PA Begins New School Year with a Bang

The MCSM Parents’ Association’s 2008/2009 school year began with a bang on Tuesday evening, September 9, as more than 100 parents attended the year’s first PA meeting. Parents filled the Library to overflowing as they listened to speakers while enjoying chicken and rice from La Nueva Caridad, fresh fruits generously donated by parent Yrma Molina (thank you!!), and a sheet cake proclaiming, “Welcome MCSM Parents, 2008/2009.”

Parents were introduced to this year’s PA Executive Board members, after which Principal Jimenez offered his welcoming remarks and introduced Michael Salek (AP, School Safety), Bruce MonteLeon (AP, Instructional Support Services), Karen Bonnick (AP, English and Foreign Languages), Charles Kwan (AP, Math), Ms. Peralta-Garcia (AP, Social Studies), Arleen Milton (Interim AP, Science), and Felicia Bray (Interim AP, Operations). Next came MCSM’s new Director for the Children’s Aid Society, Elizabeth Blanco, followed by a presentation from MCSM Senior Ysmeli Rosa of a new, student-based initiative called Project Greenway.

Steve Koss (PA President) brought parents up to date on Con Edison, the updated review of MCSM on Inside Schools, the current bylaws review process, asbestos tile removal in the basement, a new $200,000 computer lab in our school, and upcoming C-30’s. These items were followed by a brief Treasurer’s report and then elections for three open positions on the SLT and the open position for Title I Alternate (see posting on new parent representatives). Deirdre Rose (PA Co-Vice President) then addressed parents concerning the upcoming Ashley Farms fundraiser and the formation of parent committees for the coming school year (see separate Ashley Farms and PA Committee postings).

Tuesday’s meeting gave parents a chance to hear from school administrators and meet new staff members, and it also gave parents the opportunity to participate and vote for parent leaders to represent them on the SLT and with regard to Title I funds. In addition, the PA received dues donations totaling just under $400 that evening. Many thanks to all those parents who donated to one of the most worthy causes of all – their children’s school!