Author Archives: cjwheeler5

PAC Meeting Agenda for Thursday, January 3, 2013
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ~ Art Room

Since there are many items on the agenda each month, if your name is listed below, please come prepared to discuss your topic in a timely manner since we want to keep the meeting within the time frame.
Thank You for your cooperation!

• PAC photo for Memory Book – Please come at 5:55 and meet on the staircase with your SMILE!

• Treasurer’s Report (Wendy Cropsey)

• Staff and Technology Updates (Mrs. Czech)

• Brain Bowl – February 5/6 – (Mrs. Kurkiewicz, Connie Wheeler)

• February Parent/Teacher Conferences—meal planning (Michelle Wagner)

• Cookie Dough Fundraiser Update – (Michelle Gloudemans)

• Artist in Residence – April – (Michelle Gloudemans, Michelle Wagner)

• Staff Book Fair – February (Stephanie Piepenburg)

• School Sock Hop Dance – March 1 (Erin Lenhardt, Heather Phillips)

• Family Fun Night – March/April (Rosann Sky, Jenni Wilson, Erin Lenhardt)

• Back to School Kits – Do we want to do? Last year PAC made $34.00

• Paper Recycling Update from December (Connie Wheeler)

• Teacher Wish List Book/Requests (Connie Wheeler)

• New Business

Babysitting is provided by Freedom High School National Honor Society students during the meeting. If you have any questions or comments, please call Connie Wheeler at 788-5961.
Next PAC meeting: Monday, February 4, 2013 at 6:00 – 7:30 pm in Art Room.

Treasurer’s Report – Wendy Cropsey handed out a sheet with the balance information.  Current Balance equals $10,152.89.  We have not had the teacher Request for Reimbursements come through yet. 

Committee Sign Up Sheets – Connie Wheeler stated we have a list of our fundraisers and committees and handed out the Sign-up Sheets again for the new people in attendance.

Staff and Technology Updates – Mrs. Czech was unable to attend.  Connie Wheeler stated they are looking into getting security cameras on the grounds, one camera in each of the halls and one camera in parking lots.  In addition, they are going to update the computers in the lower room down the hall (used by the lower grade children) from the Art room.  Some of the classroom computers will move down to this room and then the classroom would get a new computer. 

Parent/Teacher Conference Meals Update – Michelle Wagner did not attend.  Connie stated we think the meals went great.  Sue Mannebach sent out “Thank you” cards, on behalf of P.A.C. to the individuals that brought in a food item. 

AVON Update – Stephanie Piepenburg was not in attendance – Wendy Cropsey stated Avon Profit was $5,191.93.  Profit was up approximately $500 from last year.  We received 50% of the sales.  154 families participated, 6 staff members participated, 401 individual customer orders. We had earmarked the AVON money for Artist in Residence program.    If you have any feedback on AVON, please contact Connie Wheeler or Stephanie Piepenburg.

Staff Book Fair – Stephanie Piepenburg was not in attendance.  She coordinated the Staff Book Fair last year.  Connie stated that last year, we sent home a note to request children’s books donations, used books in good condition.  All the donations were placed into the staff lounge and the teachers could pick books for their classrooms.  The teachers loved it and the variety.  The dates will be announced soon.

Cookie Fundraiser – Michelle Gloudemans stated that we are at about $7200 in sales to date.  Please note, since this meeting, our sales totaled over $20,700!!!!  We will be receiving 40% of the sales.  Watch for more information re: prizes and distribution date.  Deadline to turn in orders is Thursday, November 15th.  PAC is sponsoring a pizza party to the classroom who sells the most cookie dough. 

Paper Recycling Update – Connie Wheeler stated we made almost $500.  She believed it was one pick up a day.  We make $100 a ton.  We do it 4 times a year and the next one is at the end of December.

Artist in Residence – Mrs. Touchet, Music teacher attended.   She stated that in our last meeting that we thought staying local for an artist was best.  She looked into the Madison Brass and has had them come years ago (over 20some years ago) and they did a great job.  The Brass Quintet comes and does workshops (1/2 hour, show instruments, play themes, age appropriate) in the morning and concert at 1:30 p.m. for about 45 minutes, in the afternoon for the whole school.  A whole day would be $1200 plus travel, about $1500 for the whole day.  She stated it’s a very well-known group and high quality.  She was also going to contact Jon Delaney to see if the other schools, Middle and High School, could utilize them.  She is looking at the dates in April for availability (11th and 17th of April).  She mentioned possibility of purchasing some instruments (bigger drums possibly).  Maybe start with this.   Since Michelle Wagner was not in attendance, Connie will also see if Michelle Wagner researched Lawrence and St. Norberts as an additional resource.  Michelle Gloudemans will follow up on Ron Arbouletta (sp?), Move to the Groove.  We would like to expand upon the Madison Brass idea.

Sock Hop – Connie Wheeler stated she wanted to get to the folder from last year’s events.  Erin Lenhardt and Heather Phillips will be assisting with the event.  The event will be Friday, March 1.  We used to charge $10 a family, but are going to use the profits from the Cookie Dough Fundraiser, so that there will be no charge for individuals to attend this event.  Families can bring canned goods as a donation.  We then donate canned goods to the Food Pantry.    Normally the DJ was $150.  We are hoping to purchase raffle prizes on sale and obtain donations.  Each raffle prize item will be approximately $5-$10.  The money collected from the raffle tickets goes to the Food Pantry.  Connie has 3 big rolls of bubble wrap for the multi-purpose room.  Bubble Wrap is usually placed on the floor of the multi-purpose room so that the younger kids can run and jump and play on it.

Brain Bowl – Connie Wheeler is coordinating and she talked to Mrs. Kurkiewicz re: and picked February 5th and 6th, first Tuesday and Wednesday of the month.  Mrs. Czech approved the dates.  Connie asked Mrs. Czech if there was anything the teachers have been requesting or what she thinks would be a good use of the funds raised.  Mrs. Czech stated the teachers have been bringing up needing bins for balls instead of bins in the hallways.  John Seegers is looking into something local that could make something and will get back to Connie.  They will need something durable and long lasting. 

Family Fun Night – Rosann Sky and Erin Lenhardt will be assisting in the planning.  There are about 20 people who volunteered to help with the assist.  The event is tentatively planned for April 5th.  We’ve done Bingo, YMCA, Comedy (last 2 years), and Badger Sports.  Maybe we find what went well and just rotate the ideas.  Erin will be e-mailing the individuals who volunteered. 

Teacher Wish Lists – We sent home a note this time to parents re: the Wish Lists and informing them about the Wish Lists.  It went over well.  P.A.C. had tables in the lobby area with the Teacher Wish Lists.  The dye cuts were available for parents to write down the ideas from the Teacher Wish Lists.  The Teacher Wish List Book is in the office, on the counter on the right hand side and viewable/accessible to parents. 

Teacher Requests – Nothing came in new beyond reimbursements.  Mrs. DeGroot’s Request came in.  She ordered the basketball item.

New Business –Michelle Graf mentioned she said all the bullying posters are not setting a good image.   Michelle would like to change it to focus on what to do and be proactive.  Michelle Graf wants to understand more about the program.  She would like it to say “compassion zone” and it can be demonstrated.  Michelle will talk to Karen Baumgartner re: the posters and the message.

Connie mentioned that U.S. Cellular did a campaign to call communities and offered to donate $1 million to schools during the fall.  A parent contacted her re: if we could participate in this U.S. Cellular campaign.  We missed it this year (September 14th – October 21st) and maybe we should think about it for next year.  Individuals had to vote for your school online through U.S. Cellular, get a voting card from the school prior to calling in.  This campaign was open to K-12 schools, private or public. Greenville was number 18 on the list last Connie heard.  U.S. Cellular was awarding prizes for the top 18 schools. 

Connie asked that all people come to the next meeting, the January 13 meeting.  Our group photo will be taken. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Connie Wheeler, P.A.C. President, at 920-788-5961.

Meeting notes recorded by Michelle Gloudemans, P.A.C. Vice President

Facebook: “Like” us on Facebook at Freedom Elementary P.A.C. (Parents Activity Committee)

P.A.C. Website: Please go to http://www.freedompac.org and enter your e-mail address in the subscribe field and you will receive postings on the website including the meeting agendas and notes.

We do not meet in December.  Our January meeting is set for Thursday, January 3, Room 22 (Art room), 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.  The PAC photo for the Memory Book will be taken.  Free babysitting is provided by the Freedom High School National Honor Society. Please come join us!

PAC Meeting Agenda for Wednesday, November 14, 2012 

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ~ Art Room

Since there are many items on the agenda each month, if your name is listed below, please come prepared to discuss your topic in a timely manner since we want to keep the meeting within the time frame.  Thank You for your cooperation!

• Treasurer’s Report – (Wendy Cropsey) 
• Committee Sign Up Sheets for 2012-2013 – (pass around during meeting) 
• Staff and Technology Updates – (Mrs. Czech) 
• Parent/Teacher Conference meals Update – (Michelle Wagner) 
• AVON Update – (Stephanie Piepenburg) 
• Staff Book Fair – (January or February) – (Stephanie Piepenburg) 
• Cookie Fundraiser – (Michelle Gloudemans) 
• Paper Recycling Update – (Connie Wheeler) 
• Artist in Residence – Update on Information (Sue Rudolph, Michelle Gloudemans, Michelle Wagner) 
• Sock Hop – (February 1st) – (Erin Lenhardt, Heather Phillips) 
• Brain Bowl – (February) – (Connie Wheeler) 
• Family Fun Night – (April) – Ideas? (Rosann Sky, Jenni Wilson, Erin Lenhardt) 
• Teacher Wish Lists – (Connie Wheeler, Rosann Sky) 
• Teacher Requests that have come in to approve – (Connie Wheeler) 
• New Business

Reminder: We do NOT meet in December.  The PAC photo for Memory Book will be taken at the January meeting.  Babysitting will be provided by Freedom High School National Honor Society students during the meeting.

If you have any questions or comments, please call Connie Wheeler at 788-5961.

Our next meeting will be Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 6:00 pm.

Treasurer’s Report – Wendy Cropsey stated that there was no significant change from last month.  The current balance is $4,548.82 after $11 deposit (raffle donation) from Open House.

Committee Sign-Up Sheets for 2012-2013 – Connie Wheeler distributed the Sign-Up Sheets for Committees. 

Staff and Technology Updates – Mrs. Czech, Principal, was unable to attend the meeting.  Karen Baumgartner, Guidance, stated they are working on getting a Technology Committee.   

Fall Student Appreciation – Kim Schuller coordinated the event.  The Student Appreciation days were on October 2 and 3.  Students received Cheez-it bags purchased by PAC.  Kim stated that there are a few students that have a Soy allergy and as a result were unable to have the Cheez-its.  There was a note that was sent home telling parents about the snack. 

Parent/Teacher Conference Meals – Michelle Wagner is coordinating.  Connie stated that the date of the Conferences changed to November 7 & November 8, not November 6.  The date changed due to voting.  The Conferences date change was discussed and approved at the Staff meeting on Monday, October 1.    We put on a meal for the teachers due to not being able to go home before the 3:30 p.m. conferences begin.  PAC will be offering Chili and Sub sandwiches along with a variety of other items.  We will let those parents that volunteered to bring in a food item for the November 6, know about the change to November 8. 

AVON in October – Stephanie Piepenburg is coordinating this fundraiser.  Books and order forms were sent home.  It’s a big fundraiser we do this time of year.  It goes until October 15.  Stephanie stated she didn’t call for any help yet.  Stephanie is hesitant to reach out to the Helping Hands List b/c she wants someone familiar with it to run the event next year and going forward.  Stephanie stated that she would like to train someone on coordinating the event next year since she only has one left in elementary next year.  Connie volunteered to help out and if no one volunteers to run it.  Stephanie passed around a sign up sheet for people to collect the orders from the office and count the money/match against orders and then return to the office.  There were 3 people that volunteered from the PAC meeting.  Wendy Cropsey asked that the payout amount to Avon should not be the same amount and split into 2 different amounts on the checks for easier tracking on her end.

October Staff Meeting – Connie Wheeler stated that PAC served an ice cream sundae bar to the Teachers in their Staff meeting.  During the Staff meeting, Connie reviewed the Wish List that the teachers complete and the Request for Reimbursement process.  Each teacher receives up to $100 from PAC for supplies for their classroom (non-consumable items). 

Helping Hands List – Michelle Gloudemans completed.  The Helping Hands List will be distributed to those Committee coordinators.  Due to many parents turning in multiple Helping Hands Lists, it was recommended putting on form for next year that only one form per family is necessary.  Thanks Michelle for your time.

Nature Center – Connie Wheeler stated we’ve always done a work day in the fall.  She stated that George VanWychen came and cut down the weeds a couple days ago.  We are waiting on adding bark due to the wetlands discussion/outcome behind the NatureCenter.  We are waiting to see what the springtime brings for the NatureCenter.  This will be our first spring after the drainage tiles were removed from the fields behind the NatureCenter.  We decided to not schedule a work day at this time.

Artist in Residence – Mrs. Touche is one of our music teachers that presented a couple ideas.  She presented something with Hunk-Ta-Bunk-TA Music assembling, Music and Movement.  She felt it looks interesting and she wants to ask for more information.  Mrs. Touche also mentioned a multicultural assemble by David Blonski, from CA, and can do workshops.  She stated that looked interesting and fun.  She mentioned we’ve also had Madison Brass come and teach the kids about brass instruments, concert at night for the public.  Street Beat Assemblies, from CA, is about repurposed materials.  Different types of assemblies, coming from CA.  Something very different is having the Opera for Young come from Madison.  Select students would perform with them.  Mrs. Touche would prepare the students.  She stated it was professionally well done.  She stated it was very good for kids. However, only select children could perform.  Mrs. Touche and Michelle Wagner will look into local groups further and report at the November meeting.

Sock Hop – February – Committee Members were not arranged yet.  Connie stated that the Sock Hop Dance is usually on a Friday night.  It was decided that February 1 looks the best b/c it has the least amount of games throughout the weekend.  The Sock Hop is usually before Brain Bowl Fundraiser.  Connie stated the event will go from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.  More will be discussed at the November meeting.

Brain Bowl – Connie will check with Mrs. Kurkiewicz and Mrs. Rutton regarding their coordination.  As of now, pencil in February 5 and 6 for the Brain Bowl.

Family Fun Night – Committee Members were not arranged yet and will look into further.  April 5 is right after spring break and that date seems to be a good idea.  We may consider hosting it at BadgerSportsPark this year.  Connie will e-mail the committee from last year and inquire as to their thoughts/idea.

Cookie Fundraiser – Connie Wheeler stated that we are not going to be doing the Entertainment Book fundraiser at the School due to the Middle School doing this fundraiser and were unaware at the time that we decided to do the fundraiser.  Michelle Gloudemans stated we are still able to proceed with the Cookie Dough Fundraiser if we want to do so.  Michelle mentioned the success that Hortonville, Kaukauna, Wautoma and Oshkosh have had with this fundraiser.  We are aware of the Girl Scouts cookie sales in March and the Soccer/Baseball Food fundraiser.  This Cookie Dough fundraiser could replace the Cookie Dough and Dessert promotions/sales from the Market Day fundraiser.  The profit would be 40% of sales.   The Company also offers special promotions to help with the sales.  Michelle will contact the Middle/High School/St. Nicholas and see if any group there is hosting a Cookie Dough fundraiser this fall.  Since we do not have Market Day (and the special Cookie and Dessert promotions) and the Sock Hop and Family Fun Night events will be free to families, the motion was approved that we will proceed with the sale, provided no other local group is selling Cookie Dough over the next few months. It was also approved that PAC would offer a Pizza Party to the class that sells the most cookie dough.  The plan is to sell within the first week or two in November, for one to two weeks, with distribution of the Cookie Dough prior to Christmas Break. 

Teacher Wish Lists – Connie stated in previous years the Teacher Wish Lists were ready for the parents for P/T conferences in November.  This was a wish list by the Teachers of items for less than $20.  The problem is that not many parents know it is available.  Connie stated Mrs. Czech approved PAC to distribute a flyer/note to parents telling them about a table in the Lobby/entryway with all the Teacher Wish Lists available.  A flyer will go home prior to P/T conferences.  The Book Fair will be taking place in the library during Conferences along with the Avon orders in the Storybook Room.  We can also put it out on our Facebook page.  It was decided that PAC will put a table out in the Lobby/Entryway with a Display Board, Christmas tree and have some candy on the table.

Teacher Requests to Approve – Connie stated there were no requests at this time.

New Business – Connie stated that Trista Holz, last Artist-in-Residence, came to the school last week and showed samples of her glass pendants with the Freedom Irish logo.  We are able buy the pendants for $6.50 and sell them for $15.  This could be another fundraiser for school.  Mrs. Czech was fine with that.  Sue Rudolph is fine selling them during her spring March Art fundraiser.  Connie asked do we want to do another fundraiser.  We decided to table this until January 2013.

Meeting notes recorded by Michelle Gloudemans, P.A.C. Vice President

Facebook: “Like” us on Facebook at ‘Freedom Elementary P.A.C. (Parents Activity Committee)’

Website: Please go to http://www.freedompac.org and enter your e-mail address in the subscribe field and you will receive postings on the website including the meeting agendas and notes.

Our next meeting will be Wednesday, November 14, Room 22 (Art room), 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Free babysitting is provided by the Freedom High School National Honor Society. Please come join us!

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Connie Wheeler, PAC President, at 920-788-5961.

PAC Meeting Agenda for Tuesday, October 2, 2012 ~ 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ~ Art Room

Since there are many items on the agenda each month, if your name is listed below, please come prepared to discuss your topic in a timely manner since we want to keep the meeting within the time frame.  Thank You for your cooperation! 

• Treasurer’s Report – (Wendy Cropsey)
• Committee Sign Up Sheets for 2012-2013 – (pass around during meeting) 
• Staff and Technology Updates – (Mrs. Czech) 
• Fall Student Appreciation – October 2 & 3 – Report (Kim Schuller, Carrie Witt) 
• Parent/Teacher Conference meals for November 6 & 7 (pass sheets around) – (Michelle Wagner) 
• AVON in October – Do you have enough help? – (Stephanie Piepenburg) 
• October Staff Meeting – report (Connie Wheeler) 
• Helping Hands list – (completed copies) (Michelle Gloudemans) 
• Nature Center – Do we need to schedule a work day? – (Karen Baumgartner, Connie Wheeler) 
• Artist in Residence – Ideas? (Sue Rudolph, Michelle Gloudemans) 
• Sock Hop (Feb), Brain Bowl (Feb), Family Fun Night (April) – Set dates / Ideas for Family Night 
• Cookie Fundraiser – (Michelle Gloudemans) 
• Teacher Wish Lists – Any new ideas to get the info to parents (Connie Wheeler, Rosann Sky) 
• Teacher Requests that have come in to approve – (Connie Wheeler) 
• New Business

Free babysitting is provided by Freedom High School National Honor Society students during the meeting.

If you have questions or comments, please call Connie Wheeler at 788-5961.

Our next meeting will be Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at 6:00 pm.

Treasurer’s Report – Wendy Cropsey, Treasurer, reported that the balance of our account is $4,537.82.  We will have upcoming expenses with the $100 gift for all Teacher Requests for Reimbursements.

Committee Sign up Sheets – Sheets were passed around for those individuals wishing to volunteer their time/talent on a committee.  If you would like to volunteer for anything, please complete the “Helping Hands” sheet that was given out during Open House in the registration folder or stop in the school office to pick up an additional sheet.

Staff & Technology Updates – Mrs. Czech, Principal, stated that there were no new hires to the school.  She stated that Mrs. Hastie moved to 3rd grade and Mrs. Thiel moved to Kindergarten.  Mrs. Czech stated that there were changes made to the parking lot that resulted in losing 32 parking spots.  Walkways were added.  In addition, all 4th grade teachers were trained this past summer in keyboarding. 

Teacher Requests – Mrs. Wilson, Kindergarten teacher, stated that the Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers would like PAC to purchase “Pencil Grips” for all students.  The anticipated cost is approximately $400.  These Pencil Grips will allow the students to be trained on the proper way to hold a pencil.  It will help them learn how to print faster and help with their hand/finger fatigue.  Mrs. Braunschweig, Reading Specialist, has experience with similar Pencil Grips and stated that the Pencil Grips would probably not be reusable after the year and as a result new Pencil Grips would need to be purchased for a cost of $400 each year.  PAC proposed that the teachers send a letter to Pre-K and Kindergarten parents requesting them to pay $2 for the Pencil Grip.   In addition, it was proposed that for the next school year that these Pencil Grips would be added to the School Supply List, similar to how the Assignment Notebook is listed. 

Paper Recycling – Connie Wheeler reported that the next Paper Recycling Drive will take place on Monday, September 24th – Sunday, September 30th.  A flyer has since gone home with students.  Dumpster will still be along the edge of the front parking lot. 

Fall Student Appreciation – Connie Wheeler stated that twice a year PAC recognizes the students by giving them a food item.  We decided that on Tuesday, October 2nd and Wednesday, October 3rd, we will distribute the food items in the classrooms.  Kim Schuller is coordinating this event.  She will look into possibly purchasing ice pops from Sam’s Club. 

Flag Football Concessions for September and October – It was mentioned that the past concessions have been quite a bit of work and a time commitment for the Coordinator.  In addition, most families are there only 1.25 hours for the one game and can eat/drink before or after the game.  We understand there are some families who have more than one child playing a game and as a result are there for 2.5 hours.  The students playing football usually receive a snack/drink at the end of each game.  As a result, PAC decided that we will not proceed with sponsoring the Concessions.

Entertainment Book/Cookie Dough Fundraiser – The plan was to distribute the Entertainment Books/Fundraiser information on Monday, September 17th, to the classrooms.  Amy Lahay mentioned that the MAPSS group (the parent/teacher group) at the Middle School will be selling them this year beginning October 15th.  As a result, Connie Wheeler and Michelle Gloudemans will look into further re: if we should proceed or not with the Fundraiser.  They were unaware that there was another group that would be selling the books.  (Over the course of the week after the meeting we received confirmation that the MAPSS group at the Middle School and a Choir group at the Senior High School will be selling books.  As a result, we will not be proceeding with this fundraiser; however, we will be sending home flyers to our parents on how to purchase the books if interested.

Parent Teacher Conference Meals for November – Michelle Wagner is coordinating the meals on the nights of Tuesday, November 6th and Wednesday, November 7th.  She distributed the volunteer sheet.  On Tuesday, November 6th PAC will sponsor a Sandwich meal and on Wednesday, November 7th, PAC will sponsor a Chili/Soup meal.  Michelle will be sending out e-mails as the dates get closer looking for further volunteers to bring a food item.  Michelle will also plan to bring the sign up sheet again to the October PAC meeting if there are additional or different individuals in attendance.

November PAC Meeting date – The November meeting date was originally planned for Wednesday, November 7th.  However, that is one of the nights of parent/teacher conferences.  As a result, we will reschedule the meeting for Wednesday, November 14th.  Please make note of this change!

Avon Fundraiser – Stephanie Piepenburg is coordinating this year; however, she is looking for someone to take the lead for next year.  The tentative dates for the Avon books to be sent home will be September 27th.  The plan is for the funds raised to go towards the Artist-in-Residence program or other areas if necessary.  The sale dates will run from October 1st through October 12th.  Delivery of the products is scheduled for November 5th and will possibly be placed in the Story Book/Library room.  Stephanie will confirm that it is acceptable.  Stephanie is looking for volunteers to distribute the items. 

October Teacher/Staff Meeting – Connie Wheeler stated that PAC will serve ice cream and explain PAC to the staff members on October 1.  We will also hand out the new Request for Reimbursement form and discuss how the reimbursements (after the $100) will need to be educational related vs. simply classroom needs (furniture). 

Helping Hands List – Michelle Gloudemans will complete the data entry for the list.  This will then be given out to the various PAC committee leaders.  The plan is to have the information compiled by September 24th.

Teacher Requests – It was decided that teachers/PAC could work in conjunction to request donations for various items that a teacher would like for his/her classroom, such as rugs/tables, etc.  PAC also will give teachers $100 once receipts are submitted.  Thereafter, then PAC will vote on approving additional expenses/requests. 

Mr. Menting purchased Reading Bins in August 2011 and forgot to submit the Request for Reimbursement until May 2012.  PAC did pay out the amount in June 2012 b/c there was not a deadline at the time for all submissions. 

Mrs. DeGroot requested a Steel Basketball Hoop for her Kindergarten Enrichment Room.  Last year her husband made a hoop out of PVC material, however, it was determined that it was not sturdy enough.  She would like to purchase a Steel Basketball Hoop for $100.  Motion Approved.

Mrs. Rennes had requested reimbursement for $50 from Brain Bowl (last year’s promotion) for materials for a sensory table.  Connie will check on if there is still a need and if so, if Mrs. Rennes could possibly ask for donations.

List of Revenues and Expenses– It was discussed in May that parents may not be as familiar with PAC and what we do, where we raise money and how we spend it.  As a result, Connie, Michelle and Wendy worked in conjunction to develop a form that would show the information.  This form was distributed to the youngest and only children.

New Business – Stephanie Piepenburg asked Mrs. Czech if she could step in and assist with updating the District website with our Elementary School fundraisers.  Stephanie has worked with Kathy Lorge, Technology Director, in the past; however, there were never any updates that made it onto the District website.  As a result, Mrs. Czech will give the information (such as listing Paper Recycling Drive, Avon Fundraiser, Brain Bowl) to the right person to get the information out on the District website.

Meeting notes recorded by Michelle Gloudemans, PAC Vice President

Facebook: “Like” us on Facebook at ‘Freedom Elementary P.A.C. (Parents Activity Committee)’

PAC Website: Please go to http://www.freedompac.org and enter your e-mail address in the subscribe field and you will receive postings on the website including the meeting agendas and notes.

Our October meeting is set for Tuesday, October 2, Room 22 (Art room), 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Free babysitting is provided by the Freedom High School National Honor Society. Please come join us!

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Connie Wheeler, PAC President, at 920-788-5961.

PAC Meeting Agenda for Monday, September 10, 2012 

6:00 pm – 7:30 p.m. ~ Art Room

Since there are many items on the agenda each month, if your name is listed below, please come prepared to discuss your topic in a timely manner since we want to keep the meeting within the time frame.  Thank You for your cooperation! 

• 6:00 – Welcome Back and Introductions
• Treasurer’s Report – (Wendy Cropsey) 
• Committee Sign Up Sheets for 2012-2013 – (pass around during meeting)
• Staff and Technology Updates – (Mrs. Czech)
• 6:30 – Paper Recycling / September dates – (Connie Wheeler) 
• Fall Student Appreciation – set date for October – (Kim Schuller, Carrie Witt) 
• Flag Football for September & October – Do we want to continue? 
• Entertainment Books / Cookie Fundraiser in September – (Michelle Gloudemans, Connie Wheeler) 
• AVON fundraiser in October – Need a Coordinator to train with Stephanie – (Stephanie Piepenburg) 
• 7:00 – October Staff Meeting – PAC will serve Ice Cream and explain PAC & requests – (Connie Wheeler) 
• Parent/Teacher Conference meals for November 6 & 7 – (Michelle Wagner) 
• Helping Hands list (complete in 2 weeks) – (Michelle Gloudemans) 
• Teacher Requests that have come in to approve – (Connie Wheeler) 
• Teacher Requests form / List of Revenues & Expenses – (Connie Wheeler) 
• New Business 

Free babysitting is provided by Freedom High School National Honor Society students during the meeting.

If you have questions or comments, please call Connie Wheeler at 788-5961.

Our next meeting will be Tuesday, October 2, 2012 at 6:00 pm.

Do you have just a few hours next week to volunteer?

The Butterfly Garden located near the Nature Center at the Freedom Elementary School needs to be weeded.  The past few years it has been forgotten and needs help to survive.  We have plans to prevent further weeds to grow in the future but in order to do that we need to get rid of what is there first. 

Times that I am available next week are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. if you could join me we could get it done much faster.  If these times don’t work and you would still like to volunteer, please still contact me.  We need to have it done before summer school because the gardening class will be coming out there to explore.  This class will be taking part in some of the weeding during summer school.

If you are available to help, please contact Connie Wheeler at 788-5961 or cjwheeler73@gmail.com.

Thank You for your time!

Eagle Scout Project – Dawn Van Wychen spoke on behalf of Luke H. who did not attend the meeting.  Dawn stated that the Playground Equipment Shed for the Pre-K/K playground is anticipated to cost approximately $1500.  Luke would like to build the Shed this summer.  He has discussed the school/teacher needs with Mrs. Lonzo and other staff members.  The Project Proposal has already been submitted to the Bay Lakes Council.  P.A.C. voted to approve partial funding of $500.  Luke will be contacting Wendy Cropsey, Treasurer, for the money.

Treasurer’s Report – Connie Wheeler spoke on behalf of Wendy Cropsey who was unable to attend.  Connie stated that the balance in our account is approximately $4700.   Upcoming expenses include Recognition Awards for the Related Arts teachers and gift cards for the babysitters from the National Honor Society, cost forPaper Drive signage, and any small cost the 5th Grade Celebration.  Upcoming minor deposits will include the last Market Day dollars.

Committee Sign Up Sheets for 2012-2013 – Connie Wheeler passed around the sign up sheets for next year’s P.A.C. led events/fundraisers.  She will also be sending an e-mail out for additional volunteers.

Babysitting clinic update – P.A.C. decided to pass all information on to the Middle School Parent/Teacher group due to the primary students involved would be 6th-8th graders.

Nature Center – YMCA Classes/Butterfly Garden – Connie Wheeler stated that the YMCA classes are being held and going well.  Mr. Awe will be having summer school classes on gardening and will use theButterflyGarden with maintaining (pulling weeds).  Mr. Kirk Schuh will be spraying theButterflyGarden for weeds.

Staff & Technology Updates – Connie Wheeler spoke on behalf of Mrs. Czech who was unable to attend the meeting.  Connie stated there were no retirees in the Elementary School staff and no hiring for next year.  They District is currently interviewing for the Superintendent position.

Artist-in-Residence Update – Michelle Gloudemans stated that the frit, used to complete the background in the large glass mural project, was back ordered.  It is anticipated to arrive/be completed within the next week.  We are hoping to have the large glass murals installed the week of May 14th.  Michelle also submitted information to the Apples Family Magazine and is waiting to hear from them re: their interest in publishing a story about our Artist-in-Residence Program.  The District also recognized P.A.C. with a “Moment in Merit” for their work with the Artist-in-Residence Program.

Back-to-School Kits Report – Melanie Thiel, who is coordinating the Back-to-School Kits, did not attend the meeting.  There should be a flyer from the company that will be sent home with students this next week to promote the school kits.

Student Appreciation Report – On Wednesday, May 2nd, students received a GIANT Popsicle on behalf of P.A.C.  The Popsicles cost about 30 cents more per 768 Popsicles than anticipated.  The Popsicles were intended to be solely for students and not parents and teachers.  As a result, we ran short.  Next year, we will be putting the treats (according to their student census numbers) in a bag for each classroom to distribute.  We will also be separating the treat from the Shape Up walk to ensure students understand that the Popsicles are for the Student Appreciation Day from P.A.C. and not for completing the Shape Up walk.

Staff Appreciation Week Report – Michelle Wagner stated that she was pretty well set for volunteers bringing in food for the week of May 7th.  P.A.C. volunteers brought in food on Monday, May 7th; Thursday, May 10th and Friday, May 11th.

Fifth Grade Celebration – May 30 – Dawn Van Wychen stated that the event is handled.  The event will be held in the cafeteria for students.

Last Day of School Recognitions/Retirees – P.A.C. will be recognizing certain individuals and retirees with a gift card.  Michelle Gloudemans will follow up with Mrs. Czech re: the Gift Card for Mrs. Cuff.  We will also be recognizing the Related Arts Teachers (Reading Specialists, Gifted and Talented, Art, Music, Phy Ed and Guidance).  Carrie Witt will take care of purchasing the gift cards for the 10 teachers.  Connie Wheeler will take care of purchasing the $5 Subway gift cards for the babysitters from the H.S. National Honor Society (around 10 students).

Paper Recycling Drive – For the March Paper Drive we collected 3.67 tons that was paid out at $100 per ton, totaling $367 profit.  Thenext Paper Drive will be Friday, June 1st at 9 a.m. – Friday, June 8th at 2 p.m.  P.A.C. motioned to approve Connie Wheeler to purchase weather proof signs up to $100 total.

Market Day – April’s profit was $145.  The month of May will be our last sale due to declining profits over the months/years.  Individuals can still order Market Day through the website and determine their own pick-up site.

2012-2013 Meeting Dates – Meetings were set for Monday, September 10th; Tuesday, October 2nd; Wednesday, November 7th; Thursday, January 3rd; Monday, February 4th; Tuesday, March 5th; Wednesday, April 3rd and Thursday, May 2nd. 

Orientation/Open House – The Pre-K/Kindergarten Orientation is set for Wednesday, August 22nd.  We will need volunteers to speak in the classrooms on behalf of P.A.C.  The Open House (Find Your Classroom) will be held on Thursday, August 30th, from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m.  Michelle Wagner will be setting up informational tables and raffle/prize tables.  She will be purchasing about 6 prizes at less than $10 per prize, unless we have parents donate new items.  Michelle Gloudemans will be handling the “Helping Hands” List for the next school year. 

Teacher Requests – No new requests.

Teacher Requests (for reimbursement/purchase) for 2012-2013 School Year – Connie Wheeler, Michelle Gloudemans and Wendy Cropsey re-worked the form for the request for reimbursements.  It was presented at the meeting and minor adjustments were made.  The intention is to make the reimbursement process run smoother with additional deadlines for submitting requests.  Connie Wheeler will distribute the form at the October Teacher/Staff meeting and discuss the process.

PAC Balance Sheet Project – Michelle Gloudemans created a Statement of Cash Flow document which will be sent home in later May, with students for parents to review.  Wendy Cropsey will be filling in the form with the appropriate numbers. It will also be shared with Mrs. Czech and Mrs. Cuff/District individuals.  The intention is to make individuals more aware of the assistance that P.A.C. provides to the teachers/students and the hope is that more individuals will want to participate in P.A.C. sponsored events and have a voice in how the money is distributed to the school/community.

Meeting notes recorded by Michelle Gloudemans, P.A.C. Vice President

Facebook: “Like” us on Facebook at Freedom Elementary P.A.C. (Parents Activity Committee)

P.A.C. Website: Please go to www.freedompac.org and enter your e-mail address in the subscribe field and you will receive postings on the website including the meeting agendas and notes.

Our September meeting is set for Monday, September 10th in the Art Room, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Free babysitting is provided by the Freedom High School National Honor Society.  Please come join us!

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Connie Wheeler, P.A.C. President, at 920-788-5961.

PAC Meeting Agenda for Thursday, May 3, 2012 ~ 6:00-7:30 p.m. ~ Library

Since there are many items on the agenda each month, if your name is listed below, please come prepared to discuss your topic in a timely manner since we want to keep the meeting within the time frame.  Thank You for your cooperation!

Eagle Scout Project – What amount do we want to fund?

Treasurer’s Report – (Wendy Cropsey)

Committee Sign Up Sheets for 2012-2013 – (pass around during meeting)

Babysitting Clinic Update (hold off until fall?) – (Mrs. Austin, Connie Wheeler)

NatureCenter– YMCA Classes /ButterflyGarden- (Connie Wheeler)

Staff and Technology Updates – (Mrs. Czech)

Artist in Residence Update – (Sue Rudolph, Michelle Gloudemans, Amy Lahay)

Back to School Kits Report – April / May – (Melanie Thiel)

Student Appreciation Report – (Kim Schuller, Jon Delany)

Staff Appreciation Week Report – (Michelle Wagner, Dawn VanWychen)

Fifth Grade Celebration – May 30 – (Dawn VanWychen, Andrea Schwaller, Tammy Handschke, Carrie Witt)

Last Day of School Recognitions / Retirees  – (Carrie Witt, Connie Wheeler)

Paper Recycling profit for March / June dates / sign prices – (Connie Wheeler)

Market Day – April Profit / May Promo (Last Month) – (Amy Lahay, Connie Wheeler)

Set Fall Meeting Dates / Fall Events – Open House / Helping Hands list – (Connie Wheeler)

Teacher Requests that have come in to approve – (Connie Wheeler)

Teacher Requests for 2012-2013 school year (discuss and vote) – (Connie Wheeler)

List of Revenues/Expenses sent home to parents (discuss and vote)

New Business –Battleof the Books List – (Stephanie Piepenburg)

Babysitting is provided by Freedom High School National Honor Society students during the meeting.  If you have questions or comments, please call Connie Wheeler at 788-5961.

This is our final PAC meeting for this school year.  Please join us after the meeting at ‘The Field House’ (The Field of Scenes).