Friends of CAHS PTA Minutes
December 4, 2007
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 at the South High Library. Parents introduced themselves and each shared why he/she was happy that their student was at CAHS. This was a really positive way to begin the meeting. At least seventeen members were present.
Principal's Report: Mrs. Sherry Powell
l The PLAN test was administered to 10th graders today.
l Mrs. Robinson, the librarian, will work on the school website over winter break.
l On-line grades will be going to the Reform Panel. The staff voted for this with a 34-4 vote. Parent volunteers are needed to test out the program. Mrs. Powell will use parents attending this meeting.
l The CAHS Robotics team will present at the January PTA meeting.
l The CAHS Chess teams did well in state competition.
l A recitation period will not be added at this time. The necessary staff votes were not there.
l December 18 – Instrumental Concert
l Students requested an “avenue for voice”. Ms. Thornburg volunteered to work with that group.
Block Scheduling Discussion: A concern was raised by Beth Gerber, a parent. Her daughter wants to be in the jazz band and the schedule won't allow for that. She shared some research information that did not favor block scheduling.
l Mrs. Powell responded that the staff has chosen the block schedule that allows for the humanities program, and other crucial components of the CAHS curriculum.
l A student spoke out in favor of the block scheduling that he feels allows for a more thorough and relaxed classroom atmosphere.
l The problem with the Spanish classes is due to staff and budget cuts by the school system.
l Block scheduling allows students fewer preps and gives teachers fewer students. This allows for closer teacher/student relationships.
We will discuss this further at the next meeting.
Secretary's Report: The minutes were presented and accepted.
Treasurer's Report: The October report was filed for audit. The November bank statement was not yet available and will be ready at the next meeting.
Giant Eagle $5. for CAHS with every Giant Eagle Card: November 25 through January 5. $5.00 per call. Www.gianteagle.com. Click Apples for students. Click Sign up for U Promise Schools Bonus. Giant Eagle school code: #4674, Call 1-800-474-4717
Hospitality Report: Gail Sech was unable to attend but sent a report that donations were needed for the Staff Breakfast on December 14th.
Publicity Report: Gerry Brevoort was ill but sent a report. Since the last meeting three articles have been published – Reuben Benzel's Math Medal, CAHS National Merit/National Achievement Award winners, and CAHS Chess Team winnings. Articles have been submitted on the IB art at the North Market and the Alumni Association formation. The yearbook photographers will get pics of the Robotics Team for her and there will also be an article on the AP Scholars.
Pizza Night: December 13th at 6:00 p.m. in the school cafeteria. CAHS Alumni will talk about how the CAHS experience has helped them at college and life. A donation form was passed around at the meeting.
Grant Writing Report: They dropped the theater grant. Dr. O submitted a grant. Diane Nance asked Mrs. Powell to talk to someone to facilitate the process.
PTA ByLaws: We briefly went over concerns and we will discuss more thoroughly in January.
Ecole Kenwood: The meeting with parents from Ecole Kenwood will be discussed in January.
Meeting with Dr. Harris Update: Dr. Harris has not responded to Penny's letter requesting a meeting. Ann suggested that parents attend board meetings. Penny will send a second letter.
Chess Tournament Co-chair needed: Jeff Sherman volunteered to co-chair and suggested that it would be a good idea to have two volunteers.
Wednesday Internship Program: It was suggested that parents work with their students to help set up a quality internship for the fall. Mrs. Norton is in charge of the program. Contact her with questions.
Winter Institute: This program is very valuable as an aid to prepare students for the OGT and the SAT. It is a Good, FREE Program provided by Columbus City Schools.
Student Forum: Two students, Aaron Bonnel-Kangas and Leslie Krivo-Kaufman, attended our meeting to explain the purpose of the forum. It was set up to give all students a way to voice their concerns. The first meeting will be December 17th after school. Students will be coming back to PTA to discuss issues. They hope to meet monthly. Students can suggest topics at the drop-in box near the sign-in tables. There is a need for parents to drive after the meetings since some students need transportation home. They plan to communicate with all students who cannot attend.
Kaleidoscope: This event for prospective new students will be January 23rd.
OSU Minority Affairs : There will be a meeting in February to discuss with parents and students about scholarships which are available. Mrs. Powell will email dates.
The next meeting will be Tuesday, January 8th at 7:00 AT CAHS.
Respectfully submitted,
Edna Reed. Secretary
