We hope you will join our next PTA meeting, please see all past meeting minutes below.
Please reach out to the PTA Board if you have any questions (board@pbespta.groups.io). Thank you!
PBES PTA Meeting Notes - December 1, 2020
12/2/2020 8:37 am
Takoma Park Elementary School(TPES)
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, December 1, 2020,
7:00-8:00pm
Location: Zoom
Social Emotional Health & Wellness
Mark your calendars for our next meeting, Tuesday, Jan 5, 7-8pm.
All PTA meetings will be via Zoom (details below) until further notice.
7:00 Welcome
- TPES Dolphin Drive met its fundraising goal!
- Big thanks to Kelly Young for all of her work on the Dolphin Drive and to Chris Campbell for behind-the-scenes work to get website up and running with all the right information.
7:05 Upcoming Dates and Announcements from the MCPS Calendar
Gabe Seiden, PBES VP Communications
Dec 24 - Jan 3: Winter Break - NO SCHOOL (schools & offices CLOSED)
Tues, Jan 5: TPES/PBES PTA meeting via Zoom @ 7pm
Mon, Jan 18: Professional Day for Teachers & Staff (NO SCHOOL for students)
Fri, Jan 29: Professional Day for Teachers & Staff (NO SCHOOL for students)
7:10 Practices to Promote Social-Emotional Health & Wellness
Max Althofer, TPES Counselor
Erin Coco, PBES Counselor
- MCPS recognized it needs a more centralized effort to provide support to students and families during the Pandemic. Now there is a pool of social-emotional learning (SEL) resources available by the county instead of relying on each counselor to provide curriculum.
- SEL time is woven into grade level curriculum and classroom practices now
- Uses CASEL curriculum - focused on self-management, self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making. Resources and lessons for students are differentiated by grade level.
- October was personal body safety and cyber civility lessons at PBES. TPES did personal body safety in November.
- Typically Mr. Althofer would go into each Kindergarten class weekly but that hasn’t been possible during virtual learning. Ms. Coco gets to visit PBES classes once a month virtually during homeroom time.
- In addition to classroom visits, counselors do individual counseling sessions for students, help students and their families get resources they need, help to create Section 504 plans for students with disabilities who don’t qualify for special education services and many other tasks as needed to be responsive to what is going on (e.g., student engagement during virtual learning).
- TPES and PBES have 1.5 counselors each, which is not sufficient to meet the recommended national ratio of 250 students per counselor.
- PBES now has an Equity Hub program in the building, run by Kids Adventures, to provide students who need support outside the home during virtual learning. They are accepting more students.
- Strategies for parents in supporting social-emotional development at home and strengthening coping skills during the pandemic can be found here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RqN9NXnwxDKrK7_fpJz--F0Lh_JXG0YSCXVDl7oRJ3E/edit
- Small group counseling is not allowed by MCPS while virtual, due to privacy concerns.
- Email is a great way to reach the counselors for each school.
- At TPES, Mr Seward covers 2nd grade at TPES, Mr Althofer covers K and 1st. They will move with grades, so next year Mr Althofer will have the 1st and 2nd graders. You can reach Mr Althofer at max_p_althofer@mcpsmd.org
- At PBES, Ms Coco does 3rd and 5th graders. You can reach her at erin_m_coco@mcpsmd.org
- Question about how to avoid video game use with kids.. Answer: teachers are watching for kids who aren’t paying attention and will let parents know. If not during school time, providing projects for kids that match their interests can help pull them away from screens (e.g., lego project).
7:50 Treasurer’s Reports
Kelley Skelton, TPES Treasurer
- We did well with the Dolphin Drive and are close to hitting our budget estimate for fundraising income. Can meet the rest with a Readathon or book fair or other activity later in the year.
- Received $2,500 for a school literacy program.
- Still managing the budget for the school food cluster support.
Erin Kelley, PBES Treasurer
- Account is very healthy with income of over $18,000 and $9,000 spent. Looking at potential adjustments to the budget and will keep membership abreast of any changes needed (some changes could require a vote).
Next meeting will be Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at 7:00pm. The Zoom link will be shared just before the meeting time, as was done today.
You can become a PTA member online:
Takoma Park Elementary https://www.tpespta.net
Piney Branch Elementary https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com
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PBES PTA Meeting Notes - Tuesday November 2, 2020
11/3/2020 10:54 am
Takoma Park Elementary School(TPES)
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Monday, November 2, 2020,
7:00-8:00pm
Location: Zoom
Antiracism & Social Justice in Our Schools
Mark your calendars for our next meeting, Tuesday, Dec 1, 7-8pm.
All PTA meetings will be via Zoom (details below) until further notice.
7:00 Welcome
7:05 Upcoming Dates and Announcements from the MCPS Calendar
Chris Campbell, TPES VP Communications
Nov 2-30: TPES Dolphin Drive
Tues, Nov 3: Election Day (schools & offices CLOSED)
Wed, Nov 4: Professional Day for Teachers & Staff (NO SCHOOL for students)
Mon, Nov 9: Professional Day for Teachers & Staff (NO SCHOOL for students)
Nov. 9-22: PBES virtual Scholastic Book Fair & Readathon
Mon, Nov 9: Professional Day for Teachers (NO SCHOOL for students)
Wed, Nov 11: MP2 Schedule Changes go into effect (to be discussed next)
Mon, Nov 23 thru Wed, Nov 25: Early Release Days (dismissal at 11:30am)
Thurs, Nov 26 thru Friday, Nov 27: Thanksgiving Break (NO SCHOOL)
7:07 MP2 Schedule Changes for MCPS Elementary Schools
Christine Oberdorf, PBES Principal
When board approved schedule, one of the conditions was the district would provide feedback about the schedule. Slight change to Elementary schedule voted on last week. Only impacts Wednesday am.
- New schedule (starting Wednesday, November 11 1st Wednesday second marking period):
- 9am class meeting;
- 9:30-10:15am live instruction ending with guidance for independent work; this time will not include new learning – no new modules from Benchmark or Eureka; opportunity to revisit content, provide enrichment, or vary content
- Pacing guide for Eureka and Benchmark has been revised based on this new schedule.
- 10:30-11:30am self-guided work for most students; paraeducator & service provider support available Teacher will outline direction for what students due during that time. Teachers are finalizing their plan and will get us information soon.
- Teachers will communicate specifically with class about what the schedule will look like.
- Goal is to reduce screen time, provide students with additional support as needed, and additional planning time for teacher.
- TPES is moving last special of the day to that later morning time- not at 2:30 but moved to 10:30. It was hard to get kids to come back to that special in the late afternoon.
- TPES teachers will give them choices as to what to do in the afternoon; kids will be able to choose the activity.
- Not supposed to be done at 11:30, should be working
- PBES: Concern: they have 2 blocks of specials in the afternoon to move them both in the morning; there is only one slot in the morning, and not enough teachers to cover both sessions in the morning.
- 11:30am-1pm lunch and wellness break;
- afternoon Wednesday schedules remain unchanged;
- Highlights:
- Wednesday morning blocks will no longer focus on instruction in Benchmark Literacy and Eureka Math, but include opportunities for students to engage in related content support, review, extension, & enrichment.
- Teachers will communicate with each student & family about the learning activities that students should complete during each block.
- Goal is to increase opportunities to reduce screen time, have students receive special education or related services, & provide time for independent or small group work
- Leadership team is finalizing details this week; please look for more information from your child’s classroom teacher next week
7:10 Equity through the Educational Lens
Emma McClary, TPES 2nd Grade Teacher & Equity Committee member
Kristen Dunlap, PBES 3rd Grade Teacher & Equity Committee member
- Classroom practices and lessons that focus on racial equality & social justice
- Guided discussion about what parents can do at home
Ms. Dunlap: all classes in MoCO completed Psychoeducational lessons; PBES had unity day and Unity week; they received special election materials from the county
Emma McClary: all received the same curriculum about all of this
Need to bridge and do social awareness at home
Ms. Dunlap
Spend a lot of time in the classrooms talk about what is going on in the world- 1-1/2 weeks in the morning; lots of things happening
Covid 19,
Dual pandemic: social justice responses to combat racism
Lot of time talking about race, racism, anti-racism, social justice
So that they understand the difference between being a Bystander to being an upstander; being a bystander is watching; upstander- stand up and say what you are feeling. Talked a lot about this. Also tied this into lessons about bullying
Their opinions are valued and matter- created a safe space so that they can share what they are thinking
Spent time on the positive things that they can do to feel better if experiencing stress/anxiety/worry, negative thoughts or feelings
Each class made their own list; they have arsenal of things that they can do if they are feeling strong emotions.
PBES: celebrated Unity day- staying united- a class community, a school community, a TP community- together stand against bullying; united for kindness, acceptance and inclusion
Thinking about what we can do to stand together
Hearing all the voices
Kids communicate differently some words, some pictures.
Making sure we see those that feel invisible
County sent out material on Communicating info re: election to kids
Working with Benchmark reading on communities and government units
How is our election materials relevant in our world right now
Connecting it to things that elementary school students in terms of voting
Discussion: open and honest conversations re: election
How are we feeling about things? Socioemotional part of election lessons are crucial. Mood Meter
Talking about feelings towards the election
Had ground rules going in
Took time to talk about candidates and racial disparities
Ms. McClary:
All of the lessons re; social justice, equity, election are the same across the schools
There is also a reflective piece on the professional level for the teachers, helps them have them open and honest discussions with the teachers
Teachers: all have unique perspectives that they learn and teach from; all will sometimes make mistakes
Parents at home play bigger roles as teachers
Classroom practices help make sure that equity is included:
Representation in literature
Representation in posters and decorations
Equity sticks and random calling strategies
Building relationships with families
Communicating high expectations for all students
Acknowledge and true appreciation of the differences that we have and appreciate the diversity
Recognizing that everyone has differences and that is ok
Teachable moments including factual conversations when things get said in the classroom
Modeling vulnerability, honesty and empathy
When teaching these lessons, created spaces where students feel valued
How to transfer the ideas from the classroom to the home:
Don’t overthink the conversation at home
Be factual, open and honest
Normalize conversation
Minimize otherness
Students understand feelings- can break things down to feelings if necessary
TPES and PBES each do collaborative planning within the school to help share best practices and ideas with each other!
Sharing our stories:
Every Monday Night TPES/PBES 7 pm is doing a Sharing our Stories with the teachers and families in the school community
Bedtime story- guest family, educator, etc sharing a story: book, interview
Educator giving tips on how to become more involved in the school community
If interested in sharing a story: contact Shana sabbathshana@gmail.com
Next week: Ms. Coco – PBES counselor on how to handle remote learning with the
7:40 NAACP Parent Council Updates
Sharon Gaskins, TPES NAACP Representative
Lauren Van Tol, PBES NAACP Representative
- Upcoming NAACP initiatives
Lauren:
Parent council: way to allow you to advocate for your child and get involved in their kids’ education
Started in 1990’s by the NAACP Youth council
https://groups.google.com/g/pbes-naacp-pc
next meeting Thursday November 12 6:30 pm.
Middle School magnet consortium: Argyle- digital design, Parkland- Aerospace, Loederman- creative arts
Due dates soon
If interested in any of the programs:
https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/msmagnet/
Sharon
1st meeting parents council at TPES on Thursday with Dr. Gadsden
Will collaborate with Piney Branch council
Equity Hubs: kids in K-5 can come and do distance learning in school building 8:30-5:30 for $50/mo with additional aid available
For kids who qualify for FARMS
Expanding across MCPS: https://www.equityhubs.org/
No plan for TP schools to host a hub
Lunch provided, and the day will be built around supporting distance learning and providing children with social emotional connections. Rolling Terrace Elementary and Rock Creek Forest Elementary which are less than 3 miles from Piney Branch are opening soon.
Montgomery county parent council : report on how black and brown students are faring in virtual learning; research conducted by UMD
7:50 Treasurer’s Reports
Kelley Skelton, TPES Treasurer
Meg covering:
TPES continues to be receiver and payor of the food support from the 4 schools
Dolphin appeal in November is fundraiser
Greatest expenses this month- teacher classroom set up funds.
Erin Kelley, PBES Treasurer
Panther appeal just ended:
Passed our goal
On membership side just over 50% of the goal
Including role over from last year; very robust situation
Expenses: support staff, website, and paypal fees
NEXT PTA MEETING: Tuesday December 1st; new zoom link; will be sent out shortly before the meeting.
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PBES PTA Meeting Notes - Tuesday October 6, 2020
9/4/2020 10:47 am
Connecting with your School & Community
Mark your calendars for our next meeting, Monday, Nov 2, 7-8pm.
All PTA meetings will be via Zoom (details below) until further notice.
7:00 Welcome
7:05 Social Emotional Support for Virtual Learning
Cinthea Neuheisel, PBES Assistant Principal
- Key supports the school is putting in place & tips for how parents & caregivers can help at home
Social emotional learning is important; class meetings- class meetings is time where teachers are promoting relationships among students and to create a sense of community within class
Play games to connect
Psychoemotional support resources for kids available on the website and with the teachers
Second step curriculum- social skills and conflict resolution skills.
Tool- referral system so teacher can refer students not engaged – spreadsheet created by school
Last week, MCPS published own tool to collect data to send to MCPS
Weekly videos- consistent repetitive language to ground students in the week and to create a sense of connection back to their school community
Tips for at Home: Biggest thing that students need at this time is to be flexible- need to raise resilient tiny humans; need to be cognitively flexible in trying circumstances
Need good night’s sleep
New routines and structure that we can rely on
Single tasking and focusing- space free of distraction;
ONE SCREEN at a time is a simple single tasking rule to help promote focus
Acceptance and gratitude to find what brings you joy. Helps with mood.
7:15 Upcoming Dates and Announcements from the MCPS Calendar
Gabe Seiden, PBES VP Communications
Thurs, Oct 1 thru Oct 31: “Panther Appeal” PBES PTA Fundraising Month
Tues, Nov 3: Election Day (schools & offices CLOSED)
Nov. 9-22: PBES virtual Scholastic Book Fair & Readathon
Mon, Nov 9: Professional Day for Teachers (NO SCHOOL for students)
Nov 11-12: Early Release Days for Students (Parent/Teacher Conferences)
7:20 Fundraising Updates & Treasurer’s Reports
Kelly Young, TPES VP Fundraising- Dolphin Drive for November; goal is 9000; even though people are giving in lots of places, PTA still doing a lot for the teachers and school
3 dine-outs that month; likely the 3 Tuesdays
-Provide teachers for money/supplies for students or them selves
- interpreter when district doesn’t provide
- professional development
-
Angela Riemer, PBES VP Fundraising
Piney Branch Elementary Panther Appeal kicked off October 1
Continue to provide enrichment services to families and teachers
Appeal important initially as it helps us determine the budget for the year
Can give on website
Dine- out is at Mansa Kunda October 16; 8000 Flower Ave
Merchandise is available to purchase through the website.
Will soon have masks
Volunteers will deliver purchases to homes
Kelley Skelton, TPES Treasurer
See Treasurers report
Lots of income missed out on during readathon
Most of donations came to food support;
Last year 100000 in donations, used almost 90,000 year-end balance 14K
Lots for the foodbank
Operations for foodbank is expensive
About 1000 down in membership
Spending $5000 q2 weeks
Money coming from TPES, PBES, TPMS and ESES
Continue to fundraise for as long as needed
TPES PTA has 30K available
Erin Kelley, PBES Treasurer
No budget yet- working on it
PBES PTA- Expenses to date: Translation services
7:25 Building the School & Family Partnership
*Please comment and ask questions via the chat.*
- Key staff to contact, expected flow of information, and collaborative troubleshooting
- Provide flow chart in advance and post on the website; share with families, provide translation
Community Norms and Best Practices
Teachers: committed to
Meeting child and his/her peers where they are and adjusting instruction/differentiating as needed
Sharing information related to
Parents and guardians:
Reach out to children’s teacher first whenever you have a question or concern about classroom curriculum, expectations or your child’s progress
Access info on curriculum
Reach out to class parent
Students:
Develop a trusting relationship with teachers
Practice taking risks while trying new things and sharing ideas and answers even when they’re unsure
Connect with fellow students to enhance academic and social-emotional development
What learning practices work best for you.
How do I contact the school?
Start by sending an email to your child’s teacher
You can write the note in any language- the school will translate
The policy of the school was that the staff will respond within 24 hours
How can I help my child make friends and connect with class mates
-Each classroom has an assigned classroom parent
What if I am not getting help needed from child’s teacher or have questions
- Guidance counselor
- School principal or Assistant principal
- Spanish and Amharic translation available by phone
What to do if behavior, health, or mental health challenges?
- Call or email guidance counselor or the administrator
My child is struggling with school work:
Encourage child to Meet with teacher
-Saturday school currently offer tutoring opportunities, sliding cale
PTA Volunteer assistance esp if technology issues
If struggle contact his/her teacher
Educational and Equity hub- Bar-T $50/mo
Several throughout the county
Who do I access if my child will be absent from school or if missed class by watching recorder
Live virtual lesson absence form
Attendance secretary:
Lana Gard TPES
Marcella Hagens PBES
Assistance for ParentVue- contact main office
Help with chromebook and online platform
7:55 Takoma Park Equity Walk
Lucy Neher, SafeRoutes to School Coordinator, City of Takoma Park
- An overview of a new family-friendly activity walk in Takoma Park
tomorrow is walk to school day L
We belong here- Takoma Park Equity Walk
Go tomorrow; scan the QR code then get Story Map
Project started 1 year ago; grant submitted Oct 2019
Idea equity inclusive of everything
Community center at Ann St has QR
Do activity, talk with one another based on prompt
Each link has a suggested list of books. Can take the book out from library through link
Lots of resources
Theme is belonging- exploration- who you are, what makes you unique
Bursting bubbles- bursting stereotypes
No start or finish
Community center start in a loop
Ann St in a straight line
Safe Routes to school- small check for each PTA from the race that didn’t happen
Got a grant for a feasibility study to do a traffic garden in- safe place to learn to ride so kids and family can go to learn how to ride bikes
Next time will ask for money to build it
Working on getting grants for Bikes for school ; schools will have fleet of bikes to do learn to ride at all levels with PE teachers. 8-10 bikes various sizes; TPES will be some balance bikes
In DC- every second grader learns how to ride
In Fairfax they learn how to ride; MoCo not yet
Montgomery county has some in person bike rodeos/lessons
Everyone who goes gets a free helmet- if kids need a helmet and need to practice, go to the bike rodeo.
NEXT PTA_ Monday November 2.
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PBES PTA Meeting Chat - Tuesday September 1, 2020
9/4/2020 10:07 am
161 participants
From Liam Staub to Everyone: 07:00 PM
Does anyone know if it's possible to change the name that appears? The way I normally do it (clicking on three dots) doesn't seem to be an option.
From Lisa Miller to Everyone: 07:00 PM
I don't think that's doable on MCPS Zoom. :)
From Sarah, PBES PTA President to Everyone: 07:00 PM
Set up was done from an MCPS account, so we can't rename. sorry!
From Liam Staub to Everyone: 07:01 PM
Got it. For the record, I'm Erin Kelley, not Liam Staub. :)
From jaime, she/her, CJSF to Everyone: 07:06 PM
128 participants - super wow! So curious to know who folks are. Can we introduce ourselves here?
I’m Jaime Koppel. I have a 6th grader at TPMS and a 3rd grader at PBES (Mr. Rook).
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:06 PM
I’m Annelies Echols. I have a 5th grader at PBES (Ms. Lane).
From Armandina Macias to Everyone: 07:07 PM
armandina, mom to 4th grader (Plummer)
From Jennifer Nash Littlefield to Everyone: 07:07 PM
Hi all, I’m Jennifer Littlefield, parent to Wynn in second (Olson) and Lucas in fifth (Lee)
From Alice Morin to Everyone: 07:07 PM
Hi! Claire Morin, Alice is in First Grade at TPES!
From Justine Lassman to Everyone: 07:07 PM
I'm Justine Lassman, I have a kindergartner at TPES and 4th grader at PBES (and a preschooler :)
From Kacy Kostiuk to Everyone: 07:07 PM
Hi everyone. I'm Kacy. I have a 3rd grader at PBES (Ms. Giles)
From Claire Dean to Everyone: 07:07 PM
I’m Claire Dean, mom to Kindergartener Fiona (Kim)
From Fred Azcarate to Everyone: 07:07 PM
Fred Azcarate - 1st Grader at TPES - (Archuletta) as well as a 6th grader and 8th grader at TPMS.
From RAYAN khoury to Everyone: 07:08 PM
can you zoom in your google doc?
From CS to Everyone: 07:08 PM
chai, TPES and PBES, 3rd (Dunlap), 2nd (Shields)
From Erik Wingle to Everyone: 07:08 PM
Lara and John Wingle: Kristina is a 3rd grader at PBES
From Mae Alemi to Everyone: 07:08 PM
Hi everyone, Lindsay Alemi, my daughter Mae is in 2nd at TPES in Ms. Hatcher's room
From Chrissie Juliano to Everyone: 07:08 PM
Chrissie Juliano - have a 2nd grader Becca (ZIbel) @ TPES and a 6th grader, Benjis (Zibel) @ TPMS
From MedEvac Foundation to Everyone: 07:08 PM
Hi Everyone, I'm Jared Hughes - VP of Membership at PBES! If you haven't joined for the 2020-2012 Academic Year please do! You can go here and join. https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com/why-join-pta
From Jennifer Nash Littlefield to Everyone: 07:09 PM
Allison- Szybalski again- woot!
From Samantha Ager to Everyone: 07:09 PM
Hi! Samantha Ager and I have a 2nd grader (Spencer's class) Scott, at TPES and a 6th grader, Sophie at TPMS.
From Samikia East to Everyone: 07:09 PM
Is the English or Spanish icon on the bottom of everyone's computer? If so it isn't on the bottom of my screen.
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:10 PM
hi everyone- this is Margaret McDonnell (not James Vanderjack). My son James is in 4th grade (Plummer), my daughter Mickey is in 2nd grade (Dr Roberts-Harris) and my youngest Bella is in pre-K (although currently at home).
From Caleb Gibson to Everyone: 07:10 PM
I’m on an ipad and the Span/Eng option is at the TOP
From Alice Morin to Everyone: 07:10 PM
Yes the icons are here for me!
From Terry McDonough to Everyone: 07:10 PM
Hi everyone. I’m Joyce McDonough. I have William, a 4th grader (Moran) and Clara, 1st grader (Ramos) and a 3 year old
From Naia Auluck to Everyone: 07:10 PM
IT is labeled "Interpretation"
From Sara Hoverter to Everyone: 07:11 PM
Hi, I'm Sara Hoverter - I have a 7th grader (Devon) and a 4th grader (Kieran, in Mr. Serra's class)
From Shawn Domagal-Goldman to Everyone: 07:11 PM
Hi! Shawn Domagal-Goldman. I have a 2nd grader (Maya) at Takoma Park.
From iPhone maritza romero to Everyone: 07:11 PM
i have a child in piney Branch and his in 4 grade in Mr Pendletons class
From Samikia East to Everyone: 07:11 PM
Thank you.
From Sara Lewis to Everyone: 07:11 PM
I'm Sara Lewis and I have a 3rd grader, Kieran, at PBES (Hernandez) and a 1st grader, Eliza, at TPES (Broadus).
From Shana Sabbath to Everyone: 07:12 PM
I’m Shana Sabbath :). I have a 2nd grader and a 5th grader. Room parent at both schools. Love connecting people to the PTA so let me know if you’d like to learn more about how to get involved, how the PTA works, how families use the PTA to connect with each other and the school, and more!
Oh, my kiddos’ names are Eddie and Rosalie.
From Liam Staub to Everyone: 07:12 PM
Hi, I'm Erin Kelley. My kids are Finn Staub (4th, Snyder); Liam Staub (2nd, Harris); and a 2 y.o.
From campbler to Everyone: 07:12 PM
Hello everyone. You all just “saw” me but thought I’d write in here as well. I’m Chris Campbell and the co-VP of Communications. My son Charlie is in the first grade.
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:13 PM
Thanks for the reminder Jared- made me realize that I have not yet re-upped my PTA memberships for TPES or PBES!
From Lara Hinderstein to Everyone: 07:13 PM
Hi Everyone - I'm Lara Hinderstein and I have a 4th grader Mila in Ms. Plummer's class.
From Alyssa to Everyone: 07:13 PM
I am sreya tann. I have Alyssa tann in 2nd grade
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:13 PM
If you would like to hear Spanish interpretation, please click on the “interpretation” button and pull down to Spanish.
From Eliza Leighton to Everyone: 07:13 PM
Hello — I’m Eliza Leighton and my daughter Maya Wright is in 2nd grade.
From Emily Merolli to Everyone: 07:13 PM
hi! I’m Emily, my kids are Asaka (5th-Bass) and Kiyoko (2nd-Hatcher)
From Neal Riemer to Everyone: 07:13 PM
Good evening, Neal here, father of Sequoia (K, in Ms. Meli's room)
From ebowman@briya.org to Everyone: 07:13 PM
Hi everyone. I’m Elizabeth. I have a 2nd grader at TPES (Ms Alvarez)
From Mona Sahaf to Everyone: 07:13 PM
could someone drop the PTO dues link into the chat? thank you.
From monica.garcia to Everyone: 07:13 PM
Hi all! I'm Monica Garcia and my son, August is a 2nd grader in Ms. Lewis' class. First time PTA meeting -yeah!
From Erin Markley to Everyone: 07:14 PM
Hi! I’m Erin Markley. We are brand new to the district and my daughter Matilda is a 4th grader at PBS and my son Evan is a 1st grader at TPS.
From campbler to Everyone: 07:14 PM
TPES membership link is here
From kawsar to Everyone: 07:15 PM
Hi Everyone! I’m Kawsar Talaat; I have a 4th grader, Faris in Ms. Cottrell’s class and Aisha, a 9th grader at Blair
From Jeanette Scott-Walker to Everyone: 07:15 PM
Hi everyone, I'm Jeanette Scott-Walker, I have a third grader in miss Dunlap class.
From Hyvron Jean to Everyone: 07:15 PM
Hi. I'm Estelle and my daughter Darlyse is a 3rd grader in Ms Meyer's class at PBES.
From Michael Schoenke to Everyone: 07:15 PM
I am Mike Schoenke. I have twin girls that are 2nd graders in Ms. Spencer and Ms. Alvarez classes.
From Zoom user to Everyone: 07:15 PM
Hello. Im Karla O. I have a kindergartener in Ms Ortega’s and a 4 week old at home. First time PTA anything :)
From Margie Omero to Everyone: 07:15 PM
hi all. Thank you PTA folks for all you do. here is me & my kiddos (lucy--3rd grade & beckett--5yo at an independent school)
From Christine Smith to Everyone: 07:15 PM
Hi everyone, I'm Chris(tine) Smith, I have a Kindergartener Landon in Ms. Zevins class
From Samer Sadek to Everyone: 07:15 PM
For membership, please visit https://tpespta.net/
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:15 PM
Takoma Park Elementary PTA - https://www.tpespta.net
Piney Branch Elementary PTA - https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com
From Armandina Macias to Everyone: 07:16 PM
piney Branch PTA: https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com/why-join-pta
From Lis Hooper to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hi there, I’m LIs Hooper, mom to Abby in 1st grade (Ms Broadus)
From Sarah.Davidson@wwfus.org to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hi all, I'm Sarah Davidson. I have a 3rd grader in Mr. Rook's class and a 1st grader in Ms. Brown's class. I'm PBES classroom parent coordinator - please reach out if you're interested in signing up to support your teacher and class families!
From Samer Sadek to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Any questions about TPES membership, my email is samersadek@gmail.com
From Desiree Hernandez to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hi!! I’m Desiree Hernandez, I have a 2nd grader (Alvarez) Esteban at TPES and Junior 6th grader at TPMS
From Lauren Van Tol to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hello all, I'm Lauren Van Tol and my 5th grader Emerson is in Ms. Patrick's class.
From Rachel Anderson to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hello, I'm Rachel Anderson. My children are Edith and Jacob Anderkoo, 2nd grade (Olson) and 5th grade (Bass)
From Ellen Marcus to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hi, I'm Ellen Marcus - My daughter is in Kindergarten, Ms. Brant's class
From Lisa Miller to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hi, I'm Lisa. My son, Wesley, is in 2nd grade at TPES - Ms. Alvarez' class.
From Caleb Gibson to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hi. I’m Caleb Gibson, Executive VP of the TPES PTA. My son Lyle is in Ms. Broadus’s first grade class at TPES, and my son Gareth is in Ms. Plummer’s fourth grade class at PBES.
From Tammi Ainsfield to Everyone: 07:16 PM
Hello! I'm Tammi Ainsfield, my daughter Winter is in Ms. Kaplan's Kindergarten class at TPES. Also a first time PTAer!
From Jessie Blumin (she/her) to Everyone: 07:17 PM
hey all - I am Jessie Blumin, my daughter Amira is in 1st grade (Ms. Broadus) and I have a 1yo son at home too
From MedEvac Foundation to Everyone: 07:17 PM
Here is the link to join again https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com/why-join-pta
From Rhea Hubbard to Everyone: 07:17 PM
Hi everyone, I'm Rhea Hubbard, mom to Kindergartener Calum who is in Ms. Zevin's class
From Melissa to Everyone: 07:18 PM
howdy, Melissa Hewett-Marx, mom to Peter (2nd, TPES, McClary), Cooper (6th TPMS), Chloe (5th, Burnt Mills Elementary)
From Meredith's iPhoneg to Everyone: 07:18 PM
Meredith Morelle joining from the car so off-camera :). We just moved from a D.C. charter to TPES. my daughter Eliana is in 2nd grade in Ms. McClary’s class, and my son Ari is in Ms. Brant’s Kindergarten class.
From Natali to Everyone: 07:19 PM
Hi, this is Natali Fani-Gonzalez, mom to Tessa (3d grade in PB with Hernandez), and Lucca (2nd grade in TP with Alvarez) :)
From Djakaria Sangare to Everyone: 07:19 PM
Hello All! I'm Djakaria (Zack) Sangare. I have a fifth grader (Navine) in Ms. Tolson's class and a 9th grader at Blair.
From Shannon to Everyone: 07:19 PM
Evening everyone! I am Shannon, son Caden 1st grade (Bozel).
From Biruk G to Everyone: 07:19 PM
Hi everyone, I'm Biruk, I am Nathan's father(1st grade) at Mrs. Freniere class.
From 213893@mcpsmd.net to Everyone: 07:19 PM
Hello my name is Hani . I have a second grader .He's in TPES and in Mrs. Olsen Class.
From Elias to Everyone: 07:20 PM
Hi all I am Elias I have two kids Barkot 2nd grade and Yafet 1st grade (Ms.Bozel) both at TPES.
From Chrissie Juliano to Everyone: 07:20 PM
What time is dismissal on Friday?
From Terry McDonough to Everyone: 07:20 PM
I believe it’s at 11:30 when lunch starts
From Aimee Duncan to Everyone: 07:20 PM
great background! AJ
From Sasha Johnson to Everyone: 07:21 PM
As a resource if anyone encountered technology issues today here is the MCPS Tech help email and number: MyMCPSSupport@mcpsmd.org 301-740-7022
From Aimee Duncan to Everyone: 07:21 PM
Aimee Duncan, Alexandra’s mom, 1st grader
From campbler to Everyone: 07:21 PM
Here’s the TPES membership link again.
From Sharon Lambert to Everyone: 07:21 PM
Sharon Lambert, mom to Lauren Swaluk in 1st grade (Harvey) and Benjamin Swaluk in 6th grade (TPMS).
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:21 PM
Thank you Dr Gadsden and all administrators for all of your difficult work- we're so glad you got to take a well-deserved Caribbean vacation this week!
From Christopher to Everyone: 07:22 PM
Hello. I'm Christopher Hinton. My daughter, Ellie, is in Ms. Lane's 5th-grade class this year at PBES, and Wyatt is in Mr. Szybalski’s 2nd-grade class at Takoma Park ES.
From Gabe Seiden, PBES VP Communications to Everyone: 07:22 PM
Join the PBES TA - https://pbespta.org/open_forms
From Maya to Everyone: 07:23 PM
Hello all! I’m Natalie Hoover El Rashidy. I have Maya who is in 1st grade with Ms. Harvey and Lara who is in 5th grade with Mr. Lee.
From Michele to Everyone: 07:23 PM
I'm Michele Dash-Pauls and I have a kindergartner Marcus in Ms Pavan's class. I also have a 4 year old Eric in daycare. What do the equity committees do?
From Jennifer Nash Littlefield to Everyone: 07:24 PM
Dr. Gadsden is a superhero!
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:24 PM
You're doing an amazing job Dr G!
From Chrissie Juliano to Everyone: 07:24 PM
Thank you, Dr. Gadsden for all the hard work.
From Sarah.Davidson@wwfus.org to Everyone: 07:24 PM
+1 Jen!
From Terry McDonough to Everyone: 07:24 PM
THANK YOU, DR. GADSDEN!! WE ARE SO GRATEFUL!
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:24 PM
the last couple days have actually been a lot smoother than I anticipated
From Lisa Miller to Everyone: 07:24 PM
YES! And the teachers!!!
From Shana Sabbath to Everyone: 07:25 PM
Thank you, Dr G, Ms P, and all the educators!!!
From Alice Morin to Everyone: 07:25 PM
Same here!
From Lauren Greenberg, VP Communications TPES PTA to Everyone: 07:25 PM
From Lilly Klecka to Everyone: 07:26 PM
Hi All - I’m Shelly Hill, the PBES Co-Chair for Equity. Please email me if you are interested in joining our committee. shellyhill711@gmail.com
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:28 PM
Shelly - there was a request for a description of what the equity committee does (earlier in the chat)
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:29 PM
The PTA has done an amazing job supporting families through gift cards for groceries etc. Someone asked me a question this weekend that I wasn't sure how to answer. Are there any programs/initiatives to provide safe spaces (at the TP comm center or otherwise) for kids who don't have adult supervision at home (because parents are working) that adults in our community could volunteer for to help them through the school day?
Perhaps that's something that the Equity Committee is working on?
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:30 PM
The equity committee has a robust list of projects. Below are a few at the top of the current list looking for volunteers:
From Sarah, PBES PTA President to Everyone: 07:30 PM
yes, equity committee was just put in contact with a local volunteer offering tutoring and we're trying to get the wheels turning on that
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 07:30 PM
View our agenda here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZBKHq113n4qPnBlnFudLmRYT5vmTCzN3eGI-opwM2PA/edit?usp=sharing
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:31 PM
-leading online learning & support initiative, in coordination with room parent and social service chairs
-leading books-to-kids project with an inclusion and equity focus
-inclusion strategy & implementation help
-leading translation & interpretation coordination
From Lilly Klecka to Everyone: 07:33 PM
Hi - Equity Committee is focused on a number of initiatives this year - culturally responsible trainings for educators (in consult with faculty/principals); literacy inittiatives, online learning and tech support, assistance with supplies, translation and interpretation support and efforts aimed at making the PTA more inclusive.
From Shana Sabbath to Everyone: 07:33 PM
The committee is also launching a multicultural reading hour soon to help connect families with each other and school. Please contact me at sabbathshana@gmail.com if you are interested in sharing a book that is meaningful to your family!
From Sara Lewis to Everyone: 07:33 PM
If you are interested in serving as a room parent at TPES (particularly if you have a child in Mr. Bergfalk or Mrs. Olsen's class, which don't have a room parent yet), please reach out to me, Sara Lewis, at serowe@gmail.com.
From Sarah.Davidson@wwfus.org to Everyone: 07:34 PM
If you're interested in being a PBES room parent, please feel free to reach out to me at sarah.davidson@gmail.com
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 07:34 PM
On Friday, students will leave for lunch at 11:30 and end the day then; no afternoon classes.
From Lilly Klecka to Everyone: 07:35 PM
Please email me at SHellyhill711@gmail.com if interested in helping with any equity initiatives
From Chrissie Juliano to Everyone: 07:35 PM
Thanks, Meg!
From Sara Hoverter to Everyone: 07:35 PM
for the PBES newcomers group: shoverter@gmail.com
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:35 PM
Please scribes in the breakout rooms use this for taking notes:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1S4Z8xqbKIOvfqF138tJwwO0SVQMFharb3MNFr9q_Vhk/edit?usp=sharing
From jaime, she/her, CJSF to Everyone: 07:36 PM
(Tip - clicking link above is a great way to get a visual sense of what each group is talking about)
From Melissa Tooley to Everyone: 07:36 PM
Is there an equity committee at TPES too?
From Jennifer Nash Littlefield to Everyone: 07:37 PM
The equity committee is both schools!
From CS to Everyone: 07:37 PM
Yes—please email me—chai.shenoy@gmail.com.
From Lilly Klecka to Everyone: 07:37 PM
Equity is a Joint Committee
From Mona Sahaf to Everyone: 07:37 PM
i think 15 is plenty
From Geoff Maxson to Everyone: 07:53 PM
I put something in the chat in room 3, I hope it was recorded because I didn't have the chance to talk out loud
From Dave and Meg Tesno to Everyone: 07:53 PM
if possible can the main group recording be shared? have to run to bedtime!!
From CS to Everyone: 07:54 PM
We were group 2
From campbler to Everyone: 07:54 PM
One more time before the meeting ends, we’d love you to join the TPES PTA so please go to this link and join! Thanks for attending tonight! https://tpespta.net/join/
From Peter Bachman to Everyone: 07:54 PM
Samer - we were group 8
From Liam Staub to Everyone: 07:55 PM
I wonder whether the scribe (or someone else from each group could just quickly type up the "win" and the "challenge" highlights in the chat, for posterity? And in the interest of time? (this is Erin Kelley, not Liam Staub)
From Samikia East to Everyone: 07:55 PM
there is a group 9
From jaime, she/her, CJSF to Everyone: 07:55 PM
They should be mostly captured here, Erin Kelley and everyone: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1S4Z8xqbKIOvfqF138tJwwO0SVQMFharb3MNFr9q_Vhk/edit#slide=id.g93a18815cb_0_55
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:55 PM
group 5: challenges with toddler interrupting, navigating space. children with so much screen time.
challenge: reminders to keep logging back on. time management. tip: embedding zoom links in calendars. haven't been working- not sure if issue. zoom link history.
challenge: got flustered and embarrassed to tell the teachers. speaking up among peers.
tip: teacher said they can click on a coffee icon for a break.
challenge: surf the internet. blocked youtube but using google slides to look up pictures. don't want to hover. tip: school chromebooks have blocked and more restrictive- tell that school is watching.
challenge: focus tip: buying headphones to help with focus. swivel or wiggle chairs. yoga balls.
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 07:55 PM
Everyone can reference this link to see what each room included:
From MedEvac Foundation to Everyone: 07:56 PM
Here is the PBES link to join the PTA for the 2020-2021 Academic Year https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com/why-join-pta
From Liam Staub to Everyone: 07:57 PM
Nice! Sorry, I didn't know about the shared google doc.
From Alice Morin to Everyone: 07:57 PM
My daughter just complains from headaches today… She never mentions that before!
From James Vanderjack to Everyone: 07:57 PM
what are the names of the glasses again?
From Jennifer Nash Littlefield to Everyone: 07:57 PM
Thanks so much Ms. East!
From jaime, she/her, CJSF to Everyone: 07:57 PM
So helpful. Thank you for the blue light glasses suggestion.
From Kristin O'Planick to Everyone: 07:57 PM
blue light filter glasses
From Shawn Domagal-Goldman to Everyone: 07:58 PM
Those were super-helpful tips, Ms. East - thank you!
From RAYAN khoury to Everyone: 07:58 PM
chrome books i think have a feature to “night shift” to change color temperature (less blue light).
From Terry McDonough to Everyone: 07:58 PM
I’ve heard that in the chrome books, you can turn on blue light filter (maybe called night?) and does same thing as blue light glasses
From Shannon to Everyone: 07:58 PM
Blue Light Blocking Glasses for Kids, you can find them on Amazon.
From Kristin O'Planick to Everyone: 07:58 PM
you can also change the settings on all devices to turn on a blue light filter - sometimes called night time settings. I use it myself for my work laptop!
From Fred Azcarate to Everyone: 07:59 PM
Here’s an Amazon link - https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Light-Blocking-Glasses-Kids/dp/B083NX2P5P/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1FJU0DJMH0IIZ&dchild=1&keywords=blue+light+glasses+for+kids&qid=1599004693&sprefix=blueligh%2Caps%2C156&sr=8-5
From CS to Everyone: 07:59 PM
haha!
From Margie Omero to Everyone: 08:00 PM
my daughter asked to have her desk face the window. IDK if this helps but seemed like good intuition, although recognize it's not always possible.
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 08:00 PM
For kids who have trouble sitting for long periods, consider Wiggle Seats, or using a kid size yoga ball instead of a chair
From Sasha Johnson to Everyone: 08:01 PM
Headphones were a best practiced talked about in our group.
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 08:01 PM
For families who are having internet issues with so many family members on the internet at once, consider purchasing a MiFi device.
From jaime, she/her, CJSF to Everyone: 08:02 PM
Is MCPS providing MiFis to families who need them?
From Fred Azcarate to Everyone: 08:02 PM
My understanding is yes mifis were distributed along with chromebooks
From Terry McDonough to Everyone: 08:03 PM
My son always chose the floor seat in his flexible seating classroom last year so I got him a floor desk, which is just a lap desk, and a little floor chair, and that feedback from the floor and wall seem to really help him
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 08:03 PM
Connect your child’s device to a TV so they have more room to move around, rather than sit at a desk
From campbler to Everyone: 08:03 PM
I’ve also let my child pick up the Chromebook and wander around and find a different spot in the room or another room if it gets him to change up the scenery and thus stay still for another 10-15 minutes.
From Terry McDonough to Everyone: 08:03 PM
I also put a strip of velcro under his desk for him to fidget with
From MedEvac Foundation to Everyone: 08:03 PM
a quick walk around the block before school / during lunch / Brain Breaks - every 20 mins look out the window for 20 secs / packing a lunch for school / fidget spinner or foam stress ball /
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 08:04 PM
Have your child take bike or scooter breaks throughout the day. Have a “race” on the sidewalk in front of your house.
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 08:04 PM
From Rachel Anderson to Everyone: 08:04 PM
My husband convinced our kids to run in place whenever zoom glitches. So far so good.
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 08:04 PM
For anyone who would like to see the note from other rooms, click on the link above
From Katherine Jones Katzin to Everyone: 08:04 PM
To the point of children getting headaches after sitting in front of the screen all day, parents who are able to could consider switching from wifi to wired ethernet connection, which is faster, more secure, and more reliable. Numerous studies have shown a connection between exposure to wifi and headaches, difficulty concentrating, and other neurological effects.
From Shana Sabbath to Everyone: 08:05 PM
Rachel, that is so funny! Love it.
From jaime, she/her, CJSF to Everyone: 08:05 PM
Will the counselors be adapting their normal interactions with our children to offer support specific to the anxiety some/many children are experiencing? (Knowing that our counselors have a challenging task to meet the needs of all students since there are so few of them)
From MedEvac Foundation to Everyone: 08:05 PM
for students with Learning Differences make sure your teacher is aware of the IEP / if undiagnosed request an IEP (individual education plan). Many people with LDs find colored lenses / plastic colored filters over the work sheet or book pages helps with jumbled letters
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 08:06 PM
For new families who would like to connect with other and help their child make new friends, reach out to the school counselor or classroom teacher and consider having them select a “buddy” for your child.
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 08:06 PM
From Meghan McDonald - Wilkins 1st garde, Margot 3rd grade to Everyone: 08:07 PM
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uNG7F11WOTPJiYNnCeIH279di2jIJNWT8m8VDx7wbcE/edit
From MedEvac Foundation to Everyone: 08:07 PM
I think I want an ethernet cable for myself!
From Annelies Echols to Everyone: 08:07 PM
TO JOIN Takoma Park Elementary https://www.tpespta.net
Piney Branch Elementary https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com
From Jennifer Nash Littlefield to Everyone: 08:07 PM
Gotta run, thanks all!
From Terry McDonough to Everyone: 08:07 PM
And to my report out of a suggestion for a Q&A or troubleshooting guide, our class tends to email the class (i.e., when someone gets kicked off Zoom) so the class having emails/texts is really helpful!
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PBES PTA Meeting Notes - Tuesday August 25, 2020
9/4/2020 10:04 am
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, August 25, 2020, 7-7:30pm
Location: Ed Wilhelm Field behind PBES
7:00 Welcome & Overview
Sarah Goupell, PBES PTA President
- Maryland PTA requires we meet in person for voting, which is why we are here.
- The 9 proposed PTA board members in attendance meets quorum. Approximately 25 people total in attendance.
7:05 Presentation of Nominees for 2020-2021 PBES PTA Executive Board
Sasha Johnson standing in for Sarah Corcoran, PBES Nominating Committee Chair
- Proposed slate was presented. Motion to adopt was unanimously approved.
2020-2021 PBES PTA Elected Positions:
- President: Sarah Goupell
- Exec VP: Sasha Johnson
- VP Equity: Shelly Hill
- Treasurer: Erin Kelley
- Secretary: Kawsar Talaat
- VP Communications: Gabe Seiden
- VP Membership: Jared Hughes
- VP Fundraising: Angela Riemer
- 2 Advocacy Reps (MCCPTA Delegates): Jaime Koppel & Rachel Anderson
Appointed representatives:
- NAACP Reps: Lauren C. Van Tol
7:15 Proposed Bylaws Updates
Sarah Goupell, PBES PTA President
- Proposed updates are below. Bylaws are required to be updated every 2 years. We are updating to 5 VPs from 4 VPs. Descriptions of duties are being added as are required for all but Executive VP. Also changing to have executive committee elect the
- Motion to accept bylaws updates was unanimously approved.
7:20 Proposed Budget for FY 2020-2021
Erin Kelley, PBES Treasurer
- The carry-over of $27k is because of less spending at the end of last year due to COVID-19. There are big picture line items on the income side (membership, fundraising, ear-marked grants) and expenses for fundraising events, programming committees, staff support, operating expenses, membership dues and insurance, ear-marked grants spending and reserve for next summer’s expenses.
- Proposed expenses match proposed income for the coming year.
- Thank you to outgoing Treasurer Amy Gibson-Grant who has continued acting over the past two months.
- No funding in the budget for the food support efforts because those funds are going through the TPES PTA budget as a special line item. We have a social services fund that will help provide school supplies for students who need them.
- Motion to adopt the budget was unanimously approved
- Please join the PTA if you have not yet joined this year. You cannot vote unless you are an active member.
7:30 Adjourn
Monthly PTA Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82755716748
Meeting ID: 827 5571 6748
+1 3017158592 US (Germantown) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
You can become a PTA member online:
Takoma Park Elementary https://www.tpespta.net
Piney Branch Elementary https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com
Proposed Bylaws Updates, PBES PTA, Summer 2020
- Article VI, Sec. 2a: 5 vice presidents (Equity, Membership, Communications, Fundraising, Executive)
- Article VI, Sec. 3a: Change to having the executive committee elect the nominating committee
- Article VII, Sec. 2: add descriptions/duties for Equity VP, Membership VP, Communications VP, and Fundraising VP (see Addendum below)
- Artcile XIII, Sec. 1b: Delegates shall be elected in the last general membership meeting of the school year by general membership.
Addendum: Vice President Duties
ARTICLE VII Duties of Officers
Section 2. The executive vice president shall:
- Act as aide to the president;
- Perform in their designated order the duties of the president in the absence or inability of that officer to serve; and
- Perform such other duties as may be prescribed in these bylaws or assigned by this local PTA/PTSA or by the board of directors.
The membership vice president shall:
- Develop and deploy a year-round membership recruitment and retention plan (with emphasis during the big Back to School time in your community);
- Draft and distribute membership promotional materials and sign-up tools; and
- Collect and track membership forms and dues in partnership with the Treasurer, ensuring that required dues are also paid to state and national PTA.
The communications vice president shall:
- Maintain the PTA website;
- Coordinate all outgoing communications from the PTA executive committee to the school community; and
- Work with committees to provide communications support.
The fundraising vice president shall:
- Along with PTA and School leadership, identify fundraising goals;
- Lead and organize fundraising committee to satisfy fundraising goals;
- Oversee all committees with a fundraising mission; and
- Present reports on proposed fundraising activities at board and association meetings for approval.
The equity vice president shall:
- Oversee initiatives related to equity, social climate, instruction, and advocacy;
- Streamline and coordinate school volunteer and resource needs for the school and teachers; and
- Review all outgoing public communications from PTA for inclusivity.
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TPES/PBES PTA Meeting Minutes: November 2019
11/10/2019 6:17 pm
Upcoming dates and announcements
Nov 1-26: PBES Read-a-thon & Book Fair (Nov. 4-8)
Thurs, Nov 7: TPES Fall Book Fair (4pm to 8pm) + Kindergarten Literacy Night, 7pm
Fri, Nov 8: Early Release for all students; dismissal @ 1:20pm
Mon, Nov 11 & Tuesday Nov 12: Early Release & Parent-Teacher Conferences
Wed, Nov 27: Early Release for all students; dismissal @ 1:20pm
Thurs & Fri, Nov 28 & 29: No School
Tues, Dec 3: PTA Meeting - Sweet Treat Exchange - 6:45p-8p
Please join us for the PTA Meeting in December – there will be a Sweet Treat Exchange! Fun, easy, we hope to bring us all together.
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TPES/PBES PTA Meeting Minutes: October 2019
10/3/2019 3:38 pm
Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES) & Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, October 1, 2019, 6:45-8:00pm
Location: All Purpose Room @ TPES
7:00 Welcome - WHAT does the PTA do & WHO are we?
Welcome to the first joint meeting of the TPES and PBES PTAs and thanks to both Principals and PTAs for making this happen. We are working to align school events and schedules to help make things simpler for families with children in both schools.
PTA is a partnership between parents and teachers, looking to support our children. Looking through the lens of equity to give all kids the opportunity for enrichment.
TPES Health and Wellness committee has funds from Safe Routes to School 5K and participates in the planning committee for that race. The committee met for the first time last week and is excited to start a meditation and yoga club before school (once a month or once a week depending on interest), and to provide flexible seating options for teachers (e.g., yoga balls, wiggle seats). There is interest in reviving the weekly farm stand and exploring a sensory garden at the school. They are hoping to host a morning coffee opportunity to discuss with teachers. Anyone interested is invited to come to the next meeting, which will be Wednesday, October 23 at 7:30pm at the Girl and the Vine.
The PBES PTA Health and Wellness committee is building on legacy of what’s been done at TPES and PBES around movement and physical activity and trying to do some new things this year. The new things are looking at community building in the context of wellness (e.g., gallery walk at back to school night), fostering social-emotional learning in the context of our children, coordinating with counselors to have families play more of a role in lunch and recess and to create a peer mediation and counseling program, and working to reclaim the PTA closet to turn it into a place where families are welcome to be at school (e.g., having a coffee pot there). If you are looking to be in school and be helpful, would love to have you involved. Safe Routes to School is focused on kids getting to school safely. They have their own mission and projects. The 5K is a big event but so is Walk to School day tomorrow and Bike to School day in May. The more participation there is and the more funds raised in the 5K, the more money goes to the schools. The schools got $6000 this year from the 5K.
7:05 Upcoming Events and Announcements
October 1-October 31: Socktober- donate socks through your child’s classroom
Wed, Oct 2: Walk To School Day
Fri, Oct 4: Early Release for all students; dismissal @ 1:20pm
Wed, Oct 9: No School
Mon, Oct 14: TPES and PBES Open House, 9:30 - 11:00, 2:30 - 3:50
(Opportunity for parents to come into classrooms and observe)
Wed, Oct 16: ESOL Night @ PBES
Sat, Oct 19: PBES Takoma Prom @ Kaldi’s Social House 6-9pm
Thurs, Oct 24: PBES Fall School Photos
Nov 1-26: PBES Read-a-thon & Book Fair (Nov. 4-8)
Tues, Nov 5: PTA Meeting - Power Tools for Power Struggles by PEP 6:45p-8p
Thurs, Nov 7: TPES Fall Book Fair (3:50pm to 8pm) + Kindergarten Literacy Night, 7pm
Mon, Nov 11 & Tuesday Nov 12: Early Release & Parent-Teacher Conferences
Wed, Nov 27: Early Release for all students; dismissal @ 1:20pm
Thurs & Fri, Nov 28 & 29: No School
Tues, Dec 3: PTA Meeting - 6:45p-8p
PTA meetings will be at TPES Nov - Jan and then meetings will go to PBES
7:10 Membership Update
Samer Sadek, VP Membership TPES
Jared Hughes, VP Membership PBES
Please become a member to allow us to continue to do all the great work we have been doing. The more members we have, the more influential we can be with the county, state and national PTA, where many decisions are made.
The easiest way to join is on the website (links at the bottom of these notes). There are many different levels of membership so you can decide what is best for you. If you have joined, please encourage your neighbors to join. The PBES website has a password protected side now, to give members access to the directory so it is a little more complicated to join; it is a 3 step process. If you are confused about the process, please reach out to Jared. Membership at PBES is not just open to parents or guardians; businesses can join that want to support the PTA and will get their logo on the website. Grandparents can join too.
Please come to Chipotle on Monday in downtown Silver Spring from 5:00-9:00pm. 33% of all sales will go to PBES PTA.
7:15 Treasurer’s Report (& PBES Budget Vote)
Kelley Skelton, Treasurer TPES
Amy Gibson-Grant, PBES
PBES PTA had $14,000 to roll over into this year which enabled a strong start to the year. We have big goals this year to support new programming with a proposed budget of $54,223, but realistic goals. We are trying to plan conservatively for all expenses. Baseline budget for the year was presented. As the year goes on, if we raise additional money, we can come back to the membership with updates. There was a motion to vote for budget approval and it passed with the required 2/3 majority.
TPES PTA approved budget last meeting but have some updated actuals from Dolphin gear sales (which have new things, including adult options, to be available for parent-teacher conferences). Only $1600 in membership dues so far this year, but do have 26 donated memberships so if you know someone who needs one, please be in touch with Kelley. The big increase in staff support was due to the Orton-Gilingham training. Please check out the new mural.
7:20 Dolphin Drive
Sasha Johnson, Fundraising Chair TPES
Panther Appeal
Angela Riemer, VP of Fundraising PBES
PBES: Today kicks off the Panther Appeal, starting with a letter that went home in folders today. Thanks to all of the parents who have volunteered so far. The Takoma Prom is on October 19th at Kaldi’s Social House (918 Silver Spring Ave) from 6:00-9:00pm. The space is donated so we get to keep all the money that we make. There are silent auction items and a DJ, and it js a great opportunity to socialize and get to know each other earlier in the school year. It’s open to all adults in the community, you can dress up or dress down. Tickets are $15 for 1, $25 for 2. You are welcome to give more than those amounts. How well we do in the Panther Appeal determines how much we can do the rest of the year.
TPES: As the Panther Appeal winds down, the Dolphin Drive will start (month of November). There will be a couple of dine-outs during the month. With the funds raised, the PTA subsidizes after-school clubs and offers scholarships, provides homework support and support to help teachers get classrooms set up, teacher trainings on reading instruction, purchases backpacks, gift cards and clothing for kids who need it (through Mr. Althofer), supports the 2nd grade graduation and more things that enrich the experiences of our students. We also coordinate child care and provide pizza for these meetings.
7:25 Reading Update: How is the teacher training changing instruction?
Dr. Gadsden and Ms. East
This summer the PTA paid for a trainer who trained many of our teachers (all kindergarten teachers but one and many of the other teachers) on a structured literacy program based on Orton-Gillingham principles. A video was shared of how the training is used in the classroom. The training came together very quickly, thanks to the PTA.
The training is standards with a twist. We can’t abandon what the county says we have to do, so we have to integrate it together with the new concepts. It was seamless to infuse the concepts into kindergarten but was harder for first and second grades. At the beginning of the year, we used their assessments to gather data on the kindergarteners’ abilities and it was very effective (we always gather data but this year used their tool).
The way we are teaching reading as a result is incredible. The basis is to get kids to hear the sounds first before they read them (i.e., understand which words rhyme and how to blend beginning and ending sounds together to make a word). It helps kids first get the basics, before there are even letters. This will be done class-wide for kindergarten and used more sparingly with small groups in 1st and 2nd grade, based on what students need.
We made good use of the resources you’ve given us, and thank you. We are looking for opportunities to get the training for the last kindergarten teacher too.
Thanks given to the teachers who cut their vacation short to do the training.
We have some folks concerned about the SchoolStore fundraiser for the school. It is a passive fundraiser that has been going on for about 10 years. Dr Gadsden needs to know if this is a huge problem or a small problem. We can not do it if it’s a huge problem, but then teachers don’t get the supplies for their classroom. There are other passive fundraisers but they don’t yield as much as this one. She will look for input from us about next month.
Ms. Olsen (2nd grade teacher) had her baby a week early). Unfortunately her class has had 3 subs in 2.5 weeks. The long term sub that was hired is leaving next week because she got a full-time job. To avoid having the kids have yet another substitute in the short time frame, until Ms. Olsen returns on December 10, her class will be split among the other teachers in 2nd grade. If you have a concern or question, please feel free to email Dr. Gadsden.
7:40 Social-emotional curriculum updates at PBES
Mrs. Oberdorf
She is exploring what to do with Orton-Gillingham and is hoping to implement such training.
PBES also does passive fundraising. It is under the radar, has been going on for a long time. Some students participate a lot, some do not. Teachers get things for their classroom and last year they got $500 discretionary principal’s fund.
We are missing a 0.1 PE teacher and so there is a sub co-teaching with the PE teacher until one is hired (hiring not done by PBES).
We invested a lot of money to put Second Step materials in every teacher’s hands for social emotional learning. The county has adopted the Be Well 365 initiative this year, which has a “Be healthy, be kind, be you” motto. Is helping them think about how all programs fit into place at PBES and how to go forward. The program has 6 essential elements; we fit our activities into these and assessed strengths and weaknesses. We did a Panther Pride rally on the 2nd day of school and plan to do this quarterly. It is like a town hall meeting for the school where we talked about core values for the school, reviewed expectations for students and, in future quarters, will talk about goal setting. The leadership team and staff thought it was a great event. It is rare that students can all get together in one place because of space restrictions.
We are continuing our emphasis on Restorative Practice and Restorative Circles, and added in the Second Step program (done as weekly lessons in the classroom by classroom teacher with support from paraeducators and reinforced by specialists and counselors for continuity during the day and year). We celebrated “Start with Hello” as a schoolwide initiative and talked about random acts of kindness. Every Second Step program for each grade has 25 lessons and there is some common language across grades so are some parallels going through the building. Lessons usually run 30-45 minutes per week.
Are seeing great payoff from these materials.We have 1.5 counselors since we have over 650 students, and we have monthly counseling themes.
Thank you for your partnership and we’d love to hear any feedback or suggestions.
8:00 Coat and Costume Swap & Adjourn
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We hope you will join our next PTA meeting. Please reach out to the PTA Board if you have any questions (board@pbespta.groups.io). Thank you!
