Attendance: Tracy Grasso, Kristi Cordle, Kathy Howard, Kendra Cram, Tanya Thoroughman, Rhonda Berry, Kristin Riley, Robin Malone, Kristin Riley, Kendra Cram, Amy Fitch
Mr. Evans, Shantel Hammond, Sandy Pendleton, Kim Evans, Tara Byrd, Deborah Daniels

The meeting was opened by Tracy Grasso, President. Tracy gave the President’s Report, reviewing progress with COSI, Frankenmuth Fundraiser Kick-Off, 7th Grade Renaissance Festival Field Trip and the Incentive Program. Mr. Evans requested that the PTO assist the Middle School financially with their Incentives Program as well. Kim Evans shared that the 3rd Grade teachers want to use smaller items and award them to more kids in a 3rd Grade Assembly.

Rhonda Berry presented about the Spirit Store. She wants to set both a quarterly theme and a quarterly financial goal. She is planning to reduce the current inventory and also be open in the cafeteria. The main goal is to create an increased sense of spirit among the students and in the community. There was discussion of additional items such as: jewelry, socks, hair accessories, shirts, and wristbands. Mr. Evans stated that he would like to see every child in the school with a Minford Falcon Shirt. It was decided to discuss this further at a later date.

AR store progress was discussed by Kendra Cram. She will work with Christine Goddard to schedule volunteers and stock the store. The Middle School will go to the AR store on OCT 31 and the Elementary will go on NOV 1. Tax exempt purchasing was also discussed.

Amy Fitch presented on behalf of the Secret Santa Store. They have decided to go with multiple companies for inventory. They are considering candy and ornaments as low budget items. Availability of items for children with little or no money to spend was discussed and it was decided that a table will be set up with extra inventory items for this purpose. Amy requested a $34 membership to a catalog for purchasing privileges.

Tanya Thoroughman updated the PTO about a need for $6,000 for the Biddy Ball janitorial services.

Tracy reviewed last year’s budget. It was decided to add $1,000 to Spirit Store, $1,200 to Field Trips (due to there not being substitute bus drivers available, which results in paying drivers overtime), and to decrease the Spring Musical to $60 (at the request of Mrs. McGraw). Classroom video conferencing was discussed and Tracy will check with Ryan Stockham about the need for continuing this.

Kathy presented the Treasurer’s Report, and copies were distributed. She explained that the by-laws need to be revised to indicate that a financial ‘review’ will take place annually rather than an ‘audit’. In addition, we discussed ways to account for our finances when shopping for AR, Secret Santa, etc. in addition to turning in receipts. Kristi suggested that all receipts be checked as items are inventoried by 3 people and then signed. No decision was made. Members encouraged to consider this before next meeting.

The next meeting will be Monday November 5 at 3:45 p.m. in the PTO Room. Everyone is welcome to attend.