SAC Meeting

I. Welcome…Cristy Grube, SAC Chairperson

The SAC convened at 9:05 a.m. Members introduced themselves.

The SAC reviewed last month’s minutes, and approved them unanimously as submitted.

II. Science staff development overview…Matt Phillips

SAC took a "pop quiz" on Objects and Temperature. It was a science probe, used as formative assessment to determine how well students have learned and how well the topic has been taught. The probe is used anonymously in class, passed among students for them to grade themselves and see what they know and what they may not know. This is an example of professional development that our teachers have been receiving in science teaching methods. 5th grade is the one where science is tested in the FCAT. Mr. Phillips and Mr. Shear are also presenting science topics to the school as part of the morning news show and going into classrooms and doing hands-on science activities.

This will be the first year that the FCAT science will count toward the school grade. Our expectation at all grade levels is that at least one hands-on science activity and 3 science lessons be conducted in each class per week. We have science programs for all grade levels. We have already conducted a staff development in doing the hands-on activities. The program was chosen because it provides a good balance of hands-on, reading, and technology related materials.

III. Updated Simulation Writing Score Report…Matt Phillips

Writing scores are looking good this year. Current 4th grade average is 3.2; passing score is 4 (narrative prompt). We will do another expository simulation before Christmas break. Students are currently practicing the concept of voice in writing. Upon return from winter break, we will begin simulating both kinds of writing tests. We will also begin to practice writing within the 45 minute limit to give students the test-taking skills they need. February 6 and 7 is the FCAT writing test.

IV. Update on Success Maker Program and tutoring initiative…Roz Wolfe.

Morning tutoring program consists of both computer and face-to-face instruction. Grades 3-5 at-risk students have been coming for approx 2 months now. The average gain in reading proficiency has been .25 of a year’s growth. There is a direct correlation between gains and consistency of attendance.

V. Progress toward 5 Star School Award …Wayne Shear

Mr. Shear provided a hand-out to the SAC explaining the guidelines for attaining the 5-star designation. The five stars designate areas of excellence: 1) partners in education, 2) family involvement (we need more than 60% involved), 3) volunteers, 4) community service (we need to document 5 or more community service programs), and 5) School Advisory Council participation (8 meetings, 80% attendance minimum). We have a committee compiling this information for submission.

VI. School Needs Assessment …Wayne Shear

In planning for next year, we must gather information giving us data about needs. One piece of evidence comes from school effectiveness survey as provided by OCPS (members received copies of this survey). We will analyze this data and determine which items are most important to our families, staff, and students to improve our school. The SAC voted unanimously in favor of using this survey, which will be distributed in January.

VII. Update on Rezoning… Allyn Maycumber

There is currently no news to share. It appears that we will be reduced to approximately 830 students next year. On December 12, the new principal for the Northshore School will be announced. The new building is 25% complete at the time of this meeting; student population will approximately 920.

VIII. Update on Upcoming PTA Activities…Alicia Colón

· There was not enough representation in the last PTA meeting. Our next meeting will be January 9, 7:00 p.m. Please encourage everyone to attend.

· December 11-15 will be the Scholastic Book Fair; family night will be14 December. Letters will be going home giving more details. The fair will be in the Media Center.

· December 21 will be Chucky Cheese night. Teachers eat free with their I.D. A flyer will be going home with stickers and free tokens.

· Mrs. Maycumber is planning the school carnival. We hope to expand the carnival to have more rides and activities for older children as well.

We have a wonderful group of people in charge of this year's PTA. Please give some thought about people who might be interested in taking leadership roles in next year’s PTA.

IX. Multicultural Night December 8, 6-9 p.m… Alicia Colón and Dagmar Kilp

Many different countries will be represented. The first 100 children will receive special passports to use has they visit the different stations. There will be videos running about the different countries. The parents will be decorating, and the kids are providing the art for the bulletin boards. Please encourage everyone to attend!

X. Open Agenda

· Carnival needs corporate sponsors. They will receive advertising and banners during the event.

· Computer skills: is there more that our students can get in this area?

We are working on establishing a keyboarding program for 3rd grade. As far as basic computer skills, we will ask our Technology Coordinator, Barbara Estevez, to come and speak to the SAC about this for our next meeting.

· $8869 left in the SAC fund. Mr. Shear proposed that we purchase a label printer for the front counter; the cost would approximately $300, including the printer and labels. The program keeps a data base of everyone who is on the campus. It will also give us the convenience of printing out these labels. SAC unanimously agreed to fund the label printer and labels.

· Bus transportation changes as of January 2007: 14 students in East Park will continue to ride unless the ride becomes crowded. La Vina and Nona Crest will no longer have bus service.

· Crosswalk signage is supposed to be up in January, and the district will hire 2 crossing guards. If the signage and guards are not available in January, the bus service will continue until they are.

XI. Adjourn

The SAC adjourned at 9:53 a.m.

Our next meeting will take place on Wednesday, January 31, 2007 at 9:00 a.m in the Office Conference Room. Our focus will be on progress of subgroup populations. This date may be subject to change. Members will be notified of any changes in schedule through e-mail.