MDT Meeting Minutes for February 11, 2008

Attending: N. Rabiah, N. Martell-Stevenson, B. Lewis, B. Smith, P. Joos, K. Beiley, J. Gamble, E. Marcus, L. Singer, V. Otten, A. Broun, E. Marcus

Presentation on Art/Music: The meeting started with a presentation by Ms. Smith and Ms. Wright about the art and music curriculum at Murch. How concepts are introduced and implemented across the different grade levels was included, along with actual work completed by students in both art and music. Parents should check out the walls of the school to see their child’s art work on display. For students interested in having more music exposure, Ms. Smith is organizing a primary chorus (K to 3rd grade) after school on Tuesdays (3:15 to 4 pm) and one for the 4th – 6th graders at lunchtime (12-12:30) on Fridays.

After the presentation, a discussion about the art curriculum ensued. To begin with, it was noted that personnel concerns are not within the purview of the MDT. The content of the art program, the location, the scheduling of specials and the potential availability of aides and/or parents to help out in the art room were discussed. The use of museums and other resources (eg a student intern) was also suggested and is being followed up on by a parent.

Concerns from Parents: In conjunction with the conversation about the art curriculum, there was also a concern about the civility and appropriateness of parent criticisms. The MDT will be holding a special meeting to discuss guidelines for parent communication of concerns.

Budget Update: The Principal has received notification that some of our funds from DCPS have been reduced and that we can reallocate unused funds to pay for items for the rest of the school year.

Personnel: Due to our enrollment numbers being up this year, DCPS has given Murch permission to hire a full time position at the school. Principal Lewis has already received 3 resumes for Reading/Math specialists to work with students and teachers of all grade levels. One of our custodians has moved to another school, but we also have received a new one from Wilson. We are currently fully staffed in the custodial department!

Principal Selection Process: The MDT received formal notice from the Chancellor about the next steps for schools with interim principals. Murch needs to put together a panel of teachers, staff, parents and community members by February 29th. In March, the panel will decide whether or not to make Murch’s interim principal into a permanent position or to interview additional candidates.

Parent Teacher Conferences: The teachers have decided to keep the hours for parent conferences to 8:00 to 3:30 for this year, but will reevaluate for next year in August.

Signed,
P Joos
(Anna/Finberg, Kate/Bogan)