Minutes of the December 14^th, 2016 meeting of

The 19^th Ward Community Association Schools Committee

Attendees: John Boutet, John Laing, Dan Ross, Sarah Yaworski

Approval of November minutes

Accepted

Spelling Bee Update

Looking at dates around the RCSD spring break and U of R’s schedule we selected either April 8 or 29 depending on the availability of Hoyt Hall and activities on campus. Note that Easter Sunday is April 16.

Practice sessions will be held at the Arnett library from 10 to 11 Saturday mornings starting January 7. Fraternity brothers and neighborhood people will be available. If someone would like to co-ordinate it, let me know. Douglas and Charlotte Giebel have helped in the past and would participate again.

Listening and Learning with the Superintendent

There were about 50 people at the event but very few parents, so much of our discussion focused on how we could play a role in increasing parental feedback and participation in the schools. There was general observation that some of the answers were not specific enough. The superintendent did communicate the delineation of her role from that of the board with respect to school closures.

School 16 status

The BAC (Building Advisory Committee) includes the architects and engineers along with school administrators and teachers and community representatives. The December meeting has been cancelled pending further information.

Update on school choice task force

Feedback is expected soon from Liz Hallmark, and her meeting with the superintendent

Volunteer Status

I received an inquiry from William Dykeman (B.J.) who would like to volunteer in K-3 in math. He filled out the on-line application of the RCSD web site. In the meantime I gave his name to the area principals.

Old/New Business

Homeless children are often unable to attend school as they move more often than the bus route can be changed. As a result their attendance is poor and the chance of success is low. 2,000 of the district’s students are homeless. We feel that there should be some creative ideas pursued for providing these children with a learning experience

Next Meeting

Wednesday, January 11^th at 7 pm in the 19^th ward association office.