Members in Attendance: Bruce Japsen, Mike Hudson, Aimee Brown, Alison Radecki, Julie Richards, Susan Boin, Tricia Luzzader, Jim Ingraffia, Mike Frank, Joe Burke
Staff in Attendance: Father Romo, Al Ackermann, Sarah Casavechia
Absent members: Jen Cleland, Eileen Neville
Opening Prayer was read. This year board members will bring in the prayer on a rotating basis.
Eileen Neville has resigned from the board effective immediately due to time commitment issues. Board members, administration will canvass for a replacement for the remaining two years of her term.
Principal’s Report:
A sales tax exemption letter and supply list are being sent out to families today. An email regarding the new lunch program will be sent tomorrow. Parents can order and pay online. Lunches will be made at St. Ben’s and driven over. The rooms on floors 1 and 2 have been painted and the teachers are working to spruce up the main school entrance. New fire alarms have been installed and tested. Jim McCabe and Dan Stafford were instrumental in getting a grant to cover this. The Library has been moved to the nurses’ lounge and the Bingo room in the gym will be the temporary music room. Scheduling is complete and has taken room changes into consideration. We will have many DePaul students in our building this year, including student teachers in Math, Kindergarten and Gym. Dr. Schwartz will be facilitating this program again this year. Teachers will have in-service days August 16- August 24th. This year the focus will be on curriculum mapping, writing and religion. Also, Michelle Roberts will be working on the language arts curriculum, as well as bringing a focus to our non-excel students.
Al is attempting to forge a relationship with the Bell Center to help us provide greater services to our students with special needs. He will be holding more coffee with the principals this year to allow parents an opportunity to talk with Al and Sarah in an informal setting. Ice Cream Social is August 19 from 4-6. Hopefully, calendar and directory will be out then. Al pointed out that the board and administration have a great relationship at this point, due in large part to board president Bruce Japsen. This year’s enrollment is 450. We still have room in grades 3, 4, and 5. Our 8th grade class is at 24. New students have been invited to meet with Al and Sarah prior to the 1st day for an informal getting to know you interview. This year’s extracurricular activities will include Chess, Mandarin Chinese, Karate, Irish step dancing and Spanish Club.
Committee Assignments:
Development: J. Richards
Marketing: J. Ingraffia
Finance: J. Burke
Facilities:
Events:
Calendar:
Additional committee ideas should be brought to September meeting.
Potential committee members should be identified from our community based on interests. Julie Richards will be meeting with Al and Sarah to find ways to improve parent volunteers, including possible changes to next year’s contract signing.
Development: Julie Richards spoke about changes in development. Fundraising will be consolidated and the Golf Outing and Wearing of the Green will be the two main pointes of purchase for all friend raisers. Additionally, 8th grade parents will not be responsible for the money for the class trip to Washington, D.C. However, they will be required to support development events, whose proceeds will pay for the trip. Volunteers are needed for the Golf Outing on September 25, 2010.
Pastor’s Report: Sister Caritas has left and her responsibilities have been reassigned. Janet Cobb is now Coordinator of Religious Education. Nathaniel Stubblefield is working with Sarah C to develop a new Confirmation program. There is a possibility of a new associate priest joining us from India for a year. Finance council is working with our business manager to sort out the budget. Business manager may be hired full time and Capital campaign may be put on hold until we get a handle on the budget and parish revenue increases. Participation in parish directory has been smaller than anticipated, so a final push will be attempted in September.
Members in Attendance: Susan Boin, Paul Bryar, Jen Cleland, Mike Hudson, Jim Ingraffia, Bruce Japsen, Tricia Luzadder, Alison Radecki
Staff in Attendance: Father Sergio Romo, Principal Allen Ackermann, Assistant Principal Sarah Casavechia, Pre-school teacher and Director of Curriculum Maribeth Lynch, Middle School Math Teacher Patricia Danielak
Absent members: Aimee Brown, Joe Burke, Mike Frank, Julie Richards
Opening Prayer was read.
Introduction of New Board Member – Dr. Paul Bryar was introduced. He is filling the recent vacancy on the school board, and he is a parent with two daughters at Saint Andrew School, in third and fifth grades. He will serve for two years.
Bruce encouraged board members to focus on agenda to keep board meetings moving so they can be finished in a timely manner.
It was noted that board meetings will generally be on the second Tuesday of each month with the exception of October 20th.
Teacher’s Report
Maribeth Lynch reported that the teachers began curriculum mapping in June, with guidance from the archdiocese, and these efforts will be continuing throughout the school year. The initial focus is on Language Arts for all grades, and the middle school specialties next. This is an exciting new process that will allow the school to continually review and understand exactly what is being taught in the classroom each year. It will also be an invaluable tool for new teachers entering the school.
She also reported that St. Josaphat was recently named a Blue Ribbon School, recognizing top 10% Terra Nova scores in the nation and outstanding academics and programs. We were very close to qualifying, but we missed the hurdle in one or two of our test scores out of 14. They hope to qualify for this award next year.
Academic bowls will be a new option for middle school students. These take place at area high schools, and give students and extra boost for their applications to high school.
Field trips will strictly be tied to curriculum this year, and they are being scheduled now. History Alive is a new social studies program for 3rd through 8th graders (introduced in middle school last year). We will have to pay for this ourselves, as we no longer get the $4,200 per year from the state grant.
Principal’s Report
Mr. Ackermann reported a strong start to the school year. Getting the kids into their uniforms earlier helped them take their studies more seriously and get to work right away. There is a push this year to get more on the internet, from the directory to the Parents’ Memo, and they are exploring a fan page on Facebook. After school programs were expanded again, with a Spanish class added, as well as Irish dancing. Health and Fitness week is going on this week, with a theme each day, culminating in the 5-K Running of the Bulldogs race on Saturday morning.
Staff is going to start a mentor program with the Salvation Army families, to help them get acclimated to the school and to allow a greater camaraderie between the families. The Marketing Committee has put together a new ad, and they are working on a new branding strategy to assure that there is a consistent image and message for Saint Andrew materials. The work on technology on the second floor is almost done. Grandparents’ Day will be on October 8th, and extra help will be needed to set up chairs and tables since they are now stored across the street in the garage.
Enrollment is currently at 446 for Transitions through 8th grade. This compares to 460 at this time last year. The eighth grade class dropped in size significantly. New students were interviewed before the school year started, to help with placement and understanding their needs. DePaul students will begin coming this week. We will have five student teachers over the course of the year, and will we have the Reading Instruction students back to assist in third through sixth grades again. A relationship with the Belle Center has also been started, and they will be working with the Student Intervention Team on working with children with learning issues. This work was funded by Title money from the federal government.
School goals for the year based on the archdiocese goals include strengthening our religion teachers, improving in reading and math, and stabilizing and growing enrollment. At Saint Andrew specifically, we will also be working on increasing regular prayer with the students through regular prayer services in the classrooms (10 to 15 minutes per week); Using every minute to instruct the children; continuing the curriculum mapping project; and conveying only positive messages to the community about the school.
The mini-library is working through the creativity of Mr. Bergstrom and his cart that he takes to the classrooms. The music room is not ready yet, but should be done in the next week or two. Parent meetings for seventh and eighth grade families are being held the next two Wednesday to make sure they are prepared for high school. Printing costs are being focused on for reduction, so use of the copiers (especially color) is restricted this year.
The mass schedule has been changed to the following: one week there is an all-school mass, and the other three weeks each have one unit going to mass so that each unit goes to mass twice per month. The weeks they do not go to mass, they will have brief prayer services in the classroom. The goal is to make the mass more age-specific and enhance the quality of the time they spend in the church. Family mass is this week, as well as catechetical Sunday. The new lunch program is getting good feedback overall, with minor glitches in the first month. There will be a coffee with the principal in October, date TBD.
Committee Assignments, Admin
(Bruce Japsen) – Minute taking will rotate, with assignments e-mailed by Aimee Brown earlier. Some committee assignments have been made, others can indicate interests or wait for specific project needs to arise later in the school year. Mike Frank will be the liason for the Facilities Committee, Jen and Susan for the Admissions Committee, Jim will work with Marketing, and a Calendar Committee may be formed to work with Al on next year’s calendar if there is interest. Julie will work with the Development Committee, and Mike Hudson with the Athletic Council.
The Board discussed the hassles of the Paulina Avenue construction, and it was agreed that Mr. Ackermann and Father Romo would jointly send a letter to Alderman Schulter. The goal is to minimize the time between getting the water main in the ground and scheduling the repaving of the road.
Marketing
(Jim/Al/Sarah) – A new brochure is being developed, which will be consistent with the new ad being used in the Chicago Parent magazine. The web site is getting a bit dated, and has lots of information that is out of date. They will be exploring redesigning the web site, which Father Romo is very interested in as well. There is a new parent with a background in this area that they hope to work with, to make the site more user-friendly and enticing. There will be a broad initiative to make all marketing materials more consistent with respect to font, logo, etc., and the marketing committee will coordinate with Father Romo for his approval of their recommendations and to align decisions with parish marketing efforts. Father also suggested a presence at local neighborhood fairs, as appropriate. Paul suggested a kids’ page on the web site, showcasing samples of their work and allowing them to participate in the design of the page.
The first school tours for the year will be held on October 12th, at 9am beginning in the church.
Pastor’s Report
Father Romo reported that Father Farry was in the hospital for almost a week, and while he was there they inserted a stent due to blockage. He is recovering at his sister’s home, but should be back mid-week. The new associate from India, who will be here for a year, is waiting for his visa to be approved. The review of the books of the parish is almost complete, and then the annual report will be prepared. The finance council will report the results to the parish council and school board, and then to the parish.
The book and bake sale has been expanded to include a ministry fair, and they will be held the weekend of September 25-26th after each service. This fair will help people understand the ministries of the parish and how they might get involved. A representative from the school board would be greatly appreciated.
New ministries are being explored, including having married couples sponsor engaged couples, having families sponsor baptism candidate families, bereavement ministry, and senior servers for funerals (to avoid pulling students from their classes).
No items were discussed for the October meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 8:24 p.m.
Members in Attendance: Bruce Japsen, Mike Hudson, Aimee Brown, Paul Bryar, Julie Richards, Susan Boin, Tricia Luzadder, Jim Ingraffia, Mike Frank, Joe Burke, Jen Cleland
Staff in Attendance: Sergio Romo, Allen Ackermann, and Sarah Casavechia
Absent members: Alison Radecki
Opening Prayer was read.
Principal’s Report
Kathy Minneci is organizing our table at the NPN fair on October 16. We will be using federal Title money to finance our work with the Belle Center. They will hold teacher in-services and help students in the classroom who need extra help. DePaul University Administration is using Saint Andrew as a model for how to do things right.
Spanish Heritage Week is October 11-15 and will have an activity each day that celebrates the Spanish culture. Red Ribbon Week has been moved to November and this year will include anti-bullying strategies as well as a pep rally to kick off basketball season.
Allen and Sarah attended a WTG planning meeting to offer their help in any way needed. Parent Teacher conferences will be held October 27/28. On the Sports beat, Cross Country barely missed qualifying for State, although Maddie Monticello will head to Normal, Illinois to compete individually at the State tournament. Allen will be talking to parents to hopefully improve parent behavior at games and encourage better sportsmanship in the stands and on the sidelines.
Student Council held elections, electing Mark Delanty as President. Teachers are currently working to complete the Liturgy Pillars and have thus far completed Catechism. K-2 students who are excelling in Math are being pulled out for an enrichment program with director of curriculum Maribeth Lynch.
Food service is working kinks out of lunch program and hoping to increase traffic at breakfast. Allen and Sarah have been visiting high schools to help put our students on the high schools’ radar and to help them help the students find a good fit. High school night will be held in the gym October 23rd.
Construction is ongoing. M. Hudson was commended for his letter that was sent to Schulter’s office regarding our student’s safety. Schulter has been very supportive and our crossing guard is being moved to different locations as needed. Mr. Young and the music program are at home in the gym. Saint Andrew Got Talent was held last week. A calendar committee has been formed and A. Brown and T. Luzadder will serve as board liaisons.
Teacher’s Report
No Teacher’s Report this month.
Marketing
20 people joined us for our first school tour on October 12th. Consensus is that our website needs to be updated, particularly with possible traffic increases due to bulletin being available online only. B. Japsen suggested a possible separate web address for the school and P. Bryar mentioned having content managers for areas such as academics and sports. Father Romo suggested that people not submitting information could also be a cause of a lack of content. J. Ingraffia will take the lead on this and will contact a transitions parent who offered his expertise, as well as Stacy Sterenberg who is the staff member responsible updating site information.
The Golf Outing was a huge success thanks to J. Richards and her committee. They cleared $22,400, which was $4,000 over last year. They decreased the cost of raffle tickets this year, which lead to a huge increase in sales (up from 33 to 500). Auction items brought in $11,000. 11 of the 12 high schools approached chose to be tee sponsors.
Pastor’s Report
Janet Cobb’s departure to Guerin Prep has had an impact at the rectory. Father is meeting with event chairs and development people on October 21st to gauge their needs before he proceeds with filling her position. B. Japsen suggested hiring separate development people for school and church, because a lack of development at the school is stalling progress. Father is not sure we can afford 2 new hires. The boiler in the gym needs to be replaced as soon as possible and will cost $30-$60,000. Emergency funds will be used to cover the costs.
Members in Attendance: Bruce Japsen, Aimee Brown, Julie Richards, Alison Radecki, Jim Ingraffia, Mike Frank, Paul Bryar, Tricia Luzadder, Jen Cleland and Mike Hudson
Staff in Attendance: Sarah Casavechia, Allen Ackermann and Fr. Sergio
Absent members: Joe Burke, Susan Boin
Opening Prayer was read.
Faculty Report
Not given.
Principal’s Report
Mr. Ackermann reported on Halloween Parties (black and orange themed) and how well the students behaved during the celebrations.
Parent-Teacher conferences went well. More time was given for discussion between teachers and parents. The scheduling of the conferences before a long weekend was well-received.
Mr. Ackermann also spoke about high school counseling given to current 8th graders by Sarah Casavechia, Al Ackermann and Ben Skoda.
First Semester ended 11/17.
Mr. Ackermann repeated that school tours are given on the first Tuesday of every month. The annual evening Open House was scheduled for November 18th. Because of the success of the monthly tours, the administration will take a look at the number of people who attend the evening event and consider whether it is worth sponsoring such an event going forward.
Baby Bull-dogs – A special event for Dads is scheduled for Sunday, December 12th. A special tour may be given to the fathers. Fr. Sergio may be making a guest appearance and read a Christmas story to the children.
Barnes and Nobel Book Fair at Webster Place took place on November 13th. Various staff members were to read. Saint Andrew earns books from fair.
Terra Nova Testing is scheduled for early March. Saint Andrew may also offer Stanford 10/ISAT test in order to compare Saint Andrew students’ scores to those of CPS students. The Administration could then provide the higher score to high schools to improve the possibility of students’ acceptance. The Administration is investigating whether the 7th graders will take the IA skills test.
Mr. Ackermann is very happy with the technology that is up and running the 4th and 5th grades.
He reports that the middles school teachers are working to prepare kids for tests, focusing especially on writing skills.
De La Salle High School is offering an 8th grade test preparation simulation entrance exam on December 4th at Saint Andrew. January 8, 2011, is the actual date for Catholic high school entrance exams.
Mr. Ackermann reported that a new boiler has been installed in the gym but is not yet running. This is having no impact on gym and music classes or on lunchtimes.
The breakfast numbers are very low. Mr. Ackermann would like to increase the number of students who would use this service. Saint Andrew needs at least 25 students to participate in the breakfast program in order to break even. He would like to target the families who receive free and reduced meals.
An exercise class may be offered in the gym some time in the near future. It would take place at 7:15 a.m.
A Pep-rally was scheduled for November 10th. The theme was Honor the Game and kicked off the basketball season, while celebrating the falls sports season.
Mr. Ackermann reminds all parents of the importance of sportsmanship and expects good behavior from all parents and students. Saint Andrew may put up reminder signs in the gym for hot-headed parents.
Red-Ribbon Week was a success. Students took a drug-free pledge and anti-bullying pledge at the beginning of the week (November 1st). Psychologist Laura Foster spoke with students as well.
Mr. Ackermann addressed the safety issues at Saint Andrew. Kiss-n-Go, chaired by Dan Tonkel, is a huge success. However, some board members requested that the 8th graders escort the younger children into the school. Julie Richards brought up the issue of having recess monitors, as well.
Market Day needs to be supported more going forward. The proceeds benefit the entire school. Christmas wreathes and poinsettias sales were also a fund-raiser for the community.
The Academic Team competed at St. Ignatius and represented Saint Andrew well.
Julie Stumm planned on going on maternity leave after Thanksgiving. Casey Cowherd will be covering for her while she is gone. She began transitioning on November 15th.
Family Night at the gym continues to be a big success. However, the issue of parents dropping of children was discussed. Parents need to be reminded that they need to stay and watch their own children.
A dance was scheduled for Friday, Novmeber 10th.
Marketing Update
Bruce talked about monthly Tuesday tours, November Open House and Special Tour for Dads on 12/12. Bruce also talked about gathering information from other schools to compare them to Saint Andrew. He was emailing the information to board members
Development Update
The Committee met on October 21st and apparently did not get very far. It was somewhat disjointed with the abrupt departure of Janet Cobb. No decisions were made about the capital campaign or who should fill Janet’s role. There is a clear need to prioritize the needs of the parish and school. It was discussed that the board would provide a “wish” list to the development committee focusing on the immediate needs of the school.
Technology Update
Jim Ingraffia discussed the website and making it more user-friendly. Jim was going to meet with Nathanial Stubblefield on the issue.
Pastor’s Report
The Archdiocese is piloting a program called New Partner/New Dollars. It is to help parishes learn about development and how to find community partners to help defray costs. Local businesses should have a vested interest in the parish because a health parish helps support the neighborhood and neighborhood businesses. The program will focus on capital campaigns, grants, annual fund drives, etc. Saint Andrew has been selected to participate in the pilot program.
Fr. Sergio commented on how pastor involvement is key to the success of this program. He will be working with about 3 parishioners to be involved in the development. There will be overnight trainings in Mundelein on November 30, December 1 and March 22.
Members in Attendance: Bruce Japsen, Aimee Brown, Alison Radecki, Jim Ingraffia, Mike Frank, Susan Boin, Jen Cleland and Mike Hudson
Staff in Attendance: Sarah Casavechia, Allen Ackermann, Fr. Sergio and Lynda Combes
Absent members: Joe Burke, Paul Bryar and Tricia Luzadder
Opening Prayer was read.
New Board Member Update
Jim Hoffman will be seated at the next Board Meeting to replace Julie Richard’s vacancy.
Faculty Report
Not Given.
Principal’s Report
There were two snow days on February 2nd and 3rd. Communication went well. There will be make-up days scheduled before the end of the year. An announcement will be made soon. Some of the Catholic Schools Week events will need to be rescheduled due to the snow days.
Terra Nova Prep is underway using the SLAMS Dunk theme. The 8th graders will not take the exam this year, instead they will take SCORE, an ACT type two-day test. The 7th graders have special Tuesday morning prep classes.
Mr. Ackermann and Mrs. Casavechia visited De La Salle High School to discuss potentially joining up with them to offer Advance Placement courses for 8th graders. This is still in the planning stages.
Super School Sunday, on January 30th, was a successful event with the Family Mass, Pancake Breakfast and Open House. Special thanks to Kelly Prince.
The PotBelly’s night raised $700. Special thanks to the Japsen’s.
The DePaul University affiliation has been very successful and a new group of Student Teachers will be arriving soon.
The Science Fair is February 17th. Students and teachers have been working hard to get ready. Next year, they may consider expanding the Science Fair to a History Fair for some of the grades.
The Scholastic Book Fair is February 17th and 18th. This is a great opportunity for the library and classrooms to get new books.
February 12th will be “Yellow Out” Day. Students who wear yellow to the home basketball games will receive an out of uniform pass. There will also be reduced admission costs for everyone who wears yellow.
Chinese Acrobats have been schedule to perform in the gym on Friday, March 18th. This should be a great show and a fun night.
Contract signing will be April 11, 12, 13 and 14. No money is due at contract signing.
Admissions Report
Early Bird Registration has ended. There are a few spaces open in Transitions. The three-day pre-K received 77 applications, some of the applicants will not receive their first choice of AM classes. The five-day JK received 57 applications, some of the applicants will not receive their first choice of AM classes. There were 55 applicants for Kindergarten, which is one more than last year. There were several JK students who will not be returning, but this was balanced with many new applicants.
2011/2012 Budget and Tuition
Mike Spingola of the Finance Committee and Lynda Combes, the parish accountant, presented a draft 2011/2012 budget for the school.
The School Board was unanimous in support of the administration and Fr. Sergio on next year’s tuition rates. School board made an advisory endorsement of increasing tuition by $250 per family.
The School Board was also unanimous in support of the administration and Fr. Sergio on next year’s fee in lieu of volunteering. School board made an advisory endorsement of increasing the fee to $200 per family.
There is a formalized way for families to apply for tuition assistance through FACTS. There was discussion on how to market this better, so families in need know that there is support for them.
Technology Update
Jim Ingraffia discussed that they are trying to improve the website, so that more people would be able to easily update the site. In its current form, it is difficult to keep it up to date.
Pastor’s Report
The Annual Report was distributed to Parishioners on February 6, 2011. There is a $230,000 deficit, which will be financed with a 2-year loan.
The Annual Catholic Appeal will start this weekend. Hope to achieve a 6% increase over last year’s collection. After the Catholic Appeal has ended there will be a focus on increasing electronic giving.
Bishop Kane visited the parish recently to observe the church and school. He was very pleased with how everything is going and was happy with the enrollment numbers at the school.
The Parish is still waiting for the arrival of an Associate Pastor from India.
Next Month’s Agenda
Discuss school improvement priorities and follow-up with technology and admissions.
Members in Attendance: Bruce Japsen, Jim Hoffman, Jen Cleland, Mike Frank, Mike Hudson, Jim Ingraffia, Paul Bryar, Susan Boin, Tricia Luzadder, Allison Radecki
Staff in Attendance: Sarah Casavechia, Allen Ackermann, Fr. Sergio
Absent members: Joe Burke, Aimee Brown
Opening Prayer was read.
Administrative Items
New board member, Jim Hoffman, welcomed
Soup & stations this Friday hosted by the School Board. Need a volunteer to organize.
Faculty Report
Not Given.
Principal’s Report
2011-2012 school calendar in development. 176 days of school. Spring break will coincide with Easter. Will start the Tue before Labor Day. Al & Sarah are working with Amy Brown on finalizing the calendar.
Spring break is next week (3/28 – 4/1)
Registration is healthy for next school year. 57 applications for Kindergarten of which 40 have already indicated that they are returning.
Contract signing is scheduled for 4/11-14
May convert from FACTS to MB Financial Bank, for savings of $18K. Stay tuned.
Financial assistance applications are being accepted now. Last year 26 families on the assistance program of which 10 are still having payment issues.
Looking to create a new resource room on the 1st floor. This would be a combination of the library and computer room. Trying to push more technology into the classroom in the middle and primary grades.
Summer camp programs will be coming out this Thursday
Basketball season ended with multiple championships won & volleyball is now beginning
Chinese acrobats were held in the gym last Friday. Healthy crowd in attendance.
WTG was well organized. Fund a need is up to $9K. Last day is Friday, March 25th for the donations.
Terra Nova results will be back at the end of April
Suggestion made to do a school survey this spring as a subcommittee of the board. Allison to work with Al and Susan on this. Also, need to consider the exit interviews.
Competitive Environment for Saint Andrew School
Saint Andrew sits in the center of 4 public schools (plus others)
Older students are concerned on the high school selection process especially the Catholic HS options on Chicago’s north side. Al is planning to meet with the Gordon HS principal. Need an update on this situation for our next board meeting.
Whitney Young early acceptance program along with Lane’s program (90 students of 7-8th grade) pulls a few students from Saint Andrew annually
Why do people choose Saint Andrew: faith-based; friendly; class size (max 24); accelerated learnings, LD specialist, extra-curricular activities, etc.
Looking at options for the Spanish program next year
Hours in school – length of school day is far greater than CPS
Mass schedule discussed. Is once every 2-3 weeks enough vs. weekly? Potentially ask in the parent survey.
The class daily schedule for next year is being drafted now
So what: Need to continue to step up our marketing efforts. Do we ramp up marketing for middle school, especially with realtors or do we grow the early childhood program?
Looking at potentially introducing a family fest or movie night in the summer
Salvation Army program: approx. 20 kids/year. They pay full tuition.
Website Update
All content has been transitioned to the new platform which makes it easier for updates to be done directly by the teachers/admin
Now have rotating pictures on the site
Looks much better, although the basic look & feel (banner & graphics) is still the same. This decision needs to be made by Nathaniel, Al and Father. Potentially launch new look & feel in the Fall vs. now.
Pastor’s Report
2011 WTG will clear $95K
Annual appeal is approx. $60K but mail-ins are still being counted. We did really well against the archdiocese goal of $28K. Father was hoping around $80K total.
Priest from India’s visa has been approved. He should arrive at end of April.
Scrip program (Drew’s Dollars) will start after spring bring. Banners, info packets, etc.
Members in Attendance: Bruce Japsen, Alison Radecki, Jim Ingraffia, Mike Frank, Susan Boin, Jen Cleland, Tricia Luzadder, Jim Hoffman, Paul Bryar, Aimee Brown, Mike Hudson
Staff in Attendance: Sarah Casavechia, Allen Ackermann, Fr. Sergio
Absent members: Joe Burke
Opening Prayer was read.
Father of all mercies
We ask that you would bless
the youngest and littlest of learners,
the most helpless and powerless of persons,
with Your infinite and loving mercy,
granting them the strength to learn, concentrate,
and act appropriately towards
their teachers and fellow students.
We also ask that You would watch over them,
at home and at school
and grant them proper direction
so that they may learn
of Your wonderful virtues.
We ask this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen David Bennett
A motion was made for the School Board to support the proposed calendar for next school year and the calendar was approved
Contract Signing
MB Financial bank was here helping out with contract signing
This is early for contract signing versus prior years
Contract Signing ends Thursday at 8:00
Other Items
Next year, the technology lab & library will be moved into what is currently Mrs. Hooks’ classroom. Mrs. Hooks will move to second floor. The nurse’s room will return to where the library is.
We will receive the Terra Nova tests back very soon
Schoolkidz – company through Staples – will put together complete kits of school supplies that parents can buy. Prices are competitive. Parents can order online and St. Andrew’s school gets 4% of sales. Information will be distributed before school is out
The marketing group will be reaching out to CCD groups, etc.
Reconciliation took place last week
First Communion is April 30
Confirmation is May 10th
Lane Tech academic center is opening in 2011
Scheduled 6th, 7th grade meetings to know what they need to know for next year
Saint Andrew Cubs Game is May 6th
Teacher Appreciation dinner is May 6th
8th grade dinner dance is June 3rd
Sports Banquet will be at the Cubby Bear
DePaul students – helping with different teachers in next week or two
Midterm ends Friday
North Center Chamber of Commerce offered to give us a grant through Bell Center for us to help with classroom layouts
Tuition Assistance Discussion (Mike Hudson)
Meeting on Tuition Assistance – let people know that Facts will continue to be clearinghouse for tuition assistance
Facts qualifies families for assistance
Al gives numbers to Linda and awards are based FACTS
$173,000 is built in to the budget for tuition assistance
Finance Committee establishes how much is in budget, school board is involved, Only Al, Father and Linda know specifically who the families are who receive assistance
Big Shoulders – is the fundraising arm of archdiocese, organized by business leaders in the community, schools are one of their main concerns, they send us ($10,000-15,000) to help
We should market that we have tuition assistance available to families who might be interested in sending children to St. Andrews
We look at enrollment as we are offering contracts to teachers
Marketing/web site update (Jim/Aimee/Al) (7:55-8:10)1. Signage/community outreach
Contacting/recruiting CCD families
Working to combat the sign that Hamilton put up on overpass on Addison
We will be installing a large St. Andrew sign on the fence
Summer camps – run by our teachers, a way for them to earn extra money, is there demand for more camps?
About 1/3 of 8th grade got in to St. Ignatius and/or Loyola
Pastor’s Report (Fr. Sergio)
Drew’s Dollars off to good start with $2500 in sales the first week
Getting ready for Holy Week
Get word out about parish directory.
If families do not want their contact information printed they need to let Father know
School board candidates for 3-year terms beginning June 2012/Bruce/Sarah (8:25-8:30)
We have 4 open spots on the board and 3 candidates
Joe Burke will not be serving another term
Mike Hudson is interested in serving another term
Cynthia McIntyre – Senior Marketing Executive at Career Builder has applied for a school board position
Liz Vincent – Attorney – has 3 children, involved in school has applied for a school board position
There was discussion about making a Salvation Army Position on the Board – we will review the bylaws about this possibility
Jim Hoffman will review bylaws
A motion was made to seat all three school board candidates and it passed
Members in Attendance: Susan Boin, Amiee Brown, Paul Bryar, Jen Cleland, Mike Frank, James Hoffman, Mike Hudson, Bruce Japsen, Maribeth Lynch, Allison Radecki, Liz Vincent
Staff in Attendance: Sarah Casavechia, Allen Ackermann, Patricia Danielak, Fr. Sergio
Absent members: Patricia Luzadder, Jim Ingraffia, Joe Burke
Opening Prayer was read.
Teacher’s Report – Mrs. Lynch discussed the Terra Nova test scores for the school. St. Andrew students scored extremely well on the Terra Nova exams. She stressed that teachers and administration use the exams to understand how students learn, help adjust curriculum and promote student success.
Students in each of the grades were well above the national norm (50th percentile). The scaled average total score for grades 2 through 7 were 93%, 91%, 85%, 88%, 91% and 89% respectively.
Additionally the 7th grade completed an 8-week test preparation course. It was taught by Mrs. Roberts and Mr. Skoda. The course was a success as evidenced by increased 7th grade scaled average total scores each year from 2009 to present.
The 8th grade class now takes the “Explore Exam.” This was developed by ACT, and it helps students plan their high school curriculum.
Principal’s Report – Mr. Ackermann announced the following events will take place: Saint Andrew School Art Walk – May 19th, Coffee with the Principal for the second grade parents – May 24th; Student Council will host the St. Andrew Olympics – May 27th; the 8th grade Dinner Dance – June 3rd; end of the year picnic – June 5th; Book Fair and Uniform Sale – June 6-7th.
The 8th grade class had a very successful trip to Washington, DC.
The Knights of Columbus writing contest winners are: Isabel Hoffman and Kylie Victorine.
The school will expand the Spirit, Study and Service program next year. It will include a partnership with students from Loyola University.
Mrs. Casavechia updated the Board on the School Supply Kit Program. Parents were able to order a kit that contains all of their child’s school supplies for the upcoming year. The kits will be delivered to the student’s desk on the first day of school. Orders were placed online and a percentage of the proceeds benefit the school.
The school is looking to build a Language Art Series program. Administration has met with several publishers, and a final selection will be made soon.
Saint Andrew is exploring the option of starting Advanced Placement classes for Saint Andrew students at Gordon Tech.
The school’s production of “Godspell” last week was a great success. It is an example of one of the many extracurricular programs that promote students’ growth and identity.
Board member Susan Boin is leading a new group called Middle School Parent Teacher Forum. This will be a subcommittee of the School Board and will have representatives from the Board, teachers and Middle School parents. The purpose of this is to facilitate communication between parents and teachers.
Bylaws review
Board member James Hoffman announced the proposed change of the School Board bylaws. This will allow for one seat on the Board to be held by a non-parishioner/non-parent with a connection to the Parish. This will be a three-year term. The proposed changes will be read at successive Board meetings and be open for discussion.
There was a motion that a representative from the Salvation Army have a seat on the Board. The seat would be recommended and approved by the Board with the consent of the Pastor and Principal.
Board member Allison Radecki reviewed the Saint Andrew School Parent Survey, which will be distributed to parents in the coming weeks. Allison, Cynthia McIntyre, Susan Boin, Mr. Ackermann and Mrs. Casavechia created the survey. This will be an online survey, and the information will be used to seek parent input on school programs and help plan future school programs. Past surveys have led to the implementation of programs such as the morning “Kiss and Go” morning school drop off program. Results will be discussed at the August 2011 School Board meeting.
Pastor’s Report
Fr. Romo reviewed some Parish initiatives. He is exploring the possibility of reviving the Youth Group and will meet with the 8th grade class to discuss this. Fr. Romo announced that he is interviewing candidates for a Pastoral Associate, who will assist with religious education, preparation for the Sacraments, and serve as a resource for teachers. He hopes to have the position filled by the summer of 2011.
We are three weeks into the “Drew’s Dollars” campaign. More information on the program can be found on the parish website.
Fr. Romo announced that he has received an architectural review of all of the facilities of the Parish and School. This review will be used to plan for the maintenance of current facilities and potential renovation/expansion in the future.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.
The next School Board meeting is Tuesday June 7th.
Members in Attendance: Bruce Japsen, Jen Cleland, Liz Vincent, Paul Bryar, Jim Hoffman, Alison Radecki, Susan Boin, Jim Ingraffia, Cynthia McIntyre, Aimee Brown, Mike Frank
Staff in Attendance: Sarah Casavechia, Allen Ackermann, Fr. Sergio
Absent members: Mike Hudson, Patricia Luzadder, Joe Burke
Opening Prayer was read.
New Board Members: Cynthia McIntyre and Liz Vincent are joining the board and Mike Hudson will stay on for a second term. Our thanks go out to departing members Joe Burke, Susan Boin and Tricia Luzadder.
Officers Election: Mike Hudson was nominated and approved as president, Paul Bryar for Vice- President and Aimee Brown will serve as secretary.
Principal’s Report: Al reported that enrollment for 2011-12 school year is up 20 students. The 8th grade graduated on June 5th and kindergarten graduated Friday June 3rd. Our Irish Dance program is hugely popular and they held an end of year show.
Paul Bryar will serve, as a school board liaison to a newly formed Middle School Committee comprised of parents, teachers and administration that will help parents navigate the middle school experience.
Al has applied for a grant from the North Center Chamber of Commerce, which if received will help outfit pre-k through first grade rooms with equipment for children with sensory issues.
7 teachers will be leaving namely; Ms. Anderson, Ms. Accordino, Ms. Alvarado, Mr. Colondrea, Mr. Skoda, Mrs. Stumm, and Ms. Cowherd. The remaining teachers will have professional development on topics including effective discipline, CPR, and Math. Nathaniel Stubblefield will also be training the teachers on maintaining their websites.
Other staffing changes include the loss of Kathy Minneci. There will be a reception held after the 10am mass this Sunday to thank her for her service. Anne Japsen will take over for Kathy, which means board president Bruce Japsen will step down. He is thanked for his tireless enthusiasm and commitment to the board and Saint Andrew.
End of the year student activities included a Student Council run Olympics, Publishing parties, Block party run by the Victorine family and a prayer service on the final day.
School will be back in session on August 29. The ice cream social will be held Thursday August 25.
Lastly, Al thanked Sarah for her hard work and congratulated her on her first year as Assistant Principal.
Marketing: A link to a parent survey will be sent out in an email on Thurs. June 7th.
Pastor’s Report: Drew’s Dollars had a very strong start followed by a slight slowdown. There is a new mass schedule with the 11:30 mass eliminated starting this Sunday.
New Business: Bruce Japsen and Mike Hudson will decide a meeting schedule for next year. The1st meeting of 11/12 is tentatively scheduled for 8/23/11.
The 1st reading of the proposed changes to Article 3, section 2 of the by-laws was approved. The 2nd reading will be done digitally.
Goals for 2011/12: Al would like teacher input on these goals and Paul Bryar suggested addressing the space constraints within the school building.