April 2010 Extraordinary Meeting

Mount Pleasant Elementary School

Parent Advisory Council
Extraordinary Executive Meeting
Date: Tuesday April 13th 2010
Time: 6:00pm
Location: Mt. Pleasant Elementary School staff room


In attendance:

Voting Members (9): Jane Cobbler (Co-Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co-Chair), Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Colleen Browning (Fundraising Coordinator), Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Kristina Whelton-Davis (Member-at-Large), Mary Frances Hill (Member-at-Large), Ken Wong (Member-at-Large) and Winston Whitlock (Member-at-Large).

Non-Voting Members/Staff (2): Steve Agabob (Principal), Julia Clark (Project Teacher)

Regrets (1): Ganga Jolicoeur (Treasurer)

The meeting was called to order at 6:15pm by Jane Cobbler.

Members of the Mount Pleasant Elementary School PAC felt strongly they needed to hold a extraordinary meeting to discuss the impact the Vancouver Board of Education’s proposed budget will have on our school.

Prior to starting the meeting, Ms. Marsh indicated that several parents had voiced concerns over the last couple of days that they were not receiving enough information from the PAC regarding the proposed budget, PAC meetings, etc. It was decided that Ms. Marsh would email notices and updates to parents on the general PAC email list when she felt it was appropriate to do so.

Vancouver Board of Education Proposed Budget

Parents are invited to view the budget here:
Vancouver Board of Education Proposed Budget

Committee-of-the-Whole Meeting
Those present felt strongly the PAC should present a brief for the Board of Education’s Committee-of-the-Whole meeting being held at Mount Pleasant School on Tuesday April 20th, 2010. The following criteria were discussed:

• Each presentation is 5 minutes
• Submissions must be submitted in advance of the meeting (2 business days)
• Attendees will receive copies of all submissions

Parents were advised the Inner City Advisory Council had concerns about what should be cut should the proposed budget be passed. It was agreed that inner city residents are the most at risk.

Budget Summary
Mr. Agabob went through the budget highlighting some of the proposed cuts that would have the most impact/significance on our school. Areas highlighted included the following sections:

7.0 District Administration

8.0 Transportation

10.0 School Closures

• There are no proposed school closures for the 2010-11 school year. Parents were advised the closing a school the size of Mount Pleasant Elementary School would only constitute a savings of $400 000 yearly.
• Mount Pleasant neighbourhood is projecting an increase in our demographic by
2015

1.0 Instructional Staffing – Teachers

• Jr. Kindergarten is very powerful in inner city schools. The proposed budget suggests eliminating all Jr. Kindergarten within the Vancouver School District.

1.11 Non-Enrolling teachers

• A reduction of 43 positions is proposed
• Includes teacher-librarians, resource teachers, learning assistance/skills development teachers and secondary counsellors.

2.03 Inner City Schools Program

• This affects positions such as our Neighbourhood worker, Renee Davies.
Reductions would be made to staffing positions in schools where there are more
than 1 FTE Inner City School SSA staff.

5.03 Elementary Administration

• The board proposed an attrition system. When a Principal leaves (a school with
less than 200 students) he/she will be replaced with a 0.8 Vice Principal. Vice
Principals are generally at schools in the shorter term.
• There was
discussion and speculation about which schools we would be annexed with. There
was considerable concern that Mount Pleasant would be annexed with a school who
was on the “cusp” of loosing their inner city status or a school that did not
have inner city status. In the event either of those scenarios become a reality,
there is a high probability that Mount Pleasant School will loose it’s inner
city status.

There was discussion and speculation about what would happen if we were able to increase our enrolment prior to school opening in September. Parents were advised that to date, enrolment numbers have been submitted by all schools.

Parents were reminded the class sizes were mandated.

There are 12 inner city schools in the Vancouver School District.

The question was posed: “what is the protocol if you go over enrolment?”

Mr. Agabob highlighted several annexed schools who offer district learning programs. Such programs are not an option for Mt Pleasant School due to our open concept layout.

There was discussion surrounding inviting more outside agencies into our school to assist in various capacities. Julia and Steve have garnered many extra curricular after school programs bearing in mind the following points:

• Programs are generally offered after school and are aimed at keeping children
safe between 3pm – 5pm
• We can not offer programs that take jobs away from union members
• Consistency – we need to be able to offer programs on long-term, recurring bases.

The PAC identified several action items

• Ms. Marsh will distribute a summary from the BCSPE Budget meeting held at the
Vancouver Board of Education on April 12th, 2010
• Ms. Browning will contact Don Davies about the best way to contact our MLA
• It was agreed that although we will support and participate in the Shaughnessy postcard campaign, we need to develop our own letter that takes into consideration how deep and hurtful the proposed cuts will be on inner city schools, home to children who are at risk.
• 5 schools are in the same position as Mt Pleasant. Parents agreed that we should offer the use of our letter to these five schools. Ms. Cobbler offered to look into the best way to do this.
• Ms. Hill suggested individuals write letters to the editor and that we submit our letter to our MLA to the Vancouver Sun Report Card Blog.
• It was agreed Ms. Marsh and Ms. Hill would draft the letter to the MLA and the submission for the Board Meeting on Tuesday April 20th. It was agreed that both would be circulated to the entire PAC for approval prior to their being submitted.
• Ms. Marsh would circulate reminders for the PAC meeting and Budget meeting on April 20th.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:40pm.

March 2010

Mount Pleasant Elementary
School

Parent Advisory Council

Executive Meeting

Date: Tuesday March 16^th 2010

Time: 6:00pm

Location: Mt. Pleasant
Elementary School staff room

In attendance:

Voting Members (6): Jane Cobbler (Co-Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co-Chair), Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Kristina Whelton-Davis (Member-at-Large), Ken Wong (Member-at-Large) and Winston Whitlock (Member-at-Large).

Non-Voting Members/Staff (1): Steve Agabob (Principal)

Regrets (3): Ganga Jolicoeur (Treasurer), Colleen Browning (Fundraising Coordinator), Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator),

The meeting was called to order at 6:15pm by Jane
Cobbler.

Previous Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the January meeting were dispersed electronically prior to the meeting. The minutes were discussed. Ms. Cobbler moved to adopt the minutes. The motion was seconded and passed.

Treasurer’s Report: It was reported that there was no account activity in our Gaming or general accounts.

Members inquired what as to what sort of financial support the school would like from PAC. Three key areas were highlighted:

1. Mount Pleasant’s 5 year Sustainability Initiative


2. Technology, Smart Boards in particular


• Smart boards cost between 3-3.5K each


• The school would like 6 more


3. Camp Artaban 2010

• School covers half camp fees


• Funding through walkathon and inner city allocation

Fundraising: It was reported that Mount Pleasant Elementary would be the recipient of a $1600 2 year Growing Chef’s program. 2 classes, grade 2/3 and grade 7 will be participating. Helen Sortina from Lark Clothing assisted in our receipt of this program.

Mount Pleasant Elementary will be hosting a plant sale and garage sale at Mount Pleasant Days, which is held yearly on the school grounds. Volunteers are required to assist in all areas of both the garage and plant sales. In particular, we require volunteers to assit with donation pickups, general set-up and sales.

It was reported that a representative of the Lions Club did not feel there would be a conflict if Mount Pleasant pursued the Christmas tree chipping event next year. It was decided that the parking lot of the Kingsgate Mall was the ideal location to hold this event.

Other Business: There was a brief discussion of the proposed Board of Education budget planning process. Mr. Agabob advised parents that the Province decides how much money to allot to school districts and individual districts are then required to allot the funds producing a budget with no deficit.

The BCCPAC will be holding a budget meeting on April 9^th 2010.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:30pm.

Mount Pleasant Elementary School

Parent Advisory Council

Member Meeting

Date: Tuesday March 16^th 2010

Time: 6:30pm

Location: Mt. Pleasant Elementary Classroom

Guest Speaker: Laurie Cassie, Grade 6/7 teacher, Livingston Elementary School.

The meeting was immediately called to order at 6:35pm, at which time Ms. Cassie began her Smart Board presentation. Ms. Cassie provides smart board training to teachers throughout the province.

Using examples from students and teachers, Ms. Cassie demonstrated the ease of use and functionality of the smart board. Smart boards can be used like whiteboards or blackboards with the increased functionality of having object-based software and internet connectivity.
Teachers are better able to pre-plan their lessons and students are able to present more interactive projects and presentations.

Ms. Cassie advised parents that children using this technology have been demonstrating better memory retention and improved attention in class. The technology allows for more engagement
within the classroom.

Smart boards require Smart Notebook software, provided by Smart Technologies. Parents are able and encouraged to download a copy of the Smart Notebook software from the Smart Technologies website at www.smartechnologies.com. Once the software has been downloaded, users must input an activation code, which is provided upon request to all parents/caregivers of children attending school in the Vancouver School District. A copy of this code is available on the PAC notice board in the main entrance to the school.

In addition to her hands on demonstration, Ms. Cassie discussed the costs and durability of the smart boards. She advised parents that the smart boards used within the Vancouver School District are manufactured in Calgary. Smart boards are prolific in the UK, US and Australia.

School Report:

Due to time constraints, Mr. Agabob was unable to discuss the school report. Copies were distributed to parents to read at their leisure. Please see attached.

Other Business:

Kristina Whelton-Davis (Member-at-Large) discussed the Neighbourhood Small Grants project. A member of the steering committee for this project, Ms. Whelton-Davis distributed flyers and
encouraged parents to apply. Funds could be used for one time events or recurring events in the community. Deadline for applications is March 31^st 2010.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:40pm

School Report to PAC
March 16^th 2010

Submitted
by: Steve Agabob and Julia Clark

March 2^nd

• 20 Japanese Language Students visited MTP for the morning.


• Andrea Hotomanie is our new First Nation Student Support worker.
  We have 27 FN students.

March 3^rd

• Class photos taken.

March 10^th

• Spring break begins.

March 12^th

• Paralympics start. Several families received Paralympic event/opening
  tickets.

March 15^th

• School resumes


• Roller blading begins for two week stretch for all classes.


• Vancouver Police here at lunch Monday and Tuesday to roller
  blade with Grades 4/5


• Recycling being undertaken for milk containers in the lunch room.

March 25^th

• A to Z performance for Primary students at 9:00am

March 29^th

• Report Cards go home.

March 30^th

• Newsletter home.

March 31^st/April 1^st

• Student led Conferences. School closes at 2:00pm


• April 1^st SMMO Motivation Concert @ 10:30am

April 2-5

• Easter

April 14^th

• Pink Shirt Day

April 19^th/20^th

• Technical Rehearsal for Sustainability Play


• Next PAC meeting

Looking for parent Volunteers for Mount Pleasant Days Garage Sale on the first Saturday in June. Well work with Julia Clark.

Looking for parent Volunteers to help with Welcome
to Kindergarten on May 5^th, 2010 (90 minutes approximately).

Thanks to Douglas and Randy for providing the child minding
for this evening.

MTP PAC March 2010

February 2010

The February PAC Meeting was cancelled.

January 2010

Mount Pleasant Elementary School

Parent Advisory Council

Executive Meeting
Date:  Tuesday January 19^th 2010

Time:  6:00pm

Location:  Mt. Pleasant Elementary School staff room

 

In attendance: 

 

Voting Members (7):  Jane Cobbler (Co-Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co-Chair), Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Colleen Browning (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Kristina Whelton-Davis (Member-at-Large) and Winston Whitlock (Member-at-Large).

 

Non-Voting Members/Staff (2):  Steve Agabob (Principal) and Julia Clark (Project Teacher).

 

Regrets (1): Ganga Jolicoeur (Treasurer)

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:15pm by Jane Cobbler.

 

Previous Meeting Minutes:  The minutes from the December meeting were circulated. Ms. Cobbler moved to adopt the minutes. The motion was seconded and passed.  It was agreed that effective immediately, the PAC would no longer circulate paper meeting minutes.  Minutes will only be circulated electronically unless otherwise requested.

 

Treasurer’s Report:  It was reported there was $2250 in the Gaming account and $1293 in the general account.  Members were advised that gaming funds are predominantly used to cover the costs of camp fees.

 

Fundraising:  The January tree chipping event raised $1300 for the school.  The chipper owner/operator also donated his fee.  There was a brief discussion about how we could ensure Mount Pleasant School be the recipient of this event or a similar chipping event next year.  It was brought to the attention of the members that the Lions Club runs a similar annual fund raiser.  As Mount Pleasant is a recipient of many Lions fundraising initiatives, it was decided this discussion would be followed up with a Lions Club representative.

 

Other Business: 

1)   Security: there were concerns raised regarding multiple entry and exit points throughout the school, allowing easy access for strangers and those not affiliated with the school.  It was suggested that the school have only one accessible entry point.  After much discussion, it was decided that one entry point was not feasible at this time.

2)   Restroom Taps: it was brought to the attention of the members that the taps in the children’s restrooms were difficult for the children to manipulate and as such they were unable to adequately wash their hands.  It was suggested the school install sensor/automatic taps (auto on and off).  Because this was felt to be a health and safety issue, Mr. Agabob suggested obtaining an estimate to retrofit one set of taps in each the boys and girls restrooms.

3)   Seismic Upgrading: members inquired as to when Mount Pleasant was scheduled for a seismic upgrade.  Mr. Agabob advised that there was currently no set date, adding that schools are retrofitted based on a district wide “seismic ladder”.  Schools are reviewed on a district basis, based on the age of the school and the costs associated with bringing individual schools up to code.  Parents were advised that the covered playground areas have already been retrofitted.

 

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 6:30pm.

Mount Pleasant Elementary School

Parent Advisory Council

Member Meeting
Date:  Tuesday January 19^th 2010

Time:  6:30pm

Location:  Mt. Pleasant Elementary Library

 

In attendance: 

 

Voting Members (12):  Jane Cobbler (Co-Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co-Chair), Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Colleen Browning (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Kristina Whelton-Davis (Member-at-Large), Winston Whitlock (Member-at-Large), Divina Vega/Benigno, Viviene Rodriguez, Nora Enginio, Neneth Shela and Rubidia Gutierrez

 

Non-Voting Members/Staff (2):  Steve Agabob (Principal) and Julia Clark (Project Teacher).

 

Special Guests (1):  Dave Derpak (Principal – Vancouver Technical Secondary)

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:35pm.

 

Guest Speaker:  Mr. Dave Derpak, Principal of Vancouver Technical Secondary School

 

Mr. Derpak provided Mount Pleasant parents with an overview and history of Vancouver Technical High School (Van Tech) in an attempt at easing parents fears of sending their children to a large high school.  Van Tech, home to 1700 students and 136 staff, embraces grade 8 students, opening only for them on the first day of the school year.  Groups of 10 grade 8 students are assigned one base leader (mentor) who assists them for the entire school year.  The mentors are formally trained in the summer; funding for training and mentoring program is provided through a school grant.  Grade 8 students are also provided with their own space in the cafeteria, referred by the students and staff as their “base space”.  Mr. Derpak provided parents with paper copies of the school profile and a current course planning guide.  Both are on file in the parents section of the Mount Pleasant Elementary School library.  For more information on all that Van Tech has to offer, visit their website at http://vantech.vsb.bc.ca/.  Mr. Derpak also encouraged parents to email him with any questions, comments or concerns at dderpak@vsb.bc.ca. 

 

School Report: 

 

Mr. Agabob highlighted some of the events and contributions made by and for students at the school (please see attached).  Parents were informed about Early and Middle Developmental Indicators that took place in January.  The school Volleyball teams placed well in the city finals.  Students were looking forward to seeing the Olympic torch bearer in February and were busy making banners, etc.  A set of red Olympic mittens were donated to each child in the school by Jon and Joy Phillips.  Ms. Clark invited parents to join a book binding workshop being held on Friday January 29^th from 12:30-4:30pm. 

 

Other Business:

 

There was no new/other business presented.

 

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 8:00pm??

School Report to PAC

 

 

January 19^th, 2019                                                        Submitted by: Steve Agabob and Julia Clark

 

January 2010

 

Ø       Students returned to school following Winter Break on Jan. 4^th

Ø       Three student teachers working in Divisions 7, 4 and 3

Ø       Fruits delivered to all classes as part of Provincial participation in fruits and vegetable program.  Part of a Healthy School Plan

Ø       Volleyball final held.  Senior boys and Senior girls and Junior boys

Ø       Four students attended a student leadership conference on sustainability Jan. 7^th

Ø       Leadership assembly held on Jan 8^th

Ø       Nobody’s Perfect and Effective Parenting courses started Jan 18^th

Ø       Artist in Residence, Jody, working with all students on Sustainability art through January

Ø       Shaun and Judy working with Div. 2 and 3 on sustainability play production

Ø       Students walked to Nightingale Elementary for Goh Ballet presentation Jan. 15^th

Ø       Code Yellow Drill held Jan 18^th at 1:30

Ø       MDI completed Jan 18^th with grade 4’s

Ø       House games underway each Tues. and Wed for intermediates at lunch

Ø       Community Rec (UBC) meets with 10 students each Friday at lunchtime on Leadership, sport and fitness

 

February 2010

 

o      Students to meet the Olympic Torch Bearer in Mount  Pleasant area on Feb 11^th or 12^th

o      Olympic assembly on Feb 12^th led by division 4

o      FSA administration Feb

o      Chinese New Year Feb. 14^th

o      Next PAC meeting Feb 16^th @ 6:30

o      Reading week at MTP Feb 15-19^th

o      Newsletter home Feb. 23^rd

o      All day Olympics in our gym on Feb 24^th

 

 

5

MTP PAC January 2010

December 2009

MOUNT PLEASANT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Parent Advisory Council

Executive Meeting

Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Time: 6pm

Location: Mount Pleasant Elementary School Staff Room

 

Present: Jane Cobbler (Co Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co Chair), Ganga Jolicoeur (Treasurer), Winston Whitlock (Member at Large).

Non Voting Members/Staff (2):  Steve Agabob (Prinicipal), Julia Clark (Special Projects Teacher)

Regrets (3): Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Colleen Browning (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator).

The meeting was called to order at: 6:05pm by Jane Cobbler.

Previous Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the November 24^th meeting were circulated. Ms Cobbler moved to adopt the minutes. The motion was seconded and passed.

Treasurer’s Report: It was determined that Ms.Jolicoeur did not need to submit a report as there has been little financial activity. Ms.Cobbler did provide Ms.Jolicoeur with the bank statements for October/November. Ms.Cobbler reported that $2250 had been received from the Provincial Gaming Account (50% of what had been received in previous years). As of November 30^th the general account had a balance of $707.43. On Dec 9 a deposit of  $588 was added. Ms.Cobbler handed in a receipt for the gift that was purchased for Mr.Crecere (exchange teacher from Australia who is returning to his home school) for an approx. value of $118.

Fundraising: Jackie Ingram to report during the PAC meeting. Mr.Agabob announced that approx. $1500 were raised at the Wine Tasting Fundraiser at Lark. In addition Mr.Agabob reminded the executive of the upcoming Tree Chipping and Popcorn Sale at Kingsgate Mall on January 3^rd. Volunteers are needed. Proceeds from the event will go to Mount Pleasant Elementary.  A notice will go out to all parents.

Other Business: Julia Clark mentioned that Laurie Cassie, a member of the school board, is willing to offer a talk for parents on the applications and potential of the Smart Board. MTP now has three Smart Boards and accompanying technology. Interest was expressed. Ms.Clark to confirm with Laurie Cassie.

Mr.Agabob noted that the Principal of Van Tech will speak to parents on the transition from primary to secondary at the Jan 19^th PAC meeting. Sheryl Palm (former secretary) dropped off the working binders for  the present secretary with Mr.Agabob and forwarded the gaming application to him. This will be forwarded to the Treasurer.

 

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:30pm

 

 

MOUNT PLEASANT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Parent Advisory Council

Executive Meeting

Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Time: 6pm

Location: Mount Pleasant Elementary School Staff Room

In attendance:

Voting Members (4): Jane Cobbler (Co Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co Chair), Ganga Jolicoeur (Treasurer), Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Winston Whitlock (Member at Large), Raine Forbes, Mary Frances Hill, Kristina Welton Davis, Caroline Capangli, Mauricio Gardone (sp), John Alexander Smith, Cheryl Allan, Walter Le Daca, one other member (name unrecognizable – original attendance sheet kept as a matter of record).

Non Voting Members/Staff (4):  Steve Agabob (Prinicipal), Julia Clark (Project Teacher), Paul Crecere (Division 4), Annabelle Pendry (Teacher Librarian)

Regrets (3): Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Colleen Browning (Co-Fundraising Coordinator)

 

Guest Teacher: Paul Crecere (Division 4)

Paul Crecere, an exchange teacher from Australia gave a farewell presentation with information on his home school in Canberra Australia; on the notable differences between his home school and MTP and on the wonderful experience he has had at MTP. The presentation was touching and memorable. In addition, Mr.Crecere presented the school with an Australian Aboriginal Art Piece for the office. It is a beautiful piece of Aboriginal point art representing clans and his connection to MTP and the community. PAC, in turn, presented Mr.Crecere with a good bye present and a heartfelt thank you for his time and dedication. Mr.Agabob also said a few words of deep thanks to Mr.Crecere.

Julia Clark announced the reading week in February (Feb 16/17/18) and encouraged all parents to make time to attend this valuable and wonderful program in partnership with UBC. Ms.Clark explained that MTP and UBC have a long standing partnership which includes Reading Week as well as the Literacy Mentor Training Program. Reading week will bring in over 50 volunteers to MTP. The program is in it’s 5^th year and its 2^nd year as a school wide initiative. The theme this year is sustainability. Each class will create a project based on this theme. One volunteer will be posted to each class to aid and/or lead the project. It is a process oriented, rather than product oriented program culminating in an assembly on the 18^th of February. A possible evening event may be announced as well. Ms.Clark was able to secure an Olympic related grant that will help support some of the events around reading week as well as other activities. MTP will hear about the push toward greening the Olympics as part of this grant. Business Object, a company with a strong mission statement about direct community involvement and a specific commitment to MTP will act as project leaders around reading week and other events that Ms.Clark is working on.

Guest Speaker:  No guest Speaker

 

Fundraising: The wine and cheese tasting event at Lark in December was a wonderful success and raised $1500 for MTP. Ms.Ingram did point out that if the event is to be repeated next year it may be good to find a larger space. The Heritage Hall was suggested as a possible alternative.

 

Other Business: Jackie Ingram and Raine Forbes shared information about Mt.Pleasant Neigbours.org – a group that has been formed to address the proposed social housing project at Fraser and Broadway. The group is concerned with the size (11 stories being proposed), scope, structure of the proposed housing project and would like the city to hear these concerns. A petition has been circulated and any support that can be given to the process would be appreciated. This is not a push to reject the project as a hole as the group is in support of social housing throughout Vancouver.

 

School  Report: Mr.Agabob mentioned some of the important events and contributions that were made in December including the Boys’ and Girls’ Club Santa Breakfast, Skating with Santa, Christmas Hampers put together by West Side School for MTP families and the social and Global charity and food bank fundraiser that the students at MTP carried out very successfully in December.

Mr.Agabob announced the new superintendent, Steve Cardwell,  for VSB.

A program for parents, Nobody’s Perfect, will begin in the new year. This is in partnership with Mount Pleasant Community Centre.

Three teacher candidates from UBC have been given extended teaching practicum’s at MTP.

The Super Science Club was discussed and parents were encouraged to send testimonials for the program as a way to communicate it’s positive contribution for participating students.

 

Adjournment: the meeting was adjourned at ?

 

 

November 2009

Mount Pleasant Elementary
School

Parent Advisory Council

Executive Meeting
Date: Tuesday November 24^th 2009

Time: 6:00pm

Location: Mt. Pleasant
Elementary School staff room

In attendance:

Voting Members (5): Jane Cobbler (Co-Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co-Chair), Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Colleen Browning (Co-Fundraising Coordinator) and Winston Whitlock (Member-at-Large).

Non-Voting Members/Staff (1): Steve Agabob (Principal).

Regrets (2): Ganga Jolicoeur (Treasurer) and Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator).

The meeting was called to order at 6:20pm by Jane Cobbler.

Previous Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the October meeting were circulated and read by Ms. Marsh. Ms. Cobbler moved to adopt the minutes as read. The motion was seconded and passed.

Treasurer’s Report: As Ms. Jolicoeur was absent, it was agreed the treasurer’s report would be tabled until December’s meeting.

Fundraising: The upcoming Wine Tasting fundraiser being held at Lark clothing was discussed. Ms. Browning felt strongly the event would sell out. Ms. Browning advised members that Mount Pleasant Elementary would be the recipient of funds raised from the Mount Pleasant Business Improvement Area’s “Christmas Tree Chipping for Charity” event being held at the Kingsgate Mall on Sunday January 3^rd 2010. Members were advised that at least 6 volunteers
would be required between the hours of 10am-4pm. Dane from Lark Clothing was instrumental in having our school as the beneficiary of this event. The members briefly discussed fundraising ideas and issues. Due to time constraints it was suggested that fundraising be tabled for the next meeting.

Other Business: Mr. Agabob advised members of some of the various types of funds allocated to the school through the Lions and other organizations. Funds have been used towards the school’s sustainability project, eco-system awareness and technology.

Mr. Agabob briefly described the school’s new computer lab and the school’s shift toward digitization.

Adjournment: Due to time constraints, the meeting was
adjourned at 6:30pm.

Mount Pleasant Elementary School

Parent Advisory Council

Member Meeting
Date: Tuesday November 24^th 2009

Time: 6:30pm

Location: Mt. Pleasant Elementary Library

In attendance:

Voting Members (14): Jane Cobbler (Co-Chair), Abdul Ahad (Co-Chair), Lisa Marsh (Secretary), Colleen Browning (Co-Fundraising Coordinator), Winston Whitlock (Member-at-Large), Cheryl Allen (Member-at-Large), Kristina Whelton-Davis (Member-at-Large), Eva Borkowska, Caroline Gapangli, Alwin Benigno, Divina Vega, John A. Smith, Shamim and Kareem Alrubaii.

Non-Voting Members/Staff (3): Steve Agabob (Principal), Julia Clark (Project Teacher) and Darlene Kennedy (Teacher, Division 3, grades 3 & 4)

Special Guests (2): Ann Thomas (YMCA Supervisor) and Agela Ko (Community Engagement Facilitator).

Regrets (2): Ganga Jolicoeur (Treasurer) and Jackie Ingram (Co-Fundraising Coordinator).

The meeting was called to order at 6:35pm by Jane Cobbler who immediately introduced the first of three guest speakers.

Guest Teacher: Darlene Kennedy, Division 3, grades 3 & 4

Mrs Kennedy discussed Mount Pleasant Elementary School’s participation in the Artist in Residence program. Mount Pleasant is in it’s second year of this program with Dancer/Artist/Director/Singer Sean Phillips. The membership viewed a short video clip of last
year’s performance. This program has been instrumental in increasing confidence in students by encouraging them to become more vocal and visible. The program includes a high degree of involvement on behalf of all students and strives to incorporate school goals such as social responsibility and sustainability. Mrs. Kennedy advised parents that writer Judy McFarlane will be working with Mr. Phillips and the students in the upcoming year and that as part of her commitment to social responsibility, Judy will be making a documentary of her involvement
with the project.

Guest Speaker: Ann Thomas, Supervisor, YMCA Out-of-School Care

Ms. Thomas described her childcare program, which has been located in the school for 10 years. Her vision of the YMCA centre is to build strong kids, families and communities in partnership with the school. Ann advised parents the childcare facility is open 7:30am – start of school and from 3:00-6:00pm Monday – Friday (accommodating 12:00 dismissal on Fridays), and from 7:30-6:00pm on professional development days. The centre currently has low enrolment
and is at risk of closing. Parents requiring childcare or who knew of other parents who require childcare were encouraged to see Ann, who had registration and information packets available. Ann can be found in school between the hours of 7:30-6:00pm Monday – Friday.

Guest Speaker: Angela Ko, Community Engagement Facilitator, City Hall Planning Committee.

Ms. Ko described in detail the Mount Pleasant Planning Program. The program consists of many elements including but not limited to: shopping area development, residential area development and social planning (where it pertains to land use and key social issues within the community). Through various surveys and meetings, the committee has identified the 4 key concerns of Mount Pleasant Residents as: Supprot for the vulnerable, public safety and security, open drug use and sex trade and homelessness.

Ann advised parents that the last planning session for the Mount Pleasant area took place in 1987 and encouraged all parents to attend workshops and meetings. Ann sought ideas on how to increase community participation at these events and expressed interest in holding meetings/workshops at the school. Parents were encouraged to contact Ann or the City Planning Program at City Hall.

Fundraising/Volunteers:

Colleen Browning (Co-Fundraising Coordinator) reminded parents that tickets were still available for the Wine Tasting Fundraiser at Lark Clothing, adding that the event would likely sell out.

Ms. Browning advised all parents of the Mount Pleasant Business Improvement Area’s “Christmas Tree Chipping for Charity” event being held at the Kingsgate Mall on Sunday January 3^rd 2010 (as noted above). Families were encouraged to volunteer for this event - at least 6 volunteers would be required between the hours of 10am-4pm. A sign up sheet will be placed on the PAC bulletin board near the office. Ms. Browning advised all parents of Dane’s (from Lark Clothing) involvement in having Mt. Pleasant Elementary the beneficiary of this of this event and advised parents a thank you card on behalf of the Mt. Pleasant Elementary School PAC would be appropriate. All those in attendance agreed.

School Report:

Due to time constraints, Mr. Agabob was unable to discuss the school report. Copies were distributed to parents to read at their leisure. Please see attached.

Other Business:

There was no new/other business presented.

Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:15pm

School Report to PAC

November 25^th 2009 Submitted by: Steve Agabob

October 2009

• Volleyball started
• Soccer ended. Junior boys 5^th, senior girls
  4^th. City wide
• Computer, Hip Hop, BLG, Homework, Cooking and Science Clubs
  continued
• Peer Leaders continue
• Great Pumpkin March on October 28^th
  Pedestrian Safety presentation by VPD on October 29^th
  

November 2009

• Kindergarten registration began
• Student Teachers: Michael and Andrea finished November 30^th
• Student Led Conferences held on November 3/4
• Book Fair. Library made $1500.00
• Photo retakes done November 9^th
• Fruits and Vegetables November 10^th and 25^th
• Remembrance Day assembly November 10^th
• Public Health taught hand washing to Ms. Shiell’s and Ms.
  Kee’s classes Nov. 10
• Dental Screening on Nov. 16^th
• Divisions 1, 2 and 4 to the Symphony November 17^th
• Code Red Drill on November 20^th
• Vision Screening November 23^rd
• Olympic Assembly and Intermediate Fitness Testing Nov. 23^rd
• Newsletter Home Nov. 24^th
• Amanda Nahanee – Aboriginal Story teller here for classes on Nov. 24^th
• PAC meeting Nov. 24^th
• Grade 3’s to Fire House Nov. 25^th
• Division 1 to Van. Public Library Nov. 26^th

December 2009

• Wine tasting fundraiser Dec. 4^th
• Volleyball Finals Dec. 7^th
• Fruits and Vegetables Dec. 8^th
• Skate with Santa Dec. 9^th
• Reports home on Dec. 14^th
• PAC meeting Dec. 15^th.

AGM October 2009

Mount Pleasant Elementary School

Parent Advisory Council

Annual General Meeting
Tuesday October 20^th 2009

 

In attendance: 

 

Voting Parents (26): Jane Cobbler (Chair), Abdul Ahad, Lisa Marsh, Ganga Jolicoeur, Colleen Browning (Fundraising Coordinator), Jackie Ingram, Cheryl Allen, Linda Tam, Roxanna Azad, Winston Whitlock, Carol Whitlock, Mary Francis Hill, Kristina Whelton-Davis, Mauricio Garduno, Scellena Kamruzzaha, Dr. Abu Ali Khan, Shamim Tariq, Alvin Benigno, Divina Vega, Caroline Gapongli, Mara Enqunin?, Abul Azad, Amena Aktersumi, Loc Tran and Makit Furn… (??)

 

Past Parents (1): Sheryl Palm (Secretary)

 

Staff (4):  Steve Agabob (Principal), Julia Clark (Project Teacher), Jug Sidhu (Teacher) and Renee Davies (Community Worker).

 

Regrets:  James Xue (Treasurer)

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:30pm.  Jane Cobbler welcomed parents and thanked them for their attendance.  Ms. Cobbler briefly discussed the impact of the provincial gaming cutbacks (Ministry of Housing and Social Development – Gaming and Enforcement) from $20 to $10 per enrolled child allotted to BC PAC’s. 

 

Ms. Cobbler went over the remainder of the Agenda with those present.  There was a motion to accept the agenda which was seconded and approved. 

 

Jane Cobbler and Sheryl Palm reviewed the minutes of the previous (June) meeting.  Key issues at the time were spending the remaining gaming funds, fundraising ideas and how to get more parents to attend PAC meetings.  There was a motion to accept the meeting minutes which was seconded and approved.

 

As the current Treasurer, James Xue was absent, Jane Cobbler and Sheryl Palm briefly outlined the PAC’s current financial position.  It was agreed that a treasurer’s report would be presented at the next meeting.

 

Guest teacher, Jug Siduh, discussed the roles and benefits of student teachers in the classroom.  He emphasized how student teachers are a necessary part of the teaching profession and how they enhance the school with their energy, “fresh eyes” and manpower.  Mr. Siduh advised parents that student teachers begin gradually in the classroom increasing to up to six weeks full time teaching.  Parents were assured that classroom teachers ensure all the required curriculum is covered.

 

Steve Agabob introduced himself and discussed the key goals at Mount Pleasant as literacy, family and social responsibility.  Introductions of all present followed. 

 

Julia Clark and Steve Agabob presented their school report (see attached), highlighting key activities from September and October and drawing attention to those activities and events that will be taking place henceforth, up to and including the next PAC meeting on November 24^th 2009.  Key items included:

·       the current 196 student breakdown:  27 children who identify as First Nations, 27 children with Ministry Designation and 73 ESL children from 29 countries and with 25 different languages. 

·       students raised a record $2300 for the Terry Fox Foundation

·       participation in the Fruits and Vegetables program enabled the school to apply for and receive a grant for a new refrigerator

·       Wild BC (Pathways to Sustainability) provided classroom teachers with science kits and lesson plans on ecology which have been a great benefit in the classroom

·       Fire drills, earthquake drills, Code Red (a threat to children within the school) and Yellow (a threat to children outside the school) Drills were described.  A parent expressed concerns that drills (in particular code red and yellow) may cause insecurities and fears among the younger children.  Mr. Agabob advised all parents that such drills were a VSB initiative and that children were provided with more context than the drills themselves in the classrooms and throughout the school prior to each drill taking place.  Following the discussion, a parent mentioned that there was a code yellow a couple years ago at the school.  The parent was thankful for the drills as her child (a primary student) felt comfortable and knew what to do.  Another parent suggested that the school explore having only the main entrance unlocked.  Mr. Agabob mentioned that this idea had been explored in the past.  It was agreed that the idea would be addressed at a future meeting.

 

After a brief description of the duties of each position, Rene Davies and Jane Cobbler called to order the nominations of the 2009-2010 PAC Executive.  The results were as follows:

 

Jane Cobbler – Co-Chair

Abdul Ahad – Co-Chair

Lisa Marsh – Secretary

Ganga Jolicoeur – Treasurer

Colleen Browning – Fundraising Co-Coordinator

Jackie Ingram – Fundraising Co-Coordinator

 

Members-at-Large:  Cheryl Allen, Linda Tam, Roxanna Azad, Winston Whitlock, Carol Whitlock, Mary Francis Hill, Kristina Whelton-Davis and Mauricio Garduno

 

Outgoing Secretary Sheryl Palm thanked Steve Agabob for his commitment to the school and making her family’s time at the school a very positive experience.  She presented him with a Canadian flag from the House of Commons.

 

Colleen Browning briefly described an upcoming wine tasting fundraiser that will be hosted by Lark Clothing, located in the Mount Pleasant Community on December 4^th 2009.  A significant portion of the proceeds of this event will be donated to the school.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30pm.

 

School Report to PAC

 

 

October 20^th 2009                                                        Submitted by: Julia Clark and Steve Agabob

 

September 2009

 

Ø       School opened on September 8 (196, 27, 27, 73, 29, 25)

Ø       New staff since last meeting:  Jennifer McFarlane (Resource Teacher Tues., Wed. and Thurs. pm) May Dalgliesh (Secretary – 1 day each second week)

Ø       Fire Drill September 18

Ø       Meet the Teacher Night September 22

Ø       Terry Fox Run September 25

Ø       Strong Start opened September 28

Ø       Fruits and Vegetable Program started September 29

Ø       Wild BC Pro D September 30

 

October 2009

 

o      Pathway to Sustainability begins October 1

o      Student Teachers: Michael, Andrea, Bonnie, Liam, Rupert start at MTP October

o      Family Groups on Code of Conduct October 8

o      Brazilian Drummers and Dancing October 9

o      Homework, Super Science, Cooking and Hip Hop Clubs begin

o      Earthquake Drill October 13

o      Peer Leaders started October 19

o      BLG starts October 21

o      Provincial Pro D October 23

o      D.E.A.R on October 26 (National School Library Day)

o      Pumpkin March and Halloween celebrations October 26-30

o      Proposed Immunization October 27

o      Pedestrian Safety Presentation October 29

 

November 2009

 

Ø       Kindergarten registration for 2010 2011 begins

Ø       Student Led Conferences November 3 and 4

Ø       Student Photo Retake Day November 9

Ø       Remembrance Day Assembly November 10 at 10:30

Ø       Remembrance Day – School closed November 11

Ø       Carousel Theatre comes to MTP November 12

Ø       Audiology testing for Kindergarten students November 16

Ø       Code Red Drill November 18

Ø       Vision screening for Kindergarten November 23

Ø       Next PAC Meeting November 24^th at 6:30pm

MTP PAC AGM Minutes October 2009                            Page 1 of 4