Willoughby-Eastlake Association for the Gifted and Talented WEAGT

Minutes March 8, 2007

Vice President, Annette Thompson, called the meeting to order at 7:30 pm.  Those in attendance were: Kim Aliazzi; Kristy Horrocks; Sue Luck; Michelle Marcsik; Dina Rossi; and Marty Shingler.  The Pledge of Allegiance was then recited. President David Fiebig and Secretary Laynee Smith’s absences were excused. 

Treasurer’s Report

Marty Shingler gave the Treasurer’s report.  He went over the proceeds of the auction and made a comparison between the 2006 and 2007 auctions.  He reported that the 2007 auction cleared over $25,800 compared to $17,600 for the 2006 auction. He mentioned that $6,600 of the increase is due to the time-shares and orthodontia.  He noted that we have not received a bill for the printing, plus other expenses will be coming in over the next month so the actual profit from the auction will be lower than $25,800. 

Shingler proposed eliminating the $1,000 “Auction” line item from the budget.  His logic is that this artificially inflates the profit from the auction by $1,000 (the proceeds mentioned above do not include this) and it subtracts from the amount that is available for other educational enrichment activities.  The membership felt that it was best to keep the “Auction” line item in the budget because it was a guide to help in planning and avoid overspending. 

The Treasurer opened a $17,000 flexible certificate of deposit at Chase earning 4.5% interest and maturing in September 2007.  If necessary, WEAGT can withdraw funds for current expenses from the CD.  WEAGT also has a $12,000 flexible CD that matures in May 2007 and current balance in the checking account is just over $12,500. 

Market Day

The membership discussed a method to raffle the freezer that we won from Market Day.  We will give tickets for chances to win the freezer to anyone who makes Market Day purchases in April and May.  The proceeds would go to the Market Day fund.  The membership unanimously approved the recommendation. 

Science

There was no science report

Fine Arts

Dina Rossi reported that the clay projects are working out very well and is popular with the students.

Chess Club

Annette Thompson reported that approximately 65% of those currently in the club would like it to continue. After his successful pilot program, WEAGT will invite the PTA and offer the program school wide, however, additional parent volunteers are needed to make it work.

New Business

Annette Thompson mentioned that volunteers are needed to form a nominating committee to help nominate officers for next year.  Nominations are due by the April 19^th meeting.  Members are invited to come forward to serve as officers for next year. 

The WEAGT/Zenith Open House for prospective first grade parents is Wednesday April 4^th at 6:30pm.  Kristy Horrocks volunteered to coordinate parents to host the event.  WEAGT is asking parents of current Zenith students to be present to help answer questions and serve refreshments to families that evening. Contact Kristy at 440-944-5642. 

Old Business

Mrs. Hart will be retiring this year and we are looking for a method to recognize her for her wonderful contributions to the education of Zenith students.  We are considering ideas that involve the courtyard, and are open to others.  Members are urged to submit ideas to Sue Luck (944-7585) before Spring Break. 

Announcements

Mrs. Stevens has a link to a guide for summer opportunities for gifted children in the Greater Cleveland Area.  This link will be posted on our website www.weagt.org 

WEAGT will present “Parenting Gifted Kids: Tips for Raising Happy and Successful Gifted Children” on April 19^th at Willoughby Middle School, by author Dr. James Delisle.  A short WEAGT meeting will be held prior to Dr. Delisle’s presentation.  The meeting will be at 7pm in the cafeteria/auditorium with the presentation at 8pm. 

The next meeting is Thursday, April 19^th at 7:00 pm at Willoughby Middle School.