Mon, Feb 2, 13:09 (1 hr 25 mins)

Roll Call: Alba Galindo, Becky Keeler, Arlette Oblaza-Ochocinski, Pauline Williams, Jessica Engelking, Christina, Liz, Ms. Luzzi

January's starting balance was $18,509; ending balance was $18,160.
Major expenses included $292 and $178 on school supplies, totaling $1,710 spent this year (lower than expected).
Fundraising income this year is $5,536, including $150 in online donations; Portillo's brought in $42.
Awaiting payment from Nickelodeon for a prior event.
Discussion that buying supplies in bulk is more economical and convenient than asking each family to contribute individually.

Explored options to recognize top fundraising families: sweatshirts, existing swag (T-shirts, Stanley cups), and after-school gaming events were discussed.
Concerns raised about being transparent about incentives and not disappointing families who weren't informed.
Suggestions to celebrate top fundraisers via banners, newsletters, and classroom shoutouts.
Noted decreased engagement in the recent fundraiser due to timing conflicts with other activities (Girl Scouts, dance, cheer).
Conversation about the best timing and spacing for future fundraisers to maximize participation.
Discussed the possibility of shifting from two Double Good fundraisers to one, supplemented by other events like taffy apple sales or a walkathon.

Reviewed past event performances: "Parents' Night Out" ($2,800 first year, $4,100 last year) and brewery/restaurant events (typically under $2,000, but no event matched Double Good popcorn earnings).
Brainstormed new ideas: walkathon (possibly with a blacklight/party theme), trivia nights, bingo, poker, and themed brunches.
Discussed legalities and practicalities of gambling-based fundraisers (bingo, Queen of Hearts, strip cards) and the need for permits.
Explored the role of local businesses (e.g., breweries, Simones for Loteria, sports venues) in future events and community fundraising involvement.
Considered combining events (like Penny Wars for students and Parents' Night Out for adults) and ensuring clear communication of event overlap.
Timing for spring events debated, aiming to avoid conflicts with spring break and school calendar oddities.

Penny Wars to start on Thursday the 26th, coinciding with the book fair; setup and classroom hype planned for earlier that week.
Decorations and supplies for events (water jugs, scooters) were discussed, along with logistics for supplying and counting coins.
For Penny Wars, teachers may receive start-up pennies, and families encouraged to contribute from home penny jars.
Coordination needed for raffle baskets, teacher experiences, and silent auction items (sports tickets, local attractions, classroom parking, etc.).
Upcoming Mother's Day plans include crafts (keychains), flowers, and a possible brunch event.
Sports updates: Track, flag football, and soccer are under consideration, with team structure depending on grade-level participation.

Discussion on leadership transition: Pauline to serve as interim board president, with elections targeted for April.
Need to promote involvement of parents from younger grades in leadership and events.
Noted challenges with broader parent engagement, both locally and citywide.
Plans to send parent surveys to gauge preferences (meeting times, virtual/in-person, event participation) and to encourage LSC and committee involvement.
Value highlighted in regular teacher-parent communications, school events (art shows, assemblies), and maintaining sense of community.

Follow up with Nickelodeon regarding pending payment.
Finalize and communicate recognition plan for top fundraisers.
Confirm details and timing for upcoming Penny Wars and coordinate logistics with staff and volunteers.
Reach out to local businesses for potential fundraising partnerships (Simones, breweries, sports teams).
Prepare and distribute fundraising and event surveys to parents.
Organize and promote teacher experiences, raffle baskets, and Mother's Day craft/flower sales.
Coordinate leadership transition, publicize election information, and encourage new parent involvement.

These minutes were compiled by CUE, an AI tool and reviewed by a board member before posting.