Meeting Minutes, April 9, 2013

This month’s PTO General monthly meeting was shaken up a little bit!  In request for more information about transitions throughout our children (and parents) time while here at ACS Athens  - your PTO board arranged a Principal’s Coffee that was hosted by all the school principals:

• Brian Gerbracht, Mary-Ann Augoustatos, and Cathy Makropoulos
• Our director of Student Affairs Peggy Pelonis
• and the IB Director Julia Tokatlidou

The meeting began at 9:30 and lasted nearly until noon.  Many issues were discussed.

Budget

Immediately following a short PTO meeting was held, followed by a budget presentation by Steve Kakaris.

PTO Greetings

Krystallia our PTO Chairperson opened the PTO portion of the meeting by welcoming all and thanking everyone who participated in the Teacher and Staff Appreciation week.  She mentioned a few key dates to remember.

PTO Board Elections

Athenia, PTO Vice Chairperson, addressed the membership on the process of nomination for next years PTO Board.  Please know that the voting will take place at the next General Meeting on May 14^th.  All positions are available.  Self-nomination is accepted and the method most do apply.  Nomination forms and information of the duties will be (has been) sent out to the community via school email.  You can also contact any of us at PTO.

Board Representative's Reports

Since we had such a long principal coffee, the school representative board reports were very brief, if any.

Upcoming

Our Community Liaison presented many great events that are happening for all this month and in May.  The SHARE newsletter with all this information is on this website, and has been sent out via our PEX external delivery system.  PEX is a mail system that does not go thru the school, but rather directly to those signed up.  Each month, the SHARE newsletter, allows free advertisement for ACS Athens parents and teachers…these advertisements do not go out through school channels, but are included in the PEX version of the SHARE newsletter.  Have an advertisement—contact PTO.

Spring Fair

Do you have Spring Fever?  We do!!!  Don’t forget that the big PTO SPRING FAIR is May 18^th.  The ACS Athens International Fair is one of our largest events.  If you can help us and volunteer to work a two-hour shift, please contact

Patty Dimitriadis: pattydimitriadis@yahoo.com , or
Krystallia Zissis: kszissis@gmail.com

The fair will showcase and feature our international school with foods from around the world, YEIA marketplace, a book sale, drinks... and so much more.  Watch your email and the website in the upcoming weeks for information.

Spring Break / Closing

We concluded the PTO meeting with wishes for a happy and healthy Spring Break, which begins April 29^th.  We will see you back in school on May 8^th when classes resume.

A short break for coffee refills and then the meeting was turned over to Mr. Kakaris for the budget presentation.

Meeting Minutes, March 12, 2013

Upcoming Events

Chairperson Krystallia opened this meeting with the announcement of the upcoming Dr. Gialamas’s Coffee and Conversation Roundtable meeting scheduled for Tuesday March 19^th.  Also the date for the upcoming Partnership for Student Success lecture has been rescheduled and is being held Thursday March 28^th. The speaker is Kathy Horafas and the topic: Brain Plasticity.

Elementary School

As this meeting followed the Elementary School’s Principal’s coffee and all who were in attendance at the PTO meeting with Elementary School students were in attendance at the Principal coffee—there was no new business for Athenia to announce through PTO that wasn’t already discussed in the previous meeting.

Middle School

Sofia reminds Middle School parents that the Science Fair is now being held on April 3^rd rather than April 5^th due to some scheduling issues.  All parents are invited to the fair on the 3^rd!

Academy

Sapfo explained to us that for ten days while the Academy Principal is absent, IB director, Julia Tokatlidou, would be acting Principal. She also noted that during February’s PTO General Meeting there was a confusion with Skyward.  Please know that Mr. Gerbracht has had a discussion with teachers in working to improve this.

IB Program

With regard to IB: Sapfo brought the question to the memberships: Do parents want a morning session about AP and IB courses and guidelines?  Email the school or us if you would like this.

• 10^th grade IB students gave applications and expect results in June
• 11^th grade IB must now apply for extend essay/monitoring topics now
• 12^th grade—May 2^nd begins exams

SHARE Newsletters

Pam, spoke about our community events and our SHARE newsletter (you can find all the SHARE Events and the recent issue here on the PTO navigation of the ACS website). 

Mom's Night Out

The Mom’s Night Out event was such a success that we are going to make it a monthly event! Mark your calendars for the next on Thursday, April 4^th at 8:30 at :

DADAS : Iroon Pilitexneiou 19, Nea Penteli.  Ph. 210.810.4672

Let us know if you plan to attend at kszissis@gmail.com  *Each person orders and pays for their own.

Institute of Innovation and Creativity (IIC)

IIC report — We met with Mr. Medeiros and Ms. Perakis as a board and discussed many of the issues that have been brought up to us in meetings.  We spoke of the choice, limitations and expense of many programs and how to improve them from our perspective.  It was a very positive meeting and both Chris and Steve remind everyone that their doors are always open to speak with parents.

Programs that will be available (and created due to PTO Members requests) will be a health class for credit this summer, and two different levels of math (non-credit) and writing courses.  There will be more information sent to you hopefully, end of March, or beginning of April, once this program is developed.

Boosters - Athletics

Boosters—ready for Track and Field Try-outs and Tennis Team try-outs.  Sign up by the 14^th.  Don’t forget that teams and their parents are invited to attend the Athletic Banquet this year on May 30^th.  Information to come from Athletic Department.

Embassy

The Embassy repost by Betsy was brief.  The highlight being the question — Would parents like the Embassy to visit the school for office type hours again, or even on a regular basis?  The idea was well received by those in attendance — email us, or Betsy with your thoughts.

PTO Board Elections

SERVE ON NEXT YEAR’S PTO!  PTO really makes a difference and now is the time to beginning thinking about your place on the board.  At the next meeting in April, we will discuss in more detail the job descriptions and the process of nomination.  Self-nomination is encouraged and the norm.  Shortly a Elections Committee will be formed.  (Our constitution and by-laws this committee dictates that this committee is formed by the current three school PTO Board Reps and two members at large.  Evanne volunteered to sit on the committee—we need one more—interested?

Finances

Michelle, our treasurer, stated that we have a balance of € 37,674.  The plan is to leave an opening balance for next years PTO and make a decision (this April) on where our fund raising efforts will be directed.  Throughout the year, the board has collected any requests and ideas for projects from the parental community, the staff and administration.  The PTO Board will soon vote and announce the decision at the April, or May meeting.

Wellness Month

Wellness Month (first two weeks in March & April); this upcoming week will focus on Bullying and Eating disorders.

Teacher’s Appreciation Week

Teacher’s Appreciation Week is the 18^th - 22^nd March.  This event was discussed and volunteers were assembled.

April Meeting

Please join us for the April Meeting.  It was announced that it is incorrectly noted on the calendar and will as normal be held on the second Tuesday of the month — April 9^th.

Meeting Minutes, February 12, 2013

PTO Board Governance

This February 12^th General meeting came promptly to order.  Krystallia opened the meeting with the announcement of our chance in the governance of the PTO Board.  Vanda Alexopoulos, in the middle of her second term, is resigning from her position and the board, to pursue her passion of teaching.  Vanda will be working as a substitute teacher.   Krystallia will move from her position of Vice-Chairperson into Chairperson and Athenia Limperis will be her Vice-Chairperson while continuing to also act within her current role of Elementary School Representative.  In order to be more efficient, the duties of being liaison between IIC (Institute for Innovation and Creativity) and Boosters (Parents supporting athletics) will now be switched from that of the Vice-chair to IIC by Pam Stamatiou and Boosters by Sapfo Paleologou.  This change is effective immediately.

After a few key dates, we moved onto the Board Representative Reports.

Elementary School

As the principal’s coffee was held just prior to this meeting at 9:30am—and all in our General Meeting with children in Elementary were in attendance, Athenia kept the report short.  Her biggest and most exciting news was the announcement that the ‘Great Books’ program has begun.  Over a year in the planning, this program has begun with a group of fourth and fifth graders.  This reading program is highly regarded in the USA, and our children that joined this group will be having their literature group during their recess time on some days.  This program has been begun and implemented with PTO and a cost to us of barely € 100 .  With this small amount, we have purchased the training materials that will enable this program to continue year after year.  We have high expectations for this program and are certain it will be successful and popular at ACS Athens now and years to come.

Middle School

Sofia told us that the Middle school children should get ready for one great dance!  This Friday February 15^th at 6:30, the M/S Valentines' Dance will take place.  The venue will be moved to the cafeteria, which will give the kids much more room to dance their hearts out!  Any parent that wishes to donate any sweets, chips, healthy snacks or drinks are welcomed to do so.  For more dance information—contact Sofia by email, or even call the middle school secretary Ms. Jenny.

Also—big congratulations to the Middle school swim team that recently took first place in the recent swim meet.

Sofia also let us know that we can expect progress reports for this semester on Feb. 25^th.

Academy

Don’t forget that the academy bulletin is always a place to check for information, says our Academy Rep, Amalia.  She also tells us that students will be preparing for upcoming field trips.  There was also a clearer definition presented to the students of academic probation and the consequences.  Students also have the opportunity to join study hall in the day to work on their many assignments and projects. Mr. Gerbracht, Academy principal, will be speaking following this meeting and Amalia urged all to stay.

IB / AP

Sapfo informed us the  main concern now for the 10^th graders is their decision to participate in full IB the next year or not.  This march 5^th is the deadline.  Students will be visited by ACS Athens IB director and informed about the program.  Sapfo answered a question from a member, Christy, about if a child is undecided.  Sapfo strongly suggested that any child that might be interested should apply - they can also choose not to accept if they decide no to participate in the full IB program.  Doing this the other way around will be very difficult.  Those at all interested should apply.

The 11^th grade is about  to begin work on their extended essays, and compiling the volunteer (CAS) hours in binder form.

12^th graders by the end of February will have their external assessment and internal in April, and grades in July.

Finances

Our treasurer, Michelle, presented the figures from this past Holiday Bazaar of a profit of € 10,173!  This brings our total to date to € 37,690.   See also Community section.

Institute for Innovation and Creativity

Pam jumped in with a super and detailed report of IIC.  She reminded everyone of what the department does…among many duties the IIC develops academic programs (summer academic institute; summer pre-IB/College Prep Academy; Summer Leadership Program; Arts Academy; Adult education classes, ACS Athens Writing Center).  

Coordinating agreements with US universities for partnerships that will bring US university courses to ACS Athens whereby students will receive college credits.

Pam let us know a few things available with deadlines.

• Summer Leadership Institute at Saint Louis University in the US.  Flight simulators, making movie, leadership service (3 part program – online, Athens seminars, St. Louis – then have film festival upon return.  Deadline was Feb. 1, but they are still accepting applications  - 9^th-12th grade

• Boston trip to visit universities – this Friday the deadline, still a couple of spaces left

• Still open a portfolio drawing class in cooperation with AKTO (open to adults)

• On February 13th, Jazz musician JD Walter will be here and performing for 10 graders and up in collaboration with the humanities department and their studies of the 1920s and history of American jazz.  Event is for students but if anyone is around and wants to sneak in the back... it’s okay - 10:00 – 12:00

• No SAT prep classes this Spring but will be offered in the summer (usually about a week after school closes.  Also offering Health and Art classes for students who need the credits to graduate

• For the future – collaborating with SLU and sending syllabi of ACS Athens classes – combo courses (not IB or AP) to see if they can adjust classes to receive college credit.  Combo/Humanitarian/Honors classes...

Boosters

Sapfo told us a few dates, after thanking all those parents that helped house and volunteered at the recent swim meet.  Coming up:

Athens Cup Swimming (event for both M/S and H/S) 1^st – 2^nd of March (Friday and Saturday) - An all day event from 9:00 – 15:00. 

The week of March 11^th   will be Tryouts for Track and Field and Tennis for both schools. Please volunteer for helping our boosters!  Any parent of a child on an ACS Athens team is an ACS Booster!  However, volunteering and being a booster is open to all!!

Optimal Learning Program

Our Optimal Learning Program rep, Courtney was not in attendance, but we announced that the 8^th Annual Conference on Learning Differences will be held, April 18 - 20.

Please visit the ACS Athens website Conference section for all the information. You can register on line, as well.

Community

Our Community Liaison, Jennifer, gave a great report on what’s happening in the community!  Join us this week for a special Valentines’ dinner at the Grande Bretagne; look forward to a flower arranging course, be sure to attend this months’ Partnership for Student Success lecture, host a cooking class…. and this February 28^th we will have our first ‘Mom’s Night Out’ at Santa Fe Mexican restaurant near the school. See all the details on her SHARE newsletter also on this website.  Just use the SHARE navigation button under PTO.

After the board reports, Krystallia discussed the allocation of PTO funds. We are currently as a board reviewing the many options for these funds.  Krystallia once again suggested that anyone with any comments or suggests can in writing present them to the board thru our PTO email or thru any board member.  As you may know from previous board meetings and summaries, that the original idea of using these funds to resurface the playing field have been put aside due to unforeseen issues.  Although the board is investigating this still, we are preparing to move ahead with another proposal should this not be possible.  A question from a member was brought up why we do not send out a vote to the entire parent population.  We explained as a board that this is not the most effective way.  Board members have been voted into these positions and this is one of the duties they have to fulfill.  All suggestions and proposals are discussed and given equal opportunity. 

Two of the main goals of the decision making in regards to where to use the funds are:  in a way that benefits the most amount of students, and a strong attempt to even spread the funds, sometimes from one year to the next, evenly among the different age groups and schools. 

Just about everyone in attendance was understanding and in support of this procedure.

Teacher’s Appreciation Week

Then we discussed our upcoming popular event, the Teacher’s Appreciation Week.

Krystallia and Patty explained that the Teacher’s Appreciation Week is an event that is held all over America on the same dates.  ACS Athens has always supported this with a great showering of thanks towards our teachers.  Traditionally we host small things like a breakfast, small gifts, and wine and cheese night. But the most exciting day is the luncheon.  Parents have traditionally hosted a super buffet lunch for our teachers.  It is a great event and our teachers are very appreciative.  This year we plan on following tradition.  Krystallia, suggested that anyone who would like to sit on the planning committee could do so.  In fact, this will allow some PTO Board members to step down from the committee and serve in volunteer capacity only.  If you are interested email anyone on the board.  A chance to sign up at the meeting was also available.

Q &A. Various

The Embassy Representative, Betsy was unable to attend.

The floor was opened to questions and comments.  A few concerns brought to light by members in attendance will be worked on and dealt with on our PTO level.  We as a board take all the comments and questions and make sure they are heard by administration.

A concern was discussed about new parents and especially those parents not familiar with the U.S. system of schooling, and their need for better communication from ACS Athens in regards to planning the academic path of their children, including from an early age.  They need a bit of ‘How the U.S. Education system works’ .  Some parents in attendance did mention that often once a gap is discovered it is too late. 

Also discussed was that some feel many of the innovative programs are offered to few too many children.  There seems to be many innovative options for those with the best and highest grades.

Upcoming Meeting, Feb. 12, 2013

February General Meeting  Tuesday, February 12^th from 10:00 am. - 11:00 am.

Learn about upcoming school events such as

• Teacher’s Appreciation Week
• The Partnership for Student Success Lectures, or the new
• Parent Support Group

How about our community events?  We have some ideas for a Mom’s Night Out, a Flower Arranging Course, or the very popular Cooking Classes.

Let’s get together, have some coffee and cookies, and brainstorm some fresh ideas!  We have a few up our sleeve, but we’d like to know what you are thinking.

Meeting Minutes, January 8, 2013

This January 8th   at 10:00 am. the PTO held its first General Meeting of 2013.

Parent Support Group

Vanda hadn’t much to report but began by mentioning that we have a new program that begins Monday January 14th.  This Monday, we begin the ‘Parent Support Group’.  This new parenting initiative is sponsored by ACS Athens in collaboration with the PTO and is open to all Middle school and Academy parents.  Twice a month, parents can gather for general discussion on the challenges that parents face with pre-teen and teenagers.  Although topics are to be determined by parents, we will have the assistance of Ms. Alessandra Sax-Lane LMSW, Ed.D.C.  The meetings begin at 9:30 am. and will take place in the Theater at ACS.

Partnership for Student Success

Don’t forget that the program, Partnership for Student Success, where parents and professionals are coming together to share and learn strategies to empower students A Series of Presentations and Discussion Groups Hosted in cooperation with the ACS Athens PTO.

This month’s speaker, Ms. Christina Rassidakis will lead the lecture/discussion to us at 9:30 am., Thursday January 17^th in the Art Center Lobby on ‘I Know How to Say No!’ Fortify your kids against social predators & other dangers.  This interactive session / presentation is based on Kristina’s best selling book of the same title.  Parents can ask questions and obtain information and guidelines to teach their children how to stand firm, or step back, become more street wise or deal with those trying to manipulate or take advantage of them.  RSVP to Marietta Garbis at 210 6393-200, ext.302—there is no charge for this program.

Middle School & Academy Exams

Vanda also reminded parents that M/S and Academy students begin their exams on Tuesday January 15^th. Good luck to all our children and strength to all the parents assisting them with studies:) We also have MAP testing that begins January 18th and lasts thru February 4^th for 6^th, 7^th and 8^th grade.

Parent Effectiveness Training (P.E.T.)

Next we briefly heard from our Vice Chair, Krystallia, who reminded us about the P.E.T. (Parent Effectiveness Training) classes that are beginning again at the end of January.  Should you have questions about this program, you can contact any of us on the PTO Board, or the ICC department (Ms. Perakis or Ms. Garbis).  There will be both morning and evening classes.

Athletic News

Boosters had some news that was reported by Sapfo. The upcoming weeks and months are very busy for our athletic department - and we’ll need some help.  At the end of January, ACS Athens will be hosting the SCIS swimming finals with the attendances of 10 schools.  Annie and Valia need volunteers to help with housing.  If you can host a child in your home for a few days beginning January 31^st - please contact Sapfo here at PTO or anyone in the PE department.

Military Service for Boys

A reminder that boys born in the year 1995 who are of Greek nationality—are required to register for the military this January and February.  See the Academy bulletin for more details.

SHARE Newsletter

Our SHARE newsletter will be emailed to you shortly if you are enrolled in our PTO PEX email system.  If you are not and would like to be—contact any board member.  It is also posted each month on our PTO page of the school website at www.acs.gr

Conclusion

The Board Reports for each school were short.  With a few PTO board members not yet returned from their holidays and the fact that it was the second day back to school—there wasn’t much to report on.

Michelle, who was still enjoying the holiday, will be sure to give a detailed treasurer’s report in February.

The floor was opened to questions and nobody had much to say.  I guess not many of us were ready to be back in school:)

The highlight of the meeting was the cutting of the Vassilopita (Saint Basil’s cake).  A Greek tradition in which a holiday cake has been baked with a coin inside, and the person who finds the coin in their piece of cake is going to have a lucky year.  Amalia found the coin in our PTO Vassilopita - good and lucky 2013 Amalia!!

Be sure to mark your calendars for our next General Meeting, Tuesday, February 12^th.

Good luck to all at ACS Athens!  Happy 2013!