Beaufort Middle School
Parent Advisory Board
2007/2008 

Monday, May 12, 2008

Members present:   Greg Guthrie, Tammy Norman, Bruce Sheldon, Mary Ellen Barker, Annie Burbridge, Mike Cockrell, Andrea Johnson, Carol Lynn Bullock, Ashley Hardison and Melissa Patterson

11:45am – Andrea Johnson made a motion to call meeting to order, Mary Ellen Barker 2^nd the motion.

April minutes were reviewed and accepted.

Principal’s Report:  Greg Guthrie

Important Dates:

New Business:

 None.

With no more additional items to be discussed, Mike Cockrell made a motion for the meeting to be adjourned.  Bruce Sheldon 2^nd the motion.

Monday, Apr 14, 2008

Members present:   Greg Guthrie, Tammy Norman, Bruce Sheldon, Mary Ellen Barker, Terrie Newton, Annie Burbridge, Sharon Yeomans, Mike Cockrell, Keith Willis, Andrea Johnson, Geraline Smith, Carol Lynn Bullock and Melissa Patterson

5:35pm – Mike Cockrell made a motion to call meeting to order, Bruce Sheldon 2^nd the motion.

March minutes were reviewed and accepted.

Principal’s Report:  Greg Guthrie

Mr. Guthrie extended an invitation to all members for a luncheon at Clawson ’s restaurant on May 12 at 11:30 for the final Advisory meeting of the school year.

Yearbooks are in.  Extra copies are still available for purchase.   The Advisory members are pictured in the yearbook for the first time. A special thanks goes out to Ashley Hardison in the front office of BMS for this suggestion. In the future if a student is absent on picture day, there will be a caption stating “Not Pictured” in place of the students picture.

Mrs. Opal Parrott will be retiring at the end of the school year after 37 years of service.  She has been a real blessing to our students and to our school.  She will be missed greatly and we wish her the best in her retirement years.  Mr. Guthrie is confident that the position will be filled with a certified teacher before the start of the new school year.

Important Dates:

Apr 16^th – 8^th graders begin registration for their freshman year at ECHS.  Very exciting time for our students and ECHS counselors.

Apr 18^th – The 3^rd nine weeks Academic Awards Celebration – 2:00 pm

Apr 24^th – 26^th – FBLA will be in Greensboro for the state convention.

May 2^nd – Jazz band competition will be in Farmville

May 2^nd – 5^th grade visitation for the Tiller, BES and St. Egbert students at BMS.

May 27^th – Band concert – 7:00 pm

May 28^th – PTO Academic Ceremony/Dinner, catered by Rolands barbeque – 6:30 pm

May 29^th – Athletic Awards Ceremony – 6:00 pm

New Business:

Annie Burbridge raised a question regarding the reading program available to all sixth graders.  Mr. Guthrie went into great detail about the program and since its introduction in Dec 07 it has been very successful. He is also very hopeful that the online literacy program will be in place for the next school year.

Mr. Guthrie also elaborated on the “ Study Island ” program which is designed to assist students in their specific area of need on a particular subject and to help prepare them for the EOG’S.  This computer based program is highly effective and is funded through the school and available to all students.  Reports are sent to the students’ teacher with their scores.  Parents who are interested in learning more about this technology can go to StudyIsland.com.

With no more additional items to be discussed, Bruce Sheldon made a motion for the meeting to be adjourned.  Carol Lynn Bullock 2^nd the motion.

Next meeting will be held at Clawson ’s Restaurant on May 12^th , 2008 at 11:30 am.

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Monday, Mar 10, 2008

Members present: Greg Guthrie, Tammy Norman, Bruce Sheldon, Mary Ellen Barker, Annie Burbridge, Sharon Yeomans, Mike Cockrell, Sybil King, Keith Willis, Andrea Johnson and Melissa Patterson

5:32pm – Bruce Sheldon made a motion to call meeting to order, Mike Cockrell 2nd the motion.

February minutes were reviewed and accepted.

Principal’s Report: Greg Guthrie

Mr. Guthrie commented on the school budget and how excited he was that projects for the future were being planned ahead. Much credit goes to Judson Walton, plant operations manager, for identifying the needs of the school and putting a plan in place to improve our facility and to maintain it. This is a brief look ahead to the projects so far:
2008-09 Upgrade telephone system (approx. 45,000)
2008-09 Upgrade security cameras (approx. 21,000)
2010-11 Portable bleachers (approx. 25,000)
2010-11 Replace ceiling tiles all throughout the school (approx. 114,000)
2010-11 New roof on the 8th gr. wing
2011-12 Safety wall for breezeway for the 8th gr. wing
2011-12 Covered canopy extending from the cafeteria to the student pick-up/drop-off area in front of the school to protect students from inclement weather.

New PA System: Designed to allow Mr. Guthrie to make announcements from his office via a “PA” phone. The new system will set school bells to be more efficient and will be able to function when there is a power outage.

HVAC Project update: The piping system is currently in progress, and will maintain a more constant and even temperature throughout the school. Mr. Guthrie offered members a tour of the gym to view the project underway.

Important Dates:

Mar 14th – Spring pictures
Mar 21st – Early release at 12:00
Mar 22nd- 30th – Easter break
Apr 11th – Report cards
Apr 11th – School dance

New Business: Bruce Sheldon commented on how impressed he was with Mr. Boyd, not only as a wrestling coach but as a superb teacher as well. He stated that Mr. Boyd motivates and encourages the children and that is what kids respond too. He went on to say that the entire 7th grade team was great.

Bruce Sheldon also had some concern as to why safety issues (ie: the breezeway from the 8th gr bldg) were budgeted 3 years out and not being addressed sooner. Mr. Guthrie responded by assuring Bruce that safety was the top concern, however, projects had to be prioritized and the installation of security cameras will certainly help in that particular area of concern.

Mike Cockrell mentioned that the Band did a fantastic job at the regional competition. Only 3 superior ratings were given out of 19 bands competing that day and BMS received one of those ratings. He stated how dedicated Mr. McCreary was as a band director and it shows, especially when we go to competitions.

Tammy Norman (Chairman) attends the monthly school board meetings to represent BMS and shares with the Board the highlights of our school and the very positive things that are going on. She encourages parents to get involved and to make a stand for their school. We feel that BMS has a great deal of school spirit because of great leadership, which produces great teachers, which in turn inspires parents to stay active.

With no more additional items to be discussed, Mike Cockrell made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Annie Burbridge 2nd the motion.

Next meeting will be held in the Media center on April 14, 2008 at 5:30pm
 

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Monday, Feb. 11, 2008

Members present:   Greg Guthrie, Tammy Norman, Bruce Sheldon, Mary Ellen Barker, Carol Lynn Bullock, Sharon Yeomans, Mike Cockrell, Geraldine Castle and Melissa Patterson

5:30pm – Bruce Sheldon made a motion to call meeting to order, Mary Ellen Barker 2^nd the motion.

January minutes were reviewed and accepted.

Principal’s Report:  Greg Guthrie

Mr. Guthrie commented on the success of our Academic awards ceremony.  More participants, including climbers club, received acknowledgement than the previous ceremony.

HVAC Project update:

Project is underway and should be completed sometime in August.

Student drop-off/Staff Parking:

Paving of the area in front of the school for student drop-off and staff parking lot is complete.  This project took place sooner than expected and was completed in a day.  Stripes and clean-up have yet to be completed. 

Important Dates:

Additional Items:

With no more new business or additional items to be discussed, Bruce Sheldon made a motion for the meeting to be adjourned.  Carol Lynn Bullock 2^nd the motion.

Next meeting will be held in the Media center on March 10, 2008 at 5:30pm  

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Monday, Jan 14, 2008

Members present:   Greg Guthrie, Tammy Norman, Bruce Sheldon, Keith Willis, Andrea Johnson, Annie Burbridge, Sybil King, Terri Newton, Mary Ellen Barker and Melissa Patterson

5:36pm – Bruce Sheldon made a motion to call meeting to order, Mary Ellen Barker 2^nd the motion.

December minutes were reviewed and accepted.

Principal’s Report:  Greg Guthrie

Mr. Guthrie addressed the topic of the Advisory link on the school web page and informed members the link is ready for use. This is a great way for parents to communicate questions or concerns they may have.

Mrs. McLendon gathered members in the computer lab for a detailed explanation and demonstration of the new teaching device called the “airliner”.  What makes this teaching tool so unique is the mobility the teacher will have to move around the room and view the students’ computer screen while they are online. The software is state-of- the- art with many details, graphics, and resources available to the teacher for instruction.  Teachers can put lessons on this “notebook” and print it out or even e-mail it to a student if they miss a day.  Coaches as well, can benefit greatly from this device when they are instructing their athletes on plays.

The “airliner” cost around $350.00.  We hope that by the spring every teacher at BMS will have one in their classroom for instruction.  The benefits far out weigh the cost, and we are looking forward for BMS to move forward in this new and exciting technology.   

Tammy Norman, chairperson, made her first report to the school board and was received very well.  She stated concerns and safety issues that members have discussed in our Advisory meetings and safety requests that were on Mr. Guthrie’s report as well. Two items mentioned to the board were: (1) The need for a security wall from the 8^th grade wing breezeway to the main building. (2). A canopy going out from the main entrance of the cafeteria to the end of the sidewalk where children are being dropped off and picked up. This would protect the students from rainy weather conditions, as well as, keeping the sidewalk dry for safety concerns.

HVAC Project update:

The project is now in the preparation phase.  Materials have been ordered and are in the process of coming in.  The majority of the intrusive work will be done over the summer break, with the students not being in the classrooms, the project will move more smoothly.

Student News:

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) did very well at the Regional level.

Basketball and Wrestling has begun and these two sports are representing our school in a very positive manner.

Important Dates:

Additional Items:

With no more new business or additional items to be discussed, Bruce Sheldon made a motion for the meeting to be adjourned.  Keith Willis 2^nd the motion.

Next meeting will be held in the Media center on Feb11th, 2008 at 5:30pm

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Monday, Nov. 19,2007

Members present:   Greg Guthrie, Tammy Norman, Carol Lynn Bullock, Bruce Sheldon, Mike Cockrell, Keith Willis, Mary Ellen Barker, Terri Newton, Sharon Yeomans, Melissa Patterson

5:30pm - Advisory meeting called to order by Tammy Norman

October minutes were reviewed and discussed. No discrepancies were noted. Tammy Norman made a motion to accept minutes as written.

Principal's Report: Greg Guthrie

Mr. Guthrie addressed the two fund raisers that were just completed, Sally Foster Wrapping paper and the Bar-b-que dinner, stating that they both were a success.

HVAC update: The process of starting the HVAC update is getting closer. The school will be replacing a two pipe system to a four pipe upgrade.

Technology update: Mr. Guthrie is very pleased with the new upgraded laptops and the wireless capability is up and running. He offered the members to visit the computer lab after the meeting.

Academic Awards: The number of students receiving awards each nine weeks is growing. This past ceremony there were over 100 students, expecting even more students next nine weeks with Climbers Club attendees. Susan Drury (acting PTO president) is in charge of organizing these ceremonies and we are so appreciative of her commitment to the school.

Volleyball season is over for BMS girls. Last game was Nov 19^th. Winter sports (basketball and wrestling) will begin after the Thanksgiving holiday. Let's not forget our fabulous cheerleaders, they are doing great and are working very hard on a routine that is unbeatable. We should be very proud of our showing in school sports for our population size.

Early release for Thanksgiving break will be Nov 21^st and returning on Nov 25^th.

Thursday, Nov 29^th  PTO will be sponsoring a "Ladies Night Out" at the school from 5-7pm. Featuring handmade original jewelry.

Thursday, Dec 6^th National Junior Honor Society will have their induction at the First Free Will Baptist Church beginning at 7pm.

Wednesday, Dec 5^th the Beaufort Christmas Parade and Saturday, Dec 8^th the Morehead Christmas Parade.

Tuesday, Dec 11^th the BMS band will have their winter concert in the school gymnasium at 7pm.

"MRSA" update: The BMS staff and Central office have been well educated on this outbreak and has effectively passed on the information to the students and parents. There have been no documented cases in Carteret County that we know of.

New Business:

Mr. Guthrie briefly addressed new projects that are in the works: (1) Paving of the area in front of the school where students are picked up and dropped off. Pot-holes have always been an issue in this area and are overdue for repairs. (2) Fire Alarms and PA system will soon be upgraded.

Mrs. Kristy Malloy is back in the classroom and is doing much better.

Additional Items:

Mike Cockrell asked a question regarding e-mail addresses for committee members, stating that some members did not receive e-­mail reminder notification of the upcoming committee meeting. Mr. Guthrie assured him that he would double check with his secretaries for accurate addresses. Mike also proposed the idea of having committee members e-mail addresses posted on the school website for parents to contact if need be. There were no objections to his proposal.

With no more additional items to be discussed, Mike Cockrell made a motion for the meeting to be adjourned. Mary Ellen Barker 2^nd the motion.

Next meeting will be held in the Media center on Dec 10th at 5:30pm

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Monday, Oct. 15, 2007

Members present:   Greg Guthrie, Tammy Norman, Carol Lynn Bullock, Geraldine Castle, Sybil King, Bruce Sheldon, Mike Cockrell, Keith Willis, Mary Baker, Melissa Patterson

5:35pm - Advisory meeting called to order by Tammy Norman, Chair

September minutes were reviewed and discussed. Two discrepancies were noted: (1) Mary Baker was present for the Sept. meeting but not documented. (2) There was a misunderstanding that Mike Cockrell agreed to record minutes in as the secretary, however he stated that in the absence of the secretary he would record minutes, so that position needed to be filled. After changes were officially made, Bruce Sheldon made a motion to approve and accept the minutes.

Principal's Report: Greg Guthrie

Mr. Guthrie addressed the committee regarding the need to fill the secretary's position. Melissa Patterson agreed to assume responsibility and record the minutes. There were no objections.

Mr. Guthrie stated that the school was celebrating National Custodial week and commended his staff for an outstanding job they do each and every day.

Mr. Thomas Bullock was introduced as a guest sitting in on our meeting. He is the, son of Carol Lynn. He is currently working on a merit badge for Boy Scouts and needed to attend a civic meeting.

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Monday, September 10, 2007

Ms. Norman, Chairperson, called the meeting to order; then each member was introduced.  Those in attendance included the following:  Carol Lynn Bullock, Annie Burbridge, Geraline Castle, Michael Cockrell, Greg Guthrie, Andrea Johnson, Sybil King, Terrie Newton, Tammy Norman, Melissa Patterson, Bruce Sheldon, Keith Willis, and Sharon Yeomans.

Greg Guthrie, Principal, gave his report:

Mr. Guthrie discussed the role of the parent advisory committee.  All parents and community members are invited to attend the monthly meetings at BMS and bi-monthly presentations to the school board at Carteret County Schools Central Services.  Reverend Jack Lee will continue to assist the BMS Advisory.  Tammy Norman will be the chairperson, and Bruce Sheldon will serve as vice chairperson for the next two years.

The committee reviewed a PowerPoint on the EOG 2006-07 results.  Mr. Guthrie explained the scores; BMS students did experience success and scores grew; however, a goal of high growth for this school year has been established.  BMS did not meet 100% AYP goals and has developed strategies to improve those weaknesses.

Mr. Guthrie stated this year has been one of the smoothest openings he has ever seen.  All faculty members have returned with 6^th and 7^th grade math teachers changing grade levels.  We have a principal fellow’s program participant, Ms. Tara Patterson, doing her internship with us since Ms. DeeDee Phillips was transferred to West Carteret High School.  We have a new cafeteria manager, Jackie Smith, from East Carteret High School because Jan Lewis now works at Central Services as the trainer of all cafeteria managers.

Open House will be held on Thursday, September 13, with parents following in their child’s footsteps by adhering to their daily schedule including homeroom, the pledge of allegiance, and changing classes.  Parents are encouraged to visit the book fair in the media center anytime after 5:30 p.m.  Each teacher has completed a classroom wish list of books they would like to have donated.  The PTO president, Ms. Susan Drury has asked all parents and staff to please join for $5.00.  The PTO is very generous to the faculty and the money benefits each child. 

A request was made to have Ms. Drury attend all of the parent advisory meetings.  Mr. Guthrie stated she is an ad hoc member of the committee and he will communicate with her if she is unable to attend the meeting.  He reminded the members the minutes are posted on the BMS webpage and sent to central services.

Mr. Guthrie thanked the committee for its efforts.  Two previous requests have been completed.  The new roof and painting were finished at the end of school last year.  The turning lane on 101 was completed before school began this year in August.  These were primary concerns of our parents and the committee chairperson continuously voiced these issues at the board meetings.

The new Heating and Air Conditioning system will be installed as soon as the contractor has won the bid.  Parents had two questions.  (1)  Was the gym going to be air conditioned?  Mr. Guthrie replied he would check on it and hoped so.  (2) Have the contractors and employees on campus completed the background check required by the school system?  Mr. Guthrie reassured all parents and said the workers are only in the building when necessary.

We currently have two pressing needs for BMS:  (1) Install a covered walkway or canopy from the cafeteria to the circle.  2) Enclose the breezeway from the main building to the 8^th grade building or install a 10’ – 12’ safety wall with special doors and panic locks.  Both requests will enhance student safety and provide coverage during inclement weather.  Judson Walker, from maintenance has discussed these safety issues with Mr. Guthrie and examined the areas in person.

During the 2008-09 school year, all areas of BMS will be painted.

Mike Cockrell has agreed to record minutes at the parent advisory meetings.  In his absent, Mrs. Castle will take them.

The next meeting is Monday, October 15, at 5:30 p.m. in the media center.

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