Minutes of the Northwood HS (NHS) PTSA Meeting
Date: November 18, 2014
Opening: Meeting called to order at 7:35 pm by PTSA Secretary Melissa Goemann with approximately
14 parents and teachers in attendance.
Secretary’s Report: Review of minutes from October 28, 2014. A motion was made to approve the
minutes. It was seconded and approved unanimously.
President’s Report:
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President Danielle Gillon reminded parents that to take advantage of Wellness Center services
for their children parents need to fill out a form. The Wellness Center is doing flu shots this
week.
MC Squared is a new program at Northwood. Students that begin the program as freshman will
graduate with an Associates Degree in biochemistry. It is a partnership with Montgomery
College. Students can also take these courses even if they are not in the Associates Degree
program.
Report from Teacher Mike Sauter: Mr. Sauter is the elected faculty representative to the schedule
review committee along with Ms. Reazer. Teachers here must teach 6 classes; at all other Montgomery
County schools they teach a maximum of five. Want to take a fresh look and make sure current schedule
meets everyone’s needs. Process is guided by two outside facilitators. Will look at length of blocks and
number of class periods. Mr. Sauter distributed a timeline for the schedule review. There will be 4
meetings. Currently scheduled Wednesdays from 3 – 4:45 but that could change.
Mr. Sauter also discussed the fact that Northwood has never been assessed to determine if renovations
are needed. Our contract states that Northwood is never going to be considered for renovation because
it was not planned to reopen at the time. Need to advocate to change this or we won’t get put on the
list for renovations. A parent suggested that the PTSA do a group letter to the school board.
Report of Principal Ms. Charley-Greene:
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518 students were on the honor roll.
Most improved (1.5 points or more) – 38 students
25 ninth graders changed their eligibility status
581 students were invited to Friday’s ice cream social celebrating scholastic achievement.
Hairspray opens Nov. 20th
Ms. Charley-Greene thanked all who advocated for Northwood at the Board of Education
meeting.
Speaker: Karen Devitt from Real Food for Kids – Montgomery County. She is also a Northwood parent.
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Started this group a couple of years ago.
Real Food promotes better food, less junk food, more healthy choices in Montgomery County
schools.
School menu is on-line – lots of processed foods sold.
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Snacks are not posted on the menu. She passed out a list of what is available. Real Food is trying
to limit these items.
Childhood obesity is linked to lower academic performance.
Chemicals in school food can cause hyperactivity and behavior problems.
Adjournment
Meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:50 pm.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Melissa Goemann