School Improvement Team – Lawn Avenue School

Minutes – October 8, 2009

Attendees: Kathy Almanzor, Lora DiMuccio, Ann Zainyeh, Lisa Carlisle, Jenn Kittredge-Clark, Julie Kallfelz, Janet LaMantia, Michaela Onosko and Jackie Haberland

1. Acknowledgements

• NASA Appropriation – Jamestown Education Foundation secured a one year $200,000 appropriation for SAMS (Science and Math Scholars Program). Representative Patrick Kennedy assisted to facilitate the process. The program is geared toward enhancing science and math curriculum while encouraging student interest in the area of math and science.

• SIT co-chairs read a letter of acknowledgement to Principal Kathy Almanzor for her constant and consistent presence and for her energy, creativity and dedication to the school community. A copy of this letter will be published in the Jamestown Press.

2. Old Business – Website

• Requesting input from school faculty and parents regarding overall content recommended for upgraded school website.

• Technology coordinator/Technology upgrade is a priority for Melrose and Lawn Ave SIT.

• Dr. Lukon is currently researching companies. Additional information will be available at November SIT meeting.

Rigor and Relevance

• Expert Work – Sixth grade project tied to Language Arts and Communication: Program tied to rigor and relevance while enhancing real world application.

• Co-chair Jenn Clark took the team through an example of the Expert Workshop Project.

• Viewing of 60 minute video – “The Nation’s Most Successful Schools – Lessons Learned” presented by Dr. Willard R. Daggert. This is a 2008 Model Schools Conference Presentation.

• Lawn faculty viewed presentation.

3. Q&A

• Discussion regarding the importance of sharing this with parents and community while relating presentation to rigor and relevance.

• Possible evening event to show the video presentation.

4. Next SIT meeting

• Thursday, November 12^th at 3:30.

Submitted by,

Lora DiMuccio

Recording Secretary