McNear PTA Newsletter
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HELLO FALCON FAMILIES!
As you can tell from the calendar below, we're heading into that exciting end-of-year rush of activity. This week we had our monthly PTA meeting, a planning meeting for Dia del Nino and a TIDE meeting. Tonight we're excited to witness all the talent that the students have to offer in the annual variety show!
There's a lot of great content in this week's newsletter - make sure to read it all. Liza shares an update on planning for coronavirus, we take a look back at the 2018 Wish Benefit, and there's an update on PTA governance for 2020-21.
Hope to see you at the show tonight!
Neil
ANNOUNCEMENTS
WISH BENEFIT TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW
Get yours now at www.biddingforgood.com/wishbenefit/comeasyouare.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
The threat of the Coronavirus is on everyone’s minds and while with new things such as this there will always be a learning curve, I could not be happier or more grateful for the quick response, preparation and forward thinking the school district is engaging in. On Monday, new hand sanitizer pumps were installed in each classroom, teachers reviewed safe hand washing and sanitation techniques and procedures were put into place to minimize exposure. Monday afternoon we held a district Zoom conference to practice remote technology, share information and troubleshoot all aspects of our systems for response and containment. Our custodians are disinfecting bathrooms, sinks, door knobs, lunch tables etc. multiple times each day as well as disinfecting classroom surfaces thoroughly each night.
At our assembly Thursday morning and daily in the lunchroom, we are reminding students to wash and sanitize their hands as well as to eat their own lunches and not share food. All of the procedures and precautions will help us minimize the spread of the colds, flu and other bugs that we commonly face so my hope is that with this added concern and impetus we will develop life long habits that keep us healthier. Thank you for reinforcing good choices at home, ensuring students sleep well, stay hydrated and wash up frequently. You should be receiving updates from the school district via email. These updates are also posted on our school website.
WISH PADDLE PLEDGE SPOTLIGHT 2018
Two years ago we all met up at The Block to celebrate "Camp McNear," an outdoorsy-themed Wish benefit. It was so much fun that we're returning to the same venue this year.
We had heard from a number of parents that the school's PE equipment was in really bad shape, and was also being stored in an unused bathroom. The PTA decided that it was a great opportunity to refresh all that equipment, as well as purchase a better storage solution. Upper-grade parents Jon Dole and Augie Acuna took the lead on coming up with a list of equipment, as well as researching storage. At the event, the McNear community came through again, raising $25,000 to support our kids' physical fitness. We spent $15k on equipment, and with the slow-moving help of the District, finally installed a $10k customized storage container towards the end of the school year. It was another example of how the Wish Benefit played a huge role in improving the wellness of our kids.
UPDATE ON NEXT YEAR'S PTA BOARD
I'm pleased to say that we have recruited a Secretary for next year's PTA Board. We are still looking for a VP of Fundraising. This position is responsible for recruiting committee members to run Jog-a-Thon and the Wish Benefit. It is a great role for someone who is well-connected within the school community, but maybe doesn't have a huge amount of time to contribute.
We are still needing a President or two Co-Presidents. If no-one steps up, the PTA will not be able to operate next year, meaning we won't be able to disburse any funds for anything. Given that we give back more than $60,000 to the school each year (more than the school's whole budget itself), this would be devastating. If you've considered the role but have been waiting for someone else to do it, that time has passed. We need someone to have the courage to step forward to do what is actually a pretty fun and not-too-demanding job. Board elections are early April. That is the final deadline.
MINT REMINDER
UPCOMING DATES
Variety Show
Friday, Mar. 6th at 7 PM
Participants need to be there at 6:30 PM
Multi
Spring Break - No Classes
Monday, Mar. 16th - Friday, Mar. 20th
Spring Performing Arts Show
Friday, April 3rd at 6:30 PM
Saturday, April 4th at 2 PM
Multi
PTA Meeting
Monday, April 6th at 7 PM
Copperfields Book Fair
Monday, April 6th - Friday, April 10th
Library
Westside Band Festival
Wednesday, April 8th at 7 PM
Participants need to be seated by 6:30 PM
Petaluma High School Gymnasium
Wish Benefit
Saturday, April 18th
Earth Day Celebration
Friday, Apr. 24th at 2 PM
Day of the Child Celebration
Saturday, May 2nd
PTA Meeting
Monday, May 4th at 7 PM
Spring Chorus & Band Concerts
Tuesday, May 5th at 6:30 PM
Open House & Art Show
Wednesday, May 20th
Sixth Grade Promotion
Thursday, May 28th
Last Day of School
Friday, May 29th
TK & K: 11:45 AM
1 - 6 Grades: 12:00 PM