Eisenhower High School PTSA October 2011, Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order by President Lori Frymier at 6:30 PM in Room 103.

Principal’s Report:  Stacey Locke reported on the standardized test scores for Eisenhower from last year.  The news was very positive and Eisenhower students performed great.  Some highlights included over 90% of Ike students meeting the standard for writing, and nearly equal performance by Hispanic and non-Hispanic students.  Ike students met the bar established by the federal government in reading, and special education students are doing far better than the state average on writing and other measures.  This data is available on the OSPI website.  Ms. Locke reported Ike’s graduation rate is good.  Also, staff will be using the data carousel method to make adjustments to their current curriculum and practices to help students effectively prepare for testing.  Test data is being analyzed by looking at which students had which teacher and how the student fared. 

Regarding the possibility of a dress code at Ike, Ms. Locke reported the school is shooting for next fall to implement a dress code. It is hoped the code will reduce bullying and inappropriate dress, and cut down on gang issues. A recent gang incident at the school prompted a serious revisiting of the issue. The general idea is to build on the success Washington Middle School has had with a grey, black and white scheme. Courts seem to be siding with schools recently when dress codes have been challenged, and staff, administration and at least 70% of parents favor implementation of such a code. There are details to be worked out, such as having a free dress spirit day each week, and Ms. Locke will continue to work with the parent committee on this issue.

Old Business:  There was no old business

New Business: 

>> Levy: The levy vote will take place next year, and the question is how much it should be for. The district budget has grown from ~$84M to ~$159M, and PTSA should be prepared to get involved in the matter.

>> Senior Party:  Melanie presented a report on her recent meeting for senior parents.  Seven very enthusiastic parents attended and decided to set regular meetings for the second Tuesday of the month in the cafeteria.  The armory has been reserved and Ike is cooperating with Davis again this year.  The gaming license has been secured, and information has been gathered regarding chairs and tables for the yard sale.

>> Reflections:  Amy and Cheryl are working on Reflections, and Amy will contact teachers to drum up interest.

>> Student Conferences:  PTSA will have a table with information and snacks.  Jostens will be providing some samples for seniors.  Lori will bring mini-apples and cookies, and Amy will get the coffee from Starbucks. 

>> Newsletter:  The school will send out a PTSA newsletter for us.  We just need to gather information for it and bring it to the November meeting.  Then we can shoot for a mid-December newsletter.

>> Treasurer’s Report:  There is a balance of $8,964.77, and the treasurer’s report was provided.