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 | On the first day of school you could feel the excitement, along with confusion, as our children rejoined their friends, met their teachers, and parents introduced themselves to the other members of our school’s community. I encountered many new faces, as well as the smiles from parents and children returning for another year at PS/IS 217. Leaflets were handed out in the morning, inviting parents to march, in solidarity, in the Labor Day parade. Our demand? An end to the proposed Public School budget cuts. |
| On September 5th, prior to the official opening of school, the elected members of the School Based Leadership Team met over a simple breakfast, to begin planning for the 2001-2002 academic year. The newest members introduced themselves and a brief overview of the Team’s purposes was provided. We elected a new Chair and Co-Chair and set the agenda for our next meeting scheduled for October. |
| Recent articles in the New York Times reporting on Chancellor Harold Levy’s proposed budget cuts for the Public Schools caused concern among the Team Members. A discussion ensued on the projected cuts and their possible effect on our school’s budget. We learned that the extended day program budget, which has assisted many children, (including my son ) to excel in either reading, math, or science may be hit by the proposed cuts. Although $12,000 was allocated to the PTA by Council Member Gifford Miller’s office, to supplement funding for the extended day program this year, these funds alone will not be able to carry the cost of the program . While the Team reviewed a summary of the 2001-2002 school budget, we saw, in black and white, how little money was available. In this years budget less money had been allocated for the Arts. Monies for the extended day program was questionable. While meeting we were informed that an additional $30.00 cut, per child was to be made! At roughly, $17,000, this cut will be eliminating money set aside to purchase books for our class room libraries. We decided that we needed to fight these cuts. In reaction we decided to call on parents , to protest cuts, by marching in the parade. Fliers were placed in every book bag, and on Saturday, we marched, with signs held high, demanding "More not Less $ for the NYC Public Schools." The day was beautiful and the families who came enjoyed themselves. |
On September 20th @ 5pm, the first General PTA meeting will be held prior to Curriculum Night. It will be an informal opportunity for the school’s community to get together and talk. I look forward to seeing you there.
This year we are planning several fund raisers, including another book fair, a cook book, co sponsored by the Roosevelt Island Legal Fund, and a Halloween event.
Everything is in the beginning stage of planning, and all volunteers are welcome. Please contact me for additional information.
I look forward to a prosperous and productive year..
Erin Feely-Nahem,PTA President
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Message from your PTA President: