2024-25 Meeting Documents

SGC Agenda_8-1-24

July/August Agenda

School: Alpharetta Elementary School

Date: 08/01/2024

Time: 3:00PM

Location: Conference room by the clinic

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members:

Cathy Crawford (Principal), Martha Dinges (Teacher), Phyllis Silverio (Teacher), Tina Burns (Appointed Staff), Jenna Silverman (Appointed Staff), Kristyn Mills (Parent), Jenny Binner (Parent), Megan Bolian (Parent), Terri Eisenberg (Community Member), Chantel Powell (Community Member)

3:00PM Call to Order (Principal)

3:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Principal)

3:05PM Action Item: Approve May Minutes (Principal)

3:10PM Discussion Item: Member Introductions (All Members)

3:15PM Action Item: Elect New Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Parliamentarian) (Principal)

3:25PM Action Item: Action Items: Staff Standing Committees (Budget and Finance, Outreach and Communication, Principal Selection) (Chair)

3:35PM Discussion Item: Determine Meeting Schedule for SY24-25) (All Members)

3:40PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning

4:10PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

A. School Staffing

B. Shifts in District Policy or School Practices

C. Calendar of Upcoming School Events

4:25PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

4:30PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair)

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students

Notes and Reminders

Below are some tips and additional details about the items listed on the first page of this document.

* Setting the date, time, and location of your meeting: It is a great idea to set your meeting schedule for the entire fall semester (if not the entire year) at your first meeting. Get this information posted at your school and on your SGC website and you will have already covered many requirements of the Open Records and Meetings Laws. It is important that SGC meetings are scheduled outside of school hours so that staff members can attend if they would like to do so. If your meetings will be held virtually, make sure to include a link so that members of the public are able to view the meeting on-line.

* Action items: All action items require a motion, a second and a vote (even seemingly simple things like the agenda and meeting minutes need to be voted on). Remember that principals and student members are not voting members, so even if they are designated as an owner of an action item, the voting members of the council will be responsible for motioning, seconding and voting on the item.

* Discussion items: These are agenda items that solicit feedback from council members. They do not require a vote.

* Informational items: It is common for councils to receive updates throughout the school year related to the day-to-day management of the school or district happenings. Informational items are usually meant to keep the council up to date on important topics even if they do not fall under the purview of the council. These items do not require a vote.

* Running the first meeting: Note that in this agenda the principal runs most of the meeting until the point at which officers are elected and the newly elected chair takes the lead. This is a great practice as there will not technically be a standing chair at the beginning of the first meeting of the year. (Note: if the previous chair is still sitting on the council, they are welcome to run the beginning of year meeting until a new chair is elected)

* Staffing your committees: Remember that all SGC members should be a part of at least one committee. The Budget and Finance Committee and the Communications and Outreach Committee require a Chair (any voting SGC member), the principal, three voting SGC members and can have up to three additional SGC or external members. Also, every school needs a Principal Selection Committee regardless of whether they believe that their principal position might become vacant. This committee is comprised of the SGC Chair and three additional voting SGC members.

* Nominating a representative for the Superintendent’s Parent/Community Advisory Council: All schools are asked to select a representative to serve on the Superintendent’s Parent/Community Advisory Council. This group meets monthly with the superintendent to provide feedback and receive updates on important issues affecting FCS schools and local communities. Meeting dates/times/locations will be sent out to representatives prior to the first advisory council meeting. If a representative is unable to attend a meeting, another member of the council can attend in their place.

* Drafting your next meeting agenda: It is a best practice to draft an agenda for your next meeting at the end of each meeting to help your council plan its upcoming work. If unforeseen events require a council to modify the agenda, the council can simply edit the agenda and vote to approve the modified agenda at the beginning of the next council meeting.

Summary of Actions_8-1-24

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS

Alpharetta Elementary School Governance Council

Date | time 08/1/2024| 3:00pm | Location AES Conference Room

SGC Members Present

Cathy Crawford, Principal	X	Tina Burns, Teacher	X
Jenna Silverman, Assistant Principal	X	Jenny Binner, Parent
Martha Dinges, Teacher (Chair)	X	Megan Bolian, Parent	X
Phyllis Silverio, Teacher (Parliamentarian)	X	Chantel Powell, Community Member	X
Kristyn Mills, Parent (Vice-Chair)	X	Terri Eisenberg, Community Member

 

Meeting Minutes Summary

Action Items:

Motion	Time	By Whom	Second By	Voting Results
Meeting called to order	3:14pm	Martha Dinges
Motion to approve today’s agenda	3:15pm	Kristyn Mills	Megan Bolian	All in favor
Motion to approve May minutes	3:16pm	Kristyn Mills	Megan Bolian	All in favor
Motion to elect and approve officers	3:30pm	Kristyn Mills	Megan Bolian	All in favor
Motion to staff standing committees as presented	3:40pm	Kristyn Mills	Megan Bolian	All in favor
Meeting adjourned	3:52pm	Martha Dinges

 

Informational and Discussion Items:

-          Megan Bolian and Jenny Binner will serve on Superintendent’s Advisory Council

-          Meetings will be held the fourth Thursday of every month at 3:00pm.

-          Principal updated the council on staffing, district and school policy changes, and school calendar.

-          Next meeting agenda was discussed.

July/August Agenda  

School: Alpharetta Elementary School 

Date: 08/01/2024  

Time: 3:00PM 

Location: Conference room by the clinic 

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members: 

Cathy Crawford (Principal), Martha Dinges (Teacher), Phyllis Silverio (Teacher), Tina Burns (Appointed Staff), Jenna Silverman (Appointed Staff), Kristyn Mills (Parent), Jenny Binner (Parent)- absent, Megan Bolian (Parent), Terri Eisenberg (Community Member)- absent, Chantel Powell (Community Member), Katie Kinsey (SGC for Zones 5-7), Lexi Chapman (AES Parent). 

3:00PM Call to Order at 3:14pm by Martha Dinges. 

3:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Principal) 

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

3:05PM Action Item: Approve May Minutes (Principal) 

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

3:10PM Discussion Item: Member Introductions (All Members) 

3:15PM Action Item: Elect New Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Parliamentarian) (Principal) 

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

3:25PM Action Item: Action Items: Staff Standing Committees (Budget and Finance, Outreach and Communication, Principal Selection) (Chair) Katie Kensey explained each committee.  

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

3:35PM Discussion Item: Determine Meeting Schedule for SY24-25) (All Members)  

3rd Thursday of the month at 3:00pm. 

Public Comment  

No Comments. 

3:40PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning  

4:10PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)  

A. School Staffing- There are still 2 AU para positions. The ESOL para position is currently half time. Ms. Crawford will buy the other half time so the para so the position will be full time.  

B. Shifts in District Policy or School Practices- There is an updated family handbook. We also want to make families aware of the county policy on cell phone and electronics. 

C. Calendar of Upcoming School Events- The school events will be in this week’s Eagle Wings.  

4:25PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members) 

We will go over the 3rd-5th grade Perception Survey, Milestones Results, Strategic Planning, and the Self-Assessment Surveys.  

4:30PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment at 3:52pm.  

Motion-Kristyn  

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students 

 

Notes and Reminders 

Below are some tips and additional details about the items listed on the first page of this document. 

* Setting the date, time, and location of your meeting: It is a great idea to set your meeting schedule for the entire fall semester (if not the entire year) at your first meeting.  Get this information posted at your school and on your SGC website and you will have already covered many requirements of the Open Records and Meetings Laws.  It is important that SGC meetings are scheduled outside of school hours so that staff members can attend if they would like to do so.  If your meetings will be held virtually, make sure to include a link so that members of the public are able to view the meeting on-line. 

* Action items: All action items require a motion, a second and a vote (even seemingly simple things like the agenda and meeting minutes need to be voted on).  Remember that principals and student members are not voting members, so even if they are designated as an owner of an action item, the voting members of the council will be responsible for motioning, seconding and voting on the item. 

* Discussion items: These are agenda items that solicit feedback from council members.  They do not require a vote. 

* Informational items: It is common for councils to receive updates throughout the school year related to the day-to-day management of the school or district happenings.  Informational items are usually meant to keep the council up to date on important topics even if they do not fall under the purview of the council.  These items do not require a vote.  

* Running the first meeting: Note that in this agenda the principal runs most of the meeting until the point at which officers are elected and the newly elected chair takes the lead.  This is a great practice as there will not technically be a standing chair at the beginning of the first meeting of the year.  (Note: if the previous chair is still sitting on the council, they are welcome to run the beginning of year meeting until a new chair is elected) 

* Staffing your committees: Remember that all SGC members should be a part of at least one committee.  The Budget and Finance Committee and the Communications and Outreach Committee require a Chair (any voting SGC member), the principal, three voting SGC members and can have up to three additional SGC or external members.  Also, every school needs a Principal Selection Committee regardless of whether they believe that their principal position might become vacant.  This committee is comprised of the SGC Chair and three additional voting SGC members. 

* Nominating a representative for the Superintendent’s Parent/Community Advisory Council: All schools are asked to select a representative to serve on the Superintendent’s Parent/Community Advisory Council.  This group meets monthly with the superintendent to provide feedback and receive updates on important issues affecting FCS schools and local communities.  Meeting dates/times/locations will be sent out to representatives prior to the first advisory council meeting.  If a representative is unable to attend a meeting, another member of the council can attend in their place. 

* Drafting your next meeting agenda: It is a best practice to draft an agenda for your next meeting at the end of each meeting to help your council plan its upcoming work.  If unforeseen events require a council to modify the agenda, the council can simply edit the agenda and vote to approve the modified agenda at the beginning of the next council meeting. 

August 29th  Agenda  

School: Alpharetta Elementary School 

Date: 08/29/2024  

Time: 3:00PM 

Location: AES Conference Room 

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members: 

Cathy Crawford (Principal), Martha Dinges (Teacher, Chair), Phyllis Silverio (Teacher, Parliamentarian), Tina Burns (Appointed Staff), Jenna Silverman (Appointed Staff), Kristyn Mills (Parent, Vice Chair), Jenny Binner (Parent), Megan Bolian (Parent), Terri Eisenberg (Community Member), Chantel Powell (Community Member)  

3:00PM Call to Order (Chair) 

3:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair) 

3:04PM Action Item: Approve Minutes from 8-1-24 (Chair) 

3:05PM Action Item: Finalize Council Staffing* (Chair) 

3:10PM Discussion Item: SGC Council Development Opportunities (Officer Training and Cross Council) ** (All Members) 

3:15PM Discussion Item: Determine SY24-25 Council Norms (All Members) 

3:20PM Discussion Item: Review 2024 Council Self-Assessment and Create Initiatives*** (All Members) 

3:35PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning**** (All Members) See page 2 for more detailed information 

4:00PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)  

A. Potential School Staffing Changes 

B. Shifts in District Policy or School Practices 

C. Safety Update 

4:10PM Action Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Principal/Chair) 

-School Library Journal Summit Conference 

-PreK request 

-Café Sound Reconfigure 

4:25PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members) 

4:30PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair) 

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students 

Notes and Reminders 

* Finalizing Council Staffing: Please ensure all member updates have been submitted to the Governance & Flexibility Team using the Council Information Form. 

** SGC Council Development Opportunities: 

Reminder that all new members must complete New Member Onboarding and council officers are expected to attend Officer Training.  See the Training Sessions tab of the Charter System website for more information. 

Officer Training (Required for All Council Officers) 

Our Chairs, Vice-Chairs and Parliamentarians serve as leaders on their councils and liaisons within their communities.  This training will offer our officers the opportunity to learn from the Governance Team and each other about council responsibilities and tactics for focusing the work of their teams on the strategic vision of their school. 

• Fall 2024 Officer Training Sign-Up 

 

Cross Council Opportunities 

The Governance Team is excited to share with you that we will be hosting a series of Cross Council meetings meant to support SGCs with the task of aligning their work for the school year to the strategic goals and initiatives of their specific school as well as those of the district.  These sessions will offer members the opportunity to work and hear from councils around the district and engage in discussions with the Governance & Flexibility Team.  The meetings will take place in-person at the dates/times/locations below.  We encourage all SGCs to select up to two members to attend one of the sessions and register to attend using the links below.  Note, each session will cover similar content, so your team does not need to register for multiple sessions. 

• Fall 2024 Cross Council Sign-Up 

 

*** SY24-25 Council Initiatives: Begin discussions to determine the focus of the council’s upcoming work.  Lean on your school’s Semester Action Plan to ensure the work of the council is aligned with the goals and initiatives being targeted by the school leaders.  Task the council with prioritizing 1 – 2 initiatives the SGC could lead or support throughout the year. 

****Strategic Planning (September) 

As we embark on the second month of the 2024-2025 school year, we encourage your continued dedication to the development and implementation of your school’s Strategic Action Plan. Your vital role in shaping the future of your school community cannot be overstated. 

To ensure timely submission and alignment with district goals, please note the following critical dates and resources: 

• Strategic Action Plan Submission Deadline: November 1, 2024 

• SGC Approval Requirement: A majority vote of the SGC is necessary before plan submission. 

• Supporting Resources: A wealth of tools and templates are available on the Charter System Resources website to assist in the planning process. 

 

To maximize the impact of your council’s involvement, we recommend the following discussion points for your September meeting: 

• Deep Dive into the Strategic Action Plan Form: A thorough understanding of the online form is essential for effective plan development. 

• Metric Selection: Identify the key performance indicator that will measure progress towards each Strategic Plan Goal. 

• High-Level Action Identification: Determine the overarching steps necessary to achieve the selected metrics. 

 

Your engagement in the strategic planning process is instrumental to the success of your school. We look forward to supporting your efforts and celebrating your accomplishments. 

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS 

Alpharetta Elementary School Governance Council 

​​Date | time​ 08/29/2024| 3:00pm | Location Ms. Crawford’s Office 

SGC Members Present 

Cathy Crawford, Principal	X	Tina Burns, Teacher	X
Jenna Silverman, Assistant Principal	X	Jenny Binner, Parent	X
Martha Dinges, Teacher (Chair)	X	Megan Bolian, Parent	X
Phyllis Silverio, Teacher (Parliamentarian)	X	Chantel Powell, Community Member	X
Kristyn Mills, Parent (Vice-Chair)	X	Terri Eisenberg, Community Member	X

 

Meeting Minutes Summary 

Action Items: 

Motion	Time	By Whom	Second By	Voting Results
Meeting called to order	3:02pm	Martha Dinges
Motion to approve today’s agenda	3:03pm	Kristyn Mills	Megan Bolian	All in favor
Motion to approve May minutes	3:04pm	Kristyn Mills	Tina Burns	All in favor
Motion to pay to send Ms. Falkenberg to the School Library Journal Summit	3:50pm	Kristyn Mills	Megan Bolian	All in favor
Motion to purchase 2 sets of cube chairs for pre-k	3:52pm	Kristyn Mills	Jenny Binner	All in favor
Meeting adjourned	3:57pm	Martha Dinges

 

Informational and Discussion Items: 

• Principal updated the council on staffing, district and school policy changes, and safety. 

• We set council meeting norms. 

• We discussed the 2024 Council Self-Assessment. 

• We began discussion of the Strategic Plan that will continue in the next few months. 

• Next meeting agenda was discussed. 

August 29th  Meeting Minutes 

School: Alpharetta Elementary School 

Date: 08/29/2024  

Time: 3:00PM 

Location: AES Conference Room 

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members: 

Cathy Crawford (Principal), Martha Dinges (Teacher, Chair), Phyllis Silverio (Teacher, Parliamentarian), Tina Burns (Appointed Staff), Jenna Silverman (Appointed Staff), Kristyn Mills (Parent, Vice Chair), Jenny Binner (Parent), Megan Bolian (Parent) online, Terri Eisenberg (Community Member), Chantel Powell (Community Member)  

3:00PM Call to Order (Chair) 

3:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair) 

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

3:04PM Action Item: Approve Minutes from 8-1-24 (Chair) 

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Tina 

All Approve 

3:05PM Action Item: Finalize Council Staffing* (Chair) 

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

3:10PM Discussion Item: SGC Council Development Opportunities (Officer Training and Cross Council) ** (All Members) 

3:15PM Discussion Item: Determine SY24-25 Council Norms (All Members) 

3:20PM Discussion Item: Review 2024 Council Self-Assessment and Create Initiatives*** (All Members) 

Putting our values at the forefront: Teamwork, Accountability, and Integrity 

SGC- Deepen community connection- We are trying to build a better culture and cycle of feedback.  

3:35PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning**** (All Members) See page 2 for more detailed information 

4:00PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)  

A. Potential School Staffing Changes: We earned 2 new teachers and a para. The para will float between the Kindergarten teachers. The teachers will be in 1st grade and 3rd grade.  

B. Shifts in District Policy or School Practices- District Policy: The former open enrollment will be changing the timeline. It is now due by December compared to the spring semester.  School Practices: When there are changes, it will be listed in Eagle Wings.  

C. Safety Update- AP Jenna Silverman shared the following. The Safety Team met, and the district is implementing a medical drill. We have streamlined a walkie talkie protocol. We have also continued with silent dismissal this year. It has gone very smoothly.  

4:10PM Action Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Principal/Chair) 

-School Library Journal Summit Conference: Ms. Falkenberg would like to attend. It is $1,000 for registration and travel.  

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Megan 

All Approve 

-PreK request: Prek teachers would like to purchase cube chairs. It is an adaptive seating option. 4 chairs per PreK classroom. The total would be $500.  

Motion- Kristyn 

2nd- Jenny 

All Approve 

-Café Sound Reconfigure: We were quoted last year for $4962. We are going to look into this again. Maybe PTO for school enhancements? 

4:25PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members) 

4:30PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair) 

Motion- Martha 

2nd- Terri 

All Approve 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students 

 

Notes and Reminders 

* Finalizing Council Staffing: Please ensure all member updates have been submitted to the Governance & Flexibility Team using the Council Information Form. 

** SGC Council Development Opportunities: 

Reminder that all new members must complete New Member Onboarding and council officers are expected to attend Officer Training.  See the Training Sessions tab of the Charter System website for more information. 

Officer Training (Required for All Council Officers) 

Our Chairs, Vice-Chairs and Parliamentarians serve as leaders on their councils and liaisons within their communities.  This training will offer our officers the opportunity to learn from the Governance Team and each other about council responsibilities and tactics for focusing the work of their teams on the strategic vision of their school. 

• Fall 2024 Officer Training Sign-Up 

Cross Council Opportunities 

The Governance Team is excited to share with you that we will be hosting a series of Cross Council meetings meant to support SGCs with the task of aligning their work for the school year to the strategic goals and initiatives of their specific school as well as those of the district.  These sessions will offer members the opportunity to work and hear from councils around the district and engage in discussions with the Governance & Flexibility Team.  The meetings will take place in-person at the dates/times/locations below.  We encourage all SGCs to select up to two members to attend one of the sessions and register to attend using the links below.  Note, each session will cover similar content, so your team does not need to register for multiple sessions. 

• Fall 2024 Cross Council Sign-Up 

*** SY24-25 Council Initiatives: Begin discussions to determine the focus of the council’s upcoming work.  Lean on your school’s Semester Action Plan to ensure the work of the council is aligned with the goals and initiatives being targeted by the school leaders.  Task the council with prioritizing 1 – 2 initiatives the SGC could lead or support throughout the year. 

****Strategic Planning (September) 

As we embark on the second month of the 2024-2025 school year, we encourage your continued dedication to the development and implementation of your school’s Strategic Action Plan. Your vital role in shaping the future of your school community cannot be overstated. 

To ensure timely submission and alignment with district goals, please note the following critical dates and resources: 

• Strategic Action Plan Submission Deadline: November 1, 2024 

• SGC Approval Requirement: A majority vote of the SGC is necessary before plan submission. 

• Supporting Resources: A wealth of tools and templates are available on the Charter System Resources website to assist in the planning process. 

To maximize the impact of your council’s involvement, we recommend the following discussion points for your September meeting: 

• Deep Dive into the Strategic Action Plan Form: A thorough understanding of the online form is essential for effective plan development. 

• Metric Selection: Identify the key performance indicator that will measure progress towards each Strategic Plan Goal. 

• High-Level Action Identification: Determine the overarching steps necessary to achieve the selected metrics. 

Your engagement in the strategic planning process is instrumental to the success of your school. We look forward to supporting your efforts and celebrating your accomplishments. 

September 26th Agenda

School: Alpharetta Elementary School

Date: 9/26/2024

Time: 3:00PM

Location: Crawford’s Office

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members:

Cathy Crawford (Principal), Martha Dinges (Teacher, Chair), Phyllis Silverio (Teacher, Parliamentarian), Tina Burns (Appointed Staff), Jenna Silverman (Appointed Staff), Kristyn Mills (Parent, Vice Chair), Jenny Binner (Parent), Megan Bolian (Parent), Terri Eisenberg (Community Member), Chantel Powell (Community Member)

3:00PM Call to Order (Chair)

3:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair)

3:05PM Action Item: Approve 8-29 Minutes (Chair)

3:07PM Discussion Item: SY24-25 Council Initiatives* (All Members)

-Parent/community survey discussion

3:20PM Discussion Item: Strategic Plan Draft Presentation (All Members) See page 2 for more detailed information

3:40PM Action Item: Approve Strategic Plan (Chair)

3:45PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

- AOSA membership fees and Atlanta chapter dues ($194)

- Math conference attendance ($250)

- Music conference ($1500)

- Counseling conference ($1000)

4:00PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)

4:05PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

- Personnel

- Safety

4:15PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

4:20PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair)

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students

Notes and Reminders

* SY24-25 Council Initiatives: Begin discussions to determine the focus of the council’s upcoming work. Lean on your school’s Semester Action Plan to ensure the work of the council is aligned with the goals and initiatives being targeted by the school leaders. Task the council with prioritizing 1 – 2 initiatives the SGC could lead or support throughout the year.

**SGC Website Audits

Each school year, the Governance & Flexibility Team periodically performs website audits to ensure all School Governance Councils throughout the district are in compliance with Georgia Open Records and Meetings laws. These audits require councils to post information related, but not limited to the following:

· Date, Time, Place/Access Instructions for all Meetings

· Council Documentation (Minutes, Agendas, Summaries of Action)

· Council Roster, Term-End Dates, FCS E-mail Addresses

· Officer and Committee Information

The Governance & Flexibility Team will be completing website audits for all schools at the end of the month. For a list of SGC website requirements, please review the SGC Website Audit Form.

 

***SGC Council Development Opportunities:

Cross Council Opportunities

The Governance Team is excited to share with you that we will be hosting a series of Cross Council meetings meant to support SGCs with the task of aligning their work for the school year to the strategic goals and initiatives of their specific school as well as those of the district. These sessions will offer members the opportunity to work and hear from councils around the district and engage in discussions with the Governance & Flexibility Team. The meetings will take place in-person at the dates/times/locations below. We encourage all SGCs to select up to two members to attend one of the sessions and register to attend using the links below. Note, each session will cover similar content, so your team does not need to register for multiple sessions. · Fall 2024 Cross Council Sign-Up

 

****Strategic Planning (October)

As we embark on the second month of the 2024-2025 school year, we encourage your continued dedication to the development and implementation of your school’s Strategic Action Plan. Your vital role in shaping the future of your school community cannot be overstated.

 

To ensure timely submission and alignment with district goals, please note the following critical dates and resources:

 

· Strategic Action Plan Submission Deadline: November 1, 2024

· SGC Approval Requirement: A majority vote of the SGC is necessary before plan submission. · Supporting Resources: A wealth of tools and templates are available on the Charter System Resources website to assist in the planning process.

 

To ensure your school's Strategic Action Plan is effective, we recommend discussing the following at your October meeting:

· Finalize Progress Monitoring Metrics and Timelines: Determine how you will track progress towards your goals.

· Vote to Approve the Strategic Action Plan: Ensure your plan aligns with your school's vision and mission.

· Submit the Strategic Action Plan to the Zone Superintendent: Seek feedback and approval from district leadership.

· Discuss SGC Involvement in Specific Initiatives: Determine how your council can actively contribute to implementing your plan.

 

Your engagement in the strategic planning process is crucial to the success of your school. By working together, we can create a vibrant and supportive learning community for all students.

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS 

Alpharetta Elementary School Governance Council 

​​Date | time​ 10/3/2024 (rescheduled due to hurricane)| 3:00pm | Location Ms. Crawford’s Office 

SGC Members Present 

Cathy Crawford, Principal	X	Tina Burns, Teacher	X
Jenna Silverman, Assistant Principal	X	Jenny Binner, Parent
Martha Dinges, Teacher (Chair)		Megan Bolian, Parent	X
Phyllis Silverio, Teacher (Parliamentarian)	X	Chantel Powell, Community Member	X
Kristyn Mills, Parent (Vice-Chair)	X	Terri Eisenberg, Community Member	X

 

Meeting Minutes Summary 

Action Items: 

Motion	Time	By Whom	Second By	Voting Results
Meeting called to order	2:50pm	Kristyn Mills
Motion to approve today’s agenda	2:52pm	Tina Burns	Chantel Powell	All in favor
Motion to approve 8-29 minutes	2:54pm	Tina Burns	Jenna Silverman	All in favor
Motion to pay AOSA membership fees and Atlanta chapter dues for Ms. Shaw	3:30pm	Megan Bolian	Terri Eisenberg	All in favor
Motion to pay for Math conference attendance for Mr. Madej and Ms. Jacobs	3:30pm	Megan Bolian	Terri Eisenberg	All in favor
Motion to pay for Ms. Shaw to attend a music conference out of state	3:30pm	Megan Bolian	Terri Eisenberg	All in favor
Motion to pay for Ms. Smith to attend a school counselor conference	3:30pm	Megan Bolian	Terri Eisenberg	All in favor
Meeting adjourned	4:00pm	Kristyn Mills

 

Informational and Discussion Items: 

• Principal updated the council on personnel and safety. 

• We discussed doing a parent/community survey. 

• We discussed the Strategic Plan draft—goals and metrics were presented. 

• Next meeting agenda was discussed. 

September 26th Agenda   

School: Alpharetta Elementary School  

Date: 9/26/2024   

Time: 3:00PM  

Location: Crawford’s Office  

TEAMS Link (if applicable):   

SGC Members:  

Cathy Crawford (Principal), Martha Dinges (Teacher, Chair)(absent), Phyllis Silverio (Teacher, Parliamentarian), Tina Burns (Appointed Staff), Jenna Silverman (Appointed Staff), Kristyn Mills (Parent, Vice Chair), Jenny Binner (Parent)(absent), Megan Bolian (Parent), Terri Eisenberg (Community Member), Chantel Powell (Community Member)   

3:00PM Call to Order (Chair)  

Motion- Tina 

2nd- Chantel 

All Approve 

3:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair)  

Motion- Tina 

2nd- Chantel 

All Approve 

3:05PM Action Item: Approve 8-29 Minutes (Chair)  

Motion- Tina 

2nd- Jenna 

All Approve 

3:07PM Discussion Item:  SY24-25 Council Initiatives* (All Members)  

-Parent/community survey discussion  

3:20PM Discussion Item: Strategic Plan Draft Presentation (All Members) See page 2 for more detailed information  

Strategic Plan Goals	Strategic Plan Metrics
Enhance performance for all students.	Reading at or Above Grade Level
Prioritize safety and operational efficiency.	Office referrals
Ensure impactful programming.	Continuous Achievement Reading
Strengthen workforce engagement.	Employee Satisfaction
Utilize fiscal resources effectively.	Charter Dollar Expenditures
Deepen community connections.	Parent/Guardian Satisfaction

 

3:40PM Action Item: Approve Strategic Plan (Chair)  

3:45PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)  

• AOSA membership fees and Atlanta chapter dues ($194) Ms. Shaw membership for continuous education. 

• Math conference attendance ($250) Mr. Madej and Ms. Jacobs to attend. They will use this training  to organize Math Game Night 

• Music conference ($1500) (Out of State Conference for Ms. Shaw to attend. 

• Counseling conference ($1000) Ms. Smith- received a grant for training. She would like to attend this conference. 

• Motion- Megan 

• 2nd- Teri 

• All Approve 

4:00PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)   

4:05PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)   

• Personnel – Spec Ed Para opening is still available.  

• Safety – Officer Morton attended the meeting to discuss her role as the Community Service Unit head. This is a new position this year. Safety and security is her number one role, but it is also important to build the rapport with the students. (Career Day, etc.) 

4:15PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)  

4:20PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair)  

• Motion- Megan 

• 2nd- Tina 

• All Approve 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students  

November 7th Agenda

School: Alpharetta Elementary School

Date: 11/7/2024  

Time: 3:00PM 

Location: AES Conference Room 

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members: 

Cathy Crawford (Principal), Martha Dinges (Teacher, Chair), Phyllis Silverio (Teacher, Parliamentarian), Tina Burns (Appointed Staff), Jenna Silverman (Appointed Staff), Kristyn Mills (Parent, Vice Chair), Jenny Binner (Parent), Megan Bolian (Parent), Terri Eisenberg (Community Member), Chantel Powell (Community Member)  

3:00PM Call to Order (Chair) 

3:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair) 

3:05PM Action Item: Approve 9-26 Minutes (Chair) 

3:07PM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website Audit Results* (All Members) 

3:15PM Discussion Item: Debrief Fall Cross Council Meeting (All Members) 

3:25PM Informational Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (Advisory Council Representative) 

3:30PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning** (All Members) 

1. Review Feedback 

2. Monitor Progress 

3:45PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members) 

3:55PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals*** (Chair)  

4:00PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)  

-Personnel 
-Safety 
-Playground 

4:05PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members) 

4:10PM Public Comment 

4:20PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair) 

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students 

 

Notes and Reminders 

*SGC Website Audits 

Each school year, the Governance & Flexibility Team periodically performs website audits to ensure all School Governance Councils throughout the district are in compliance with Georgia Open Records and Meetings laws.  These audits require councils to post information related, but not limited to the following: 

 

• Date, Time, Place/Access Instructions for all Meetings 

• Council Documentation (Minutes, Agendas, Summaries of Action) 

• Council Roster, Term-End Dates, FCS E-mail Addresses 

• Officer and Committee Information 

 

The Governance & Flexibility Team completed website audits for all schools last month.  For a list of SGC website requirements, please review the SGC Website Audit Form.  

 

**Strategic Planning (November) 

Thank you for your dedication and hard work in completing your inaugural School Strategic Action Plans. As a friendly reminder, all Strategic Action Plans must be approved by a majority council vote and submitted by November 1, 2024.  

  

Once submitted, please anticipate the following timeline:  

• November: Zone Superintendents will review and provide feedback on the School Strategic Action Plans. Notifications regarding feedback or approval will be sent directly to principals, who will then share them with council members.  

• Ongoing: Councils should develop a plan to share their Strategic Action Plans with the school community and communicate the school's goals and progress.  

• Initial Monitoring: Councils should identify one or two key actions or tasks to prioritize for direct engagement throughout the school year. Additionally, please be prepared to provide initial progress updates on these selected areas.  

  We appreciate your continued commitment to the success of your school.  

 

***Charter Dollars 

 This year, schools have received $46,391 in Charter Dollars to help meet their strategic goals through local innovative solutions. These funds should be used for non-personnel purchases such as supplies, registrations, communications, etc. When purchasing personnel, schools are advised to use other funding sources allowable for positions. If Charter Dollars are requested for personnel, the expenditure will require approval from the Zone Superintendent, SGC, and Executive Director of Governance and Strategy. Additionally, any materials purchased to support literacy instruction must align with GaDOE literacy requirements. 

  

Each Charter Dollar expenditure requires an SGC vote for approval, the completion of the Charter Dollar Expenditure Form, and is subject to the same district guidelines that govern school cost center budgets. All Charter Dollars must be spent in the year they are received to support our current student population. We encourage SGCs to schedule discussions early in the year to plan for these expenditures, ensuring all purchases are made before end-of-year spending deadlines. See our Charter Dollar Matrix for examples of FCS-supported expenditures. 

SUMMARY OF ACTIONS 

Alpharetta Elementary School Governance Council 

​​Date | time​ 11/7/2024| 3:00pm | Location Ms. Crawford’s Office 

SGC Members Present 

Cathy Crawford, Principal	X	Tina Burns, Teacher	X
Jenna Silverman, Assistant Principal		Jenny Binner, Parent	X
Martha Dinges, Teacher (Chair)	X	Megan Bolian, Parent	X
Phyllis Silverio, Teacher (Parliamentarian)	X	Chantel Powell, Community Member	X
Kristyn Mills, Parent (Vice-Chair)		Terri Eisenberg, Community Member	X

 

Meeting Minutes Summary 

Action Items: 

Motion	Time	By Whom	Second By	Voting Results
Meeting called to order	2:59pm	Martha Dinges
Motion to approve today’s agenda	3:01pm	Tina Burns	Terri Eisenberg	All in favor
Motion to approve 10-3 minutes	3:03pm	Tina Burns	Terri Eisenberg	All in favor
Motion to pay for Ms. Silverman to attend a CCRPI training	3:15pm	Tina Burns	Chantel Powell	All in favor
Meeting adjourned	3:35	Martha Dinges

 

Informational and Discussion Items: 

• Principal updated the council on personnel, safety, and the status of the K-1 playground. 

• We discussed the Fall SGC Cross Council meeting 

• We discussed how to reach out to parents to get more participation in the FCS Parent Perception Survey. 

• Next meeting agenda was discussed.