Minutes of Information Meeting December 7, 2006
Present: Betty Locke, Mary Stilwell, Dan Trecartin, Patty Munkittrick, Vasoula
Papadopoulos, Francine Valiquette
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The meeting was held as an information meeting in the absence of a quorum.
Student Report
A copy of the school newspaper was circulated.
The food drive for the local food bank was well supported.
Some classes are supporting families for Christmas.
There have been a number of post secondary events and more upcoming. On Nov 21
students will be visiting the SJRH to learn more about health careers. On Nov 29
students have the opportunity to visit UNBSJ and sit in on a class.
The annual variety show is tonight.
The semi-formal is next Thursday.
Dec 18 is the grad class skate.
Leadership is interested in doing something in memory of Mary.
Mary reviewed the attendance and discipline policies. The school uses a ‘step program’ with clear expectations and consequences. At each step students have an opportunity to improve. The program is seen as an incentive rather than as punishment.
The committee expressed an interest in the statistics for the step program and attendance.
Mary discussed the Renaissance Committee chaired by Melissa Wright which promotes positive actions and rewarding “good stuff”. The little things that often get overlooked are recognized.
Making Waves promotes healthy relationships and discourages abuse. This program is overseen by Kate Emrich. More information can be found at www.mwaves.org.
The role of guidance counselors was discussed. The committee would like to know what guidance counselors currently do to promote self esteem and what more could be done. It is felt that negative behaviours would decline if students felt better about themselves. The committee would like to know what other schools are doing in this area, particularly our feeder schools.
The school had a “booster week” during which a behaviour review and refresher was conducted.
A survey was conducted this week to see what’s working (Expectations Initiative).
Next meeting: Thursday January 18, 2007 at 7pm.