of a social gathering. The first of these gatherings is a Wine and Cheese forum on November 8th which will address the concerns of new teachers in the district. The meeting is open to members and teachers alike.
A parent’s evening is being planned for January along with some parental help programs.
Anyone interested in becoming a member can pick up an application form at the school notice board or contact Bonnie Leslie through the school office or PAC.
Dragon Wear: Alisa Bowman asked if we wanted to do Dragon Wear this year. The general consensus amongst the members present was positive and, as such, Alisa agreed to look into availability and costs etc; and provide more information at the next meeting.
FINANCIAL REPORT
This is Sue Mattice’s last financial report as PAC Treasurer. Mairi McNamara has taken over from Sue as of September 1st and will be presenting her first report in October. Sue will remain on hand to help Mairi ease into her new role. A big ‘thank you’ to Sue from all of us for the great job she has done over the last few years.
Bank balance as of August 31st 2007 - $8410.85
Gaming Acct as of August 31st 2007 - $0000.16
Proceeds for 2007/2008 - $6920.00
Balance as of September 1st 2007 - $6920.16
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Deirdre Lintott welcomed Darryl Ungar our new VP and all the other new teaching staff – Mrs.Becky Griffiths the exchange teacher from Wales, Ms. Michelle Sloboda, Ms. Shannon Moony, Mrs. Bonnie Leslie, Ms. Jessica Wong, Mrs. Jamie Robinson and Mrs. Jan Hacker who is filling in until a replacement can be found for Monika Holm. Mrs. Nona Navin will be working with Corinne Nipp. Everything seems to be running smoothly and everyone appears to be happy in their new classrooms and placements.
- Total enrolment this year is 335 – a little less than last year. English-Kindergarten strand is smaller – only 11 in total. EFI-Kindergarten enrolment is 41.
- School fees - Deirdre gave us an update on the debate which is ongoing. The fees that parents pay at the beginning of the school year are for supplies that parents would have to buy anyway. The school district buys in bulk and is therefore able to get better deals for parents.
- School goals - focus will be on the following areas:
a) Math Curriculum – more details will be available in Oct/Nov
b) Social Responsibility – individual rights and responsibilities will be the main
focus and will be applied in all classrooms and will involve teaching kids to solve social problems in peaceful ways and raising awareness of their privileges and the poor worldwide.
- Meet the Teacher Night – M&M proved too expensive for the school to fund and Staff does not want to have to cook as it leaves little time to actually meet people in the classroom. It was suggested that if M&M is utilized again next year, there may be a charge to parents – people would have to buy their hot dogs.
Fiona MacNicol-Clarke spoke on the ‘greening’ of Dixon:
A committee of staff members has applied for a grant to help with our plan to make Dixon a greener, more environmentally aware school. This links very well to Dixon's goal of Social Responsibility. We are targeting the annex courtyard to start with, hoping to turn it into an outdoor classroom, with natural seating for quiet playing and reading areas amongst the planters. If we obtain a grant, we are hoping the whole community will participate in this project. If you have any interest or expertise, please contact Mme MacNicol, Mme Tardif, Mme Navin,~Mrs. Evans, Mme Douglas or Mme Marin.
Darryl Unger spoke on the following points:
- Outdoor Ed was very successful – the students were very well behaved and everyone seemed to have had a good time. Teachers will be discussing the successes of the camping trip with students during the next month.
- The ‘pals’ program is up and running. The older students, trained and working in pairs, are going into the primary class rooms to supervise during lunch breaks. This program works in conjunction with the ‘big buddy’ program.
- The teacher’s wish list is underway and will be presented to PAC for approval at the next meeting.
- Learning Through The Arts – Total cost is $3000 and School Board is again willing to provide 50% of the funding. The remaining cost will be divided equally between the school and PAC.
- Dixon will not be participating in fund raising for UNICEF as it involves door to door soliciting for pledges.
- Parent/Teacher conferences will be on the 23rd and 25th October.
- Volleyball will be starting up shortly.
- Christmas concert will be on the 20th December – plans are underway.
50/50: The raffle was won by Leslie Reilly, who kindly donated the winnings of $30 to the child minders.
Many thanks to the child minders: Cloe Mika, Brianna Clarke, Amanda Mattice and Michelle MacDonald.
Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 9pm.
NEXT PAC MEETING 7PM, OCTOBER 24th, 2007
DIXON PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
Tuesday, 24th April, 2007
7.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m.
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Ravi Saulnier, Sue Mattice, Kristy McLeod, Ryna Milne, Deirdre Lintott, Mark Hoath, Andrea Thomson, Tracy Fraser, Sadie Lee, Colleen Lee, Nadine Nowell , Alisa Bowman , Karen Robinson, Fiona MacNicol-Clark, Bonnie Leslie, Mairi McNamara and Brian McDermott.
Meeting Commenced: 7:15 pm
Welcome: Jacky welcomed everyone to this year’s penultimate PAC meeting and the elections for next year’s Executive Committee. Due to the elections taking place, the PAC meeting itself will be fairly short and concise.
Additions & Changes to Agenda: None
Adopt Minutes of Last Meeting (March 2007): Approved and adopted –Ryna Milne and
Kristy McLeod.
Administrator’s Report: Deirdre Lintott spoke on the following:
Congratulations to Mark Hoath who has been appointed as the new Principal to Maple Lane School starting July 1st. It has been a pleasure working with Mark; his commitment and enthusiasm will be greatly missed; we will all be sorry to see him go and wish him the very best in his new post.
- Darryl Unger will join Dixon as Mark’s replacement as the Vice Principal. Darryl has been at Williams Bridge for a number of years and is quite familiar with a dual stream school. Everyone will have an opportunity to meet Darryl at the parent appreciation tea on Friday.
- All parents are invited to the ‘parent appreciation tea’ on Friday, 27th April. The event is a big ‘thank you’ from the Dixon Staff for the support they receive from the PAC and Dixon parents.
- Mark your calendars for the following: Track Meet - May 8th
Dragon Day - June 8th
-Kindergarten orientation is on May 24th – Alisa Bowman will attend as a member of the PAC to welcome the parents.
-Certain events in the world around us has, once again, brought the issue of school safety to the forefront; questions and debates continue to persist in our efforts to ensure the safety of our children and community. Richmond School District has a School Safety Plan in place which is continuously evolving and has many aspects to it: – emergency preparedness, bullying policy, care kits designed to make children more vigilant, big buddies, lunch time parent volunteers or ‘flask Mums’, emergency telephones to name a few.
We all need to be vigilant regarding strangers on the premises -all visitors to the school, other than parents dropping of kids, have to sign in at the office and obtain a visitor badge. No measure is going to solve the things we hear about on the news, but we all need to take responsibility and be conscientious and aware of safety issues.
-Regarding the upgrading of school buildings and the recent inspection of the school grounds, we have now received a report from Eric Thorleifson. According to his report, in 2004, the Ministry of Education conducted a province-wide audit of all schools with 2001 audit scores of less than 50. Only Whitside School was included from Richmond. Also in 2004, the province did a seismic assessment of all schools and, based on that, the provinces current 5 year plan includes a seismic upgrading to Dixon and places it as the number 12 priority. However, in spite of its age, that same plan does not rank Dixon at a high district or provincial priority for renovations.
Having said that, there is still some hope as the District will be submitting a proposal in October to the Ministry for its next five year capital plan and, in the mean time, they will also have an opportunity to re-assess the ranking of Dixon. It has been suggested that PAC may want to capitalize on this window of opportunity to canvass the District and add our own voice to that of the school Administration and see if we can’t influence District’s thinking.
It was agreed that Ravi Saulnier, PAC Secretary, will draft a response to the report on behalf of PAC.
Old Business:
Reminders, Correspondence & Announcements:
Jacky kane – Steveston High School is closing and to mark the event, various events are being held throughout the area and local residents, past and present grads, are being invited to joint in the festivities. For more information, check out the schools website.
The Gateway Project at Delta Port is looking for volunteers and interested parties for their campaign to highlight the environmental impacts of the proposed expansion of the port. Contact them direct for more information.
Andrea Thomson – The May Family Dance is three weeks away. Mark your calendars for May 11th and get ready to boogie! There will be a live DJ - the students have chosen an 80’s disco theme for music and stripes and polka dots for dress - which should make for a wacky, wacky evening full of fun!! Andrea will announce the event in assembly and the tickets will go on sale next week. The cost will be $10 per family plus a contribution of an entrée to the potluck dinner. This is not a fundraising event but an end of year ‘hurrah’ to our selves, so, all you Mums and Dads and lovers of retro music, dig out your old dancing shoes and show them how it’s done!
Volunteers are needed for set up, and dismantling, of tables for the evening – anyone able to help out should contact Andrea Thomson through the PAC or the school office.
It is hoped that ticket sales will cover the cost of the DJ, approximately $400/$500, but, as this is a celebratory event, PAC will make up any shortfall. It was also agreed that PAC would pay for the services of a Custodian to clean up after the event.
Canadian Parents for French – Bonnie Leslie is the new President of the local chapter and promises exciting changes to ensure greater participation. She is hoping to make their meetings more fun and less formal – meetings with a theme, such as a wine and cheese evening. Anyone interested in finding out more can contact Bonnie at her email address: bleslie@richmond.sd38.bc.ca .
John Kaplan ‘Stage Fright’ – John Kaplan has reported back saying that last fall’s show was the most successful he has staged to date. Congratulations to Bonnie for all her hard work in making it such a huge success.
Memorial for Bronson: Bonnie Leslie has done a lot of research into the scoreboard for Bronson’s Memorial. The budget for the scoreboard was increased to $3000 plus taxes at last months meeting and, subsequently, Bonnie has been able to find a suitable scoreboard through a friend who works for ‘The Big Kehuna’. The cost will be $2800 plus tax and Bonnie is hoping to persuade the company to donate the fright cost. The scoreboard should arrive within the next two weeks and installed in time for the school dance in May.
School Hours: Deirdre Lintott
To facilitate the change in school hours, Admin have carried out the procedures required by the school district and, as such, the parental survey has been done and the forms have been sent the Superintendent of Schools.
To ensure that all parents had a chance to voice their views/concerns, two meetings were held last week giving everyone an opportunity to attend and address the administration; only three people attended, and their main concerns centered around adequate physical activity and not wanting to take away free play time. The ‘action plan for schools’ allows for allot of extra physical activity which more than makes up for what would be lost at noon hour. There are also other options available for increasing physical activity i.e. designating the first ten minutes after lunch as activity time.
One of the other aspects of early dismissal which caused concern amongst some parents was how it would effect after school care/childcare arrangements. Deirdre has spoken to the local after school care program. A parent survey has now been done and the forms sent to the Superintendent of Schools.
Financial Report: Sue Mattice
The current balance stands at $12,218.34
Approximately $3000 of budgeted items is yet to be expensed; once these have been deducted, there will be a balance of approximately $9,500 at year end
An expense of $480.65 representing a primary hands on classroom expenditure, was erroneously entered as classroom sports equipment. This oversight will be corrected for the next financial report.
There is approximately $2900 in the gaming account – this will be used up by the purchase of the scoreboard for Bronson’s Memorial. Any additional monies needed for the scoreboard will be paid for from the regular operating account.
An amount of $300 has also been approved for the purchase Ultimate equipment for the intermediate students.
School will be claiming GST on the purchase of the scoreboard on behalf of PAC.
BCCPAC: – Membership to be discussed at next meeting.
New Business:
Ryna Milne raised the issue of information dissemination and access to PAC minutes. She was concerned PAC was not reaching enough people and that more effort should be made to ensure greater participation of parents in PAC. The issue generated much debate with regards to how best to communicate PAC information to as many people as possible. Generally, it was agreed that parents should be encouraged to go to the school website as much as possible and that PAC should have a prominent section in the monthly school letter where it can relay the main points of the minutes of meetings and any other information of importance/interest. It was also agreed that the monthly school letter should be of a consistent colour so that parents get used to it and consequently learn to look out for it.
Bonnie and Kristy were appointed to research and come up with a plan to implement this.
Learning Through the Arts – Mark Hoath
Learning Through the Arts Program is a Richmond School District initiative involving integration of the fine arts into the school curriculum. The program is funded by the school, PAC and the district at a cost of $3000 per year for three years – each contributing $1000. This has enabled two classes per year to participate. The funding has allowed teachers to have artists in the classroom working with the students on such things as music, painting, making paper Mache masks and studying simple machines etc.
Grade five students from Kim Leiskie’s class spoke of their experiences and expressed how they had enjoyed the various aspects of the program. Many thanks to Olivia, Ian and Ardell for talking to us – well done guys!
This is the last year of the program which can only continue with the support of the school, PAC and the school district. PAC is in favour of continuing the program. At present, the Staff is not asking for further commitment.
On May 9th from 5 – 7 pm McNeil Secondary School is showcasing Learning Through the Arts. Many different schools will be participating and showing some of the things they have worked on. Any one interested should get in touch with school.
Deirdre spoke briefly regarding the Roots of Empathy program that she has been teaching which is designed to teach kids respect and understanding for the differences between people. The aim of the program is to teach empathy, and how to read body language, by studying the developmental stages that a baby goes through and how it conveys its feelings and needs even though it cannot talk. The students said they now had a greater understanding of body language and how someone might be feeling and to empathize by putting themselves in that persons place.
50/50: Congratulation to Alisa Bowman who won the 50/50 draw of $31 which was shared with the child -minders.
Thanks to the student child-minders:
Meeting ends: 9.15pm
Next meeting – May 23rd 2007 (the last one of the year) at Edgewater Recreational centre.
Parent Advisory Council Elections 2008
Thank you to Ryna Milne, former PAC chair, for supervising the election of PAC 2008 Executive and Volunteers:
The elected members for the 2008 committees are as follows:
Executive
Co-Chairs: Jacky Kane and Sue Mattice
Secretary: Ravi Saulnier
Treasurer: Mairi McNamara
School Planning Council: Kristy McLeod, Ravi Saulnier and Sadie Lee
Social Responsibility Comm: Lyn Chang, Andrea Thomson and Brian McDermott
Food Day Coordinators: Karen Robinson and Kelly
Fundraising Coordinator: Vacant – Anyone interested please contact PAC
Early Warning Coordinator: Vacant – Anyone interested please contact Pac
Earthquake Preparedness Colleen Lee
Canadian Parents for French: Bonnie Leslie (also Pres of the Richmond chapter of CPF)
RDPA: On rotation basis
Guest Speaker Coordinators: Ryna Milne and Bonnie Leslie
Book Fairs Coordinator: Sadie Lee
Teachers Luncheon Coordinator: Colleen Lee
Dragon Wear Coordinators: Alisa Bowman and Brian McDermott
Parent Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Kristy McLeod, Sue Mattice, Bonnie Leslie, Deirdre Lintott, Tracy Fraser, Pat Clark, Elizabeth Tosetti, Fiona MacNicol-Clark, Nadine Nowell, Sandy Taylor, Karen Robinson, Sandra Schinnerl, Andrea Read, Lynn Chang, Kirsten Wallace, Christine Bradley-Tse, Mairi McNamara, Sadie Lee, and Ryna Milne.
Call to Order: Jacky Kane welcomed everyone and the meeting began at 8:15 pm
Additions/Changes to Agenda: None
Adopt Minutes of Last Meeting (Feb 23/07): Approved and adopted - Sue Mattice and Kristy McLeod
Reminders/Announcements
Steveston High School will be closing at the end of the 2006-2007 school year, and grads from all years are invited to participate in a 50th Anniversary celebration. Various events such as a Packer Athletics Celebration, Open House, and Carnival will be held April 27-28, 2007. Further information can be obtained by viewing the website at http://steveston50th.org or by calling Steveston High School.
The next PAC Meeting date will be changed as it is the same night as the Richmond School District’s 25 Years of Service Banquet. The PAC meeting, which will include the elections for next year, will now be April 24, 2007.
The Canadian Parents for French will be holding their AGM on Monday, April 2, 2007 at 7pm at Homma School. All positions are up for re-election as the current executive are all stepping down. If other parents do not become involve the Chapter will close and all government funding and grants will be unavailable to Richmond. If you are unable to attend this meeting but would like to help out in anyway next year, please contact Bonnie Leslie at bleslie@richmond.sd38.bc.ca .
PAC Elections April 2007
Dixon PAC Elections will take place at the next PAC Meeting on Tuesday, April 24th at 7pm. Former PAC Chair, Ryna Milne will chair the election process. All positions are assumed to be open and any persons interested may bring their names forward.
2006/07 Fundraising
On March 13, 2007 the CDA came and picked up 150 bags from the PAC clothing drive. The PAC will receive a cheque for $225.00 for their donations ($1.50 per bag). Bonnie Leslie distributed a list of possible fundraising ideas for consideration during the 2007-2008 school year.
Memorial for Bronson
Mark has researched several suppliers and makers of scoreboards as a memorial for Bronson. Given a budget of approximately $2000, the best choice was a “Fair Play” scoreboard clock from Northern Athletic. The School Board is able to frame and mount the scoreboard on a gym wall with a plaque beside it. Some discussion surrounding the size of the scoreboard and memorial took place, and a motion was made to increase the budget to $3000 plus taxes in the event that a larger board can be found. Bonnie Leslie will spend one week looking into possible vendors and prices, as the purchased board has a 30 day return policy.
Social Responsibility
Fiona MacNicol-Clark informed parents that Dixon has begun a worm composting program. The composting site is a yellow tub located in the primary annex and at a later date, the staff room will have one too. The tub contains worms that when fed specific food items (e.g. fruit and vegetable pieces, egg shells, etc.) will produce soil, which in turn can be used in the gardens around Dixon.
Financial Report
Sue Mattice distributed a current financial report indicating that the Dixon PAC has just over $13,000 in its account at this time. Uncommitted monies are at about $10,000. The 2006/2007 fundraising year has gone well and finances are up approximately $3000.00 from this time last year. It was decided that further fundraising was not needed for the remainder of the year.
Administrator’s Report: Deirde Lintott spoke on the following
Thank you to all parents involved in fundraising for the Quebec Exchange, and a special thank you to Fiona MacNicol-Clark and Lynn Fellows for their organization in this area. The trip was a great success, and the Dixon students and four accompanying teachers shared a wonderful experience.
April 18th is the date set for parents of Grade 7 students to get together and plan for the Grad dinner and dance night, as well as school year book. Please bring ideas for a grad theme to this meeting.
Upper intermediate students will have the opportunity to participate in an outdoor camp again this September. It is booked for mid September, at “Camp Jubilee”. Participation in the swimming program “Get Wet” will be required for all participants attending.
Dixon is continuing its participation in the “Action Schools” program and will be training Grade 5/6 students to become playground monitors. Fifteen students will be selected from those that apply, and the teacher sponsor will be Mme. Douglas. Selected leaders will teach and monitor traditional playground games for primary students, and wear a Dixon vest to make themselves easily identified by younger students.
Director of Facilities, Eric Thorleifson, met with Deirdre and PAC rep Ravi Saulnier, on March 16, 2007 to view structural and cosmetic concerns of the Dixon facility. Particular areas of concern are the school entrance, primary annex, student bathrooms, school flooring, and exterior cement work. A report with accompanying photos will be prepared and Dixon will be given a rating on the School District facility list. PAC are encouraged to look at the report and to send letters too.
May 22, 2007 is the 20th anniversary of Rick Hansen’s return to Vancouver after completing the “Man in Motion Tour”. A celebration is planned on Thermal Drive in Coquitlam, and Dixon has been selected as one of the local schools eligible to send 30 Grade 4-7 students. The selection process will involve allowing interested “Student Rep Council” students to participate, and by also putting the names of any other interested intermediate students into a draw.
All elementary schools in the district will be moving to 45 minute periods within their school day to allow for new preparation minute requirements for teachers. At this time many schools are making changes to their school hours, and the Dixon changes have been narrowed down to Option One (on green paper) and Option Two (on pink paper). Several points were raised in favour of Option Two, where the school day would conclude at 2:45pm and lunch hour would be reduced by 15 minutes. Examples include; reducing the number of poor choices and fights that typically occur during the last 15 minutes of a 60 minute lunch hour, lost teaching time spent resolving these situations, recent weather patterns resulting in an increase in the number of indoor days due to heavy rain and field conditions, the inability of
Dixon students to participate in after school volleyball and basketball events in timely fashion (other schools finish earlier and must wait for Dixon to arrive/be ready to play), the ability of families to easily arrive at their own after school activities, and the ability of teachers to attend after school pro-d events. Parents would need to have consensus and have a vote. In principle, those present at the PAC meeting were unanimously in favour of Option Two.
Adjournment: Meeting concluded at 9:15pm
* From 7:15pm-8:15pm, Speaker Ryna Milne addressed the PAC on the topic of “Fresh Approaches for Improving our Children’s Eating Habits”. Ryna presented a very informative presentation and provided website information for parents to create an interactive and personal Canada Food Guide for their families at www.healthcanada.gc.ca/foodguide .
DIXON PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES
February 23rd, 2007
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Ravi Saulnier, Sue Mattice, Kristy McLeod, Deirdre Lintott, Mark Hoath,
Andrea Thomson, Lynn Chang, Sadie Lee, Nadine Nowell, Yumin Yang, Mairi McNamara,
Fiona MacNicol-Clark, Chris Marin, Sandra Khan, Leslie Reilly, Elaine Fontaine and Karen Robinson.
Call to order: Jacky welcomed everyone and the meeting started at 9.15am
Additions & Changes to Agenda: None
Adopt Minutes of Last Meeting (Jan 2007): Approved and adopted – Fiona MacNicol-Clark and
Nadine Nowell.
Administrator’s Report: Deirdre Lintott spoke briefly on the following:
- Congratulations to Mark for his Promotion to Principal. As yet, it is not known which school he will be appointed to and who will be coming to Dixon as Vice Principal – as there is a shortage of male teachers at Dixon, it is hoped that we get a male replacement.
- Grade 4 and 7 Satisfaction Surveys – As some students were away on the Quebec trip, Dixon has been given an extension to March 14th to complete the surveys. The surveys are of great importance as the results will give insights into how the staff/administration is doing as education providers.
- Education Week – Feb 26th to March 4th – Parents are encouraged to check out the activities and displays of student work taking place at various venues throughout Richmond. Dixon will be having its own open house allowing parents an opportunity to view some of the projects their children have been working on. Make a note in your diaries for April 12th 5.30pm-7pm
- Renovations to the school are an on going issue. Dixon is an old school and there are a few obvious projects needing attention – flooring, new toilets, multipurpose room etc. Every year the administration raises the possibility of getting some work done on the school and are usually told that there are other schools which have priority. Deirdre and Mark are meeting this week with Eric Thorleifson, Manager of Facilities and will be going around the school with him and pointing out some of the work that needs to be done and to see if they can get the school on the list for renovations and upgrades. Deirdre will report back at the next Pac meeting. Pac requested information on the process involved and to see if we, as parents, can do anything to support the Administration. (Meeting with
Eric postponed to March 16th)
- School Planning Council is meeting on March 1st and will report back at the next Pac meeting.
Healthy Living: - Mark Hoath - Following a district wide initiative to promote a healthy lifestyle in schools, a steering/coordinating committee has been created with the aim of promoting healthy living choices in school and in the community. The committee consists of a P.E. teacher, a primary and intermediate teacher and Dixon food day coordinator, Karen Robinson and Ryna Milne who is a registered nutritionist.
The committee will be responsible for providing nutritional information and guidelines and will focus on physical health, healthy eating and education and awareness within the Dixon community. To this aim, the committee has drafted a ‘Health Promotion Statement’ which, when finalized, will be posted around the school.
School Hours: - Chris Marin and Fiona MacNicol-Clark presented the following:
The School District has legislated that Teachers are entitled to two 45 minutes blocks for prep work. To accommodate the changes, the Administration is proposing changes to the school hours and has come up with the following options for further discussion:
Option 1: Start and finish times remain unchanged as 9 am to 3pm but lunch would be moved to
12.15 – 1.15
Option 2: Start 9:00am finish 2:45pm and lunch 12:15pm to 1:00pm
Option 3: Start 8:45am finish 2:45pam and lunch 12:05pm to 1:05pm
Option 4: Start 8:45am finish 2.30pm and lunch 12:05pm to 12:50pm
The Staff prefer option 4 (option 2 would be their second choice). There are three main reasons for this:
- In their experience and going by the experience of other schools, most children are at school by 8.30am anyway.
- A 45 minute lunch break reduces noon hour problems which tend to occur in the last 10 or 15 minutes.
- Finishing early allows more time to get to extra curricular activities. School teams can get to their games with other schools on time instead of making them wait for Dixon to finish its day. At present 31 out 38 schools have different hours from Dixon.
All these options will be discussed and debated at the next Pac meeting in March and parents are invited to come along and make their views known.
Old Business:
Reminders, Correspondence & Announcements:
Sue Mattice needs more volunteers for afternoon early warning. Anyone able to help should
contact Sue through Pac or the school office.
Karen Robinson wanted to clarify that the lunch service offered by Nova Foods is totally separate from the lunch days that Pac organizes and that the school/Pac do not get anything from Nova Foods by way of paybacks. Karen or Kelly does not have anything to do with organizing it – all queries/issues should be directed to Nova Foods.
2006/07 Fundraising Update:
The collection of CDA bags has been extended for another week as we do not have enough bags to get the full dollar amount. Notices have gone home to this effect.
PAC Elections April 2007:
Jacky: - The election will be held at the April Pac meeting and, as such, the next two meetings will be held in the evenings so that the elections can be held in the evening when more people are able to attend. A slate has to be determined, and will remain open right up to the night of the elections, and any interested parties should make themselves known to Ryna Milne, who is coordinating the elections. All positions are deemed to be open and anyone is able to stand.
Sadie Lee asked if details/descriptions could be provided for each position to help people decide how much time is involved and whether they can make the commitment. Jacky said she would contact all position holders to ask them what is involved in their respective jobs – this would be done for executive and non-executive positions. More information will appear in the next school letter.
Memorial for Bronson:
Mark Hoath: – Pac is funding a score board clock as a memorial for Bronson. It is hoped that the score board will be up by the May school dance. $2000 has been approved tentatively and it was agreed that, unless there is a substantial increase in the cost, Mark would proceed with buying the score board and not have to wait for the next meeting for re-approval.
Social Responsibility:
Deirdre: – The students are involved in gathering data with the aim of having a student friendly program – it will be discussed at the next Social Responsibility Committee meeting. Basically, there are two aspects to the program - Rights and Responsibilities and “Solving Problems in Peaceful Ways”. Deirdre will provide an update at the next meeting.
Follow up:
-Andrea Thomson raised the issue of what should happen to food and items leftover from fundraising functions and turnover of earth quake bins. Very often there are allot of food items which go to waste because they just get put back in the kitchen and invariably expire and have to be thrown out. She suggested that these items should either be donated, before they expire, to the food bank or to the school to give out to kids as and when needed – kids who have forgotten their lunch for example.
Due to lack of time, it was decided that this would be discussed further at the next meeting.
-Earth Quake bins: - Questions were raised as to completeness of our bins and whether they should be more extensive. Comparisons were made with some Surrey schools who appear to have quite an elaborate disaster relief response in place and it was pointed out that we, in Richmond, are in a geologically higher risk area and should there for be better prepared. Again, due to time constraints, this issue will also be discussed further at the next meeting.
-Nadine Nowell would like to get Ryna Milne in as guest speaker on nutrition and Deb Wheeler-Brown from Microsoft to come and talk to students. It was suggested that Nadine should discuss with Karen Robinson as she also has someone in mind that could do a talk on nutrition.
-In response to Jacky’s question regarding the lottery process for EFI Kindergarten, Deirdre urged all parents to respond to the survey (even if they don’t have kindergarten age children) as this issue is of great importance and will eventually effect all of us as it will filter down to the high schools and how places are allocated at that level. The survey can be done Online.
Financial Report: Sue Mattice reported on Pac finances as follows:
Once the scoreboard has been purchased for Bronson’s Memorial, we will have used virtually all of our gaming funds for this financial year. We will receive more funds in September for the next year.
Our current bank balance is $14,000. After payment for Feb, March, April and May food days, this balance will be down to approx. $10,000
The upcoming fundraising drive for CDA bags and hanging basket will add approximately $1000 to our account.
It is expected that we will end the year with a balance of about $10,000 or so.
New Business: To be discussed at next meeting:
-School hours.
-Pac elections.
-Earth Quake Bins
Meeting ends: 10.45am.
Next meeting: 7PM Wednesday, 28th March, 2007
PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
January 24, 2007
7:00pm – 9:15pm
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Kristy McLeod, Sue Mattice, Colleen Lee, Kelly Bajwa, Ryna Milne, Christine Bradley-Tse, Mairi McNamara, Yolanda Booth, Andrea Thomson, Adriana Verreet, Nadine Nowell, Lynn Chang, Fiona MacNicol-Clark, Mark Hoath, Deirdre Lintott.
Agenda:
Guest Speaker – Nikki Beninger
PAC Agenda
Business Agenda
Old Business
New Business
Financial Report
Administrator’s Report
Guest Speaker – Niki Beninger
Ms. Beninger from the District ACT (area counselor team) presented some highlights about the social responsibility program they are presenting to children. She is available at the school on Tuesday and Thursday mornings to talk with parents. If you are interested you can call her at 604-668-7861.
PAC Meeting
Business Agenda:
1. Call to order: 8:15 p.m.
2. Welcome: Jacky welcomed everyone and thanked Ms. Beninger for her presentation
3. Additions/Changes to Agenda: None
4. Adopt minutes: November 17/06 – Kristy McLeod and Colleen Lee
Old Business
Reminders/Correspondence/Announcements:
We have 3 early warning spots available for volunteers: Wednesday am, Thursday am and pm.
If you have any speaker ideas please forward them to Jacky.
PAC Elections Spring 2007
Discussion about the timing for the upcoming elections given that last year we switched the volunteer term to coincide with the school year. There was a suggestion to have the elections prior to the last PAC meeting so that any “shadowing” of positions or transfer of information could occur during the last couple of months of school. This also allows for people to be around for answering questions and for the fundraising committee to plan for next year (in advance).
Decision made to have the elections at the April meeting which will be an evening meeting. Anyone who cannot attend an evening meeting but would like to volunteer for a position should contact Ryna Milne, or send a delegate on your behalf.
Ryna Milne also noted that according to the PAC guidelines, she is responsible for the nominations and running the election/volunteer process. All positions are currently available for next school year. If you are interested in volunteering for a position, please review the position descriptions on the website or contact any of the PAC executives for information.
2006/07 Fundraising Update: The plan for the Canadian Diabetes clothing drive is for the weeks of February 5th – 16th. The hope is to give folks a little more time to drop off items and request items from friends and family. Bags of clothing should be placed in a corner on the stage.
Spring Dance: Andrea Thomson has confirmed the date of May 11th for this year’s Spring Dance! She is looking for volunteers. This is a potluck dinner event and dance. She has suggested letting the kids choose the theme. Andrea also suggested making a Dixon cookbook if folks brought their recipes. Sounds great Andrea – thanks!
New Business
Memorial for Bronson: Counsellors and some parents and staff met to discuss an appropriate memorial for Bronson. The decision was to purchase a score board/clock for the gym with a nice plaque. The cost is estimated at $1900 + tax, which can currently be covered by remaining gaming funds. All were in support of this purchase. Mark Hoath will see if we can have it installed in time for the Spring Dance.
Social Responsibility Committee: The toonie talent show proceeds will be split between Children’s hospital and Canuck Place this year in memory of Bronson.
Mark Hoath discussed the PRO-D Day activities – social responsibility. They are looking to make it meaningful, track progress, get some resources to support teachers. The Social Responsibility committee will be involved with the sub committees on some tasks such as selecting books for the parent library. They would like some parents to review books for library and parent library. The plan for K-4 is to continue with Dragon paws, build thermometer. For gr. 5-7 positive ticketing.
The school planning council goal of social responsibility: Currently, the BCTF says that teachers are unable to meet with the SPC or tally data. More information to follow… SPC will meet in February without teachers.
Financial Report: Sue Mattice stated that we have only one bank account and it is now at Canada Trust. Our financial position is expected in the range of $6000 – $7000, and that is before the CDA drive and the May hanging basket fundraiser as well. Most of the wish list items were purchased except for the additional die cuts. The cement curbs for the asphalt area will not be purchased this year.
Additional items: Nadine Nowell provided updates on the following:
Nova Foods will have a new order form and will allow for cash or cheque orders rather than only on-line orders
The babysitting course was a huge success as they had many more kids than spaces, so they may have to offer another class.
Yearbook committee is underway, looking for volunteers.
Quebec trip is February 2nd. 39 students and 4 teachers. Very exciting!
Food Day. Thanks to the food day coordinators Kelly and Karen for all their work in trying out new suppliers. Please ask your children for feedback as they will need information about food before making choices next year.
Administrators Report: Deirdre noted that Fiona MacNicol-Clark and Chris Marin are sharing the teacher liaison position and now it is Fiona’s turn – thanks Chris and welcome to Fiona!
Fiona discussed an opportunity for the Raise a Reader program in conjunction with Purdy’s chocolates – a book purchase and chocolatier visit. After discussion, decision not to participate in this project this year.
Deirdre highlighted the upcoming EXPO open house where intermediate kids have been working on culture, provinces, territories and will display work. This year the primary children will also have something to display too. April 12th 5:30-7:00pm
The grade 4 & 7 FSA tests for reading, writing and numeracy. In addition, surveys are handed out to parents and students. It is important to convey to parents and students that the feedback is given to the school and thus is very important. Discussion that the cover letter should reflect this and be written to encourage filling out the survey. Perhaps ask a few students and parents to review?
School Fees: Supreme Court decision that schools cannot charge fees for basic programs.
More information/clarification to follow from the district (ie. Band, Field Trips, Quebec, etc)
Weather: this year has been extraordinary for the number of snowy days. Deirdre wanted to state that schools rarely close. You should assume that schools will be open unless mentioned on radio or on school board web site after 6am. Dixon as well as 21 other schools do not have a morning custodian therefore snow removal and sand/salting has been done by administration if possible. (Hoping for help from district in this area). Due to the safety issues, there will now be a school protocol. If anyone has any thoughts about what the school or school board should do regarding snow, please forward to the office.
Grade 7 transition to High School: Information sessions and meetings are currently underway and scheduled.
Registration: EFI enrollment has been limited in some schools due to space and will not be expanded for the upcoming school year. If enrolment is greater than space then a lottery will take place. Discussion that this is very unfortunate. Also it is not clear whether siblings of kids currently in French programs will have priority. Need to keep an eye on this.
Mark Hoath: Lot’s of boys and girls in basketball this year!
Renovation requests to school board: to continue the carpet to tile replacement; washroom upgrade; multipurpose room. Discussion around this topic, perhaps PAC could write some kind of letter.
Meeting Ends: 9:15 pm
Next Meeting: February 23rd 9:15am
PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
November 17, 2006
9:00am – 10:25am
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Sue Mattice, Ravi Saulnier, Kristy Mcleod, Elaine Fontaine, Shelly Nicholson, Colleen Lee, Karen Robinson, Lynn Chang, Tracy Fraser, Sadie Lee, Deirdre Lintott, Mark Hoath, Chris Marin and Nadine Nowell.
Business Agenda;
Call to order: 9.15am
2. Welcome: Jacky welcomed everyone to the meeting and asked if everyone had any problems reading the minute on line. This method proves to be convenient for allot of people and, as such, it was agreed that PAC minutes would continue to be made available on line. Hard copies will also continue to be made available at the PAC notice board.
3. Additions/Changes to Agenda: None
Adopt minutes: September 27/06 & October 18/06 - Lynn Chang and Nadine Nowell
Old Business;
Reminders/Correspondence/Announcements:
Gilmore School is hosting a Saleema Noon seminar and has asked if we would like to participate. The cost to PAC would be $100 irrespective of how many people attend - whether it was one or twenty-one, the cost would be the same. It was agreed that we would decline the offer as we ourselves have already hosted Saleema Noon not too long ago and the attendance had been disappointing. However, interest was expressed by some for Dixon to hold another session maybe next year.
2006/07 Fundraising Update: Bonnie Leslie was unable to attend to give an update, but Jacky reported on her behalf that the John Kaplan ‘Stage Fright’ show had been a huge success and raised approximately $6000 for PAC funds! Congratulations and a big thank you to Bonnie for all her hard work in making it a success. Bonnie will also be sending out the gift cards next week; a diabetes drive is also planned for the first week of December.
Fund raising for Bronson has been very successful – efforts will continue on an ad hoc basis as things develop; other local schools are also fundraising for Bronson. The family has expressed their appreciation for all that the Dixon community has done. Deirdre said a big thank you on behalf of the school and said that they will keep everyone updated with developments. Approximately $6000 has been raised to date.
This is an emotional time for all involved and enough cannot be said about how our wonderful caring community has come together to support one of its own when the need arose; a big heartfelt thank you to everyone from the Dixon PAC.
Follow Up:
Dragon Wear: Dragon Wear clothes are on display in the hallway outside the library. Anyone wanting to place an order, should do so before the end of next week
Teacher’s Wish List: Mark Hoath reported that staff have had further discussions regarding the items on their wish list and have decided that they do not want a laminator at this time. Mark is in the process of obtaining estimates and will be testing the sound system in the next few weeks and, if it works and meets requirements, will go ahead and purchase it. He is hoping that everything will in place by Christmas.
Child minding fees: There were a few differing views on this issue and consensus could not be reached. It was decided that further discussion was required and as such it was tabled for the next meeting.
Financial Report: Sue Mattice provided an update as follows:
Two new accounts have been opened with Coast Capital; one for regular deposits and disbursements and one for the gaming funds we receive every year.
The account at TD Canada Trust will be closed as of November 30th
The Magic Show cleared just over $6700
The Staff have confirmed a wish list at approximately $4,900 leaving a gaming fund account balance of $2000, which they can spend, as and when needed.
QSP has raised approximately $2000 – will be confirmed once we receive the final invoice
Once all cheques have cleared, we will be left with a bank balance of approximately $18,000
Administrator’s Report:
Deidre Lintott presented the Richmond Code of Conduct that all schools have to abide by.
- Using this and the Framework for Social Responsibility published by the B. C. Ministry of Education, Dixon has developed its own version. We also will be developing a student version with simpler wording making it more ‘child friendly’. Dixon will be using both versions and they will be displayed side by side throughout the school and on the Dixon school website.
A great deal of work and effort has gone into producing the Social Responsibility and Code of Conduct and it is being consistently and actively implemented and taught in all classrooms.
The Dixon Charter of Rights will also be updated to reflect the changes – the Student Leadership is working on this with Teachers and the Social Responsibility Committee. Bullying policy will be an addendum to the Code of Conduct policy.
The new Code of Conduct Policy was voted on and adopted by all those present.
Any questions regarding the new policy should be directed to the school Administration.
- Chris Marin suggested that parents may want to do their own reading of the bibliography used in developing the Code of Conduct and said she would see if she could get hold of some of the books and make them available in the school library. Parents may also want to talk to their children about the new policy and find out what they think and understand of it.
- Bronson: Counselors will be made available to counsel children and teachers as the need arises.
- Foundation Skill Assessments (FSA) were sent home last week. If parents have concerns they should discuss these with the child’s teacher.
- Mark Hoath reported that the Outdoor Education trip has been booked for September 17th – 21st 2007
The school Christmas Concert will be a daytime event on December 22nd.
New Business:
- Family Dance: Sadie Lee spoke on behalf of Andrea Thomson and said that Andrea would like to organize a family dance in the spring - May 4th or 11th. Everyone agreed that this was a great idea and a wonderful way to end the school year. It would not be a fundraising event but more of a celebration/appreciation of the school community.
In the past, such events have always been well attended, however, people were skeptical as it requires allot of organizing and getting volunteers for such events has always proved difficult. It was suggested that Andrea should go ahead and see what support there is amongst parents. If enough people are interested and willing to volunteer their time, PAC can then maybe look into budgeting for the event. It was noted that this event would be in addition to the grade seven dance at the end of June.
- Money for Bus Trips: It was made known to PAC that teachers often have to cancel day trips due to a lack of drivers – this is particularly true of the higher grades as parents of older children invariably work full time and are not available. The issue was discussed and voted on and it was agreed that a ‘slush fund’ would be created for teachers to draw on in emergencies. The fund will have a balance of $500 to start with and will be reviewed on an ad hoc basis. It is envisaged that this money will only be used as a last resort, after all other avenues have been exhausted, and the trip is in danger of being called off due to inadequate transport provisions.
The amount of $500 would cover the cost of two rental buses.
Food Days: Karen Robinson is looking for new ideas for school lunches – if anyone has any suggestions, they should leave a message with the school office.
Meeting Ends: 11am
Next Meeting: January 17th 2007 – 7pm
NB: It is noted with great sadness that Bronson passed away a day after this meeting took place. The PAC would like to extend their heartfelt condolences to Bronson’s family and friends.
DIXON PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES
October 18th, 2006
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Ravi Saulnier, Mark Hoath, Sue Mattice, Ingrid Veilleux, Kristy McLeod, Alisa Bowman, Lynn Chang, Tracy Fraser, Colleen Lee, Nadine Nowell, We Hua Xu, Ryna Milne, Yumin Young, Fred Verreet, Mairi McNamara and Bonnie Leslie.
Call to order: 7.15pm
Welcome: Jacky welcomed everyone to the meeting and again asked if anyone would like to fill in some of the soon to be vacant positions on the Executive.
Additions & Changes to Agenda: none
Adopt Minutes of Last Meeting (Sept 2006): As the September minutes were not on the PAC website, not everyone had seen them and, as such, they could not be voted on. A vote will be taken at the next meeting once people have had a chance to read them .
Administrator’s Report:
Mark Hoath reported the following:
Open gym will take place through the winter months, during lunch times, through to March. Thanks go to all the teachers who are prepared to take on this extra responsibility, your efforts and commitment are much appreciated.
Volleyball schedule is well underway and running smoothly.
Basketball is scheduled to start in January. Mark would like to separate the present boy’s team into two grade 6 and grade 7 teams – the current combined group is too big and skill levels between the grades differ too widely. The girls group is fine and working well. Mark is also looking for parent volunteers to help out with the basketball practices and wondered if there were any experienced parents out there who could help out with the boys’ teams.
Track and field is also in place and going smoothly.
On November 14th, former gold medallist speed skater Katrina Le May Doan will be coming to Dixon! She will be speaking to the grades 4-7 in the gym.
Camp Jubilee has been booked for September 2007.
Mark was proud to announce that Dixon had the highest attendance rate at the leadership program at Palmer Secondary School on October 18th. Thirty-three grade 6/7 students attended – the best in the district. The Students will speak of their experience at the next assembly. Well done guys!
Social Responsibility: The Unicef program has changed and they are no longer doing the coin boxes at Halloween. Only two teachers are doing the new month long fund raising program – Kim Leiske and Natalie Wakefield. Some people expressed concerns regarding this extra fund raising because it involved door to door canvassing and had unrealistic targets set by the classroom. Children need to make choices as to which charities they want to support and should be encouraged to select one or two instead of trying to take part in every fundraising campaign.
Jump Rope for Heart has become a tradition at Dixon and Kim Folk, the district coordinator, wants to know if Dixon will be participating in February. Basically, we have three options:
Do what we always do
As the toys/prizes tend to become too much of a focus, we may consider giving them to charity
We could do Toonie Days or have coin drives, which need not involve the whole school all at the same time.
Option ‘C’ is the preferred choice of Staff. Most parents at the meeting also favoured this option.
Code of Conduct: There has been great feedback but, due to time constraints, was tabled for next
Meeting.
Nova foods are setting up a monthly ordering system whereby you can pre-order meals at the
beginning of the month and have them delivered to your child in their classroom. The cost is
$4.30 per meal. Forms will be going out with students shortly. This program is not a fundraiser and is not part of the Food Days organized by PAC.
Old Business:
Jacky again asked if anyone wanted to volunteer for any of the PAC positions.
Reminders, Correspondence & Announcements:
Nadine Nowell talked of the upcoming St. Johns Ambulance Baby Sitters course on Dec 4th 10am – 4.30pm for 11 year olds. It will be held at Dixon and the cost is approximately $36 - $40.
2006/07 Fundraising Update:
Bonnie Leslie reported that the John Kaplan ‘Stage Fright’ night is well on course to be a success with approximately 430 tickets sold and more expected on the night as White Side School has also been canvassed.
Family Fun time is between 5.30pm – 7.00pm so bring the kids out early and have some fun and food.
Bonnie is looking for more volunteers to help out on the night and for more cakes for the CakeWalk. Raffle winners will be announced after the show and cakes must be picked up by the end of the evening at the latest.
Concession is only open before and after the show – there will be no food being sold by us during intermission.
Anyone can attend the ‘Fun Time’; you do not need tickets unless you want to see the show.
More details will be sent out next week.
This event promises to be a big success as the fund raising is already in the thousands and this is before the event has even been staged. The cost of the show was $1650 and a deposit of $100 has already been paid.
Quebec Trip: 2nd –9th 2007
Nadine Nowell and Tracy Fraser reported that fund raising efforts seem to be slowing down. For the time being, no further campaigns for funds are planned beyond the following two events:
Pub Night at O’Hare’s on November 4th
Wine Raffle on December 1st
Follow up:
Dragon Wear: Alisa Bowman informed us that the application forms will be sent out after the John Kaplan Stage Fright event. It is unlikely that orders for clothes will come in before Christmas.
Guest Speakers: PAC has set aside $1000 to budget for Guest Speakers. A volunteer is needed to oversee the program and manage the budget.
Microsoft’s Web Awareness seminar for parents was very popular and an interest was expressed in the possibility of having a similar session for students.
Playground Update: Kristy reports that the faulty item has been fixed and that John Landy says it is ok to use. Mark said it is difficult to supervise playground use when items breakdown as it is also in use out of school hours – the best the school can do is tape of the apparatus.
Teachers’ Wish List: Mark Hoath and Ingrid Veilleux presented the teachers¡¯ wish list as follows:
- Complete the sound system $2500.00
- Die Cutter Shapes 400.00
- Primary PE Equipment 1000.00
- Leveled Reading Materials 400.00
- Tripod and Digital Camera 500.00
- Curbs for the new hockey court 750.00
Total $5550.00
Laminator: Not considered a priority as teaching staff not in agreement as to whether they would actually like one as it is thought to be very expensive.
After many debates, the teachers’ wish list was approved in principle but it was also suggested that staff should prioritize, and may even want to re-assess, the list, as we have a total of $6940 available from the casino money.
A final list will be presented at the next PAC meeting.
Ingrid expressed on behalf of staff how much they appreciate the support they get from parents and the PAC.
Financial Report:
The budget for the coming year was discussed and adopted with the following changes made to current budget items:
The class field trip allocation will be increased from $150 to $250 per class
The classroom allocation of $150 remains unchanged
Learning Through The Arts will remain at $1000
Noon hour activities and outdoor education will not be budgeted items this year. This can be changed next year if needed.
The adjusted bank balance for the year is $12732.77.
Stage Fright is an extra fundraiser and will increase our funds further, along with Food Day profits and money from the diabetes drive.
Due to the increase in banking fees and charges, Sue and Jacky Kane will be looking into making banking changes.
New Business:
Child minding fees – to be discussed at next meeting. Mark Hoath would like PAC to consider either setting a fixed fee as payment to the child-minders or doing away with it all together. The current method of 50% of the draw seems to be unfair because it tends to vary greatly from one meeting to the next.
50/50: Congratulations to Ryna who won the 50/50 draw of $28.
Thanks to the student child-minders: Justine and Chris
Meeting ends: 9.15pm
Next meeting: 9am – 10.30am Friday, November 17th
DIXON PARENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES
September 27, 2006
Attendance: Jacky Kane, Ravi Saulnier, Deirdre Lintott, Kayo Kang Weil, Christine Bradley-Tse, Debbie Merrell, Karen Kuzyk, Mark Hoath,
Joanne Powell, Andrea Read, Lynn Chang, Pat Clarke, Tracy Fraser, Sadie Lee, Colleen Lee, Nadine Nowell and David P.
Call to order: Meeting was called to commence at 8.30pm
Welcome: Jacky welcomed everyone to another year of PAC meetings and invited all parents to participate in PAC activities.
Additions & Changes to Agenda: none
Adopt Minutes of Last Meeting (May 2006): Colleen Lee and Nadine Nowell.
Administrator’s Report:
Deidre welcomed everyone to another year’s activities in school. As expected, the start of the new school year always brings a flurry of activities and there are many projects in hand; everyone has worked very hard to ensure a smooth start to the new year and every thing is up and running. She invited parents to feel free to come and talk to the Administration about any issues that may be of concern.
Deirdre requested that, when using the Xerox copier, PAC member be sensitive to the needs of teachers who may be in a rush to access the copier in between teaching times.
She thanked Jacky and Sue for doing all the shopping for ‘Meet the Teacher Night’ and thanked PAC and all its members for their hard work and support, helping to make Dixon a wonderful community.
Mark Hoath spoke of a leadership conference being held at Palmer Secondary School on October 18th. A notice has already been sent out and Mark emphasized that all grade 6&7 students should be encouraged to attend.
Old Business:
Reminders, Correspondence & Announcements:
Jacky called for people to volunteer for vacant PAC positions. An RDPA Rep is needed and
Sue Mattice would like to step down as Treasurer as she is involved in other PAC and school committees.
Earth Quake bins have been updated - thanks to Jacky Kane.
2006/07 Fundraising Update:
Bonnie Leslie gave an update on the first fundraiser – John Kaplan’s “Stage Fright”.
JK did a preview in assembly and, as such, the kids are very excited about the upcoming show.
Bonnie said that they need more volunteers, sponsors and donations and, to help with this, other schools will be invited to participate. The event is going to be widely promoted, so buy your tickets early as they are expected to sell out quickly.
QSP magazine subscriptions will be the next fundraiser – forms have already gone out.
Family photo night is also coming up on October 18th.
Gift cards and the CDA clothes drive will be in Dec.
Quebec Trip:
Chris Marin reported that three teachers would be going in addition to herself: Natalie Wakefield, Kim Leiskie and Brooke Douglas, along with approximately 40 students.
People should consult the school website for regular updates.
The book and bake sale on ‘Meet the Teacher Night’ raised approximately $800.
Other fundraisers coming up: a car wash on Sunday 1st October, pub night and wine raffle.
Stay tuned for more details to follow.
Follow up:
Helmets: – Jacky has been told by some teachers that it is frustrating for them to impose rules and that parents need to be more active in enforcing the wearing of helmets. It needs community involvement and everyone needs to be active and remind kids that it is the law in Richmond.
Cell Phones: – There is no definitive policy. It is suggested that they can be in school but not turned on.
Make-up: – Is not considered to be in the realm of the school to enforce. Parents are the enforcers and schools can only enforce dress code; make up does not appear to be an issue at the intermediate level.
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