March 2024 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: Wednesday March 6th, 2024

Call for Approval of Minutes - February 2024  Minutes Approved

• Principal’s Remarks

• The school-wide basketball shootout was  amazing. The students had a competition in each PE class, then winners from classes competed for winners by grade, then winners by grade competed for overall school.

• Bingo night was wonderful and a well oiled machine thanks to the teachers and staff that put it together.

• The faculty is meeting tomorrow - The Equity team will be aligning with district goals surrounding cultural humility. Looking to open eyes to all backgrounds of students while looking internally to identify privilege in society and Chestnutwold.

• STEM day coming up on May 24th - the whole school will do a STEM activity per grade. Looking for STEM parent career volunteers.

• Working with the executive board to send out surveys and re-engage the school community - Look for it in your inbox within the next few days.

• Conferences coming up

• Teachers Remarks

• Ms Carroll and Ms Martin

• Lots of thank yous for classroom enhancements

• Whisper Phones, classroom books, ect

• May 31 Franklin Institute field trip for 2nd Grade

• Bingo committee thanks the PTO for prizes, raised over 3K prizes!

• IDC Update

• No updates

• President Update

• Proposing a change to our Bylaws 

• How vice president roles are separated- we are proposing splitting how the After school roles are structured. VP of After School Activities, VP After School Club.

• motion to split the current VP of After-School Activities to two positions: VP of After-School Clubs and VP of Out-of-School Events

• motion to move the VP positions and the Secretary position from a one-year term to a two-year term

• Tabling voting on these motions until the April Meeting.

• Treasurer’s Report

Chairman Announcements

• VP of After School Activities

• March Madness has begun - games begin 3/19

• Virtual talent show ⅘ we have volunteer to put it together now.- video content timeline 3/30, paired with Honeygrow last year. 

• Chestnutwold Chase 5/19

• Parent Prom?

• Nina Wickersham updated us on some ideas they are discussing- TBC April? May?

• Spring Clubs kicked off on Monday, room in Italian club and older Yoga 

• Need Run Club Leads, note in SMORE from track in 

• VP of In School Activities

• Benergy assembly on 3/21- Mute until 6, public speaker on the spectrum. Autism Awareness Event. Celebrating Neurodiversity around that time.

• April 19th Artist in Residence

• May 29th, Evening of the Arts

• Next Meeting is April 3rd- Middle School Principal Dan will be present, Community diner to discuss family reengagement. 

• Questions/Comments

February 2024 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: Wednesday February 7th, 2024

ChCK Trait- Empathy

“The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy, we can all sense a mysterious connection to each other.

Call for Approval of Minutes - January 2023 Minutes Approved

• Principal’s Remarks

• Thank the pto for mlk event and we got shoutouts from district

• Great kindness challenge went well

• Ms Kunsa and Ms Leach counted coins that added up to approximately a 6K donation for the  week

• The basketball shootout competition will be held in each grade’s  PE classes, followed by the school wide school competition. 

• The 5th grade dance was wonderful. The students  took ownership and the parents of the students did supported them with a lot of work. Looking to make this  an annual event. 

• In the spreading kindness/sunshine initiative staff will pick a name from every grade every 2 weeks to win special recognition for their kindness with a Chestnutwold  car magnet. 

• Welcome back Ms Kasmer! 

• Culturally responsive classroom work

• 100th day! 

• Valentines Day and Teacher sponsored Family Bingo Night 

• Haverford School District Board Member Visit

• Board members present:

• Dr. Kristin Larsen

• On the board for 7 years 

• Bridgette Wiedeman 

• Board president, on the board  for 6 years

• We are the governing body for the Haverford School District. We are 9 elected members for 4 year terms. 

• We make collective decisions and hold public board meetings to vote on contracts, new hires, curriculum, ect. Various committees focus further to increase transparency and increase efficiency. 

• We establish, equip and operate the Haverford School District  schools with a 148 million budget this year. The HSD is one of the largest employers in the county. We make investments in facilities, staff and curriculum to maintain quality while maintaining fiscal responsibility. 80% of the  budget comes from real estate taxes, less than 2% comes from the federal government. 

• You can review all of the HSD board policies on the website. https://go.boarddocs.com/pa/have/Board.nsf/Public

• We set strategic goals,identify  opportunities for updating them and include the public. We have been planning goals thorough 2025 and we seek community input.

• Facility and capital improvement plans:

• Lynnewood and High school improvements

• Chatham park and Coopertown hvac systems 

• Cleaner propane busses 

• Raised 65 million for these investments with fiscal responsibility 

• Expand Chatham and Coopertown

•  Expand Middle School cafeteria

• Goal for board Increase transparency 

• Haverford High School  is ranked 18 out of 500 high schools in the state- this is huge. Haverford High School is in the top 5% of the country’s high schools. 

• Q&A

• Q: Aftercare after Elwyn’s departure? A: Can't guarantee when but replacement aftercare is in the works immediately, hopefully within the next month. 

• Teachers’ Remarks

• 5th grade

• Jennifer Migliaccio, Kerri Ryan

• Thanks for the classroom enhancements!

• Counselors - Share great kindness challenge and St Judes

• 2nd grade - Kind minds, 5th grade - coping strategies and mental health awareness

• Thanks for after school clubs, engagement is awesome!

• IDC Update

• Discussed Chestnutwold space - has enrollment peaked? Transportation, how early it comes and how it goes to all private schools.

•  The March meeting is about tech use in schools.

• President’s Update

• Thank you for MLK day parent volunteers, it was well planned,  ran smoothly and was enriching for the kids

• Nothing Bundt Cakes fundraiser is going well,  vouchers sent home with kids Monday.

• The next PTO meeting and parent info session will be on March 6th. The program will focus on anti bullying by “Box Out Bullying.”  Training parents, educators what to do if witnessing and/ or experiencing bullying. The program will also touch on Cyberbullying.

• Treasurer’s Report - January

• Chairperson Announcements

• VP of After-School Activities

• Bag Bingo 2/23

• March Madness - coming soon

• Virtual Talent Show 4/5, in need of Leads!

• Spring Clubs - coming early March, a dedicated blast for sign ups going out soon. 

• Chase date set, committee going strong. 

•  Q: Should there be leader guidelines? A: We will review

• VP of In-School Activities

• March Assembly

• May Assembly

• Cole the deaf dog, disability assembly for Fall assembly 

• Paws - trying to get them here, high demand.

• Next Meeting: Wednesday, March 6, 7:30 PM

January 2024 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: Wednesday January 10th, 2024

ChCK Trait- INTEGRITY

Being honest may not get you a lot of friends, but it’ll always get you the right ones. 

- John Lennon

Call for Approval of Minutes - November 2023 Minutes Approved

• Principal’s Remarks

• Book fair was incredible, a wonderful event, Thank you to parent volunteers

• Chop PJ Day exceeded the goal!

• Chorus carolers and holiday sing along was a big hit before winter break

• Annie rehearsals in full swing

• Mid year assessments to give data on growth and regrouping going well 

• Great kindness challenge coming up

• Shootout competition in PE class and dodgeball tournament coming up

• Counting coins for St. Jude coming up

• Delegates each have 3 priorities, 

• 3-5 gaga pit

• K-2 more food choices

• 3-5 flexibility at lunch, seating ect

• Teachers Remarks

• Lindsey Mirigliani & Mary Kate Abbot

• Thanks for help with winter parties 

• Thanks for the generous holiday gifts

• March 1, 8th will be family bingo night 

• Ms Kasmir is coming back January 29th and needs volunteers for art show

• IDC Update

• No updates 

• President Update

• Thank you to all the amazing volunteers that helped put together Holiday market and to the volunteers who took up Holiday collections for teacher and staff gifts.

• Fundraising - We do not collect dues, which is not typical of most PTO organizations so we rely on our various fundraising events throughout the year

• Look for a “Nothing Bundt Cakes” fund raising event next

• Treasurer’s Report

Chairman Announcements

• VP of After School Activities

• Upcoming Events

• Bag Bingo 2/23 

• March Madness 

• Virtual Talent Show

• Spring clubs need to kick off soon! We would love to offer more opportunities this spring so please consider volunteering!

• The Chestnutwold PTO was approached by two organizations that can offer after school programs at the school for a fee of approximately $18-20 per session. We are considering partnership but will be gathering information and exploring interest first. Facilities to be considered. 

• Wolf Center - Robust programming in performance arts. 

• Spanish Exploradores Spanish Club- The curriculum is based on children having fun while learning Spanish, so our interactive language classes are designed to keep students engaged with games, music, and crafts.

• VP of In School Activities

• MLK Day of Service, 10:30-12 in Chestnutwold Cafeteria

• Two assemblies booked!

• for March 21 Benergy - Autism awareness assembly 

• May 2nd - Paleontology assembly

• Volunteer Fair! We have lots of In-school opportunities to choose from!

• Next Meeting: Wednesday, February 7th 

• Questions/Comments

November 2023 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: Wednesday November 1st, 2023

ChCK Trait- Respect

“When we show our respect for other living things, they respond with respect for us.” Arapaho Proverb

Call for Approval of Minutes - October 2023 Minutes Approved

• Principal’s Remarks

Oakmont fire company

Basketball Jones assembly 

Halloween parade

Pj day

Coming up-

Inservice day coming up next week with PD time

Books and bagels for 5th graders

Veterans Day assembly

American ed week

YWD 

Book fair 

Pj day for CHOP $ 

Teachers happy for classroom enhancements

• Teachers’ Remarks

• Jen Stawley

• Kelly Lucas

• Thank you for the  enhancements! They loved flexible seating!

• Spiritwear sale - today!

• YWD schedule - yes coming

• Loved bb jones

• IDC Update

• Pto presidents from each school came and had some general ?’s 

• What can the PTO as far as advertise the PTO in schools

• Sending Dr Rusch info on our budgets, other info

• Ashley is also talking to other Principals with Rusch. 

• There is a policy - nuances are being worked out

• President Update

• Treasurer’s Report

• PTO Treasurer Report - October 2023 

• Classroom Enhancements- Spent $5,000, so many awesome things for 22 classrooms!  Flexible seating options, drums, Guided Reading materials, rugs, birthday items, bookshelves, Multicultural and SEL read alouds, library materials, reading challenge materials and much more!

• Chairman Announcements

• VP of After School Activities

• Trunk or treat went great- 3 gift cards went out, candy donated in advance was KEY- 

• Clubs kicked off this week- Sign up was robust- but if a student wasn't able to get in this time, prioritized next time

• Lead letters going out momentarily or have gone out

• Still could use parent volunteers fpr a session or two

• D&D club in the spring and volunteer fair in january

• Holiday market 30 vendors have signed up

• VP of In School Activities

• Assembly recap.  Bb jones bringing it back in the spring

• Working on scheduling next assembly for MARCH - Ben, Autism Assembly - spoken at coopertown  inspiring local, BE Energy is his website

• YWD-Friday November 17th-please email if interested in volunteering-you get lunch! Need a few more.

• Election Day bake sale-please sign up to donate or to staff a shift (8-5), clothing drive drop off - teachers can bring early and drop off in vestibule per MS Leach

• Book Fair week of November 27th-sign-up genius to come takedown friday dec 1st tuesday thurs evenings 

• Upcoming Dates/Events

• Spiritwear sale 1-7th

• Winter BloomBox Fundraiser Nov 1-15

• Election Day Bake Sale and Clothing Drive November 7th

• Learning Express Nov 13-17th

• Quizzo Nov 17th

• Young Writer’s Day Nov 17th

• Book Fair-November 27th-December 1st

• Holiday Market Dec 2nd

• Next Meeting January 10th- with guest speaker, Johanna Kulp!

• Questions/Comments

• DO REMINDER BLASTS - FOR SPIRITWEAR

• TEACHERS DEVELOPING READING OLYMPICS TEAMS- STARING KIDS GETTING EMAILS SOON., COMPETITION IN SPRING - LATE MARCH EARLY APRIL TEAMS FILLED

October 2023 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Agenda: October 4th, 2023

October ChCK Trait- Responsibility

“When we show our respect for other living things, they respond with respect for us.”

Arapaho Proverb

Call for Approval of Minutes - September 2023 Minutes Approved

Huge thank you to Alex Reed, Jamie Hawthorne, and all the volunteers that made Phoenix Fun Day a huge success!

Principal’s Remarks

• Excited about the success of “Go Gold Day”

• We counted 629 “acts of kindness” papers deposited in the tub 

• The small fundraiser for teachers to wear jeans raised $60 for CHOP

• Plans to build on this success in the future

Teachers’ Remarks

IDC Update- October 23rd 

Representatives from every school meet with Dr Reusche once a month, PTO presidents invited in October. This is Good way to get the superintendent’s ear. 

President’s Update

• Armen Chevrolet to presented a check tonight for a $1000 donation, took a photo with the PTO board

• We received the survey results (116 responses!) of topics for future meeting speakers and will be planning for upcoming meetings! 

• Survey results-

• Bullying/Online Safety, Developing a Healthy Body Image with our Children, Helping our Children through Anxiety 

• plans in motion to reach out to speakers for availability 

• We are also planning an upcoming adult social, stay tuned for more details! 

Treasurer’s Report

PTO Treasurer Report - September 2023

• Bank balance on 9/30/2023 ended at $17,990.10 up from July’s ending balance of $11,354.81

• Deposits totaled $8,390.00. This was mostly due to:

• $8,315 Phoenix Fun Day

• Expenditures totaled $1,754.71. This was mostly due to:

• $600 Fresh Schools

• $525 PFD Expenses

• $229.17 Teacher Appreciation - Coffee

• Classroom Enhancements started- window Oct 1st-15th, Casey has begun to get lots of emails

Chairman Announcements

• VP of After School Activities

• Clubs update- What's ready to start soon… Chatter isn't ready but Lego, Yoga, Roots & Shoots, Newbery, Yearbook and Art are ready. Youth volunteer (High School students) club to be pooled

• Trunk or Treat is coming together- stay tuned for further details. The plan is to encourage families who attend without decorating a car to bring a bag of candy to donate.

• VP of In School Activities

• Basketball Jones assembly is the morning of October 19th

• Sign-up Genius links are in development as we will need volunteers for certain events and programs coming up

• SoFunCity is an assembly in consideration for  winter/spring - It seems really cool but we will need to work it in the budget as its very expensive.

• Young Writers Day November 17th- waiting on a mini grant to help pay for this event- The event is on the general signup genius and we need volunteers, mostly in the time slot before lunch.

• Phoenix Fun Day committee recap of event

• Thanks to all volunteers, weather was touch and go but 200 or more families attended (178 rsvped) - We made $7800

Upcoming Dates/Events

• Trunk or Treat- Oct 27th

• Taddeo’s Fall Plant Sale- Oct 13-15th

• Winter BloomBox Fundraiser- Nov 1-15

• Election Day Bake Sale and Clothing Drive- November 7th

• Learning Express- Nov 13-17th

Next Meeting: November 1st 

Questions/Comments

PJ day confirmed for Nov 1st

September 2023 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Agenda: September 20th, 2023

September ChCK Trait- Responsibility

“Today you are you, that is truer than true.  There is no one alive who is youer than you.” 

Dr. Seuss

Call for Approval of Minutes - May 2023 Minutes Approved

Welcome to our new principal, Mrs. Leach! We are so happy you are here!

• A special thank you to Sandy McManus, Latanya King and Elizabeth Stranzl for putting together a great New Student Event and thanks to all who came to the Welcome Back Picnic 

• Stay tuned for a survey in your email measuring parent interest in program suggestions for upcoming PTO meetings. Topics included in the survey will be as follows:

• Supporting Children with Anxiety & other Mental Health Challenges

• Gender Identity Awareness/ Cultural Competency

• Racial Cultural Competence

• Diversity & Inclusion 

• Gun Safety/Violence Prevention

• Drug Awareness

• Online Safety

• Embracing a Healthy Body Image for Parents & Children

• Bullying 

Teacher’s Remarks

• Ms Neri spoke for the teachers at the meeting

• Teachers thanked the PTO for the House Cup coffee and treats the day after B2SN

• Ms Neri asked about contact information for the PTO chairs and club volunteers and was directed to the PTO website, where all the information is updated

• Ms Neri also shared information about the author of our book for the year visiting in April!  Amy June Bates, the author of The Big Umbrella will be having a book signing on April 10 from 6:00-8:30.  This is all pending approval of the grant we applied for!  Fingers crossed it gets approved!

Principals’ Remarks 

• Thank you to the PTO for the events to start the school year off 

• Thank you the Parents for their support

• It’s been a successful start to the year!

• The first assembly is planned around the book/theme for the year “We Got You Covered”

• Next Friday is a “Gold Out” to raise awareness for childhood cancer. Students, teachers and staff to wear gold/yellow and we will be spreading sunshine with acts of kindness. This is new to our school but moving forward there are lots of ideas around possible fundraising, for now we are focusing on recognition. 

• Straight from the Governor- Free breakfast will be starting in October- more information forthcoming.

• School days are in full swing now and the energy and positivity is wonderful

• Our first field hockey game against Coopertown is next week! Exciting!

Treasurers’ Report 

PTO Treasurer Report - July/August 2023

Bank balance on 8/31/2023 ended at $11,354.81 up from June’s ending balance of $11,371.23

Deposits totaled $845.85. This was mostly due to: $ 755.75 Josten’s Refund

Expenditures totaled $862.27. This was mostly due to:
$ 595.95 Deposit for PFD (Slide, Basketball game, Popcorn machine

$ 199.28 Website - Squarespace

• Vote on 2023-2024 PTO Budget 

• Casey presented the Budget to the attendees. Budget posted on the PTO Website.

• Went over big gifts for last year (the new kiln, picnic table for the teachers, storage container & rack for recess. 

• We increased the budget for assemblies this year as well as the budget for school enhancements to aid our teachers. 

• 32 (eligible) people were in attendance to vote, in addition to the PTO Exec Board.

• Vote passes - 32 Yay - 0 Nay

• Vote on change to the PTO by-laws to allow us to function as a tax exempt entity

• 32 (eligible) people were in attendance to vote, in addition to the PTO Exec Board.

• Vote passes - 32 Yay - 0 Nay

Chairmen Announcements 

• Assembly October 19th-Basketball Jones with Corey Jones

• New program-Music in the Classroom

• Volunteer Fair - Potential volunteers were able to walk around and scan the QR codes to go to the various  sign ups.  Potential volunteers had the ability to sign up at the fair  or anytime afterwards. Thank you to all the volunteers! 

Phoenix Fun Day Update - Jamie Hawthorne and Alex Reed

Upcoming Dates/Events

• Sept 29th: Phoenix Fun Day

• Oct 13th-15th: Taddeo’s Plant Sale

• Oct 27th: Trunk or Treat

Next Meeting- October 4th

May 2023 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Agenda: May 3rd, 2023

May ChCK Trait- Respect 

“Life is Karma, and the best Karma is to be respectful of the Earth, ocean, wildlife, and the human race.”  Javier V. Sanchez

Welcome to Dan Horan, Haverford Middle School Principal  

Mr. Horan’s Remarks - Thank you for your time.  Here to give an overview of the kids transition from 5th to 6th grades. They start planning for the transition in Dec.  First they meet with curriculum and instructional departments (LA & Math) district wide, school by school, and they start quantitative data collection.  They start creating schedules based on the kids that are coming in. In March/April they transition to qualitative (individual) data collection.  By May, they move to a per kid level, and they meet with each Principal for guidance.  Schedules are sent home by the end of July.  They should be seen as recommendations and there are opportunities to talk about changes from there.  Every Quarter they review levels and “who can come up; “ no one moves down a level. Unity Day - all 5th graders come to middle school and meet w/team , take tours of the school, and sit down with a panel of student reps (representing each elementary school) for an open Q & A, which the kids love..  There are 8 days for orientation over the summer and you can pick the best time for your schedule.  It will be a presentation, a tour of the bldg, and you can come as many times as you wish.  In addition, they want to remain as accessible as possible and encourage people to stop in if they see cars parked by the flagpole. It is a large school, with a small town mindset.  They know what it takes to be successful; they outperformed themselves in the last year and they are still asking how they can build on this.  How does SEL curriculum play out in Middle School? They have a counseling suite in which there are 4 counselors, 1 social worker, 1 therapeutic counselor, and a secretary who is also trained in emotional support. They offer developmental guidance once a week and similar academic programming as the elem programs.  There’s also Health class also has SEL built in 4 days a week, and  during advisory time,  2 of those days are dedicated to SEL lessons.  They actually have more counseling support than elem. School.  What kind of after school activities are offered? The PIAA allows no sports options for 6th grade, but the website has a listing of the over 50 clubs that are available at the middle school.  The kids are well informed of the options and are regularly notified on what is happening per week.  How many kids per homeroom? 22 average, but they vary in academic classes.  On the higher end  of levels, classes are bigger at 25- 26 per class.  If they need more help, classes are more 20-22; and specialized learning is more 10-12 per class.  They love that they  have tons of flexibility because of their set up of teams, teachers, buildings.  

Recording Secretary Remarks

• Proposal for last month's minutes to be passed, as they have been posted and no one has come forward with corrections.  - Minutes Pass! 

Principal Remarks - Ms. Hockfield It’s a busy couple of weeks coming up.  PSSA’s are almost finished; math and science are left. The kids have done great, but everyone is ready to get back - one kid said to her “my brain hurts.” K, 1st and 2nd were great; they were so quiet during a busy time.  The Arts Festival is ™ night.  The volunteers are blowing her away with how much help they are providing the school.  The kids are excited.  Then everything happens in the next few weeks of school: picnics, field trips, special lunches, and school meetings….the rest of the year will be fast paced and there’s lots of fun things happening.  The kids are all excited about their field trips: 5th grade going to Philadelphia, 4th grade to iFly, 3rd & 2nd to Elmwood Zoo.  Thank you also for celebrating Ms. Moss for administrative assistants day - she felt the love!  

President Update

• Vote on New Board Members - Proposing - President- Suruchi Keenheel, Vice President of After School Activities- Angela Herman, Co- Treasurer- Cathy Goilghtly, Co- Treasurer- Cathy Goilghtly.  - 15 people in crowd vote YES and new Board is approved! 

• Vote on Big Gift- Last year we did the swings for the kids and this year we thought about a gift that would be for a different area of the school community.  (*Some 4th grade students have submitted a petition for a Gaga pit but we have decided to look into this further next year; with a possible student fundraising element.)  We asked the teachers for ideas and they came up with a list that we felt good fulfilling almost in full.  The biggest gift would be a new kiln for the art room!  There is one line item we decided against though, and that was the printer request, as we felt that this kind of purchase would warrant further expenditures that we weren’t ready to deal with long term.  The total cost for all the items would be around $8200. 

• Questions from the crowd - Do we know any feedback about the other Gaga pits in the district?  Actually Ms. Hockfield checked out the newly installed Lynnewood Gaga pit and the reviews are mixed.  It isn’t being used as much as they thought it would be, and it creates a pretty rough situation. Do the teachers still get end of the year gifts from the PTO?  Yes, not as part of the budget, rather as a parent run committee effort in which money was raised and is handed out as gift cards during the winter holidays and will be again at the end of the school year. They equal around $15-20 per gift card.  (*PTO removed this as a budget item because we thought it was a little ethically shakey to give teachers cash like  gifts so directly.)

•  A vote is proposed to spend the money on this set of gifts to the school. 15 people in the crowd vote YES to this budget vote and the spending is approved! 

• Taddeo’s Plant Sale- May 5-7- flier in the Blast

• Bake Sale/ Clothing Drive- May 16th - look for a signup genius for volunteers and donations.  

• Water Ice Treat for kids on Friday, need volunteers for afternoon to help serve - Shhh! It’s a secret.

Treasurers’ Report

PTO Treasurer Report - April 2023

Bank balance on 4/30/2023 ended at $24,366.61 down from March’s ending balance of  $24,409.52

Deposits totaled $3,192.06. This was mostly due to:

• $1,600 Chase Donations

• $1,250 Quizzo

Expenditures totaled $3,234.97. This was mostly due to:

• $2,100 Field Trips

• $297 Classroom Enhancements

• $318.75 March Madness Winners

• $345.81 Chestnutwold Chatter

Chairmen Announcements 

• VP of After School Activities - 

• Thank you for the Quizzo volunteers - it was a fun night!  

• Chestnutwold Chase 5k and 1 mile Fun Run - Sunday May 21st - last big event of the school year!  Registration is still open; just the t-shirt deadline has passed. 

• VP of In School Activities - 

• Art show 5/4 - the school is in the midst of an amazing transformation.  Come to the Art Show Thursday!

• Field Day 5/18 - volunteers/donations needed - sign up genius coming in Blast. 

• THANK YOU to long time super star volunteers Lalasa Mohr and Rebecca Phelan!  We will miss you as you move along to the middle school.  Thank you for all your volunteering after all the years. 

• IDC Update - This month they met about behavior consequences.  They were joined by Dr. Whitehead and the guidance counselor joined from Chatham Park Elem.  Overall there is no district wide disciplinary action plan; it varies by school. They primarily teach by modeling expectations.  There is no pointing out the good & bad behavior per student.  The only program is the built-in responsive classroom system.  This makes sure consequences vary by age & student.  Some schools use incident reports at lunch.  This seems to make sense because most incidents can be handled on the spot this way.  Specific Questions were emailed that they thought the new principal would find useful; mostly regarding providing grade specific guidelines that could be referred to by all parties in a case of a behavior incident.  They group found that this was the missing factor in the district ‘s behavior response. 

• Ms. Hockfield added - there have been no real updates to the new principal search.  They have narrowed things down to 3 candidates - 2 internal, 1 external.  Also, YouTube has been removed from district elementary laptops - to the general approval of all in the crowd! 

Upcoming Dates/Events

Now through 5/9: Spirit Wear Sale

5/4: Evening of the Arts

5/5-5/7:  Taddeo’s Plant Sale

5/12, 5/13: Fifth Grade Play- Willy Wonka!

5/16: Bake sale/Clothing drive

5/18: Field Day

5/21: Chestnutwold Chase

Questions and Comments: 

• 5th grade appreciating the positive options and flexibility their group is being given lately - its a real vibe boost to have the lunch seating situation made more flexible.  

• Thanks for the PTO supporting the recent pet supply drive on their social media.  It made a big difference in their drive and the kids were thrilled.  THANKS PTO! 

April 2023 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: April 12th, 2023

April ChCK Trait- Responsibility

“Taking responsibility for oneself is by definition an act of kindness.” -Sharon Salzberg

Welcome to our Marcy Hockfield, our interim Principal and Welcome to Dr. George Ramoundos 

Dr. Ramoundos Remarks - George Ramoundos Asst HR Director for SDHT (soon to be director 7/1) and John Nolen - Interim HR Director for SDHT came to Chestnutwold to share that they are in the process of hiring a new principal and wanted to get feedback from the teachers and parents about what qualities they would like to see in the new principal.  They will send the feedback with the admin team and keep it in mind when hiring.  The following are the remarks from the crowd: Leads staff with understanding, strong communicator with school community, sensitive to the kids w/special needs and present for meetings, fully understands 504/IEP process, understanding with curriculum, prefer a teacher of color that more reflects our community, someone diverse and inclusive, knowledgeable with Positive Behavior plans, special ed background, elementary school background, experience with families and community, a team builder, proven record of fostering communities’ culture, proactive (not reactive) to situations and policies, up to date on current studies and modern easy of teaching, knowledgeable with race and sex (LGBTQ) issues - specifically with children, be part of the community, inviting to new members of the community, meaningful connections with children, participation in after school/pto events, know we have amazing teachers and be there to support them, willingness to be part of PTO, we have the most parent participation of any elementary school - keep it going, post pandemic understanding, understand teachers make representations of us as a school community. He said the hiring process is very rigorous and takes months.  He cannot reveal specific details because it is a private process but he assures the school that they are very committed to finding the best candidate for Chestnutwold they can.  They were asked what they are looking for in an ideal candidate and they commented: someone who will develop relationships, is well read & understands primary education, hopefully they have an elementary background, are passionate about teaching, are joyful, like people (teachers, students, and children), who stand up for what’s right, and have plans to grow with the SEL program.  

Teacher’s Remarks - Ms. Martin (3rd grade) and Ms. Neery (4th grade reading specialist) - Thank you for the wobble chairs; the kids love them.  Ms. Gretchen says thank you for the carpet.  Reminder - lost & found is getting filled again.  Racks have been moved back down to the 1st grade door hallway. Ms. Munch thanks the PTO for the funding of her “caught being kind” magnets.  (program coming soon!)

Principal’s Remarks - Marcy Hockfield - Chestnutwold is a really lovely place and has been really really wonderful - great staff, parents, kids.  She has no regrets about coming back to work here.  She also noted that the issues we have are small and can be fixed; everyone works as a team and it seems like that is just the way of things here.  She recognized Mr. Ummarino as a lovely guy who has worked hard to hol this place together over the last few months.  She is pleased with the amazing classrooms and happy kids.  She also thanked the PTO for all the events coming up, there seems to be “a million things happening.” The teachers commented that - Marcy has been great for Chestnutwold and the staff.

Recording Secretary Remarks

• Proposal for last month's minutes to be passed, as they have been posted and no one has come forward with corrections.  - Minutes Pass! 

President Update

• Variety Show thank you - (Matthew Stanford) - AWESOME show - so many talented kids!

• March Madness! Thank you (Joe Petrucci) and to everyone who participated- raised $425 for the PTO

• Congratulations to our winners Adam Langley, Frank Kishel &Tori Reed

• Parent Social- April 28th at the CREC for QUIZZO.  Registration is now open! $25/pp

• Taddeo’s Plant Sale- May 5-7- flier will be sent out next week

• Bake Sale/ Clothing Drive- May 16th

Treasurers’ Report

PTO Treasurer Report - March 2023

Bank balance on 3/31/2023 ended at $24,409.52 down from February’s ending balance of $26,567.79

Deposits totaled $2,460. This was mostly due to:

• $250 Quizzo

• $850 March Madness

• $1,160 Lovelines

Expenditures totaled $4,618.27. This was mostly due to:

• $3,427.27 Classroom Enhancements

• $500 Twilight Run

• $275 Roots and Shoots

Chairmen Announcements 

• VP of After School Activities

• Running Club has started! Thanks Alex Pickel.  Club will culminate with the Chase.

• Chestnutwold Chase 5k and 1 mile Fun Run - Sunday May 21st 

• Roots and Shoots - Thanks Rebecca Phelan for cleaning up the gardens around school.  For Earth Day they are proposing a terra recycling presentation for the kids in the cafeteria (This did not pass admin proposal.)

• $83 was raised at the scrap metal recycling event and lots of junk was saved from going to the landfill

• Twilight Run - sign up by friday for a chance for Chestnutwold to win a water ice party

• VP of In School Activities

• Artist In Residence - Matt Phelan will be in school tmw, 4/13 for 2 assemblies (1-2 & 3-5).  He will visit the Kindergarten classrooms as well.  

• Art Show (May 4th) - May 4th - might need some more volunteers, but seems like everything is going well.

• The last time this happened was 2019 - starts with a concert and then visitors can wander the school, looking in classrooms at all the different kinds of art on display.  It’s a fun event for the whole family and the kids love sharing their work.  

IDC Update - next month’s meeting is about behavior consequences.  Any feedback, questions, or comments that you would like proposed should be emailed to the committee before the end of the month.

Upcoming Dates/Events

4/28: Parent Social Quizzo @ the CREC

5/5-5/7:  Taddeo’s Plant Sale

Next Meeting- May 3rd- will vote on Board Members for next year’s PTO

Questions/Comments/Concerns:

• Will there be field trips this year?  - Yes!  Ms. Hockfield will be sending out an email about it, but all grades are doing field trips (most to the zoo)!

• Notice that the 1st Chatter of the year will be coming out this week - thanks to the PTO and the Teachers for all their help getting this issue published.  

March 2023 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: March 1, 2023

March ChCK Trait- Integrity

(Middle School student Jules is the available sitter)

“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”  -C.S. Lewis

(Draft - Pending Approval)

Recording Secretary Remarks

• Proposal for last month's minutes to be passed, as they have been posted and no one has come forward with corrections.  - Minutes Pass!

Haverford Education Foundation visitors - Chesnutwold is a Mini Grant Recipient ($1,500!) 

• Applied last spring and the grant helped us purchase the Swing Set - Thank you!

• Haverford Education Fund is a non profit that funds initiatives in our township schools for things that are not funded by the regular school budget.  

• Their biggest fundraiser is coming up and they are asking all the school communities to participate - The Twilight Run is a 5k run & 1 mile kid walk. April 26, 5pm. 

Principal’s Remarks - Assistant Principal Jerry Ummarino - 3/10 is SEL Day - Feel Good Friday - wear clothing with a positive message on it. The March we will celebrate - Music is for All of Us. Look for displays in the windows.  It is also Read Across America month 3/31 is “dress as your favorite book character” day.

Teacher’s Remarks - Ms. Lucas and Ms. Laughlin  (4th grade teachers) - Thanks for all the help with the Valentine’s Party’s.  Thanks also for cleaning the Lost & Found; Ms. Knapp took each class to the rack to look for goods and understand the value of things. Question - is there any money for field trips?  - YES!  $700 per grade plus possible need based aid.  

IDC Update - no update this month

President Update

• Parent’s Seminar on Anxiety April 12th - Ms. Munch speaking

• Parent Social- Quizzo at the CREC - BYO event - come socialize and have a good time.

Treasurers’ Report - 

PTO Treasurer Report - February 2023

Bank balance on 2/28/2022 ended at $26,567.79 up from January’s ending balance of  $24,775.13

Deposits totaled $2,875.05. This was mostly due to:

• $2,266 Bag Bingo

• $350 Lovelines

• $184.05 Amazon Smile*

Expenditures totaled $1,082.39. This was mostly due to:

• $168.46 Bag Bingo

• $300.51 Family Bingo Night Supplies

• $240.42 Lost and Found Rack and Hangers

• $258 House Cup Coffee for Teachers

*Probably the last time we will get money from Amazon Smile (program ended).

Chairmen Announcements 

• VP of After School Activities

• March Madness brackets due before first game on March 16th

• Virtual Variety Show - 2 min video submissions must be emailed by 3/25 - show premiers on 3/31.  We will also do a kick back dining fundraiser for that premier night too. 

• Running Clubs -Starts 4/10 - doing good on volunteers, but always could use help.

• Chestnutwold Chase 5k and 1 mile Fun Run - Sunday May 21st 

• VP of In School Activities

• Artist in Residence is 4/20

• Art Show is back - 5/4.  Lots of volunteers will be needed.  Can use volunteer sign up genius link to sign up.

Upcoming Dates/Events

• Friday 3/3 - Family Bingo

• Wednesday 4/12- Parent Seminar on Anxiety

• Friday 4/28 - Parent Social Quizzo @ the CREC

Next Meeting- April 12th

Feb 2023 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Agenda: February 1, 2023

(*Haverford High School student Marie was the available sitter)

February ChCK Trait- Positive Attitude

“You can often change your circumstances by changing your attitude.” —Eleanor Roosevelt

• Armen Chevrolet “Back to School Program” Recipient -

• $1,000 Donation to our PTO

• Recording Secretary Remarks

• Proposal for last month's minutes to be passed, as they have been posted and no one has come forward with corrections.  - Minutes Pass!

• School Board Remarks - Bridget Wieideman and Latanya King -  visited our meeting to introduce themselves and share what kind of work they do for the school district as members of the school board. (Apparently our turnout of parents at the meeting was the largest they have seen so far!)  Both are (were) Chestnutwold parents and they love the culture and climate of our school.  The school board consists of 9 elected members whose goal is to establish, educate, and support the 6600 students in the Haverford School District.  Their primary function is to establish policy and be advocates for public education.  They run a 138 million dollar budget which is funded 80%  by township taxes.  Lately this has also included some major facility projects throughout the district.  They will continue to interpret and update the recently done facility study to keep up with the growth of our community.

• Superintendent Remarks - Dr. Maureen Reusche - visited our meeting to speak with our community and introduce us to her role in the school district. She also gave an update to some main points of interest within the district: registrations for next year are open and the numbers are returning to a more steady 2019 pace; facility study will take all growth data into consideration when planning out whether there would be a need for redistricting or current school expansion projects; the possibility of being able to offer full day kindergarten one day will also be considered in this.  Dr. Reusche also answered a general question regarding the absence of Principal Denelsbeck.  She confirmed that she could share no further info on the absence at this point, but will be open if and when the situation changes.  She also confirmed there is no reason to think that the children were in an unsafe situation connected with this absence.  She also specifically squashed a rumor that she had heard was going around about the situation, and reminded the community to remember this is someone’s reputation; and while she understands the curiosity, it’s best not to jump to conclusions without the facts. Finally she was thanked for attending the MLK Day event, to which she reciprocated by saying what a great event it was.  

• Principal’s Remarks - Assistant Principal Jerry Ummarino - assures us that his and the staff’s number one priority is to take care of the kids.  He thanks Mr. Kleinhans for filling in for Ms. Kasmer in art; everyone really liked him.  He also thanks the PTO for the upcoming Feb.10th  assembly; they are all looking forward to it.  Looking ahead, PSSA’s are coming up in late April-May for 3rd grade and up.  

• Teacher’s Remarks - Ms. Migliaccio and Ms. Ryan (5th Grade Teachers) - They are happy to announce they are hosting an upcoming school Bingo Night, Mar. 3rd (snow date Mar. 10), 6-8:30pm. 2 5th graders will win the Mary Borman award for $500 towards their educational e  Proceeds will benefit the CHOP Cancer Center in honor of some of our school community affected by the disease.  Teachers are also asking when to look for the Spring Classroom Enhancements - Addie says May. 

• IDC Update - Tori DelMastro - This month’s subject was the computer curriculum used in the district.  The entire group was concerned with the higher use of screens, especially in elementary schools.  They also questioned waiting till the higher grades for having internet safety training.  

• President Update - 

• Volunteers needed for Variety/ Talent Show (which is not a fundraiser this year) and for next year’s PTO Board

• School Counselor Ms Munch will be giving a talk on the topic of Anxiety before our April meeting

• Treasurers’ Report - 

PTO Treasurer Report - January 2023

Bank balance on 1/31/2023 ended at $24,775.13 up from December’s ending balance of  $24,397.72

Deposits totaled $6,024.78. This was mostly due to:

• $4,160 Bag Bingo Registration

• $1,250 Donations (Chevy Give Back and Family Donation)

• $230 Lovelines

Expenditures totaled $5,647.37. This was mostly due to:

• $2,434.94 Bag Bingo (Reimbursement, MC, Supplies, Hall Payment)

• $341.25 Deposit for 5th Grade Fun Day

• $2,290 Assembly

• $260.33 Yearbook Deposit

• Chairmen Announcements 

• VP of After School Activities

• Over 50 people have volunteered so far this year…and we still need more!  Running Club is coming up and we will need a lot of volunteers: specifically for grades K, 4,and  5. Signups will be in March, clubs start in April, and it ends with the Chase on May 21st.  

• VP of In School Activities

• Civil Rights Thru Hip Hop Assembly coming up next Fri, Feb 10.  One for K-2, another for 3-5. Message is about love, peace, and unity.  

• Art Show (1st back in person) will be May 18th - we will need volunteers.

• Upcoming Dates/Events

• Bag Bingo - February 10th- Sold Out!  This will be a fun event and there are new (non-bag) prizes too.  Advice for next year, sign up early because the demand was really high and there is a strict limit of tickets.  

• Next Meeting- March 1st

Nov 2022 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

Meeting Agenda: November 9th, 2022

(*Haverford High School student Melana on hand for any child sitting needs)

November ChCK Trait- RESPECT

“Kindness and respect go a long way. The way you treat others is how you end up being treated.” 

―Heather Bennett-Smallwood

• Trunk or Treat and Bake Sale - Thanks to all the parents and volunteers for another set of fun and successful PTO events! 

• Recording Secretary Remarks

  • Proposal for last month's minutes to be passed, as they have been posted and no one has come forward with corrections.  - Minutes Pass!

Teacher’s Remarks -  Ms. Meagher (1st grade) came representing the the teachers:

• Thank you for the classroom enchantments! 

• First grade did pumpkin math the week before Halloween, thank you for the grown ups who volunteered! 

• Mrs. Kunsa and Ms. Esposito said thank you for the soundproof foam. They are hoping to get it installed soon.

• Mrs. Montgomery shared that there are 25 veterans coming for the assembly tomorrow. Thank you for completing the stars! 

• -Mrs. Lucas said thank you for the PTO classroom enchantments. Her class is loving the flexible seating options! 

• Ms. Naylor shared something new for this year .. Something new this year is if families would like to contribute to a cwold family in need of help cover an unexpected tax cost on a kid’s book for the book fair, the “book fairy” funds from my e-wallet/library e-wallet will be used for that purpose! I’ve already reached out to both counselors and we’re excited to start this! This will also be helpful before the holidays.

• Principal’s Remarks - The American Legion will be present at the Vetern’s Day assembly this Thursday.  Around 25 parents/grandparents are coming to be honored.  Monday kicks off American Education Week. Tuesday parents will be able to observe their child’s classrooms. Please make sure you are cleared in our system beforehand if you can.  Come into the office and get your driver license scanned to get in our system. Wednesday will be para professional day, and Friday is Young Writer’s Day.  The lost & found is growing again, please check it out for lost items.  The PSAA scores are out. Overall we are happy with the direction of the scores; we seem to be recovering from some of the covid loss.  Be warned that the system had a recent change and our school number may look a little different than before because of it.  

• President Update

  • Learning Express Fundraiser next week - use the flier, available on the website.

• Treasurers’ Report - 

Bank balance on 10/31/2022 ended at $25,495.43 up from September’s ending balance of  $22,143.67

Deposits totaled $9,031.73. This was mostly due to:

• $3,889.25 Phoenix Fun Day Donations

• $900 Winter Market Vendor Fees

• $277.53 Town Tap Give Back

• $3,964.95 PFD Spirit Wear 

Expenditures totaled $2,479.97. This was mostly due to:

• $1,505.00 Spirit Wear

• $886.05 Classroom Enhancements

• Spirit Wear - sale running through Friday,  If you tried for a size and they said it was unavailable, try again; there has been a problem with the whole system and they think it is fixed. 

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • VP of In School Activities

    • Art in the Classroom - is back! A few classrooms still need volunteers. No experience or expertise required.

    • Young Writers Day - Amanda - most classrooms get 2 - 50 minute blocks with children's writers (of all kinds); 1 block for 1st and K classrooms. A lunch will be catered from Pepperoncini and a coffee & pastry spread will be provided by House Cup.  

    • Book Fair - Natalie - Week after Thanksgiving. Students attending during their library time.  Tues & Thurs nights are the family nights. Volunteers needed.  Students may bring in cash in an envelope or use the eWallets.  Note - money on eWallets are non-refundable; you will keep the credit, but not be able to cash out the remaining change after the sale is over.  You can use the credit online as well.  Looking into whether the eWallets are per student or family. Keep in mind there is tax to all purchases. Also looking into whether there is a way to send a note with gift purchases through teachers eWallets.

• VP of After School Activities

  • 2nd session of clubs will get going after winter break.  Chess club being added!

  • Dec. 3rd is the Holiday Market - this year indoors

• IDC Update - carryover topic of Sustainability.  The District has no specific plan.  Talk of solar panels, and adding the issue to a club.  The Director of Public Safety will be at the next meeting.  The issue of excessive computer curriculum is a soon to be a  topic.  Chestnutwold keeps bringing up good topics and the group is happy to bring any new discussions to the group. Also, the high school is looking for help with their BLAST (after prom party); please consider volunteering as we will all benefit from this event at some point. 

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • November 18th: Young Writers Day

  • November 28th- December 2nd: Scholastic Book Fair

  • December 3rd: Holiday Market 

• Next Meeting- February 1st- Members of the School Board will be attending

• Questions/Comments/Concerns 

  • Bake sale we earned $805!

  • Picture re-take day is 11/17. Will composite classroom pictures be the new way of things? Probably yes, easier to include everyone.  

  • Will class parties be opened back up to more parents again? Hard to say with the new security system.  It has to do with safety. Tuesday will be a good test for the system to see. Parties should not just be for homeroom parents though, it is okay for attendance to be on a need base.  

  • In general discussion about the squeeze being felt - In regards to redistricting, some feasibility studies are happening. However, this year we have 585 students, which is lower than last year.  They have however added 15 new students in 2nd grade, and 25ish in 1st.

Oct 2022 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: October 12th, 2022

ChCK Trait:  Responsibility

“If you take responsibility for yourself, you will develop a hunger to accomplish your dreams.”

-Les Brown

• PFD Thanks - Thank you to all the attendees and volunteers.  It was a really successful event and a lot of fun! We raised around $9K.  We thank our hard working committee chairs and volunteers:  Jamie Hawthorn, Alex Pickel, and especially Lalasa Mohr who has successfully led this event for the past few years.  Alex will return as the chair for the 2023 Phoenix Fun Day.

• Recording Secretary Remarks - Minutes have been posted online, and are available in print here and no one has asked for corrections.  I’d like to make a motion to pass last month’s minutes. Can I get a second? Second granted; minutes pass!

• Teacher’s Remarks - Linsey Mirigliani and Molly Grover, Kindergarten teachers and Stephanie D’Annunzio, Special Ed represented the teachers.  

  • Phoenix Fun Day was definitely a success - the students have been talking all about it. 

  • Thank you to those who are planning Halloween parties!

  • Veteran’s Star requests are due Oct 27th. Nov 10th there will be an assembly to honor veterans.  

• Principal’s Remarks - Respect Week is happening next week. - theme is in support of Anti-Bullying month.  Each day has a different theme and dress up idea.  (Chart in principal’s email.) This coincides with a student delegate chosen food drive, donating to the Ardmore Food Pantry.  There are grade divided donations - see list about each grade’s item.  On Monday, 10/31 there will be a costume parade @10:30am and holiday parties (some parties before the parade, and some after). Parents are welcome to come to the school and watch the parade.  It is a ½ day schedule for students.  Picture Day is Thursday, 10/20.  It will be outside again and the class photos will be composite. Nov 8th, no school (election day). Nov 14th starts American Education Week - Nov 19th there will be an Anti-Bullying assembly. Building behavior has been great this year!

• President Update

  • Taddeos this weekend - sale is a giveback for the PTO.  Get your fall pumpkins and decor!  

  • Bake Sale and Clothing Drive - Nov 8th.  A sign up genius for donations and volunteers will come soon. 

• Treasurers’ Report - PTO Treasurer Report - September 2022

Bank balance on 9/31/2022 ended at $22,143.67 up from August’s ending balance of  $15,149.37

Deposits totaled $11,792.95. This was mostly due to:

• $9955.86 Phoenix Fun Day

• $152.09 Amazon Smile

• $1685 Spirit wear

Expenditures totaled $4,798.65. This was mostly due to:

• $1,095.81 Backyard toys and recess equipment

• $600.00 Fresh Schools

• $1,531 Spirit wear

• $675.54 PFD (tatoos, cash for tips and cashboxes)

• $440.20 Welcome Back Picnic and New Family Night

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • VP of After School Activities - Clubs are up and running - many have just met and the rest are coming.  We still need volunteers and great club ideas - bring your idea to life! Trunk or Treat still has openings for decorated car spots.  There will be contests for the cars - spookiest, etc!  The Holiday Market is happening again on Dec.3rd (indoors this year!), vendors are wanted. 

  • VP of In School Activities - Nov 18th will be Young Writer’s Day. They will need about 12 parents to volunteer.  The Book Fair starts Nov 29th in the library.  They need volunteers in shifts that are both in the day and the evening of Tues and Thurs.  Look for the sign up genius on these events soon. 

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • Oct 29th: Trunk or Treat

  • November 8th: Election Day Bake Sale and Clothing Drive

  • December 3rd: Holiday Market 

• Next Meeting- November 2nd 

• Questions/Comments/Concerns 

  • What was the result of the school run Clubs student survey? 

    • Mr. Denelsbeck - In addition to Chorus, the top contenders were Musical Theater, Board Games, Video Games, and Rubix Cube Club

Sept 2022 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Agenda: September 14th, 2022

ChCK Trait:  INTEGRITY 

“Integrity is what we do, what we say, and what we say we do.”-Don Galer

• Thanks to - Amy Solwecki and Sandy McManus for putting together a great New Student/ New Family Event and Thanks to all we came out to the Welcome Back Picnic!

• Approval of Minutes - May 2022 Minutes Approved

• Teacher’s Remarks - Mrs. McCusker, 2nd grade teacher, came to represent the teachers.

  • Teachers are excited to be Back to School.  There is good energy and happiness in seeing everyone's faces again. 

  • THANK YOU for the swing set!  

    • Teachers have been using ChK Traits lessons on the playground: modeling good behavior on the playground. The playground games are great for the kids too.

  • The teachers doors are open - if we need them, please reach out.

• Principal’s Remarks -  Be You by Peter Reynolds is the school book this year.  It links nicely with Chestnutwold’s ChK Traits.  During the welcome back, staff drew pictures of themselves, like the book, and they are hung up along the entrance hallway.  Buses have been very slow since the beginning of the year, but they are working out the kinks.  Bus 22 is way off time. In the afternoon Bus 39/21/26 - arrives at CW @3:30; Bus 7 - 3:50; and Bus 22 - 4pm. Tracker on Edulog (in the parent portal) is very accurate. Morning Meetings have been extended by 5 minutes to help compensate.  There are no longer free lunches this year.  Please apply for free or reduced lunch on schoolcafe.com.  Safe arrival is no longer the program they are using for attendance.  They are installing a new system, but until then, use email for reporting absences.  You may receive a call or alert about your child being marked absent before they have had time to clear your excuses; please be patient and disregard the message if you know it to be incorrect.  Mr. Denelsbeck loved seeing Ms. McCusker and other teachers using the playground for the MTSS lessons.  Those lessons are being extended this year.  The teachers are using behavioral expectation modeling in places like the playground, cafeteria, and the bus.  Students will also be using Mindful Student Cards: teaching mindfulness lessons to apply to various situations. Kids will earn positive tickets when caught making the right choices.  They can also earn a school reward, like extra recess time or a simple snack reward.  The District is giving all the elementary schools some extra money for clubs.  (Apparently our PTO clubs are models for the district.) They will be adding in, and in no competition with the PTO clubs.  Kids will be polled for their top choices of clubs and they will narrow the choices down to a couple options. Back to School Night is Sept 22 in 2 time slots: 6:30/7:30, each session is 45 mins. Stick to your schedule as much as possible.  October is Anti-Bullying month. On the 19th, Step in Step Up will be doing a 40 minute assembly.  There is also a Million Misfit March in which everyone should wear weird socks to celebrate diversity and the kids will march in a small parade around the school.  The Halloween Parade will be on Monday Oct.31.  Nov 1st will be a Pajama Day.

• Treasurers’ Report - July/August 2022

Bank balance on 8/31/2022 ended at $15,149.37 down from June’s ending balance of  $16,920.71

Deposits totaled $25. This was due to:

• Yearbook Payment

Expenditures totaled $1,796.34. This was mostly due to:

• $158.89 Zoom

• $199.29 Squarespace

• $312.65 Keurig Coffee Maker for Teachers

• $950.34 5th Grade Fun Day Bounce House

• Vote on 2022-2023 PTO Budget 

  • Addie presented the Budget, line by line, to the attendees.  

  • Most major change is the addition of a fundraising committee to handle generating income that can be spread across multiple events.  This committee would primarily help the Chase with business donors, but also would promote donors on a tier leveled scale for the whole year.

  • 28 (eligible) people were in attendance to vote, in addition to the PTO Exec Board.

  • Vote passes - 27 Yay - 1 Nay

    • Nay vote was discussed openly with group - voter was unsure about the fundraising committee.  After further discussion, they found comfort with the new idea.

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • Volunteer Fair TONIGHT - walk around, scan the QR codes to go to the sign ups.  You can sign up tonight or anytime afterwards.  We need you to make our year work -  Thank YOU!

  • Phoenix Fun Day & Dance Party - happening 9/30.  RSVP and make pizza reservations! Volunteers are needed, bring friends and help out for an hour.  

    • In case you are wondering - the name has been updated this year.  We are moving away from the word THON, which stems from an event, a Walk-a-Thon,that used to be done in connection with Phoenix Fun Day.  To simplify and clarify - the event will be referred to as a “Dance Party” moving forward.

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • Sept 22nd: Back to School Night and Parent’s Night Out at Town Tap

  • Sept 30th: PHOENIX FUN DAY

  • Oct 29th: Trunk or Treat

• Next Meeting- October 12th

• Questions/Comments/Concerns -

  • What is the situation with Intruder Drills and the classroom doors now being locked?

    • 3 lock down drills (aka shelter in place drills) a year.  Language is gentle and reassuring for the kids

    • After a recent review of safety practices in the school by the police department, it was decided that the magnet system was inefficient.  All doors are locked, same as in previous years; but now the magnets are not being used. That procedure relied on the office making an announcement before magnet door locks were set.  

May 2022 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: May 4th,  2022

May ChCK Trait- Trustworthiness - “No virtue is more universally accepted as a test of good character than trustworthiness” – Harry Emerson Fosdick

• Approval of Minutes - April Minutes Approved

• SDHT School Board and Superintendent Visit

  • Bridget Wiedeman - Board President (Former Chestnutwold parent, local neighborhood resident)

  • Larry Feinberg - Vice President (Local neighborhood resident)

  • Dave Schwartz 

  • Latanya King (Current Chestnutwold parent)

  • Dr. Maureen Reusche - District Superintendent 

  • REMARKS: Ms. Wiedeman

    • Thank you for the Chestnutwold student visit during the last School Board meeting.  The students all did a great job with their poetry and presenting their works. 

    • Chestnuwold was also featured recently with a PA Dept of Education walk through.  They featured our work with MTSS.

    • School Board is made up of 9 elected volunteers. They operate and equip the education of our students through curriculum, supervision, and budget decisions.  They set goals and policy, but are not the managers of either.  They are the stewards of both our district's children and our tax dollars while assuring compliance with the required laws.  Their meetings are held in the Oakmont Bldg or in the high school, as capacity expectations require. The Board works as a Body  of Whole for committee work and supports over 6600 students and 1000 staff. They work with a $138 million budget that is 82% funded by property taxes.  They are currently working on 60 million dollars in capital improvements projects in the district. 

    • Been working with a strategic plan that was developed in 2020 (before the pandemic).  It focuses on preparing contemporary citizens, social/emotional wellness, and diversity & inclusion.  They work with liaisons from the DCIU and the DCCC, and Delaware County Legislative.  This includes training of the Board.

  • REMARKS: Dr. Reusche

    • Demographic study regarding large population bubbles for each school.  RFP facilities study will be happening regarding growing enrollments. Encouraging early registrations so they are included in the study.  They are particularly watching 1st grade numbers.  *they are not seeing the same growth in enrollment with that grade that they had been.  In regard to overcrowding, they would first move programming around the district if necessary.  Chestnutwold is not near that happening though. Bussing becomes a big decider in re-districting options.  

      • Are other school’s feeling the squeeze? 

        • Yes, Chatham and Manoa both have larger populations.

      • Where do they get insight on growth of student population?

        • Local preschool census taking.  This unfortunately doesn’t include kids who get preschool outside the local area.

      • What is happening with the parent/guardian equity teams? 

        • Change in personnel.  New hire had to give 2 months notice, and will be starting next week. 

• Teacher’s Remarks - Ms. Munch School Counselor came representing the school staff.

  • Thanks for the volunteers who have brought back art in the classroom.

  • The 5th graders are all excited about the 101 Dalmations and have been practicing hard!

  • There is an early dismissal on 5/17 - 11:50am.  *PM kindergarten only, no AM

  • There is an early dismissal on 5/27 - 11:50am.  *AM kindergarten only, no PM

  • On 5/19 will be Career Day for 4th graders.  They needs parents to share - link to signup will be in email - due ⅚.

  • On 5/20 Chestnutwold will celebrate Field Day.  The events will take place during their specials block (they hope to make it longer in the years to come.) 

  • Thank you for your kindness and support during teacher appreciation week.  But mostly -”thank you for sharing your children with the staff.” Their infectious excitement fills the halls and they are glad for it.

• Principal’s Remarks - Primary Day is coming up, and voting will be happening in the cafeteria.  The rest of the school will be locked away and staff will be assigned as security until children are dismissed (½ day). The district is encouraging registrations for next year.  Currently there are 13 new students registering in 1st grade and Kindergartens numbers are lower too.  Now and until 5/17 the teachers and staff will be working on classroom placements for next year.  If you have any concerns and needs that you think the school doesn’t already know, please email Mr. Denelsbeck.  They will not be accepting teacher requests though.  The 3rd/4th/5th graders have finished the PSSA language and math sections are finished.  Thank you for helping prepare the students.  Thank you for the teacher appreciations!  Unity Day for the 5th graders is June 3rd at the middle school.  On June 16th is move up day.  The 4th and 5th grade concert will be 5/16 @ 2:30pm, outside on the courts.  5th grade fun day will be 6/14.  On 5/23 is the elementary track meet at the middle school.  4th grade Career Fair coming - please volunteer.  

• IDC Update - 

  • The district is implementing a new security system - safe arrival.

  • Teachers are removing their boards from the school’s website and merging their Canvas pages.  Should be more accurate soon.

  • Asking for donations for the after Prom BLAST 

    • (we budget for this already)

• Treasurers’ Report

Bank balance on 4/30/2022 ended at $31,212.33 up from March’s ending balance of  $30,790.92.

Deposits totaled $2,740.66. This was mostly due to:

• $740 bundt cake payments

• $1,350 Chase Sponsor donations

Expenditures totaled $2,319.25. This was mostly due to:

• $500 donation to Haverford Education Fund

• $495.28 5th grade musical costs

• $700 3rd grade field trip

• $310 to March Madness winners

• Our swings thermometer is over ½ way there!

  • We have more money than we have ever had at this point in the school year - we can afford the swings and we are moving forward.

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • In-School Activities

    • Clothing drive and bake sale coming up on primary day 5/17

• Out of School Activities

  • Thanks to the high school volunteers helping with our committees. 

  • Chatter coming out with a hard copy before the end of year.

  • Chestnutwold Chase - can still register, but no guarantee for shirt anymore. There are 390 registered runners and 18 sponsors.  Sign up genius coming soon for volunteers.

    • Thank you to the Chase team for all their hard work. 

• New Board Members Introduction and Vote

  • Lisa Mileti for Co-President, Casey Sacchetti for Co-Treasurer and Janet Peros for Vice President of In School Activities

    • 14 people in audience - 13 yeahs for each candidate - ALL POSITIONS APPROVED

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • Mother’s Day Bundt Cake Pick Up- May 6th: sign up on the SignUp Genius for time slot

  • Primary Day Clothing Drive–May 17th

  • Primary Day Bake Sale- May 17th: Sign Up Genius will be going out next

  • Chestnutwold Chase- May 22nd

• Questions/Comments/Concerns 

  • Outside gym time creating come troubles with afternoon pickup

    • Denelsbeck will have groups come in 5 minutes earlier.  

April 2022 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: April 6th,  2022

ChCK Trait: Empathy “Learning to stand in somebody else’s shoes, to see through their eyes, that’s how peace begins.  And it’s up to you to make that  happen.  Empathy is a quality of character that can  change the world.” – Barack Obama

• Approval of Minutes - March Minutes approved

• Teacher’s Remarks - Ms. Loughlin, from 5th grade,  joined us representing the teachers. She shared their various thanks to the PTO - 

*Jen Migliaccio- would like to extend a thank you on behalf of 5th grade for assistance with The Fun Day arrangements. 

*Amy Martin- would like to send a thank you for her classroom stools. She adores them!

*3rd grade wants to thank you for the field trip money.

*Kellie Lucas and Stephanie D’Annunzio- Friendly reminder the track meet is on Monday, May 23 (rain date of Tuesday 5/24) from 3:30-5:30ish, and that in the past we had parents attend the meet. Beth mentioned that previously, parents came earlier (around 2:30) to set up a tent in our designated area in the bleachers for students to sit under. We are in the first section closest to the middle school. Parents also brought water/soft pretzels for our athletes. Parents should please note that students will not be dismissed to leave until after the meet is over. 

*Jane Dambman - three of our Reading Olympic teams had their event on zoom on April 5 and our other six teams will be having their Reading Olympics event on April 7. We have had 95 4th and 5th grade students participating this year. Thank you PTO for helping with the registration costs. Thank you parents for encouraging your students to read! The Reading Olympics is a celebration of their efforts!  Thank you parents for sharing your time and support with us!  Thank you to our team of teachers who coached teams and helped on the afternoon of the events.

• Principal’s Remarks - Spring Break begins Friday.  Mr. D will be in the building and available from Mon-Thurs.  PSSAs are coming up: ELA will be 26/27/28th, Math 3/4/5th. 5th grades will also follow with the science testing on 10/11th.  The end of the year picnic tradition is on; date to be announced.  An attendance letter has been sent to families recently and Mr. Denelsbeck apologizes for the harsh language.  Apparently there was specifically needed language, and there have been some complaints at the tone.  There have also been emails with complaints about behavior issues being sent.   Some changes will be made in the behavior approach after the return from the much needed Spring Break.  They plan to strengthen the use of CK traits, positive supports, and responsive classroom work.  The school play is coming soon - 101 Dalmatians.  On 4/21 Chestnutwold will be presenting at the school board meeting.  It is poetry month so they will focus their presentation on a poem, play, or humanities.  They had fun and success with the Rock Your Socks Down Syndrome parade; it was covered on the news and everyone had fun.  Outdoor lunch is being rotated in a controlled manner to limit crowding and supporting those who are still wearing masks.  Around 60 kids in the building still wear masks everyday.  The Reading Olympics final is coming up - good luck.  Track & Field for 4th and 5th graded started and the kids are loving it. 

• IDC Update - Bridget McCormick

  • Thank you for submitting your questions regarding the curriculum.  The meeting is available to review on the School Board YouTube channel.

  • Jen Saksa joined the meeting, she is the former Director of Curriculum, and the Assistant Superintendent.

  • Reviewing students' progress in multiple areas.

    • Testing, Screening, Participation, and Psycho/Social Evaluations. 

    • 10% need support (5% need resources)

  • Math growth is being followed by a new test (MOBI MAX) that is more adaptive to the child; this provides a more accurate score and gives solutions and recommendations to support the child.  This information will stay with them to be comparable throughout various grade levels.  Upper levels will be compared with class averages.

  • In general, the talk of students being behind because of the pandemic has NOT been a substantial issue in the Haverford District. Those who shutdown and did not have good virtual options suffered the most. 

  • Weaknesses they are seeing in Haverford students they see so far are fractions, analytic inferences, and critical thinking.  

  • Adjustments being made for Phonics; slowed down the lessons to keep kids more on track.  3rd grade plan was implemented this year.

  • Math using Eureka Math and Zearn (online options) - some love, some hate.  It self adjusts to your child and lessons can be adjusted more personally.

  • They acknowledge the request for less screen times again.  They are looking into it.

  • MTSS can also be used for intervention enrichment to get specific programs of enrichment to the kids that need them, without singling them out.  Things switch every 6 weeks.

  • ACER funds - through the CARES ACT is helping get things back on track after Covid.  These funds are used for in school tutoring in the secondary levels.  Teachers are offered the jobs first and then they are outsourced.  Can also be optional for after school tutoring.  

  • Summer school may have an asynchronistic option available this year.

  • May 10th - the DCIU is hosting a parent program on anxiety.  It will be available in person and online (it will not be recorded).  

  • Check HTSD website under pupil services for parent resources.

  • The April School Board question is regarding “communication.”

• Treasurers’ Report

Bank balance on 3/31/2022 ended at $30,790.92 up from February’s ending balance of  $25,891.38.

Deposits totaled $6,235.07. This was mostly due to:

• Bag Bingo brought in $1,761.19

• March Madness $677.71

• Bundt Cake sales $894.43

• Yearbook 5th grade love lines $460

• Phoenix Family showcase $2,270

Expenditures totaled $1,335.53. This was mostly due to:

• Fifth grade play costumes $1,036.25

• Bag Bingo expense of $201.20

• Classroom enhancement of $98.08

• Easy Money Announcements - Amazon Smile earned $151

• “New Swings” Proposal and Vote  -  “We have enough of a budget surplus to afford us the opportunity to channel those funds earned towards a large gift. In the attempt to increase the goodwill of our school community, we reviewed an option frequently requested from our student delegates: additional playground equipment, specifically more swings. Swings make the perfect give back to our community because they are beneficial to ALL kids, including children with disabilities and sensory processing needs.  Physically, swings help gross motor development, core strength, and can improve coordination and balance. Swinging also positively affects the growing brain's development and its ability to process sensory information.  Not only that, but swinging has been found to calm and ease anxiety in children; the perfect antidote to all our pandemic blues. The combination of these social, emotional, and physical benefits represent the exact kind of investment we at The Chestnutwold PTO want to make in our well rounded students and school community at large: inclusive, enriching, and inspirational (requested by the kids themselves).  We currently have two swings on the playground, which covers about 100 kids per 20 minute recess period. The new set will add 6 additional swings to the playground, including an ADA compliant seat which our current set does not have. The kids will be so excited to have this new playground equipment as it will allow for greater enjoyment of their regular school days.  It will be a long term memento to a time in which we rallied and made GOOD together - Chestnutwold Strong.”  

  • A motion was presented on a vote to approve the PTO Board’s ability to spend previously unbudgeted money to make the large, one time purchase of swings for Chestnutwold Elementary. 

  • A few questions were posed:

    • Where would they be located? -  in the far west corner of the playground, replacing the unused backstop

    • Has the school district given the approval for this project? - tentatively yes, they need the PTO approval of the funds before they can give the official yes.)

  • The vote was posed to the meeting: 19 people were present (in addition to 3 PTO Board members that couldn’t vote); 15 votes for YEA were recorded. 

  • The motion passed.  The PTO Board may move forward on spending the money for the swings. YAY!

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • Bundt Cake Sale - Deadline is 4/16 

  • Union Game - 20 tickets left. Game is 4/23. Tailgate happening beforehand - look for an email. 

  • Chestnutwold Chase - happening 5/22. Urge people to register as a “Family”.  Still sponsorship opportunities - which will go on the t-shirts and signage.  This is the biggest fundraiser for our swings drive.  We need volunteers too! 

  • Spirit Wear Sale - on right now. Last of the year. 

• Guest Speaker HTSD Education Foundation James Liou 

  • Local Chestnutwold parent and also the President of the HTSDEF

  • The Educations Foundation has been around since 2004 and is a volunteer organization that raises funds to support innovative ideas that benefit our schools.  They offer mini-grants at $1500, and power grants in the $10k+ range all to support Haverford School District students.

  • Twilight Run is coming April 30th - 5k/ 1 mile race with lots of pre/post race activities for the whole family.  There is a trophy that will go to the school with the highest percentage of students racing.  (Currently Chatham Park are the reigning champs.) Walkers are okay, and they still need sponsors.  All are welcome and encouraged to join the fun event. 

  • He asks for a $500 donation from our PTO to support their fundraising efforts. In exchange we will be listed on their website and t-shirt.  

    • PTO immediately approves the request, as it is an already budgeted expense that we expected. 

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • Yearbook Order deadline- April 15th

  • Mother’s Day Bundt Cake Sale- April 16th

  • Chestnutwold at the Philadelphia Union- April 23rd

  • PTO Meeting- May 4th

  • Chestnutwold Chase- May 22nd

March 2022 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: March 2, 2022

• ChCK Trait: Respect- “Every human being, of whatever origin, of whatever station, deserves respect. We must each respect others even as we respect ourselves.” – U. Thant

• Thanks-  Thanks to Denzell Stanislaus, Sarah and Melissa for organizing Talking to Your Kids About Race, also thank you to all who attended and participated!

• Teacher’s Remarks - Ms. Wroblewski and Ms. Corr joined the meeting representing the teachers.  They send their thanks for a successful healthy heart day. Everyone had a lot of fun. Thank you to all the parents for the Valentine’s party help too! Ms. Dambman wants everyone to know about the upcoming Reading Olympics.  It will be 2 nights (April 5th, April 7th), and there are many creatively named teams!   Nicole Tallon sends along her thanks for the seat sacks.  Ms. Beiter also says thanks for her seat sacks.  (She and her class sent along a picture and thank you note for the PTO.)  Finally, the teachers request help in getting a new microwave for the teachers lounge; theirs just broke.

• Principal’s Remarks - Read Across America day and week happening.  Mystery readers are coming into the building again.  The 101 Dalmatians play is practicing right now.  There will be 4 shows (equaling 400 seats available) to watch.  The 4th/5th grade band concert is going to be outside this year.  Be You by Peter Reynolds selected as the school book for the next year.  Everyone really liked it immediately and it lines up well with the Chestnutwold ChK Traits.  Assemblies are slated to return for the 2022/2023 school year.  Field trips have been okayed for Spring of 2022.  5th Grade end of the year activities are being planned now. Floor Hockey is coming up (will be run similarly to the flag football). They are down to 2 lunch monitors again. Actively looking to hire if anyone is looking.  Looking into opening up and re-igniting the new family orientation to already established students next year to reconnect with the ideas of who Chesnutwold is. (Maybe pair reading buddies style with young/old families?)  They are building the school calendar to include more family curriculum.  Ms. Dambman is retiring at the end of the year.  Wish her well as she and her husband end their long careers in education.  Teacher appreciation day is coming up on May 3rd. District has moved to Mask Recommended this week.  Approximately 45% of the school (teachers and students) were masked the 1st day.  Progressive decline in that number in the following days as people become more comfortable.  1 classroom is still requiring masks.  

• IDC Update Bridget McCormick

  • Thanks for answering social/emotional feedback form.

  • Gov Wolf’s budget moving forward - although probably won’t end up staying the same as currently written. As is though - school districts will have major impact with a change to flat rate charges for charter schools.  $9800 flat vs. $13k reg ed and $39k spec ed 

  • Nicole Velicelli, Director of Pupil Services, is addressing the district’s social and emotional wellness and mental health needs.  We currently have 2 social workers in the district, 2 licensed psychiatrists, and 1 behavioral specialist.  Lakeside (contracted company) offers additional programs as needed. Also Holcomb has outside services for student assistance available.  SDHT is doing some screenings - 6th and 9th grade started this year. They want to do 3rd grade next but they need an additional counselor available first. If you are noticing your child having a problem, reach out to the teacher first.  It then goes to the counselor who knows about all the resources available now.  This information is on the District website under pupil services, left side menu - mental health resource guide.  You can also find information on wellness, and the “Counselor's Corner.”  

  • There is a live parent training by the DCIU in MAY regarding anxiety.

  • March’s IDC meeting will be about curriculum.  If you want to send in questions, please make them in a general format (not regarding a specific personal situation).

• Treasurers’ Report

Bank balance on 2/28/2022 ended at $25,241.91 up from January’s ending balance of  $23,292.05.

Deposits totaled $5,500. This was mostly due to:

• $4,000 - Bag Bingo tickets

• $1,500 - yearbook Love Lines for 5th graders

Expenditures totaled $2,900.67. This was mostly due to:

• $300 to CHOP (donation for gender webinar) 

• $300 to Denzell Stanislaus for Conversation about Race 

• $2,250.44 Bag Bingo expenses (MC, venue rental, prizes, bags, etc)

• Working towards our goal of a big gift of 6 swings and possibly a picnic table.  Next month we will vote on the spending - please plan to come and participate.

• PTO board positions are open for next year (Co-treasurer, Co-president, In-school activities) - your kids will think you’re cool if you are on the PTO Board!!! 

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • Bag Bingo- March 4th-SOLD OUT- 

    • We’re excited - thank you to Amy and Amy!

  • Telethon/Talent Show

    • Submissions are due March 16th - get practicing!

    • We need pictures, performances, anything creative - send it in

    • Fundraising will happen in show

  • Chestnutwold Chase

    • Info coming soon

  • Clubs

    • Running club - need coach for 5th grade and Kindergarten, assistant coaches needed in all grades, trying to start around Spring Break - look for sign up

    • Yoga and Art Clubs coming April 6th

    • Track n Field for 4th/5th graders - sign ups will be in school. Coaches - Lucas and Funzio

• Approved Meeting Minutes for November 2021 and February 2022 

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • March 4th- Bag Bingo

  • March 25th- Telethon/Talent Show

  • April 6th - PTO Meeting (School Board visiting)

  • April 23rd- Chestnutwold at the Philadelphia Union

  • Mothers Day Bundt Cake Sale

  • May 22nd- Chestnutwold Chase

• Questions/Comments/Concerns 

  • Can running club groups be split for boys/girls?  

    • Up to the coaches, but generally can be worked that way

  • Phoenix Fun Day for next year - SEPT 30, 2022

    • Ursula’s last year - suggests that she be a co-chair to help hand over things before she leaves

Feb 2022 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: February 2, 2022

Meeting held via ZOOM

• ChCK Trait: Responsibility “Few things can help an individual more than to place responsibility on him and to let him know you trust him” -Booker T. Washington

• Thanks-  Thanks to Nina Wickersham for organizing the 10 Days of Giveaways before the holidays.  Also thanks to Samantha King from CHOP and Addie Johnson for the Conversation about Gender Workshop and to all those who attended.

• Teacher’s Remarks - 2nd Grade teachers Ms. Gretchen and Ms. McCusker joined the meeting via Zoom: Thank you for the 10 days of Giveaways over the holidays provided by the PTO. It really was great for the environment and made everyone feel festive and appreciated.  Also they thank us for the rainbow showing support in the first few weeks after the Winter Break.  The teachers were stretched thin and they thought it was really thoughtful to be appreciated in a display that both they and their kids could enjoy.  They thank all the helpers and the parents in advance for keeping up with the Covid protocols and for helping to make the Valentine celebrations come together.  Reminder that homeroom parents need to be vaxxed and check in with the office.  Also, no candy will be allowed this year.  

• Principal’s Remarks - The office has a google sheet for parents who volunteer with vaccination status; anyone who volunteers must be qualified on this list or be contacted to fix the issue.  School is tightening up about allergy situations.  Reminder to the school community that food choices need to be considerate of allergy protocols. (again, no food for Valentine’s Day treats) Also, no dogs allowed at pickup and drop off - some people are allergic and rules that were eased in Covid need to be tightened again.

• IDC Update - (Inter District Council - reps from all the school’s in the district gather once a month with the Superintendent to share feedback from the local school community’s perspective.)  Tori DelMastro

  • Lots of talk about Covid protocols , but nothing is decided yet.  Regardless of the upcoming decision, nothing would happen overnight.  There will be a layered approach, complete with teacher training, etc, about how to transition from Pandemic to Endemic way of dealing with things. 

  • There were also lots of questions about gun violence and how threats were treated in the district.  All plans were situational and they can’t release the exact protocols for safety.

  • Look for emails coming soon about the district's attempt to merge more mental health care into the upcoming curriculums.  

    • Will there be a Spring Open House to meet with Dr. Ruesche? - not sure

    • IDC committee will be coming to one of Chestnutwold’s PTO meetings soon.

• Treasurers’ Report

Bank balance on 1/31/2022 ended at $23,292.05 DOWN from DECEMBER’s ending balance of $25,974.24.

Deposits totaled $1,037.51. This was mostly due to:

• $250 Box Tops earnings

• $150 Taddeo’s Holiday sale

• $436.51 Learning Express holiday sale

Expenditures totaled $3,719.70. This was mostly due to:

• Bag Bingo costs $709.55 (St. George’s Church, MC, supplies)

• Year Books cost to Jostens: $2,805 

• Melissa reminded the group that...It always sounds like we have a lot of money in our budget, but as a reminder we are still trying to buy the school a nice playground gift.  We are pricing out equipment and Mr. Denelsbeck is working with the facilities manager about options.  Currently looking at some swings, a gaga ball pit, and a picnic table for the front of the school.  As we continue to fundraise we really appreciate all the support and ask people to keep in mind where we hope to send that money.

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • A Conversation about Race: A virtual event hosted by Denzell Stanislaus 

    • Look for upcoming eventbrite to sign up for link

  • Bag Bingo - Amy Solweki and Amy Sweeney 

    • March 4th- Tickets will be limited to 100 and will be $40 per ticket, email with ticket form will be sent this week. 

    • Using St. George’s for the first time but they seem to be a good fit.  Other local groups have successfully used their space and they have been accommodating.  

    • Indoor event - going under the assumption that those who are comfortable dining in a restaurant will be comfortable in this similar setting. 

      • PTO to ask guests that masks be worn when not eating/drinking, or not sitting at table - like restaurant guidelines.  

      • Teachers asked if help is needed - not necessary, hired help.

  • Telethon/Talent Show - Allison Kittridge - “Phoenix Family Showcase”, March 25th  

    • Family Night/talent show fusion, want many types of participation. You Tube link presentation with timed slots with total of 90 minutes of talent with 30 minutes of MC stuff.

    • Ask the teachers to help boost the idea and help the kids find the fun in the idea

    • Encourage people to gather together for watch parties

    • Need help with the tech aspect of the slide show

      • Alexandra Reed (and family) offered to help!

    • Look for Sign up Genius coming soon

  • Chestnutwold Chase - May 22nd (need building approval)  

    • Still need volunteer to spearhead the sponsorship component.  Have resources and information on past donors - should be an easy job for the right person.  

      • Also need to add a snack coordinator volunteer to handle that

    • Running club will begin at the end of February and lead up the Chase.  Separate form for signups because no space limit - all welcome.  

      • Will need volunteers to help

  • Philadelphia Union Game - April 23

    • Buy 1, get 1 free tickets = $31 tickets (for 2)

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • February 23rd- A Conversation about Race: A virtual event hosted by Denzell Stanislaus

  • March 2nd - PTO meeting (7:30pm)

  • March 4th - Bag Bingo

  • March 25 - Telethon/Talent Show

  • May 22nd (tentative date)- Chestnutwold Chase

• Questions/Comments/Concerns 

  • Kindergarten registration has 63 kids so far (less than the past year)

Nov 2021 PTO Meeting Minutes

 Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: 11/3/21

• October Meeting Minutes approved

• ChCK Trait POSITIVE ATTITUDE  “Perhaps the world will end at the kitchen table, while we are laughing and crying, eating of the last sweet bite.” Joy Harjo

• Thanks 

  • Taddeo’s Greenhouse - $400 gifted to us

  • Trunk-or-treat committee & volunteers

  • Club leaders for bringing clubs back!

  • Bake sale volunteers and contributors - over $800 raised

  • Beth Clauss for organizing the clothing drive

  • Rachel Mathias for organizing the online spirit wear sale

• Teacher’s Remarks - 3rd Grade teachers Ms. Martin and Ms. Montgomery joined the meeting in person: Thank you for the teacher enhancements provided by the PTO. Thank you for all the helpers and the parents for making the Halloween celebrations come together.  Make sure to sign up for a teacher conference for the week of 11/22 - 11/24; look for an email from your teacher with a sign up genius link.  Also Ronnie Moss has asked that we add her to Fresh Schools.  

• Principal’s Remarks - The trimester is coming to an end, and conferences are being scheduled. Report cards will be sent on Dec. 20th.  Veterans Day is coming and they will be celebrating veterans with the Hometown Heroes activity.  Today (11/3) all buses arrived by 3:45pm for the first time; hoping things will be more and more on track there.  Starting to think about options for service project ideas for the holiday season.  The school is following a lighter homework plan this year to help the kids adjust to the school pace again. They will get more eventually, but enjoy it now.  Thank you for the Trunk or Treat; it was a great school and community event.  5th graders doing the morning announcements has started.  The goal will be to record and have the announcements available on the school’s YouTube channel.  Flag football will be starting on Nov. 15th.  It will be coached by Ms. Kelly-D'Annunzio.  Homeroom delegate elections are happening this November.  Picture retakes will be Nov 17th.  He understands the concern about the few recent 5th grade recess incidents.  He sees their response not as punishment, rather as a management situation. The teachers are cohorting the children into smaller groups.  They have lost no privileges, they are just not in one large mingling group.  There have been no further incidents in the 5 days of this management tactic.  He stressed they are not short of staff, but it is a challenging job for the *5 monitors who work 2.5 hours each day. (*2 are slated to resign shortly)

• IDC Update - Tori Delmastro

  • November 4th: the district will be moving to approve a “test to stay” policy. This will help cut down on students quarantining.

  • November 9th: There will be an open board meeting at the CREC. The President and Vice President will be there informally to answer questions. 

Times: 9am - 10am and 7pm -8pm

• Treasurers’ Report

Bank balance on 10/30/2021 ended at $22,452.39 up from September’s ending balance of  $18,489.28.

Deposits totaled $10,722.50. This was mostly due to:

• Dance-a-thon donations of $4,310, 

• PFD pizza and bake sale $2,218.50, 

• Holiday Market sign-ups for tables $630

• Spirit Wear sales of $3,564 at Dance-a-thon

Expenditures totaled $6,759.39. This was mostly due to:

• Dance-a-thon DJ expense of $599

• Purchasing Spirit Wear bulk-up, hats/tumblers/etc. which cost $2,235.15

• Phoenix Fun Day Sam’s Pizza orders of $2,312.50

• We did the Coffee Station and Treats to say thank you to teachers for $245, 

• We did classroom enhancements for Mrs. Strawley, Ms. Neri, Ms. McEntee, Ms. Labrasca, Ms. Tallon, and Mr. Cox totaling $713.03.

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • Book Fair-Natalie Silver - 25% of the book fair proceeds benefit school.  Virtual set up a good way to help get the right materials to the teachers directly.   Teachers will have wish lists and eWallets that we can donate to for classroom libraries.  There will be Free Shipping for $25+; and it will arrive before the holiday break.  Look for an email with information and links coming soon.

  • Holiday Market- Pam Bogdanoff - Dec 4th.  1st Annual market.  30 vendors confirmed, a kids dance troupe will perform, the Haverford Library will be doing a storytime, and there will be kid friendly craft stations.  Flyer with schedule coming soon.  Rain date is Sunday the 5th.

• VP: Out-of-School Activities Updates

  • Lego Club has 2 sessions: Wed- 1st, 2nd, &3rd; Fri- 4th, 5th

  • Roots and Shoots starts 11/4

  • Chatter is underway

  • Dungeons & Dragons starts next week - 11/9

  • Art Club for 4th & 5th starts 11/9; 3rd, 2nd, 1st & K will start in March

  • Will be holding more clubs in the Spring

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • Virtual Book Fair - 11/22-12/5

  • Holiday Market - 12/4

  • Virtual Talent Show

  • Next PTO Meeting Feb 2nd

• Questions/Comments/Concerns 

  • General request to share more specific details about the classroom enhancements that PTO provides.

    • Addie will make the data available and we will post on the website.

  • Parent Question: What can monitors do about the behavior of the kids at recess?  What are the defined consequences of bad behavior?  

    • The school works with a responsive classroom behavior model; problems are behaviors and not as much punishable as they are teachable. 

    • Denelsbeck does not like the idea of a sit out bench or other shaming style punishments; it is not what Chestnutwold is about.  He is, however, open to ideas and other feedback; please email him directly, he welcomes the feedback.  

  • Parent Comment: We’re all trying to do our best to get things back to normal, but the kids have been through things and are not all bouncing back right away.  Yes we need behavior repercussions, but can we come up with creative ways to boost the kids’ mental health at the same time.  Can we try something new?  

  • General discussion about the concern of communal punishment and the idea of recess as a privilege.  The effect that some of the students are feeling about the back and forth is causing undue stress.

    • Mr. Denelsbeck never wants the kids to lose recess. 

    • 3 new 5th grade teachers, it is still the beginning of the school year, and trainings are ongoing.  That being said, everyone is trying their best to keep the kids safe.

  • General comments about the idea of peer mediators, giving kids a chance to have ownership in fixing their issues.  Could there be positive consequences? (school clean up, volunteer activities, etc)  How can the “alpha” group be given consequences without punishment?

  • General discussion about screen limits and access in classrooms.  Some apps and websites are still making it through.  Parents surprised at how much screen time still being used in a post-virtual school setting.  

Oct 2021 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: 10/6/21

• September Meeting Minutes approved

• ChCK Trait TRUSTWORTHINESS “To be trusted is a greater compliment than being loved”— George MacDonald

• Presidents’ Updates - “Thank you Teachers” Coffee Service 10/8 (House Cup will set up and manage, PTO to meet and greet - and bring a fruit tray) BIG thanks to the Phoenix Fun Day Chairs and volunteers: it was a very successful event!  We need to use Fresh Schools more in order to quantify the cost.  It is a wonderful tool, but without full participation is hard to use to its full potential.

• Teacher’s Remarks - 4th grade teachers Ms. Strawley and Ms. McEntee joined the meeting via Zoom: Thanks for the classroom enhancements and for support to the teachers. They are feeling the love.  It’s time for Homeroom Helpers to discuss with their teachers about the Halloween celebration this year.  Details are being decided and they want to make sure the kids have a fun and safe celebration.  Everyone is excited about the upcoming coffee appreciation event.

• Principal’s Remarks - Mr. Denelsbeck: School started the MTSS curriculum.  Every 6 weeks a new section will begin.  Re-evals happen 3x’s per school year.  They will not be sharing the classification levels of your students MTSS assignment.  Halloween is coming up.  He will allow an outdoor costume parade; parties are still in an uncertain state.  Details will be decided on soon.  He will also look into the option of a traditional  pajama day on the day after Halloween.  

• Treasurers’ Report - 

  • Phoenix Fun Day Results:

    • Revenue: $13,658.75/Expenses: $4232.75

    • Totals for Event: $9426.00

      • Budgeted Profit: $8700.00/Budgeted Variance: $726.00/% Above Profit: 8.34%

    • Spirit Wear Sales from Event: $3564.00

    • TOTAL INCOME for EVENT: $12990.00

  • Bank balance on 9/30/2021 ended at $18,489.28 up from August’s ending balance of  $11,763.20.

  • Deposits totaled $8,991.00. This was mostly due to Dance-a-Thon donations of $5,380.00, Spirit Wear at the Welcome Back Picnic brought in $1,481, PFD pizza orders totaled $2,060.  

  • Expenditures totaled $2,264.92. This was mostly due to Phoenix Fun Day expenses which included the bounce house slide, popcorn maker, and button making materials which totaled $1,088.49. We also bought yoga mats for the yoga club and LEGO club for $351.60. Lastly, our Fresh Schools membership cost $600.

  • Discussed running a contest for the class that has the best numbers with Easy Money Fundraising.

  • Also, a request came in from the music teacher.  She requests some help coming up with a solution for sound proofing her front windows of the classroom.  Would be interested in having some people sew some curtains (or similar).  PTO will look for interested volunteers for the project.  

• VP: In-School Activities Updates 

  • Trunk or Treat is happening - Sat, Oct 30 - 6:30-7:30 

    • Free Event, 45 cars can join in, no bathrooms will be available

  • Book Fair will be both Virtual and In person this year. 

    • Virtual dates - Nov 22- Dec 5/ In person May 10-14

    • We will be putting together teacher wish lists 

  • Election Day Clothing Drive and Bake Sale - Nov 2

    • Make sure bags aren’t too heavy 

    • ONLY - Shoes, Clothes, Soft Toys - no books, housewares, etc

  • Holiday Market - Dec 4, 10am-3pm

    • 30 businesses interested, including kid crafters

  • Taddeo’s Plant Sale - this weekend Oct 8,9,10

  • Need Host for Virtual Talent Show this year - to happen in winter months sometime

  • Artist in the Classroom is looking like it may happen in the Spring

• VP: Out-of-School Activities Updates 

  • Fall Clubs beginning: Roots and Shoots, Art Club, Lego Club, D&D, and The Chatter 

    • All will be outdoor and weather permitting

    • Clubs will cap at 15-20 students; they will need to provide a top favorites club list in order to accommodate something for everyone.  

    • Some clubs are in need of materials - *specifically we need Lego’s for Lego Club (yoga mats have arrived for Yoga and Lego club use)

  • Still waiting for start dates for Yoga, Spanish, Chess, Photo and Sketch Clubs

  • Running Clubs will take place in the spring

• Secretary’s Updates - 

  • Vote on sept minutes

  • Please get in the habit of referring back to PTO website for information unity

• Upcoming Events

  • Thank you Teachers Coffee Service - 10/8

  • Trunk-or-Treat - 10/30

  • Clothing Drive and Bake Sale - 11/2

  • Next PTO meeting - 11/3 

  • Virtual Book Fair - 11/22-12/5

  • Holiday Market - 12/4

Sept 2021 PTO Meeting Minutes

Chestnutwold Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

General Meeting Minutes: 9/14/21

• ChCK Trait EMPATHY “You can only understand people if you feel them in yourself.” – John Steinbeck.

• Thanks to the welcome Committee Chairs Amy & Sandy and volunteer host families. Spirit wear lady-Rachel Mathias. To all teachers and faculty for a great start back to school!

• Teacher’s Remarks - 1st grade teachers -  Ms. Bieter and Ms. Tallon: Thanks to all the parents for sending in school supplies; it makes things so much easier for them and they appreciate it.  Also, Mrs. Gretchen sends her thanks to the PTO for purchasing her the seat sacks!  

• Principal’s Remarks - Mr. Denelsbeck: Back to School night in person, but limited to 1 parent.  He would prefer parents would Zoom in their attendance.  Details coming soon. The staff are preparing for the district's 3 strategic goals which include 21st century academic skills, social-emotional learning (SEL) and increased diversity and inclusion work. The Guidance program has changed its name to SEL (Social-Emotional Learning). It is a full school this year; new classroom has been added in the LGI. School Secretary Mrs. Hoy is moving along and we are welcoming “Ronnie” Moss in her place on Sept 24th.  

• Treasurers’ Report - 

  • Bank balance on 8/30/2021 ended at $11,763.20 down from June’s ending balance of $14,829.95.

  • Deposits in July/August totaled $286.99 mostly due to Amazon Smile earning $109.99 and spirit wear making $135. 

  • Expenditures in July/August totaled $3,353.74. Expenditures were mostly due to buying 5th graders yearbooks. We paid Jostens $1,274.96, 5th grade t-shirts cost $600, we paid for our Zoom and Square Space accounts costing a total of $332.74, and lastly we bought the school new recess/gym balls costing $932.43.

  • Budget proposed and voted on.  Vote passed via hand vote with over a ⅔ approval.  

• Clubs & Events - 

  • Clubs that need chair that are NOT filled: Chestnutwold Chatter, Chess Club, Trunk or Treat, Lego Club, Roots & Shoots, MLK Day of Service, Chestnutwold Chase

  • Possible new clubs: Spanish Club, Yoga Cub (possibility of PTO getting yoga mats to use with Yoga Club and Lego Club)

  • Holiday Market - outside at Chestnutwold, vendors, Hot Cocoa, possibly Dec 4

• Chairmen Announcements 

  • Homeroom Helper needs volunteers especially 1st grade

  • Phoenix Fun Day & Dance a Thon coming up. Some things are altered due to Covid, but fun still remains.  First ½ will be “Fun Day” - games, inflatable slide, bake sale, pizza sale (pre-order to reserve); second ½ “dance a thon” - fundraiser, but can participate even if you don’t (Venmo - make sure to list your child’s name so they can be eligible for prize).

• Easy Money Announcements

  • Amazon smile

  • Boxtops 

• Upcoming Dates/Events

  • Phoenix fun day 10/1/21

  • Fall plant sale - @Taddeo’s, info coming soon

  • Trunk or treat - either 10/29 or 10/30 - need chair to lead

• Next Meeting

  • October 6th 7:30 pm

• Questions/Comments/Concerns 

  • General discussion about the rules for in school activities and volunteers regarding Covid.

    • Principal says that currently he is expecting limited in school options and parent in school participation will be discouraged. Chance for “proof of vaccination” volunteers on a limited basis.  Everything this year is fluid and expect to see changes in guidelines as the year goes - plan to PIVOT. 

  • Parent questions about a couple lunch issues (particularly choices being limited); question about how that affects kids with food allergies. 

    • Issue with oven - has been fixed.  All previous kinks being worked out, and should be fine moving forward.

  • Parent questions about 1st grade dismissal with no sight releases. 

    • Mr. Denelsbeck will work with group next day to ensure a new dismissal plan. 

  • Parent welcomes Mr. Denelsbeck to community (that is made up of magical special sauce!); hope he embraces this vibe and helps nurture its continuity. Shared her support of him moving forward.  

    • He gets “it”- the special sauce; he is here for the parents and welcomes feedback and input.