Willoughby-Eastlake Association for the Gifted and Talented WEAGT

Minutes from the November 2, 2006 meeting

President Dave Fiebig called meeting to order in the Washington School Library at 7:13 pm. The pledge of allegiance was recited.

In Attendance: Dave Fiebig, Marty Shingler, Laynee Smith, Mrs. Stevens, Valerie Johnson, Kristy Horrocks, Robin Ungar, Ann Smrekar, Ruth Alexander, Dina Rossi, Michelle Marcsik, and Linda Barrus. Motion was made and passed to excuse the absence of Annette Thompson- VP

Coordinator’s Report- Mrs. Stevens stated that the school year has started out well, with the new Zenith students finding the program enlightening.  She is looking forward to a positive year.  Mrs. Stevens stated that the new laptop cart was delivered last week, and the laptops are in the process of being delivered.  She also stated that because of new Science and Social Studies curriculums, there is a need for enhancement materials for the classrooms.  Since the WEAGT line budget specifies monies for Science and Math, she recommended that the budget encompass all areas and not be specific to Math/Science.   Dina Rossi raised a question about the content of the new Everyday Math program, and Mrs. Stevens stated that the program was challenging to everyone, and was taking new strategies and time to understand.

Treasurer’s Report- Marty Shingler reported that $19,382.51 had been spent with a large portion ($18,000) being the purchase of the new laptops and cart to house them.  Marty also stated that Chase Bank has offered a new product, an interest bearing CD account that requires a minimum $10,000 deposit earning 4.75% interest.   Monies can be removed once a week without a penalty.  Marty will move the balance from the WEAGT checking account to this new type of account and will transfer funds as needed.

Secretary’s Report-Laynee Smith reported that there was little business between meetings.  The request for a theatrical performance for the Spanish students was declined due to the cost and fact that it would drain the entire funds allocated to all teachers.  An approval was given to Elena Frangioudakis, Spanish teacher, for a professional developmental workshop in Cincinnati that would incorporate story telling with the Spanish language.

Teacher’s Report- No teacher present.

New Business- Committee Leaders

  Science- Linda Barrus reported that the scheduling was almost complete for the 3- one-hour science programs offered to each Zenith classroom.  Teachers were offered the choice of Mad Science and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History ‘Science on the Go’ program. Many thanks were received from teachers and the students who love this program.

   Market Day- Dave Fiebig reported that the pie sales were short of the 250 pies sold goal, but internet orders were still being taken until Friday November 3 at noon.  There was a discussion about what to do with the freezer that will be delivered in January that Washington School had won in the September contest. 

Fine Arts- Dina Rossi reported that the Willoughby Fine Arts is in the process of scheduling the classroom visits, with the hopes that not all classes will be scheduled in January as was done in the previous year.  Robin Ungar asked why the district didn’t provide for an Art teacher in each elementary school, and Mrs. Stevens responded with the information that the 3^rd-5^th grade classrooms were to receive three art lessons a year from a traveling Art teacher within the district.  Further discussion was held about the reinstatement of the Classroom Gallery, an art education program formally presented to Washington students by volunteers.  There was a genuine interest and much discussion about the importance of providing fine art opportunities to our students.

  Auction- Co-chairs Dina Rossi and Michelle Marcsik reported that the “Save the Date” flyers were being sent home.  A request will be made for high school students to assist the night of the auction, and to room representatives responsible for coordinating the classroom projects.  Dina also stated that they were presently waiting for estimates on printing costs. 

Old Business-

 Dave reported that Sue Luck had proceeded with designs for revamping the courtyard, with educational opportunities being available to classrooms.

 Chess Club- Dave Fiebig reported that plans for the Chess Club were moving forward and that WEAGT was looking into other organizations that might be able to provide shorter sessions at a lower cost.  The hope is to have the program up and running in January.

Announcements -none

With no further business, Michelle Marscik made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Linda Barrus seconded the motion.  Motion was put to a vote, and passed.  Meeting was adjourned at 8:17 pm.

Next Meeting- January 11, 2007