October 2025 Monthly PTA Meeting Minutes

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October 2025 Monthly PTA Meeting Minutes

Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES)

Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)

Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting

Tuesday, October 7, 2025: 6:30-8p 

In person (at TPES) and virtual

 

Spanish Translator: 

Amharic Translator: 

Meeting was recorded

Slides

Welcome and Introductions

Delianny Brammer, President, TPES PTA & 

Mari Quenemoen, President, PBES PTA

  • This is our first in person meeting since 2020
  • We welcome feedback about the hybrid meeting format

Partner Spotlight

Delianny Brammer, President, TPES PTA

  • Childcare for families attending in person tonight is being sponsored by WP Buffs
  • WP Buffs provides 24/7 maintenance and support for WordPress websites — offering reliable service for serious site owners and white-label management for agencies and freelancers.
  • We’re proud to share that this business is owned by one of our very own TPES parents, Joe Howard. Thank you for supporting our community!

PTA Meetings

Delianny Brammer, President, TPES PTA

  • PTA meetings take place the first Tuesday of the month 
  • We are aiming for two in-person PTA meetings this year (tonight and Feb 3, 2026)
  • When not in person, meetings are virtual starting at 8p

Accomplishments this month

Delianny Brammer, President, TPES PTA

In the past month, the TPES/PBES PTA has:

  • Organized & offered a wide range of afterschool enrichment options
  • Launched Working Groups to support specific needs around immigration issues
  • Arranged for childcare at Back-to-School Nights and this event, so as many families as possible can attend
  • Reimbursed teachers for classroom supplies
  • Hosted Teacher Appreciation Lunch 

Coming up next month

Delianny Brammer, President, TPES PTA

In the next month, the TPES/PBES PTA will:

  • Coordinate Hispanic Heritage Month Events
  • Organize the annual book fair to raise money for the Media Center (PBES)
  • Collect basic items for health room
  • Continue to connect parents/families with helpful resources
  • StoryShip Assembly @ TPES, interactive dinosaur adventure

Upcoming School Closures

Delianny Brammer, President, TPES PTA

  • Oct 17: Professional Development Day, no school for students
  • Oct 20: Non-Instructional Day, no school for students/teachers
  • Nov 3: Grading/Planning Day, no school for students
  • Nov 24-25: Early Release (school ends at 1:20p)
  • Nov 26-28: Schools closed

TPES Announcements 

Ken Scudder, TPES PTA VP of Communications

  • Big Read for Hispanic Heritage Month (Wed 10/14)
  • Dolphin Drive (Nov)
  • Can access google cal on TPES PTA website (https://tpespta.net/)
  • Join your student’s class WhatsApp for caregivers

TPES Treasurer’s Report 

Germaine Dunn, TPES Treasurer

  • As of June 30, wrapped up SY with 22k
    • For month of June, brought in $900 in income, spent $4900 paying for school programs, staff support and appreciation
  • We had a strong year financially: brought in $31,200
    • Top fundraisers were Readathon, Dolphin Drive, Book Fair
  • On spending side: invested $36k back in community
  • Currently for FY25-26:
    • Oct. 3 balance: $15,700 
    • Jul-Oct: brought in $4000 in revenue
      • Membership dues
      • Dolphin gear
      • Donations
    • Spending so far this year:
      • Spent $10,700 for classroom supplies for 28 teachers
      • Paid for back to school picnic
      • Purchased Dolphin gear for upcoming fundraisers
    • Dolphin Drive + Readathon will give big boost in income
    • Anticipate future spending on:
      • Funds on staff support, programming, community events
      • Ended last year in a solid position
  • Overall, off to a good start this year

TPES PTA Volunteer Needs

Delianny Brammer, TPES President

  • Interpretation coordinator
    • A lot of work to coordinate with her and set up translation
  • Event coordinator 
    • Movie night: AV, popcorn, RSVPs
    • If you know someone willing, please let us know

TPES Communication Channels

Delianny Brammer, TPES President

PBES Announcements

Mari Quenemoen, PBES PTA President

  • Monday Oct 13 is open house
    • Can go to one of two sessions or both
    • 9:45-10:45
    • 2:30-3:30
    • Fun way to sit in back of your student’s classroom and observe
  • Scholastic Book Fair: Oct 21-27
    • Sign up to volunteer
    • See PTA emails for links to e-wallets

PBES PTA Announcements

Cara Tallo, PBES PTA Executive VP 

  • PBES PTA Volunteers needed
    • Readathon (Jan-Mar)
    • GeoBowl planning team (Jan-Mar)
    • Black History Night (Feb)
    • Volunteer to establish a WhatsApp group in Amharic

PBES Treasurer’s Report 

Dan Proudfoot, PBES PTA Treasurer

  • $30k is generally expected in both income and expenses
    • We carried a balance into this year so we are in good shape
  • So far, $2,800 brought in this year
    • Mainly through PBES PTA website
    • Readathon and other fundraising events coming up
  • Expenses
    • Reimbursed teachers for supplies
    • Paid for childcare at back to school night
    • Staff appreciation and purchasing gear

Slide 16: Communication Channels

Cara Tallo, PBES PTA Executive VP 

  • This year, concerns about sharing contact info broadly
    • Having folks opt in to share contact info with class parent
    • Amie will put that link in the chat but will send out so all families can sign up
    • She’ll work with class parents to make sure they have contact info for their class only
  • PBES PTA Communications Channels
  • School Communications Channels
    • ParentSquare: newsletters and other important communications from PBES and MCPS. This replaces Remind.

Immigration Awareness: Connecting with Resources
Mr. Weertz and Dr. Gadsden

    • The elephant in the room/nation is immigration enforcement and everything that comes with that; every day hearing stories in the news that are alarming for all of us.
    • Want to summarize how we got to where we are, the work we’re doing with school safety around this, and connect families with resources so you know what we’re trying to do
      • We value and prioritize talking to families. It’s more important than ever to start talking and asking questions. Let’s make phone calls, ask questions, see what we can find out
      • Families we talked to had really raw, authentic experiences that sprung us into action
      • Our values are showing through
      • Food insecurity: families not going to grocery store
      • Having real, raw experiences
      • We started a working group: how can we take the knowledge we have and leverage that into supporting families?
    • What would we do if there’s something going on around the school and we’re not sure what it is?
      • Our school has been working closely with some community members who are very knowledgeable about immigration enforcement activities in TKPK. “Tell me what I need to know as a school leader – what do we need to know, look out for?”
      • They’ve had very honest and open conversations with us about what we should be looking for, see in the community
      • Push us to think about what we would do
      • Erin Martin called me (TPES MS) – something’s going on up the street, want to make you aware. We stay in touch as school leaders – we know if it impacts MS children, it will impact ES children.
      • If we see something that looks off, and we’re unsure of a situation, if it’s setting off red flags, law enforcement activity, immediately secure the building, get school affiliated persons into the building
      • Just as if local grocery store had a robbery, how do we secure the building, make sure everyone is accounted for, go from there.
    • If in a situation where some sort of law enforcement came to the building, very specific MCPS protocols we would follow
      • If law enforcement comes, they ask for administrator, we collect a warrant, submit warrant to OGC, ask law enforcement to step out of the building and wait outside, then follow guidance of OGC about our next steps
      • We’re keeping an eye out at arrival, dismissal, in communication with community groups who are much more knowledgeable, provide us with necessary information so we can make intentional decisions that keep kids and families safe
      • Being vague but we want to communicate we’re aware of the situation, are in touch with those who are knowledgeable, being intentional 
      • If an officer comes, before we can talk about anything, present us with a warrant, legal paperwork. We would send that immediately to OGC and follow their guidance.
    • Main thing I want to convey: we are being intentional, we are in communication, we are taking it seriously.
      • Wish we weren’t here, wish staff weren’t scanning the neighborhood as letting your child out of the car
      • We’re always trying to keep one eye here, make sure kids are safe
  • Q: Can you clarify what happens if officers approach a school bus?
      • School buses are the same as MCPS property
      • Officers cannot board school buses
      • Must not only have a warrant, must be a judicial warrant to enter the premises
      • Expectation is that they not come to the school or board buses
      • Don’t have the right to board school buses
  • Q: Are you sharing any of this with students?
      • Dr. G: TPES is not sharing this with students
      • Mr. Weertz: At PBES it’s situational, not happening broadly with students but having specific convos w/ specific students about their situation fairly regularly, as needed by the child. 
        • A lot of what I’m hearing from kids/families is that the school is perceived as the safest place. I have kids who have come to me: Mr Weertz, I love to come to school, play soccer, I don’t get to do that on the weekends anymore.
        • If you have a curious kid at PBES, tell them to come to Mr. Weertz.
  • Q: What is the emotional support for staff?
      • PBES: Open and honest communication is the first thing
        • These are the convos we have to have
        • Biggest support for staff: open and private convos as necessary
        • There are staff members who are personally impacted as well
        • What do you need? How can we help?
        • Sometimes tangible things we can do, sometimes not sure but we’re here to help 
      • TPES: Trainings on what to do when a situation arises
        • For those directly impacted, we are supportive
  • Q: If we as parents/community members see something we want to communicate, how should we do that?
    • Timing matters. If immediate (e.g., during arrival/dismissal), call the school. They’ll notify an administrator.
    • If there’s something that does not pose an immediate threat to school safety, but you hear something (e.g., a kid in my child’s class needs a supportive adult), start with the principal or counselor.

PTA Support Efforts 

April Cockerham, PBES PTA VP of Communications

  • PBES/TPES Immigration Working Group – work in progress
    • Help staff, teachers, counselors on front lines
    • They’re hearing heartbreaking stories
    • It’s not in their job description and no one is really trained for this
  • Important to know that TPES through Ms. Paz has Spanish language WhatsApp group; just started getting that rolled out through counselor at PBES
  • Raising awareness of the many available resources in this community
    • Pro bono legal services and legal funds
    • ELD department supporting guardianship and passport assistance
  • We are connecting families to aid 
    • Right now we have 10 families in an acute situation, doing grocery deliveries to home
    • Connecting families to a local nonprofit, Educare
      • Ongoing convos w/ them about using PBES as a dropoff spot where families could come pick up food items as opposed to a large food bank
    • To help with acute financial hardship situations, please donate to MoCoIRC’s GoFundMe database
  • Volunteer opportunities

 

Q+A

  • Q: Book Fair – TPES or PBES?
      • That one is for PBES (TPES will be at a later date)
      • Community Night (when book fair is open to the whole community, not just PBES families) is Thursday 10/23, 4:30-7:30p 
  • Q: Any updates with PBES renovation?
      • Mr. Weertz: My understanding – allegedly Oct 13 Superintendent Taylor will make his recommendation. We’re all sitting and waiting eagerly. 
  • Q: Can you clarify the new MCPS fingerprinting policy?
      • Dr. G: Parents chaperoning field trips are expected to be fingerprinted at their own cost ($65 in Rockville)
        • This creates an equity issue, especially in light of shutdowns and layoffs
        • Some people may not have resources to get to Rockville or pay $65
        • I’m raising that issue and moving it forward
        • Often community pressure and voice is louder than mine
        • I agree w/ having people fingerprinted and background checked, but don’t want barriers 
      • Can probably take it up with MCCPTA
  • Q: What will happen to zoo field trips if gov remains shut down?
      • Dr. G: We can’t go to zoo if zoo is closed
        • Will talk to kindergarten team about a different field trip
  • Q: What is the school’s stance on mandated reporting (e.g., to CPS) when kids are experiencing things like food insecurity as a result of what’s happening in gov?
    • Dr. G: We protect our kids. We give out food on a regular basis. We make resources available. We know which families are impacted and we work to support them. During COVID, you didn’t have to go to the grocery store if you lived in TKPK. You could feed your family – all those things available in this three block radius. Our schools were distribution sites, Tommy’s Pantry on Sligo.
  • If any other questions related to immigration supports, please email April at aprilacockerham@gmail.com

September 2025 PTA Meeting Minutes

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September 2025 Monthly PTA Meeting Minutes

9/4/2025 4:21 pm

 

Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES)

Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)

Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)

Tuesday, September 2, 2025: 8 – 9pm

 

 

Spanish Translator: Isadora Quintana

Amharic Translator: Tewobsta G* – technical issues prevented Amharic Translation from happening live.

Meeting was recorded

 

TPES Introduction

Delianny Brammer, TPES PTA President, provided an introduction to the TPES PTA

  • TPES holds PTA meetings jointly with PBES. This is due to the fact that the two schools work closely together and want to stay connected.  It also supports those parents that have children in both schools.
  • TPES PTA Executive Team consists of:
    • Delianna Brammer, President
    • Naomi Gohn, Executive Vice President
    • Germaine Dunn, Treasurer
    • Kenn Scudder, VP of Communications
    • Kate Sullivan Frades, Membership Secretary
    • Erin Nichols, Vice President Membership
    • Joseph Herschhorn Howard, Vice President Fundraising
    • Christina Davis, Executive Secretary

 

PBES Introduction

Mari Quenemoen, PBES PTA President,and Cara Tallo, EVP, provided an introduction to the PBES PTA

  • Looking at all channels to make sure all families can be involved with translation, etc.
  • PBES PTA Board consists of:
    • Mari Quenemoen, President
    • Cara Tallo, Executive Vice President
    • Dan Proudfoot, Treasurer
    • Christine Smith, Secretary
    • Lesley Perry, VP of Membership
    • April Cockerham and Ingrid Gardiner, Co-VPs of Fundraising
    • Charlotte Noss, VP of Communications
    • Erin Mohan, VP of Equity
    • Paul Donowitz and Kuna Tavalin, Advocacy Representative (MCCPTA)

 

What is the PTA?

  • A volunteer-led organization that connects parents, teachers, and the school community

 

What does the PTA do…?

  • Work and raise funds in order to:
    • Meet needs beyond school capacity
    • Create connection for students and parents
    • Build a strong, inclusive family
  • For students (this looks different for each school, but in general):
    • Fund recess equipment, library updates, and school spirit items like field trip shirts
    • Provide classroom supplies, books, and technology to enhance learning
    • Organize school-wide events like book fairs, cultural heritage nights, and family nights
    • Offer scholarships and vouchers for activities
  • For schools and teachers:
    • Schedule and coordinate all afterschool activities
      • Scholarship activities to make sure all can participate
    • Coordinate annual book fair to raise money for the Media Center (school library)
    • Fulfill teacher wish lists for classroom supplies
    • Host appreciation events to recognize teachers and staff
  • For families:
    • Deploy donation dollars to ensure opportunities for all students, by:
      • Afterschool scholarships
      • Book fair vouchers for families in need
      • Language translation for events
    • Curate parent resources through PTA newsletters and specialized guest speakers
    • Offer a variety of donation and volunteer opportunities

 

Get involved in your PTA:

 

TPES Announcements

Ken Scudder, TPES PTA VP of Communications

https://groups.io/g/tpespta – TPES Listserv Signup

  • Back to School Picnic – Wednesday, Sept 3
    • 5:30–7:30 PM on the playground. Bring dinner, enjoy PTA treats, and connect with families. Bring a blanket to sit on.
  • Family Meet & Greet – Monday, Sept 15 @ People’s Book
  • Fall Picture Days – Sept 16 & 17
    • Dress up, smile big! Photo days by homeroom – more details will be shared closer to the date.
  • PTA Google Calendar – Ongoing
  • Bus Routes – Ongoing
    • Check 2025–26 routes by scanning this QR code on screen
  • Class WhatsApp Groups – Ongoing
    • Join your class directory & group: https://tinyurl.com/TPESdirectory2025

 

Upcoming School Closures

  • September
    • Tuesday, Sept 23 – Non-Instructional Day (No school for students and teachers)
    • Friday, Sept 26 – Early Release Day for students
  • October
    • Thursday, Oct 2 – Non-Instructional Day (No school for students and teachers)
    • Friday, Oct 17 – Professional Development Day (No school for students)

 

TPES Communication Channels

Delianny Brammer, TPES President

  • PTA Channels
  • School Channels
    • Remind (will sunset in December)
    • ParentSquare (new official platform). If you can not find your invitation from August, reach out to the school office for assistance.
  • MCPS Channels

 

PBES Announcements and Upcoming Closures

Charlotte Noss, PBES VP Communications

  • Ways to get involved:
    • (1) Join PTA as an official member
    • Other Announcements:
      • Working to get WhatsApp group for Spanish and Amharic. Currently still need Amharic support.
      • Communications from school and MCPS will also be taken over by ParentSquare
    • September events:
      • Wednesday, Sept. 17 – Back to School Night (free childcare provided by Kids Adventures courtesy of Finn Family Group Real Estate)
        • 6:30 – 7:00 – Instrumental Music (for those interested in learning about Instrumental Music for 4th and 5th graders)
        • 7:00 – 7:30 – Session I
        • 7:35 – 8:00 – Session II
        • 8:00 – 8:20 – Building Browse
      • October events:
        • Tuesday, Oct. 7 – PTA meeting, in person at TPES 6-8pm
        • Monday, Oct. 13 – Open House
          • Two sessions – usually one in the morning, one in the afternoon
        • Call for PBES PTA Volunteers
          • Volunteer at PBES: https://pineybranchpta.membershiptoolkit.com/Volunteer
          • NAACP Representative
          • Hispanic Heritage Night Planning Team (October)
          • Book Fair Planning Team (Fall)
          • Read-a-thon Planning Team (January/February/March)
          • GeoBowl Planning Team (January/February/March)
          • Black History Night Planning Team (February)
        • Call for Room Adults

The numbers below indicate the number of room parents still needed for that teacher:

  • Davidson- 2
  • Dunlap-Roberts- 2
  • Gazda- 1
  • Giles- 2
  • Kandeh- 2
  • Berardi-1
  • Casey-1
  • Eskow- 2
  • Kenny- 2
  • Li- 1
  • Brooking- 1
  • Griffin- 2
  • Kenny-2
  • Patrick- 1
  • Pinnock- 2
  • Tolson-2

 

 

PTA Business

  • Treasurer’s Reports and Updates

○ TPES: Budget document, Germaine Dunn, Treasurer

  • TPES has a healthy budget for FY26 school year
  • Expenditures have been mainly been used for assemblies, teacher lunches, and other activities planned
  • 24 families have provided dues or donations to the PTA
  • More details coming in the next meeting

○ PBES: Budget document , Dan Proudfoot, Treasurer

  • Overall budget is about $30,820
    • On income side, boosters and donations is estimated at $4500
    • Fundraising side, $23,800 (bake sales, readathon, etc)
    • Grants

 

TPES and PBES Leadership

Ms. Hayden, TPES Assistant Principal

Dr. Gadsden, Principal, and Ms. Diana Hayden, Assistant Principal, Takoma Park ES

  • Gadsden shared that TPES is not fully staffed, there is still need for para-educators and special educators
  • Covid is making the rounds at TPES, with lots of kids and staff having tested positive. Teachers and administrators are masking.

Mr. Weertz, Acting Principal, Piney Branch ES

  • Richard Weertz is Acting Principal at PBES; Ms. Oberdorf will be here later in the year. Ms. Java Robinson is acting Assistant Principal

 

Safety at our School

  • Hayden:
    • Resource: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/security/
    • During the October PTA meeting, we’ll take a deeper dive into school security and share additional information.
    • Hayden Shared new standard response protocol with Montgomery County, streamlining communication and response calls.
      • Staff were trained on new protocols
      • Students were trained and practiced emergency responses first day of school
      • An evacuation drill was held during the first week of school
      • Safety drills are scheduled throughout the year to ensure staff and students stay aware of protocols
    • What is most important for parents to know in the event of a school emergency
      • Stay calm and wait for updates from the school
      • Do not come to the school unless instructed
      • Updates will come from the school or central office ASAP.
        • Keep communication lines open.
      • Family resources:
        • Standard response protocol
        • SRP Video
    • Weertz:
      • PBES following same process and protocols. Next week is safety week at PBES, with added emphasis, including more communication with the students and drills planned.

 

 

Next Meeting:

  • Discuss concerns about your child getting safely to and from school (in the meantime, you can reach out to the PTA for support – pbes.pta@gmail.com; president@tpespta.net
  • Security measures
  • In person – October 8th

Fall 2025 After-School Programs

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The Fall After-School Program schedule is set! There are two classes each day Monday – Thursday, with the first starting Sep. 22, running as late as Jan. 5. All but one of them are being held at TPES, the other at PBES. Scholarships are available – please see the bottom of this post for more information.

Please remember: the PTA helps organize these offerings, but if you have specific questions about a program, reach out directly to that program once you receive the flyers in your student’s packet.

 

Weekly Schedule at TPES

Mondays

  • Stix ‘n Snacks with Tiny Chefs ($251)
    Sept 29–Dec 8 | 4–5pm | 8 weeks
    Grades K–2 | Scholarships available
    Registration: https://bit.ly/4mYYLPV
  • Coding with Panda Programmer (held at PBES) ($249)
    Sept 22–Nov 10 and Nov 17-Jan 5 | 4–6pm | 6 weeks
    Grades 1-5 | Scholarships available
    Registration: com/silver-spring-kids-coding-classes
    NOTE: PANDA does not transport students to PBES from TPES. You will have to arrange for your scholar to go from the one school to the other

 

Tuesdays

  • Storybook Theatre with Ms. Gretchen ($220)
    Sept 30–Nov 18 | 4–5:30pm | 8 weeks
    Grades K–2 | Scholarships available
    Registration: https://forms.gle/xPynQVZBZ5rDQd5s5
  • Science and Engineering Motion Commotion with Big Learning ($160, Early bird $150 through Sept 25)
    Oct 7–Dec 2 | 4–5pm | 8 weeks
    Grades K–2| Scholarships available
    Registration: https://biglearning.asapconnected.com/

Wednesdays

  • Elementary Drawing with Young Rembrandts ($152)
    Oct 1–Nov 19 | 4–5pm | 8 weeks
    Grades K–2 | Scholarships available
    Registration: https://bit.ly/4mYYLPV

Thursdays

  • Spanish, Intro and Early Beginner with Big Learning ($160, Early bird $150 through Sept 25)
    Oct 9–Dec 4 | 4–5pm | 8 weeks
    Grades K–2| Scholarships available
    Registration: https://biglearning.asapconnected.com/
  • Soccer with Avanti Athletics ($205)
    Oct 9–Dec 18 | 4–5pm | 10 weeks
    Grades K–2 | Scholarships available
    Registration: http://bit.ly/45QntvS

 

Scholarships: All programs offer their own scholarships, and the PTA provides additional support for families who may need it. If you’d like to request a scholarship for after-school programming, please email: president@tpespta.net.

8/23/25 – Popsicles on the Playground

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If you have a rising Takoma Park Elementary School Kindergartener, are a new TPES family, or just want to get together with TPES friends, please join us on Saturday, August 23rd for “Popsicles on the Playground!” We welcome all kindergarten students and families to meet your new classmates before school begins!

When: Saturday, August 23rd, 2025

Time: 10AM to 12 Noon

(RAIN DATE: August 24th, 10am-12pm)

Where: TPES Playground, 7511 Holly Avenue, Takoma Park, MD

We will have popsicles and water. We are looking forward to meeting all of you!

 

Si tiene un estudiante de jardín de infantes de la Escuela Primaria Takoma Park en ascenso, es una nueva familia de TPES o simplemente quiere reunirse con amigos de TPES, únase a nosotros el sábado 23 de agosto para disfrutar de “¡Paletas heladas en el patio de recreo!”.

¡Damos la bienvenida a todos los estudiantes de jardín de infantes y a sus familias para que conozcan a sus nuevos compañeros de clase antes de que comiencen las clases!

Cuándo: sábado 23 de agosto de 2025

Horario: 10 a. m. a 12 m. m.

(FECHA DE LLUVIA: 24 de agosto, 10 a. m. a 12 m. m.)

Dónde: TPES Playground, 7511 Holly Avenue, Takoma Park, MD

Tendremos paletas heladas y agua. ¡Esperamos conocerlos a todos!

Más información en el folleto adjunto. ¡Por favor corra la voz!

 

 

June 2024 PTA Meeting Minutes

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Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES)
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 from 7 – 8pm on Zoom 

Agenda will include: 

(1) Upcoming TPES and PBES dates and announcements

(2) MCPS Summer Reading Challenge Presentation

(3) Takoma Park Middle School PTA Introduction

(4) Treasurer’s reports 

(5) Vote on TPES & PBES Executive Committees for ‘24-’25 School Year

(6) End of Year Statements from Mrs. O & Dr. G.

(7) Q&A

(8) Closing

 

7:00 PM: Meeting Kick-off 

Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications – Welcome 

  • Intro to topics to be discussed

7:05 PM: Upcoming Dates & Announcements

Claire Dean, TPES VP 

Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

TPES ANNOUNCEMENTS:  Read by Claire Dean, TPES VP 

  • Library books are due! If you have library books still at home, please have your child return them. Check your take home folder for any info on books you may have at home.
  • Second Grade Walking Field Trip to PBES: Wednesday, June 5, 9:30am
    • Second graders will visit Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES) and will leave at 9:30am, so please be sure your child arrives to school on time! 
  • Crossing Guard Appreciation Day: June 5th – The City of Takoma Park will set up tables at the guard posts so students can leave a token of appreciation on their way to school. If you have time to make a card or artwork, please do so to thank the crossing guards that work to keep us all safe. 
  • Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10 at 9:45 AM at TPMS – Second grade families, save the date! 
  • At-Home Chromebooks – If your student has an MCPS at-home Chromebook and they are leaving MCPS, please bring the Chromebook, charger and carrying case back to TPES by June 7th. You can send it in with the student or drop it off at the front office. If they are moving to a different MCPS school or staying at TPES then they can keep the Chromebook at home all summer.
    • 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings

We need YOU! Yes, YOU! We have several critical positions on our PTA board that must be filled or critical services and funds will be cut. We have not had anyone step up yet! If not you, then please send us an email nominating or recommending someone! The following positions are open:

  • Non-board roles are also vital and many volunteers are aging out of TPES so we have several needs: 
  • NAACP Representative 
  • Room Parent Coordinator 
  • Teacher/Staff Appreciation Committee Co-Chair
  • Social Services Coordinator

Please reach out to Kaitlin Caruso at president@tpespta.net or Clare Dean at vp@tpespta.net if you want to volunteer for the PTA next year

PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: read by Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

  • Returning Musical Instruments
    • This is a friendly reminder that all Instrumental Music students using a school instrument must return their instrument to Mrs. Pratt by Wednesday, June 5. Students may leave it with Mrs. Pratt at the end of their last class, or leave it on the counter in the Instrumental Music room.
  • PB Jelly Volunteer Needed for Tomorrow
    • Volunteer has been found.
  • Shark Tank Volunteers Needed
    • Fourth grade will be having their 4th annual shark tank assembly on Friday, June 7th from 9:45-10:45am. We are hoping we can recruit two parents/business owners in the community to be judges on the panel. If you are interested please reach out to brogan_plummer@mcpsmd.org for more information
  • Flash Yearbook Sale
    • Next Monday, June 10, 2024, we will hold a Yearbook Flash Sale from 9–9:30am for families who missed the opportunity to purchase a yearbook and would like to do so now. Yearbooks will be sold in the front hallway for $20 on a first come, first serve basis. Please reach out to Java Robinson (java_m_robinson@mcpsmd.org) if you have any questions.
  • MCPS Drive for Supplies
    • Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and Learn Shop, Inc., have enjoyed a 23-year partnership collecting new and reusable school supplies at the close of the school year and donating these supplies to students and families in need for the start of the next school year. Donations of new or gently used school supplies may be dropped off at the PBES entrance through June 13.
  • 5th Grade Promotion
    • Wednesday, June 12th at 2:00 p.m. Seating is limited so please allow for two guests per student. The Clap Out will be at 3:15 p.m.
    • Volunteers are needed to decorate for the 5th grade promotion! Please reach out to pbes.pta@gmail.com if you are interested in either purchasing supplies or participating in the decoration. 

Huge thank you to our volunteers from this past year.

  • 2024-2025 PBES PTA Executive Committee Openings

7:15 PM: Aphra Adkins: MCPS Summer Reading Challenge for all age groups. Dave Burbank (TKPK Library Associate) was unable to attend this evening.

There is a summer reading challenge through the county:

7:25 PM: TPMS PTA Introduction – Ramata Diop, President TPMS PTA

  • Discussion of open positions and activities over the summer:
  • Open positions for next year:
    • Board Positions: 
      • Fundraising VP
      • Corresponding Secretary (Communications)
      • Membership VP
      • Montgomery County Council Delegate
      • NAACP Parent Council Rep
  • Committee Positions:
    • 6th Grade Welcome Picnic Chair
    • Safe Routes to School Liaison
    • MCCPTA Gifted Talented Committee Liaison
    • MCCPTA Special Needs Committee Liaison
    • International Night Committee Chair
    • Minit Grants Committee Chair
    • Books & Basketball Committee Chair
    • Staff Appreciation

Find out more here:

https://www.tpmspta.org/ptsa-board-elections/

If interested please email tpms.pta.president@gmail.com

 

There will be July and August events for meet and greet for incoming TPMS students

Contact for Ramata: tpms.pta.president@gmail.com

 

7:30 PM: Budget Updates

Amy Swift, TPES PTA Treasurer

Vote approved to extend the budget as a summer budget.

  • Rachael Pierotti, PBES PTA Treasurer – Budget presentation of current year to date and proposed 2024-2025 Budget

Vote: Approved

Membership voted to approve the budget for 2024-2025.

Questions: Treasurer (Rachael) email: pbesptatreasurer@gmail.com.

7:35 PM: Vote on TPES & PBES Executive Committees for ‘24-’25 School Year

  • Vote on the new upcoming year’s executive committee members for TPES 

Co-VP of Membership -Jessi Binder and Erin Nichols Co-Membership Secretaries – Lesley Perry (2nd term) and Lillie Rosen

Vote: Approved

  • Vote on the upcoming year’s executive committee members for PBES

All members are continuing, PBES PTA still has a couple open positions that need to be filled, but no need to vote on current positions.

7:45 PM: End of Year Statements from Mrs. O & Dr. G.

Mrs O and Mr Weerts: A huge thank you to everyone – Staff felt very supported by PTA. Excited to have the 2nd graders come visit PBES and have the 5th graders visit TPMS.

Summer school will be held for Joann Laleck at PBES. 

Thank you!

Dr. G: This is a very exciting time of the year! Second grade promotion on Monday. The 2nd graders are trying to put together a newspaper. If you have experience in word processing, please volunteer to help make it happen. It’s been a wild year but a good one. Thanks to volunteers and staff for getting it done!

7:50 PM: Q&A

Q: Can I order a year book for PBES?

A: Next Monday, June 10, 2024, we will hold a Yearbook Flash Sale from 9–9:30am for families who missed the opportunity to purchase a yearbook and would like to do so now. Yearbooks will be sold in the front hallway for $20 on a first come, first serve basis. Please reach out to Java Robinson (java_m_robinson@mcpsmd.org) if you have any questions.

Q: I don’t recall whether or not I ordered a Year book. How can I confirm?

A: The contact for all yearbook sales at Piney Branch ES is Ms. Robinson (java_m_robinson@mcpsmd.org)

Q: When will yearbooks be distributed?

A: TPES: early next week, same for PBES.

Q: Do kindergarteners get a yearbook?

A: If you buy one.

Q: Why doesn’t the PTA earn anything from the book fair?  I thought a portion of Scholastic Book Fair proceeds were supposed to support the school in some way?

A: It earns Scholastic Dollars for the school to spend, but it’s not cash.

Q: And the school spends it on books?  Do you have an estimate on how many books were earned for the school?

A: Scholastic dollars can be used on books and school supplies, etc. We count the amount in scholastic dollars. The total scholastic dollars were $7,000 this year for PBES.

PBES used Scholastic. However TPES did a different book fair: Per Amy Swift, TPES tried Book Worm this year instead of Scholastic. Approximately $3500 from book fair.

Q: Do we know what the impact of the MCPS budget cuts will be on PBES?

A: Mrs Oberdorf  received notice that PBES was losing an allocation but in reviewing the numbers that may be rescinded.

Q: Is there any way we can support you as a parent advocacy community around the note MCPS sent out about increases in class sizes, etc?

A: Dr. G: Please help get the word out to folks with rising Kindergarten students to please get those rising Kindergarteners registered!! K enrollment is down and if TPES does not get more kids enrolled for K it will impact the number of K teacher positions.

Q: Is there a deadline for volunteering for a PTA position for PBES? 

A: No, we’ll take you when you volunteer!

Q: Will we lose instrumental music? We are so sad we are losing Ms Pratt?

A: No. There is no change in the instrumental music program. We’ll be hiring a new person. We share allocation with Rolling Terrace with PBES comprising the larger allocation.

Q: Is Kid Adventure having a summer camp this year at PBES? 

A: They won’t be at PBES because Laleck will be here this year. KA will be at TPES.

7:58 PM: Thank you!


May 27, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

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In this issue: 
1. June PTA Meeting: Tuesday, June 4, 7-8pm 
2. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
3. TPES Art Show @ TPES: Wednesday, May 29, 7-8pm
4. First Graders Field Trip to Glen Echo: Thursday, May 30th

5. All Library Books Due Friday, May 31st 

6. Second Grade Walking Field Trip to PBES: Wednesday, June 5, 9:30am
7. Crossing Guard Appreciation Day: June 5th
8. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10
9. We Need Your Feedback on Dreambox
10. At-Home Chromebooks
11. Upcoming TPES Events 
 
1. June PTA Meeting: Tuesday, June 4, 7-8pm 
Please join us for our last PTA meeting of the school year! We’ll have our election for the 2024-25 PTA board and Dave Burbank, librarian associate in the Children and Youth Services at the Takoma Park Library, will join us to discuss their summer reading program and other enrichment opportunities.
 
2. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
We need YOU! Yes, YOU! We have several critical positions on our PTA board that must be filled or critical services and funds will be cut. We have not had anyone step up yet! If not you, then please send us an email nominating or recommending someone!  
The following positions are open:
Executive Secretary
Membership Secretary
VP Communications
VP Membership
VP Fundraising
VP Equity
Non-board roles are also vital and many volunteers are ageing out of TPES so we have several needs: 
NAACP Representative
Room Parent Coordinator
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Committee Co-Chair
Book Fair Committee Co-Chair
Social Services Coordinator
Please reach out to Kaitlin, Claire, or Amy with any questions or interest: president@tpespta.net. Elections will take place at our June 4 PTA meeting!
 
3. TPES Art Show @ TPES: Wednesday, May 29, 7-8pm
The TPES Art Show will showcase your child’s art from the year. Art will be displayed by class throughout the walls of the school.
4. First Graders Field Trip to Glen Echo: Thursday, May 30th
Reminder that first grade has their field trip to Glen Echo THIS Thursday! Check in with your teacher for more details!
5. All Library Books Due Friday, May 31st 
Please check high and low for any remaining TPES library books. All books should be returned by this Friday, May 31st.
6. Second Grade Walking Field Trip to PBES: Wednesday, June 5, 9:30am
Second graders will visit Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES) and will leave at 9:30am, so please be sure your child arrives to school on time!
 
7. Crossing Guard Appreciation Day: June 5th

The City of Takoma Park will set up tables at the guard posts so students can leave a token of appreciation on their way to school. If you have time to make a card or artwork, please do so to thank the crossing guards that work to keep us all safe:

Donna Warren – Philadelphia and Cedar
Emma Reyes – Philadelphia and Holly
Pamela Sprouse – Piney Branch and Philadelphia
Edward Welch – The junction Ethan Allen @ Carrol
Jordan Bondo – Philadelphia and Maple
Harriet Saxton – Maple Ave and Grant Ave
Virina James – Maple Ave and Sherman Ave

 
8. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10
Second grade families, save the date! The school will send more information. In years past, the ceremony has taken place at Takoma Park Middle School in the morning but we’ll need to wait for official word from Dr. Gadsden.
 
9. We Need Your Feedback on Dreambox

TPES is determining whether to continue our Dreambox Math subscription so needs your feedback. Please complete this 2-minute survey: Dreambox Feedback Form If your child has never used Dreambox, this survey is still for you! Help us stay smart with our spending!

 
10. At-Home Chromebooks

If your student has an MCPS at-home Chromebook and they are leaving MCPS, please bring the Chromebook, charger and carrying case back to TPES by June 7th. You can send it in with the student or drop it off at the front office. If they are moving to a different MCPS school or staying at TPES then they can keep the Chromebook at home all summer.

11. Upcoming TPES Events 

May 29: 1st Grade Field Trip to Glen Echo
May 29: Career Day
May 29, 7pm: Art Show
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
May 31: All Library Books Due
June 4: PTA Meeting
June 5: 2nd Grade Walking Field Trip to Visit PBES
June 5: Crossing Guard Appreciation Day
June 10: Second Grade Promotion
 
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May 13, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

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In this issue: 
1. REMINDER: NO SCHOOL TOMORROW – ELECTION DAY
2. May PTA Meeting Minutes
3. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
4. Dress for Field Day THIS WEEK: May 13, 15, 16
5. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game NEW DATE: Thursday, May 23, 6:15pm
6. THANK YOU for Contributing to Teacher Appreciation Week
7. TPES Art Show Help Needed to Hang Student Art
8. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class
9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
10. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10
11. Upcoming TPES Events 
 
1. REMINDER: NO SCHOOL TOMORROW, Tuesday, 5/14 – ELECTION DAY
On the ballot include: U.S. Senate candidate, U.S. House Representative (including our 8th district), Montgomery County School Board (1 at-large seat and our District 4)

2. May PTA Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes for our PTA meeting last week can be found here and includes upcoming dates, an update about TPES’s Food Forest, class assignment information from principals, and treasurer’s report. (Notes not available from breakout rooms.)


3. 2024-2025 TPES PTA Executive Committee Openings
Several parents are staying on to serve another term but others have reached term limits or will no longer have children at TPES, so the following positions are open:
Executive Secretary
Membership Secretary
VP Communications
VP Membership
VP Fundraising
VP Equity

You can find descriptions here: https://tpespta.net/get-involved/tpes-pta-volunteer-descriptions/

Non-board roles are also vital and many volunteers are ageing out of TPES so we have several needs:

NAACP Representative
Room Parent Coordinator
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Committee Co-Chair
Book Fair Committee Co-Chair
Social Services Coordinator

We need YOU! Our PTA is vital part of TPES, helping to provide necessary supplies to teachers and the school, providing opportunities for afterschool enrichment (including scholarships for students to participate), planning community-building events and organizing additional learning opportunities, such as assemblies and providing funding for field trips. Without parent volunteers, this work can’t happen, so please consider stepping up, even if you can only commit a certain amount of time!

Please reach out to Kaitlin, Claire, or Amy with any questions or interest: president@tpespta.net. Elections will take place at our June 4 PTA meeting!

4. Dress for Field Day THIS WEEK: May 13, 15, 16
Children should wear closed toed shoes appropriate for running, and they may get wet (not soaked) during water activities so dress appropriately!

1st Grade: THIS Wednesday, 5/15,  9:30-11 a.m. (Rain date 5/22) Still need 1 volunteer at First Aid and 1 volunteer at Ping Pong Ball Carry for one hour

2nd Grade: THIS Thursday, 5/16, 9:30-11 a.m.

5. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game NEW DATE: Thursday, May 23, 6:15pm

Please join us Thursday, May 23rd at Washington Adventist University for a friendly soccer game between the staff and parents of TPES vs. the staff and parents of PBES! The game will begin at 6:15 PM and there will be a dance party on the field after the game (around 7 PM) for kids and families! There will be pizza for $1 a slice while supplies last (we encourage you to bring cash, as well as your water bottles!) and to wear merchandise or school colors, as well as make signs to encourage the school(s) you’re cheering on!! We look forward to seeing you there! And cross your fingers for weather and weather forecasts to be favorable!

6. THANK YOU for Contributing to Teacher Appreciation Week 

We would like to extend our gratitude to the parents and neighborhood businesses who donated and gave discounts to make last week a success. Thank you to the following businesses who contributed to our TPES Teacher Appreciation Week: Takoma BevCo., Tabletop, Azalea City Nails, People’s Book, Fulfillery, House Mouse Books, Yoga Heights and Willow Street Yoga. Thank you to the parents who made our staff feel appreciated with the notes, flowers, gift cards, and food contributions!
Finally, a special thanks goes out to TPES parents, Betsy Cohen, Mercedes Castelo, Erin Mohan, and Orly Keiner, for all of your work to organize last week’s special events. You are ALL amazing!!

7. TPES Art Show Help Needed to Hang Student Art

We are looking for parents to help hang student art up on the walls! All you will need to do is pick a time (as many slots as you are available) and report to the Art room 407 to retrieve the artwork and the location where it is to be hung. If you have extra hanging supplies, donations of staples, staplers, masking tape, glue sticks, and scissors are welcome!

Link to the parent volunteer sign-up!: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094BAFAA29A1FACE9-49251402-artshow

8. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class

Please use the attached form to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, TPES staff will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The school’s goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and staff will use the information in this form to help guide their work. Second grade families should still use this form; PBES will use the information for the same purpose.

9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic. To register, please email Anne_M_Hottel-Cox@mcpsmd.org. Help us spread the word!
10. Second Grade Promotion Save the Date: June 10

Second grade families, save the date! The school will send more information. In years past, the ceremony has taken place at Takoma Park Middle School in the morning but we’ll need to wait for official word from Dr. Gadsden.

11. Upcoming TPES Events 

May 13: Kindergarten Field Day
May 14: No School, Election Day
May 15: First Grade Field Day
May 16: Second Grade Field Day
May 23: TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game
May 29: Career Day
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
June 10: Second Grade Promotion
 
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May 2024 PTA Meeting Minutes

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Takoma Park Elementary School (TPES)
Piney Branch Elementary School (PBES)
Parent & Teacher Meeting (PTA)
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 from 7 – 8pm on Zoom 

Agenda will include: 

(1) Upcoming TPES and PBES dates and announcements
(2) Food Forest and Gardening Club at TPES
(3) Treasurer’s Reports
(4) Dr. Gadsden and Ms. Oberdorf to speak about class assignments
(5) Breakout rooms for rising K, 3rd and 6th grade parents

Spanish Translator: Mercedes Castelo

Amharic Translator: There will be no Amharic translation provided. 

7:00 PM: Meeting Kick-off 

Kaitlin Caruso, TPES PTA President Welcome 

  • Intro to topics to be discussed
  • Plea for Executive officers for upcoming school year 
    • Descriptions of open positions will be sent out this week. Please consider joining the executive board!

7:05 PM: Upcoming Dates & Announcements

JOINT TPES/PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: read by Joyce McDonough, TPES VP Communications 

  • May 9 – TPES/PBES Soccer game this Thursday, May 9 between parents and teachers of TPES vs. parents and teachers of PBES! Event will be held at Washington Adventist University. Anyone who is playing, please arrive at 5:45 for warm-up. The game will start at 6:15 PM and will end by 7 PM with a dance party for children on the field. Attendance is FREE! Pizza will be served for $1 a slice! Quantity will be limited! We hope to see as many of you as possible out there for this wonderful community-building event!

TPES ANNOUNCEMENTS:  Read by Joyce McDonough, TPES VP Communications

    • There will be an Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting-May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.
    • Please fill out the parent input form sent out by Dr. Gadsden to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, the staff at TPES will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and to use the information in the form to help guide that work. 
    • Thank you to everyone who volunteered for the TPES Book Fair! 
      • Online Book Fair: Our online book fair will remain open through the school year.  There are books for all ages available at the online fair.  TPES PTA receives 15% of the proceeds for books purchased through the online fair.  https://www.bookwormcentral.com/TakomaPark
      • Please contact Claire Dean and Lesley Perry at bookfair@tpespta.net.  
    • This week is Teacher Appreciation Week and we are still seeking gifts to raffle off to teachers. Some ideas include giving time for pet sitting, a homemade casserole, your favorite cookie recipe, gift cards, gift certificates, etc. Gifts in any amount are appreciated and welcomed! Please reach out to Betsy Garcete to let her know what you can contribute: esthergarcete@gmail.com
    • Kindergarten Enrollment 2024-25 Now Open Kindergarten online registration is now open. For information regarding kindergarten enrollment for the 2024-25 school year, including important documents needed to register, please visit the MCPS website (https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/kindergarten/). If you have any questions or would like more information on how to enroll at Takoma Park Elementary School, please call 240-740-0980 or email Ms. Hottel-Cox at anne_m_hottel-cox@mcpsmd.org. 
  • Yearbooks! If you’d like to order a yearbook for your child, please use this link. Yearbooks cost $22 and will be distributed at the end of the school year. 

PBES ANNOUNCEMENTS: ready by Chris Campbell, PBES VP Communications 

  • New Art Gallery! Ms. Cantu is putting together a beautiful display of student’s art from classes past and present in a new gallery wall space. The PTA is seeking donations to help fund this exciting project. Donate here! The gallery system will allow us to change out the artwork for years to come.
  • Teacher Appreciation Week: Teacher Appreciation Week is happening this week up and there are ways you and your student can thank our staff for BEE-ing the BEST! Thank you to everyone who donated or helped decorate! 
    • We are still looking for volunteers to help with Clean-Up on Friday. Sign up here! 
    • Friday, May 10: BEE Yourself: Students and staff can dress to express their silly sides!
  • Volunteers Needed for Instrumental Concert Bake Sale on May 22: Your help is needed on May 22! Please consider signing up to either staff the bake sale table or bring a dozen baked goods. This is a fundraiser for the PBES PTA and your support is appreciated! Sign up here!
  • May 16: 4th/5th grade choral concert
  • PBES Yearbooks: Yearbooks are on sale now. The price is $20. They may be ordered online here.

7:15 PM: Sharon Broderick, Co-Chair, Food Forest and Gardening Committee 

  • Presentation on Food Forest and TPES Gardening Club 
  • Vision for forest garden on TPES grounds; incorporates fruit and nut trees, bushes, 
  • Started last year to build garden boxes; planted for the first time last year
  • Working with MCPS to get proper approvals to get more planting in the fall
  • First tree plantings: April 2024; all growing; persimmon, serviceberry, hazelnuts, spicebush, witch hazel on nature walk along TPES playground edge
  • TKPK owns land on other side; working with Arborist to develop the nature walk there
  • 45 students in student garden club! They love to water the plants
    • Posters in the atrium
    • food tasting in atrium this wednesday from what has been grown
    • Plans for 2nd grade group to meet during the week
  • Applying for grant for funds 
  • Planting and clean up event on May 11 1-4pm
    • Planting along the nature walk
    • 45-100 plants coming

7:25 PM: Treasurer’s Reports 

  • Amy Swift, TPES PTA Treasurer
    • Month of April
    • Lots of revenue coming in from Read-a-Thon and Book Fair
    • Book Fair: amount is what we took in cash/checks that goes back to Book Fair venue
    • PayPal admin charges: looking for ways to cut those
    • Exceeded expected income for year; under budget in spending
  • Ingrid Gardiner, PBES PTA President
    • Running about $10,000 behind on donations; over on fundraising; more should be posted
    • Programming costs don’t currently include the pool and other incoming costs

7:35 PM: Dr. Gadsden and Ms. Oberdorf

  • Speaking about class assignments for 2024-2025 school year 
  • Ms. Oberdorf (PBES)
    • Started process for class assignments a few weeks ago
    • Gathering data on students; teacher input in addition to scores
    • Start setting up potential classes; balance in demographics, gender, service groups, interventions, enrichment
    • Form for parent input being sent shortly
    • Staff meeting to present drafts of class rosters
    • Collaborate with TPES for rising third graders
    • Long process (3 months); 200 sets of students at a time
    • Hoping to make the best matches for all students
  • Dr. Gadsden (TPES)
    • Similar process as PBES
    • Forms for current second graders are shared with PBES; no need to fill out two
    • Cannot honor “keep with” requests; can honor “keep apart” requests
    • Do the best we can to have a balanced room and that every child in the room has another child who looks like them.
  • Cap on class sizes at PBES because a Focus school
  • TPES expects to have 9 K, 9 1st, 6 2nd grade classrooms; moving toward co-teaching model in hopes of bringing down the student teacher ratio; will be about 25 kids per class, but smaller for reading and math.
  • PBES going from 9 to 8 third grade classes; district monitors enrollment to adjust the number of classes.
  • 5th grade promotion ceremony: June 12 at 2pm

7:40 PM: Breakout rooms for incoming K parents, 3rd grade parents and 6th grade parents

Kindergarten Breakout Rooms (Dr. Gadsden to present before questions) 

  1. Claire Dean 
  2. Kelley Seay

Third Grade Breakout Rooms: 

  1. Christine Kahler Smith 
  2. Mari Quenemoen 

Sixth Grade Breakout Rooms: 

  1. Becca Jones-Albertus

May 6, 2024 Dolphin Digest – TPES PTA Weekly Newsletter

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In this issue: 
1. May PTA Meeting TOMORROW – Tuesday, May 7th, 7-8pm via Zoom
2. Teacher Appreciation Week is THIS WEEK
3. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: Thursday, May 9, 6:15pm
4. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup @ TPES: This Saturday, May 11th, 1-4pm
5. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class
6. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16

7. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23
8. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29
9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
10. Upcoming TPES Events 
 
1. May PTA Meeting TOMORROW – Tuesday, May 7th, 7-8pm via Zoom
Agenda will include 1) Upcoming TPES and PBES dates and announcements; 2) Food Forest and Gardening Club at TPES; 3) Treasurer’s Reports; 4) Process for Class Assignments for Next Year by TPES and PBES principals; 5) Breakout Rooms for Rising K, 3rd and 6th Grade Families for Panel Discussion on the Transition. Zoom link will be sent tomorrow afternoon directly from Dr. Gadsden.
2. Teacher Appreciation Week is THIS WEEK
Let’s show our appreciation for our amazing teachers and staff this week! A HUGE thank you to those who have signed up to bring a breakfast item for our staff breakfast tomorrow. If you didn’t get to sign up, here are still some ways to show appreciation: 
  • Have your child make a card of appreciation for their teacher(s)! 
  • Donate a GIFT CARD for this week’s teacher raffle. We are still in need of more gift cards in any amount and to a store of your choice! Drop off in the front office. 

3. TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game: Thursday, May 9, 6:15pm
Please join us this Thursday, May 9th at Washington Adventist University for a friendly soccer game between the staff and parents of TPES vs. the staff and parents of PBES! The game will begin at 6:15 PM and there will be a dance party on the field after the game (around 7 PM) for kids and families! There will be pizza for $1 a slice while supplies last (we encourage you to bring cash, as well as your water bottles!) and to wear merchandise or school colors, as well as make signs to encourage the school(s) you’re cheering on!! We look forward to seeing you there!

 
4. Anacostia Watershed Cleanup: This Saturday, May 11th, 1-4pm
The students and families of TPES are invited to help pick up litter and plant native plants on May 11th, 1-4pm at the TPES school grounds and the areas surrounding in the Anacostia Watershed

5. Parent Input for Next Year’s Class

Please use the attached form to tell the school about your child’s learning style and needs. The form is an opportunity to provide input into your child’s class placement for the 2024-2025 school year. This spring, TPES staff will begin the process of developing classes for next year. This work will continue into the summer. The school’s goal is to make the best student-teacher match possible and staff will use the information in this form to help guide their work.

6. Calling All Parents and Guardians – Field Day is Coming: May 13, 15, 16
Field Day is coming for all grade levels in May. We need many parent volunteers to have a successful experience for our children. Be on the lookout for a signup link to help out with this fun day. The dates are as follows:Kindergarten- May 13th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 20th, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
First Grade- May 15th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May 22nd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
Second Grade- May 16th, 9:30-11:00 a.m. Rain date-May, 23rd, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
7. TPES Art Show: Thursday, May 23

 Our school Art Show is May 23rd! The Art Show Team is seeking parent volunteers to help hang art in our halls from May 13th through May 22nd! Keep an eye out for our sign-up sheet coming out soon from Ms. Kelley.

8. Career Day Volunteers Needed: May 29

No matter what you do – banker, nurse, architect, dentist, police officer, lawyer, military, computer engineer, bus driver, or doctor – the children can learn about the world of work from you! So, if you, a relative, a neighbor, or a friend has a job that you love to talk about and share with others, being a Career Day speaker would be a perfect fit!

Volunteering does not guarantee that you will be called on to present. We will do our best to make sure we get a wide variety of careers to showcase to our students. If you are selected, you are committing to stay the entire morning session and present to 3 different classes. Each presentation will last 30 minutes (20 minutes of talking, 10 minutes of Q&A with students).

If you are interested in being a Career Day speaker or know someone who might be, please complete the interest form before April 26, 2024!
If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Althofer at Max_P_Althofer@mcpsmd.org or Mrs. Ampofo at Charlotte_Ampofo@mcpsmd.org.

9. Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting: May 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
The staff of Takoma Park Elementary School will host an incoming kindergarten parent meeting on May 30, 2024. The meeting will be held virtually and will include interpreters for Spanish and Amharic.

10. Upcoming TPES Events 

May 7: May PTA Meeting, 7-8pm via Zoom
May 9: TPES vs. PBES Soccer Game
May 11: Anacostia Watershed Cleanup @ TPES
May 13, 15, 16: Field Day
May 14: No School, Election Day
May 23: TPES Art Show
May 29: Career Day
May 30, 7pm: Incoming Kindergarten Parent Meeting
 
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