Hillside PTA Meeting Minutes

June 10, 2021

(via Zoom)

• Brian welcomed everyone
• Approved Hillside PTA February 2021 meeting minutes

Principal’s report: 

• We are already planning for next year with the hope and perspective that we will be completely full time in September and will be restoring our aesthetic program.
• Have been doing virtual tours for incoming rising 3rd graders; updating handbook and forwarding to 3rd grade. How can we beef up transition because we want to simmer anxiety. 

• Need to work with PTA to build calendar, probably beginning of July
• Hard to have public meetings when I don’t have all answers from central office yet
• 5th grade moving up has been hard to plan; stalking the weather, the plan is solid, ceremony is 11am; have district bus running to support families with transportation issues
• Will have DOT perform as part of Moving up ceremony – want our families to really feel they are having that moving up experience; will have 2 selections performed from students in addition 
• Q: Will 4th graders get a tour too? A: I’m not as worried about 4th graders because there are a lot of them in the building now. The tour offering helps relax parents more than students – students are generally ok and they figure it out. Note to make sure there is a plan to help all remote kids b/c they haven’t spent much time in building either. 

Completed election for incoming PTA: 

• Slate for 2021-2022 PTA presented: 
  • Co – presidents – Betty and Yvette
  • VP events – Sheila
  • VP of comms
  • VP of Treasurer
  • Secretary- Amber Reed

• Motion moved and seconded to approve slate

Treasurer Report: 

• Financial statement reviewed
• We had a lot of activity – Amazon Smile, had fundraising appeal, bookfair, sold spirit wear
• We found new ways for fundraising and these should run into next year (Talent Show advertising, Shout Outs. Trivia Night) 

Events Report: 

• 5th grade party – have water slide, DJ, food, and good weather
• MFEE Toasts have been happening outside
• Yearbook is almost done with lots of shout out to kids
• Peer Socialization Groups are still going well
• Book Swap on Saturday, 10am drop off and wrap up by 2pm; don’t have to give books to get books 
• Food Drive went well, lots of volunteers
• Will send eblast for volunteer positions for next year
• MFEE is interested in district wide toast to students after last day of school on June 24 

SATP Update: 

• Showed update slide and offered gratitude for all of the hard work this year: 
  • Hillside Cares – Jodi does the lion’s share of work; over 350 blessing bags / peace notes collected throughout the year
  • 250+ coats collected and donated 
  • Helping to feed out neighbors through contributions to Tony’s Kitchen
  • Social Justice – Black Lives Matter @ School of Action Week
  • Cultural Infusion – Kwanzaa Celebration; Lunar NY Celebration, AAPI Heritage Month, Student Voices Book Club, Juneteenth Lesson Plan Infusion 
  • Grateful to all the volunteers and the voices of experiences; the amount of work that our teachers and educators put in is amazing; committed lots of hours in planning 
  • Dee taking on SATP next year; there is an immediate need for September Spanish Heritage Month planning in August
• Need volunteers for – 
  • Hillside Cares
  • Health and Wellness
  • Curriculum-Related
• Already looking into new year, have new individuals getting involved; Social Justice team gave people a safe place to work together to make change; do have a few volunteer spaces for holiday meals, bikes to school day

District Level Update: 

• May 18 – BOE had its reorganization meetings; they swore in the 3 new members
• Pres and VP  – re-elected
• Gov Educators of Year were Honored 
• Presentation on long range facilities plan – it’s on their website under Board Reports; 5 year plan includes $57M over 5 years; only a start, does not include education uses; $38M is for HVAC upgrades; 6.4M is designated for HS, 4M is HVAC upgrades; 1M is interior; 1M is exterior; 250K electrical upgrades; has not been approved yet. Implemented over 5 years and we don’t yet see the year by year rollout; stay tuned for more
• Clear commitment by Dr. Ponds and BOE for 5 days/week, FT, in person in September.
• Discussion of adding EID as district wide holiday – date can vary over a month; needs to approved by Board
• MHS launching a PTA first time since decades; have nominating comm for MHS board members
• Alison Silverstein is appointed to the PTA council to board and to chair their communication committee; Communication was a big priority for the district.
• District will take action on allegation on June 21 on the whistleblower case
• EROG and PTAC issued statements – available on website
• Board spoke about engagement in labor management workshops to improve relationship between with board with employee unions; lot of discussion re: Watchung field renovation; project was delayed for review but is now underway
• PTAC elected – and have meeting on 6/11 to discuss priorities
• Many have seen MEA on social media – objecting to what they are saying Draconian staff cuts that are not necessitated; an issue that is being discussed and debated within the community
• Thank Yous and shout outs were given from all!   

Attendees: 

Jennifer Hand

Brian Fleischer

Amber Reed

Betty Shvetz

Diane Tehranian

JT’s iPhone

Christina Joseph Robinson

David and Linda

Dee Thompson

Erica Clark-Mitchell

Samanthaa Anglin

Sheila Boyd

Tinu Joseph

Varsha Hathi

Thomas Adamo 

Yvette Frazier

Hillside PTA Meeting Minutes

May 13, 2021

(via Zoom)

• Brian welcomed everyone
• Approved Hillside PTA April 2021 meeting minutes

Principal Update: 

• We know that time in school matters – good energy in the building
• Moving to five days per week for all classified students on Monday
• Child Study Team returning to building Monday
• Wish we could bring back everyone five days, but we can’t accommodate it across all elementary schools within COVID mitigation guidelines
• Moving Up for all schools being planned for outdoors between Woodman and Watchung fields; Hillside tentatively Monday 6/21 @ 11:30am; number of seats for guests TBD; still figuring out what school will look like on that day
• Book Fair was moved inside due to weather, but it was exciting to have families in the building; a lot of donations were made to support our classroom libraries
• SATp doing great work around social justice – recognizing that inclusiveness must be intentional and everlasting, not just confined to a designated month
• Q re: Pool Testing? A: district started with Grade 2, so not yet at Hillside
• Q re: Is 5-day in person for classified students voluntary? A: We track attendance by cohort, live or virtual, so classified students are not an in-person cohort, but we can still record students as virtual/present

Nominating Committee: 

• Presented proposed slate:
  • Co-Presidents: Betty Shvetz and Yvette Frasier
  • VP Events: Sheila Boyd (hoping for another Co-VP Events)
  • VP Communications: Shaviece Osborne
  • Recording Secretary: Amber Reed
  • Co-Treasurers: Dana Rizzo and Jacqueline Ahern
• Lots of volunteer positions, including Committee/Event chairs, still available

Treasurer report:

• Presented treasurer report. Raised $2,636.28 from Annual Appeal; awaiting revenue numbers from Book Fair and Spirit Wear. On the year, we’re currently operating in the red by around $3,400, including the tent purchase, which could be reimbursed from the Fireball account.

Calendar Events:

• Peer Socialization Groups going strong
• Mindfulness event was lightly attended but very much enjoyed by the participants
• Marvel / Star Wars Trivia Night was a hit
• Planning a party to celebrate our 5th Graders, with DJ, food trucks, photographer, games
• Discussion re: selling ads in the Yearbook to raise money to support 5th grade expenses

SATp Update: 

• Dee Thompson and Stacie Hawes will co-Chair next year
• AAPI Month: being intentional about thoughtful AAPI messaging, with a historical component and lessons for teachers; planning an evening event for families; Lantern Festival next Friday evening
• 5th Grade food drive planned for June 5, 10am-2pm, which the 5th graders will run
• Need someone to take over Hillside Cares next year
• Social Justice Book Clubs – Grades 3 and 4 finished today; Grade 5 next week.

BOE Update

• Hybrid adjustments were discussed
• Audit of Special Education in the district was presented; available on district website
• Discussion of the Whistleblower Letter re: Buildings & Grounds Department
• Discussion of MHS Jewish Heritage Month gaffe in honoring Meir Kahane – need to be thoughtful and intentional and collaborative in our inclusion work
• Discussion of needlepoint ionization – still installed, but not turned on
• District Equity Team to launch soon
• School Year 2021-2022 Calendar Approved
• Re-organization Meeting will be on May 17.

Attendees: 

1. Samanthaa Anglin
2. Brian Fleischer
3. Colleen Dougherty
4. Betty Shvetz
5. Yvette Frasier
6. Shaviece Osborne
7. Sheila Boyd
8. Christian Robinson
9. Erica Mitchell
10. Jennifer DiLullo
11. Amber Reed
12. Linda Kow
13. Diane Tehranian
14. Allison Silverstein
15. Dee Thompson

Hillside PTA Meeting Minutes

April 16, 2021

(via Zoom)

• Brian welcomed everyone
• Approved Hillside PTA March 2021 meeting minutes

Principal Update: 

• Feedback on return to school from our students and families has been 100% positive. Great energy throughout the building, kids are so happy to be back. Parents are asking if we can go 5 days, but we don’t see that happening – it’s not a unilateral decision.
• Had some transportation issues because bus drivers didn’t have updated routes and dry runs didn’t happen.  
• We’re fixing problems as they come up. Ran into issues with teachers being released earlier than lunch times, so we’ve assessed and adjusted.  
• During lunch discharge we revamped the plan for kids grabbing lunch since we can’t just leave it up to the kids to take it if needed. 
• We’ve been identifying shortfalls and coming up with solutions the very next day. 
• Across the district, the self contained kids are receiving instruction from the same teacher for 4 basic subjects. Self contained kids are coming 5 days/week. 100% of 4/5th graders are showing up. 
• For students getting pulled outs, they are switching classrooms and the plan is working.
• Related Services – it is not clear why Child Study members aren’t not physically in the building at this point. We are drowning without the CS team because they are case managers for kids. We’ve been very vocal about needing them here. 
• Q: Is any pool testing happening? A: No update as of now
• Q: Can students bring paper/pencil in classroom A: Yes, we are not distributing supplies 
• Q: What’s the plan for teacher absences? A: We have not received any substitutes. I am covering to make sure an adult is in the room. However, our help is not delivering instruction and it’s an asynchronous learning experience.  We think a lot of current absences are from teachers getting their 2nd vaccine shots.

Nominating Committee: 

• Not too much progress, but we’ve had spring break and hybrid which may have slowed progress. 
• 2 people have stepped forward, but still have the Secretary and President open. Hoping have more volunteers soon
• We might get more volunteers from Nishuane and by offering an option for co-leads

Treasurer report:

• Presented treasurer report. We are break-even, still have some trivia money coming in that might put us ahead. We are in good shape considering we bought a tent.

• Questions about 1st Day Supplies. Site is up with correct links; people are ordering already. We will check on where donated supplies are being sent [update: cannot be sent to school].

Calendar Events:

• Peer Socialization Groups – very excited about a good turn out!
• Mindfulness event – highly recommend this session
• May 1st – Trivia Night, move it to 7/7:30, Marvel / Star Wars
• Bingo Night – still planning, asked if anyone knows how to run a virtual bingo? 
• Book Fair – working on the plan for May
• Explorers – decided not to run this Spring because we have book clubs and peer socialization

5th grade Prep: 

• We want to jump on opportunity while waiting for the state to allow us to gather, but NJ is not yet at that number we need. Trying to do multiple ceremonies will be hard. We are arranging for space, just in case. Decision will be all or nothing with 7 elementary schools. 
• Picture Day – have a vendor for the end of May and we have Mountie and Bulldog dates. We just need to plan for fully remote kids as we want 100% of kids included.
• Yearbook class is still going on. Don’t have the specifics yet for ordering yet. Still in the works, moving in a positive direction.

SATp Update: 

• Virtual science day is still going on, Gina is still helping.
• Need volunteers for SATp, everyone is looking for replacements. Hillside Cares is looking for someone to take over.
• Social Justice Committee: book club is filling up with 23 out of 30 slots full. We will diversify in the fall. Sending separate emails to parents and volunteers with information on free books, etc. 
• Making a plan for May AAPI Month. We have 2 parents volunteers and between 2-5 activities that will be after school. 
• Will have Juneteenth acknowledgement and celebration 
• Will still participate next year but will be looking for more volunteers for Cultural Infusion b/c it’s a lot of event planning.

BOE Update

• Mayor Spillar announced 3 new Board appointees. As of May, the majority of members will have been appointed by Spiller. 
• Board of School Estimates unanimously approved budget for 21/22, budget included estimated 33 positions to be cut from budget, now it’s 28 positions with 17 vacant positions making up a significant chunk. No clear indication of where those other cuts will come from. Our guess for Hillside is that we will be 7, 7, 7 across the grades which puts us at 21 vs 22 teachers. 
• On budget approval cycle – no specific request for facilities, but a strong indication that they are prepared to provide significant funding for long-term solutions for AC and ventilation systems. Finance and Facilities committee – a broader 5 year facilities plan has been developed for the district and being reviewed by CO right now.
• Significant resignation/retirements since last meeting (business administrator, director of nursing, district wide supervisor of mental health/bullying, district registrar).  PTAC scheduled time next week to meet with Dr. Ponds to share thoughts about critical positions/vacancies. 
• PTAC – announced slate, current president is stepping down. VP is nominated to take over as president. Richie Valentine nominated to VP, Diane will be Treasurer. 
• Building community put panel discussion about the budget process on YouTube.
• Let’s give a lot of credit to AAPI Montclair as they quickly organized and spoke out about not just national incidents but also local micro aggression and bullying. Critical that we acknowledge and figure out how we are addressing. EROG is taking it very seriously. Linda Kow spoke with gratitude about the response from Dr. Ponds and the ongoing partnership. Have grown a FB group and working groups: educational programming, advocacy at township level, events planning, and a few more. Dr. Anglin believes this is the real work, it’s uncomfortable but that is the work. Plan A is how we will make sure we will incorporate this thread into the everyday. 
• MFEE – Encourage folks to look into programming as MFEE has really stepped up their game and helped the community in this challenging year. Amazing Fundraiser is important because teacher grants really fell off because of Covid. Other programming includes America To Me Learning Circles, community health workers to help with vaccine coordination, in person cohorts for kids in need, equity grants, Little Free Libraries (generous grant to bring 2 little libraries to Hillside)
• Pain continues in Black community and the work continues addressing anti-racism in a heightened way. Recently a local Jewish synagogue was vandalized. 

Attendees: 

1. Brian Fleischer
2. Colleen Dougherty
3. Jennifer Hand
4. Linda Kow
5. Amber Reed
6. Ashley Emala
7. Betty Shvetz
8. Christina Robinson
9. Dee Thompson
10. Erica Clark-Mitchell
11. Tinu Joseph
12. Jennifer Di Lullo
13. Jennifer Herman
14. Leslie Houseworth-Fields
15. LJ Jules
16. Obie Miranda Woodley
17. Samanthaa Anglin
18. Varsha Hathi
19. Yvette Frazier

Hillside PTA Meeting Minutes

March 11, 2021

(via Zoom)

• Brian welcomed everyone
• Approved Hillside PTA February 2021 meeting minutes

Principal’s report: 

• We are working hard to be transparent and it has been hard to turn information over quickly. There was a court ruling March 10th, but we are waiting for official word to principals and families.We believe we are swinging doors open on 4/12 and we are just waiting for official communication.
• We were ready in November and we will be ready when we open. We worked really hard to create a plan, have updated it again, and thought through the schedule. We’re unique because of our aesthetics. We will have the opportunity to talk, discuss, and maybe have another video to minimize anxiety beforehand.
• Deadline for switching was Feb. 25/26. Parents have new information and as long as we keep the 2 cohorts, we will consider switches. We’ll figure out guidance for our Friday e-blast for parents around switching to in person. Dr. Anglin is sending notes to all parents who requested a switch; families need answers.
• Question: how should teachers talk to kids about returning to school when they’ve been disappointed time and time again? Once we get Superintendent input, we will ask how to deliver information to kids.
• Question: For parents remaining remote, will we get a refresher on schedule? Yes
• We are forming a committee for the Fall (parents, admin, teachers, etc.) to think about the plan. We can’t just drown in the immediate. We were recently asked how many desk shields we would need which led me to believe we are trying to maximize days/attendance in September.

Nominating Committee: 

• Motion was called, seconded, unanimously approved to elect Nominating Committee of Dee Thompson, Sheila Boyd, Shaviece Osborne, Christina Robinson, Justin Taylor, Brian Fleischer is an alternate

Events: 

• Considering Bingo Night and Book Fair for April/May
• 5th Grade Yearbook is under calendar reviews 
• Peer Socialization Committee: we have formed several clubs about which we are excited. We still need more volunteers for the approximately 20 clubs. After we have enough volunteers, we will get a Signup genius going. Clubs will be virtually and/or in person. Getting help from high school and middle school volunteers. 
• Graduation: we are paying close attention to guidelines of capacity limits from the Governor. As a district, we want to do something consistent across elementary school. We are going to have to work across district and governor rules. We have the 4th largest stepping up (150 kids w/o teachers, spectators).
• Explorers is going well right now and we will host outdoor Explorers classes outside as the weather gets nicer.. We should do another survey about a spring session. We will possibly look to the Social Justice team for book clubs. 
• The yearbook is still running. Need to decide if we want to include 3rd/4th graders and make available for purchase (will be free to 5th graders). Need to determine how to get pictures for the kids who can’t come in.

Treasurer’s Report: 

• We’re in the black, but low on both the income and expenditure side against the budget. Anticipate more income this spring from Spirit Wear, Book Sale, plus potentially yearbook sales and an appeal, as needed, particularly to support 5th grade stepping up.

SATp (Erika): 

• Hillside Social Justice afterschool book club initiative to launch. Virtual Science Day planned for 4/23/2021, including a career panel. 2021-2022 volunteers needed for Hillside CARES, Health & Wellness, and curriculum-related SATp initiatives.

BOE/PTAC Report (Brian): 

• Brian provided an update on the litigation/settlement status between the district and the MEA, an update on the district’s paused launch of GoGuardian, and an update on the SY 2021-2022 MPS budget. He also highlighted the district’s free and reduced price meals application drive, noting that families can apply if their income status has changed during the course of the year, and noted PTAC’s MPS 101 document and the PTAC Community Conversations on the MPS Budget Process.

Attendees: 

Brian Fleischer

Jennifer Hand

Samanthaa Anglin

Betty Shvetz

Christina Robinson

Dana Rizzo

Dee Thompson

Erica Clark-Mitchell

Gina Chung Fortt

Justin Taylor

Linda Kow

Shaviece Osborne

Sheila Boyd

Thomas Adamo

Tinu Joseph

Yvette Frazier

Zoe La Salandra

Hillside PTA Meeting Minutes

February 12, 2021

(via Zoom)

• Brian welcomed everyone
• Approved Hillside PTA January 2021 meeting minutes

Principal Report: 

• Mr. Adamo shared the news that Dr. Anglin’s father passed away and he will let those interested know where donations can be made. Dr. Anglin plans to be back to work the week of Feb. 15 and off again for services the week of Feb. 23.
• Concerns were raised at the Pandemic Response Team around finding ways for student social connections. Came up with the idea to create a list of possible interests and related activities in which students can choose to participate. Teachers will help us administer a survey to figure out what kids are interested in. Activities could be virtual or in-person outdoors. More details coming soon. 
• BLM week of action was a great success. Witnessed a high level of maturity and participation from students. Teachers really embraced and ran with the lessons. It is so important that we are addressing BLM at all grade levels. We hope more districts take this work on. 
• Cultural infusion activity for Lunar New Year includes a great presentation tomorrow, with a great video, and assembly on 2/26.
• All 4th and 5th graders will do virtual field trips to Yogi Berra Museum.

BOE / PTAC Update: 

• Dr. Morgan gave a presentation for the Equity planning team which included the establishment of an Equity Action Team. PTA. EAROG will be a critical partner in implementing the plan. School-based Equity Comms will gather and provide input. NAACP will partner with us and look at areas like the SAIL program, disparities in discipline, and the Covid slide.  
• There has been a lot of talk about MEA/district lawsuit. The latest news is that the district’s request for a preliminary injunction was denied; mediation continues.
• Planning on hosting a session on Feb. 25 at 7pm for a “District Level Budgeting 101” review.

Events: 

• Trivia night is Feb. 20 at 5pm, emails will go out today
• Considering events for Bingo and book sales
• Looking at options for outdoor school photos
• Soliciting volunteers for nominating committee for next year’s executive PTA 
• Virtual Talent Show will be on Feb. 19. Currently editing the talent show, trying to solicit businesses for fundraising, and making sure we are reaching all in our community.
• Idea was raised for an “open mic” for kids to showcase their talents
• Explorers: Program started last week and is going well so far. Classes are smaller and kids are enjoying them. There are 7 classes running (had to cancel 1 class). We do run into typical hiccups with kids getting into Zoom. We will consider a spring program, possibly outdoors.  

SATp:

• Social Justice Committee: BLM week of action went well. The Lunar Year is on 2/26. We have so many ideas and we are trying to organize those ideas into actions. Looking at an after school book club. We are getting assistance from Ms. Scott and Ms. Graham. It could be a free Explorers option. Looking for grade level appropriate books. Information discussed would be shared with parents to help support the conversations at home.

Treasurer Update: 

• Shared statement of financial position. Only real difference this month is that we have talent show income, Explorers revenue (minus expenses), and trivia night(s) income (~$500 each event). 
• We helped fund Yogi Berra field trips and some cultural infusion work.

PTAC: 

• Looking to collaborate with Nishuane on their Black History Month – 365 Days Pan African edition. Narrowing in all Africans globally with prizes and music offered; invitation for Hillside parents for Feb. 26, 6:30pm. 

Q&A 

• Question about SAIL program – how are kids identified? Mr. Adamo shared that measures were set up by the Office of Equity instruction based on differentiation in the classroom and right now they are only doing ELA. ELA teachers were provided with training during PD days. Mr. Adamo will bring up the request to have broader communication at the district meeting. Right now it is not a rolling evaluation.

• Question about plans for summer school? Extended School Year will be in place specifically for classified special ed students with IEPs.  Other programs will run out of 2 schools (Nish / Hillside) for any rising 1st to 6th graders needing additional support or interventions. 

• Can we add the BOE meeting schedule to Hillside weekly emails? Yes!

Attendees: 

1. Brian Fleischer
2. Jennifer Hand
3. Thomas Adamo
4. Allison Silverstein
5. Ashley Emala
6. Betty Shvetz
7. Colleen Dougherty
8. Dee Thompson
9. Erin Walter
10. Jacqueline Ahern
11. Jennifer Di Lullo
12. Jennifer Herman
13. Laurie Levin Goodstine
14. Shaviece Osborne
15. Sheila Boyd
16. Tinu Joseph
17. Varsha Hathi
18. Veronica Harris
19. Yvette Frazier

Hillside PTA Meeting Minutes

January 13, 2021

(via Zoom)

• Brian welcomed everyone
• Approved Hillside PTA November and December 2020 meeting minutes

Principal Update: 

• Happy to just see all parents, we are really missing the community
• We have received a lot of feedback from parents. The pandemic response team (parents, teachers, nurse, custodian, principals) is developing the best way to bring any person into our building in a healthy and safe way. The plan we shared yesterday was the best piece of information we could provide. There is also a staff version. I am able to answer every question, as long as I have the answer. We still have outstanding questions, but I continue to be as transparent as possible to be so there is trust between everyone. We included an informational video so all parents can view it multiple times if they chose. This Friday we will have a Q&A to make sure everyone is updated at the same time. It is important to ensure all families receive the same information, with the same verbiage, at the same time. We are trying to be proactive with consistent messaging.
• Our hybrid plan is a living document and it will change as we get new guidelines. We have had a lot of questions about ventilation. Every single classroom that kids will be in is a “green” classroom. 
• We do have a few spaces that aren’t green b/c they don’t possess a system in that space (example: nurse’s ante room). In these cases, a new air purification system was added. There is no single area that doesn’t have the appropriate air purification system through the ventilation or purification machine that we have added. Ventilation is coupled with mitigating measures (windows, doors). We are at zero rooms we would consider unoccupable. 
• We created a calculation for the safe number of humans per room, boxed out every classroom, and created clear signage. Signs are in every room on how many humans can occupy that space.
• Regarding quarantining questions, we’ve asked for a district-wide protocol and flowchart, since these are not building based decisions. There should be a clear document. 
• We are working on an in-person orientation for kids. Our nurse created a presentation for teachers and we are asking teachers to show a video to kids too, prior to Jan 25.
• Q: Can we switch remote to hybrid? Not until 3rd cycle. Email Dr. Anglin and office staff for any switch requests.
• Brian has set up a place for parents to ask questions on the PTA website. Dr. Anglin is putting out a Google form for questions.
• Your questions and concerns that go to PTA do get to principals and shape and inform what we put out.
• Hybrid schedule begins Jan. 18 – not seen in writing yet but will “practice” that previous week. 

Treasurer Report

• Walked through the current financial report. 
• We are still in the red, but a big amount of that is the tent from Edgemont.
• As we get closer to 5th grade celebrations, we will ask for money as we need it.
• We collected meals and gifts for teachers, staff, administration. In a tough year, the community really came together and honored staff and teachers with very generous offerings. 

Events Update: 

• Trivia night on the 23rd, go to Facebook to give feedback. Great feedback on last trivia night, participants asked for more.
• Virtual Talent Showcase on Feb. 5. We just finished meeting with 30+ families, making a movie edition, and have an editor to help us, looking for an additional editor (background in graphics and music). Kids will be able to use green screen, animation, etc. Great time to raise money. We are looking for a chair. Looking for local businesses to make videos for a fee and parents can send boosters.
• We are continuing to raise money for 5th grade.
• Considering Adult Only trivia night
• Trying to do something for International Night
• Virtual MLK assembly: we are working on it and trying to get kids to put on performance 
• Explorers: will close enrollment soon. We are offering 8 classes, numbers were low so we may need to make changes. We’ll work out the numbers and adjust. Getting kids to do another zoom after a day of zoom is tough.

SATp Update: 

• Not doing coding night, but looking at replacement
• Social Justice Meeting – Kwanzaa event was beautiful and well received (co sponsored with Nishuane)
• Feb. 5 – BLM week of action – thinking of ways for age appropriate activities, meeting with Dr. Anglin to talk about it. Will model after week of respect with 1 activity each day.  Focusing on local activism in Montclair and the greater community.
• Working on Racial Literacy for Adults, Student Voices & Support, and Cultural Infusion. Working on a year long calendar to make sure we are being more organized and acknowledging events every year.
• Had great meeting with Ms. Graham and Scott. They will help with student voice and support (racial literacy, multi cultural awareness, support on discrimination issues). We are very excited to work with them. 
• Looking at doing a book club and hosting convos.

• Racial Literacy for adults – looking at speaker / educator, vetting best options and availability. There is a MFEE grant to which we are applying for costs. 
• Buzz Aldrin also working on pilot program race issues.
• Feb. 10, 5pm next meeting
• There are 2 bins outside of the cafeteria for Blessing Bags. We are asking people to make their bags and put a note / last year there were 250 bags/400 notes. Flyer gives information on what to include. Bins are available 2:30 – 5pm this week and Monday  10-3 for collection. Samira Harris, the mother of this project, brought this practice from the classroom to the whole school. 
• Anyone who wants to help, reach out to Jen DiLullo

BOE/PTAC

• January meeting – Dr. Ponds and Board leaned into reality of Jan. 25 opening. People felt there was a change of tone that this is happening this time. Stronger recognition that families are suffering and really needing live instruction opportunities. 
• Lots of family members are now talking about how this has impacted families. 
• District does have 5 year long term facility plans which will be shared with the public soon so we can have more clear conversations about immediate facilities work to prepare for hybrid, but there are longer term projects and fixes too.
• There is some lean towards youngest kids about special needs issues and concerns 
• We want to hear from families, what’s working, what are the obstacles – that is the most important thing our PTA families can do.

Attendees: 

Jennifer Hand

Betty Shvetz

Brian Fleischer

Samanthaa Anglin

Erin Walter

Allison Silverstein

Bonni Hendrix

Cliodhna O’Toole

Colleen Dougherty

Dana Rizzo

Danielle Venokur Greenberg

Dee Thompson

Diane Noerpel Tehranian

Erica Mitchell

Jacqueline Ahern

Jennifer Di Lullo

Jill Kloiber

Joby Abragan

Laurie LG

Linda Kow

Mendi Obadike

Obie Miranda-Woodley

Sarah Williams

Shaviece Osborne

Sheila Boyd

Christy Crawford

Tinu Joseph

Varsha Hathi

Vicky Lockhart

Yvette Frazier

December 18, 2020 

Hillside PTA Meetings

• Brian welcomed guests
• Due to technical difficulties we were unable to approve November 2020 minutes. 

Principal Update: 

• Completed building walk-through with administration, custodians, principals to confirm that everything we’ve set out to do has been completed. We are posting protocols, signage, bathroom procedures, etc. 
• We continue to get up-to-date content from the nursing administration so we’ve been hesitant to release the new plan until we have final information. 
• Foresee the need to have another parent forum to explain the hybrid plan, either live or video, to help families understand daily schedules. 
• Our biggest challenge is how to best maximize instructional time. Recognize that there  is a lot of technology troubleshooting that takes place throughout the school day and it impacts lesson time.  In addition, it is very hard to have a middle of day dismissal because we only have teachers for so many minutes each day. We continue to have conversations to work out these challenges.
• We have 4-5 parents as part of the planning team. 
• Very excited that Montclair enrichment centers are available for families. The program will be similar to the YMCA and is for families that qualify for free/reduced lunch. This program is the true definition of equity: getting services for those who need them. 
• The timeline to change from remote to hybrid has passed and the new date will be around March 15.  

PTA Treasurer Update:

• Report was shared; currently, there is not a lot of activity without Explorers and other activities.  
• We have collected $2950 (as of now) for staff donations and Make a Wish; staff holiday donations at $2329, roughly the same as last year. Deadline is tonight 12/18. 
• We provided meals at Thanksgiving and will do so for Christmas.
• We are ~$1000 down overall, but we have not yet made an appeal. Appeal will depend on circumstances around 5th grade step up.

Events/Activities: 

• Trivia Night is happening on 12/19
• Working on a ‘sip and paint’ party for adults
• The Van Vleck Pop Up store has been moved to Christmas Eve day
• Little Read is happening tonight (12/17)
• We are still working on Explorers programming. We will offer some virtual classes and are currently figuring out logistics of running a plan virtually. 
• Planning a Talent Show / Movie Night with assistance from Montclair Film; will reach out to parents for help. 

SATP Update

• Jen Di Lullo provided an update on the Social Justice Task Force
• Two upcoming events: 1) 12/21 with a rabbi providing a presentation on Hanukkah 2) working with NJPac on Kwanzaa plans
• Will be distributing a update for the Hillside community and sharing our plans (racial literacy, student voices/educating students in classrooms, cultural infusion)
• Currently have 18 people on the team, looking for more participation. Will start subgroup meetings. Ms. Scott and Ms. Graham are getting involved. 
• Planning for February Black Lives Matter week of action
• Make A Wish – we appreciate the contributions; the effort from team and office, great job with the tags,especially for a year like 2020!

PTAC and BOE summary

• Have had a series of meetings to discuss initiation of parent organization at the High School. Dr. Ponds very much on board; working with NAACP to make sure it’s welcoming and inclusive for all groups of community. We want to create opportunities for social interaction, particularly 9th graders as they’ve become more shut-in this year. Could be a PTSA (parent, teacher, student) organization.
• Equity / anti-racism had a great meeting a week ago with Dr. Ponds.  Data is important because we need indicators to see what is/not working and make adjustments at the district level. We are working on getting data, however Dr. Ponds’ emphasis is to move behind awareness to action. PTAC has offered to augment CO staff to give them more hands to analyze the data. Feel positive about the movement.
• Had a discussion with Business Admin about PTAC trying to educate the community on district finance and budget process and constraints. This would help  families participate more thoughtfully in the BOE meetings. Looking to develop FAQs, 101, or other resources to help demystify how/why we make decisions. 
• Group called Montclair FAIL has been advocating for a return hybrid/ in person instruction. Not confident that the current target date will be met. PTAC put out a statement that 60% have chosen hybrid; we want to see all stakeholders work collaboratively to make that happen. We recognize how much families are struggling with remote instruction. Every family is impacted in some way by this model. 

Q&A

• There were several questions/comments around the transparency of student assessments and tracking. Mr. Adamo has taken notes to escalate concerns.
• Suggestion to create a centralized hub for the Hillside community to find information. We are very email and social media heavy.  
• Currently reviewing the SAIL program to consider students who were previously excluded. Some cautioned that Gifted & Talented programs can be a slippery slope to separate kids. There was a push for SAIL to help kids who are excelling, but bored. Question was raised about SAIL assessments being culturally sensitive. 
• There was an acknowledgement that many kids are struggling with online test taking.

Attendees: 

Brian Fleisher

Jennifer Hand

Colleen Dougherty

Allison Silverstein

Ashley Emala

Betty Shvetz

Christina Gillham

Dana Rizzo

Dee Thompson

Erica Clark-Mitchell

Erik D’Amato

Gina Fortt

Jennifer Di Lullo

Justin Taylor

Linda Kow

Richard Solomon

Varsha

Wendy Turell

Marly

Yvette Frazier

November 13, 2020 

PTA Meeting

• Brian welcomed guests and we approved October 2020 PTA meeting minutes. 

Treasury Update: 

• Membership due income has increased since last meeting
• We also have additional spirit wear income – $1200 from Van Vleck pop up sale
• If you don’t use a charity, consider adding Hillside to your Amazon Smile account
• We have paid out the yearly accounting fee and a few stipends; Colleen will draft reminder to teachers about stipend programs
• We are considering purchasing a tent; Edgemont might loan/sell us a tent. 
• We are in a hard year for many families and we cannot hold many fundraisers. However, we are uncomfortable making an annual appeal at this time. We will continue to assess what events we can hold and if we need to spend from Fireball to get through this year, we will do so. 
• Trying to keep expenditures low this year and focus on communication between school and parents.

Activity Update: 

• Without our normal activities, lots of families are craving safe, outdoor get togethers. Class liaisons are all in place; please work with them to plan any local, small group activities
• Book Fair is postponed; looking for date in December for virtual pick up
• We will begin the Mark-A-Wish launch right before Thanksgiving
• Thank you for making Halloween special; reach out to Brian if you’d like books from the Scholastic book donation. Dr. Anglin will also give books to families / classrooms in need.
• Looking at running a small, local, virtual Explorer program in Spring 

SATp Update: 

• Collected 70 coats for the drive that ends 11/19. Goal is 125 adult, child, infant coats. Drop off bin is left outside door K.
• Thanks to PTA for funding Thanksgiving meals; Thanksgiving meals are ordered and to be delivered to school on 11/23
• Social Justice Subcommittee – 
  • Interested parents have come together to create a list of possible initiatives. List was presented and reviewed with Dr. Anglin and Mr. Adamo. Divided group into subgroups focused on initiatives. Each group is drafting proposals for each category:  

1. Racial Literacy (bring racial literacy to adults with trained experts; affinity and SE groups for kids to come together, library promoting race education, equity, getting together with Ms. Scott)
2. Cultural Infusion (inspired by Nishuane program, holidays, events, experiences to lift up other cultures) 
3. Student Support Groups 

• PTAC and other schools also have racial equity groups. Restorative justice and equity audits are also in progress. Also promoting MFEE Real Talk watch groups. 

Principal Update: 

• We will be staying with current remote schedules; reevaluate on 12/1
• Reading feedback to hybrid plan; appreciative of getting feedback; principal e-blast this afternoon will have additional clarification and information

BOE / PTA Council Update: 

• Conversations with NJEA are ongoing. PTA Council issued a statement urging the district and union to work together to improve clarity and specificity of the union’s concerns and demands so the district has a chance to respond. We want to ensure stakeholders are working productively and collaboratively towards a safe opening. Letter can be found at:  Www.montclairpta.org
• Governor has left decisions to districts to determine when it’s safe to return to school. If the district has specific reasons why they cannot open safely, they must inform the state of their remedies. Local health department is a huge driver in current decision making process 
• Technology support needs can be addressed through district
• Busing at high school: providing courtesy busing to 2 ¼ miles away and working on transportation even closer
• Jeff Freeman was appointed new high school principal
• PTA Council has a Equity, Racism, Opportunity Gap committee with Hillside parents involved. There are 8 different subcommittees working on district wide issues. Committee has required data about discipline, referrals for special ed, racial disparity, etc. to start working with the district on issues.