The meeting of the PSA was called to order at 8:40 a.m. by MS Chair, Rebecca Cessna. Minutes from the last meeting were approved.
MINI-COURSES:
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Mike Bollem, History HS teacher and Service Learning Co-ordinator, presented on a new mini-course that was run this year for 15 HS students. The course enrolled students on the ‘Habitat for Humanity’ project run by a charitable organization in India and involved building houses for people in Chennai. The mini-course was very successful and gave the students a greater appreciation of what life is really like for the poorer in India. Fundraising is essential for this and other mini-courses to run. Mike wanted parents to be aware of how valuable their contribution to fundraising events was and hoped for their continued support to make these courses possible. The PSA asked for a copy of his budget requirements, to see if they may also be able to help with funds.
DRESS/BEHAVIOR CODE:
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HS had a discussion before the winter break to raise awareness about suitable dress and behaviour amongst High School students. In this meeting it was agreed that students should be aware that, on a shared campus, they are role models to younger children and that public displays of affection and wearing revealing clothes are not appropriate ways to behave. The dress code is being reviewed to try and reflect this tone of respect for others. If anyone (parent, teacher or student) has an individual issue to raise it was agreed that they should do so via the Counsellor, who will then discuss the issue with the individual concerned.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL:
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Concern was expressed that the Publishing Centre is set up and ready to go but that usage to date has been very low. Mike Foxall believed usage will gradually grow and already the Kindergarten have expressed an interest in using the facility. Janet Golden expressed an interest in using it for an after-school activity Journalism club for budding authors.
Authors/pancake breakfast- first week in March Ellis Hunter and Rita Golden-Gelman will be coming to school. ES will communicate more details closer to the time.
Teacher/Parent Coffee Thursday 30th Jan. at 8.45am - location to be advised.
MIDDLE SCHOOL:
HIGH SCHOOL:
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Book meeting was held to discuss ‘Too much of a good thing’, concerned with raising children in an indulgent age. Very successful and therefore it was suggested that, as there are Parent/ Teacher Conferences in February, instead of a coffee am another Book discussion should be held on 4th February instead. Details to be communicated.
EVENTS
- Christmas caroling was very successful- many thanks to all who helped- especially Angela Covington who made the mulled wine.
- Ann Griffith very kindly volunteered/ was nominated to be the PSA Events Co-ordinator.
- International Food Fair- Sat. 8th Feb. 12-2pm. Best to buy food coupons in advance for this popular event (reception/ library).
- Family Flea Market- 1st March 3-5pm . If you can help please contact Ann Griffith. Notice will go out shortly about how to register a place.
- Farewell Party- first w/e in May- Ann will give more details closer to the time.
- Teacher Appreciation Lunch- April 21st- more details later.
BOARD REPORT:
- Review work for accreditation for MS association underway- should be completed by end month.
- Traffic - situation outside gates improving, but parents requested to help further by instructing their drivers to obey traffic guards directions, not to park directly outside gate and only to send their drivers to school for 10-15 mins. before pick-up time. Extra funding may be forthcoming from US State Dept. for security measures such as video surveillance.
- 3 new board members required. 2 people have confirmed they are prepared to run. Would like to have a Korean representative as Koreans represent 11% of the school’s students. If interested, please volunteer.
TREASURER'S REPORT:
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Only update is Rs 5000 spent on caroling. Will be talking to ES, MS and HS Principals this week and report back next meeting where last year’s fundraising to be allocated.
CHANGES IN CHARTER:
Caroline Mackay, Secretary
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