Minutes of the Northwood HS (NHS) PTSA Meeting
I. Date:
March 18, 2014
II. Opening: Meeting called to order at 7:30pm by PTSA President Liz Dunn with approximately 25 parents,
teachers and students in attendance.
III. Secretary’s Report: Summary of February 2014 Minutes was reviewed; a motion was made to approve
the Minutes. Motion was seconded and approved by a majority of members.
IV. Student Interview: PTSA Vice President Danielle Gillon conducted an interview with senior Rico Francis,
who has been a part of SGA all four years at NHS. In addition to SGA, Rico participated in cross -country,
swimming-diving, and SGA. He was SGA president last school year. Rico is in the Humanities Pathway, which
he says teaches empathy for others which is helpful in our diverse area. As part of the Humanities Pathway
students work on a Capstone project. Rico’s Capstone project is to create a welcome video for NHS. Rico will
attend Christopher Newport College in the fall.
V. Principal’s Report: Ms. Charley-Greene first thanked Rico for being interviewed and Alice Stephens for
her stellar job on the PTSA newsletter.
Ms. Charley-Greene reviewed upcoming dates, including end of 3rd quarter on 3/27/14 with Friday, 3/28/14
a professional day for teachers and no school for students. A spring dance is scheduled for the evening of
3/28/14, April 3 is Billboard Magic, Mr. Northwood competition is April 10. Graduation day is June 2 at DAR
Constitution Hall.
The Minority Scholars Task Force now has a chapter at Northwood.
A decision has not yet been made on making up the snow days. Dr. Starr will request a waiver from the State.
Ms. Charley-Greene and staff are preparing for next school year. One position that will open is for a full -time
Theatre teacher and Ms. Charley-Greene is seeking input from parents on characteristics required in a
Theatre teacher.
A parent commented that information for senior parents needs to be communicated more clearly and
recommended a senior meeting should take place before the senior meeting that is typically scheduled in the
spring.
VI. Presentation on the College Application process by Ms. Tamara Wolfson
Ms. Wolfson provided an overview of the college application process, noting it starts in freshman
year. Students and parents can be doing things each year to help the student with college admission. Ms.
Wolfson recommends that freshman year the student try new things. Sophomores should take the PSAT.
Juniors should take the PSAT, SAT/ACT and visit colleges. She recommends that students don’t necessarily
have to go on a college tour, but can simply visit the college and walk around or go to an event there. Senior
year is taking SAT/ACT and completing college applications.
VII. President’s Report
Liz requested current PTSA Treasurer Cathy Shrestha and VP Danielle Gillon to briefly describe their
roles on the PTSA Executive Board. There are open slots for the next school year for interested parents.
Liz requested the following individuals to provide reports:
1. Deb Frew reported on the After-Prom Party. It will be held at Dave & Buster’s at White Flint Mall
immediately following the Prom. NHS has paid the initial deposit and ½ the balance. Gift cards are welcome
to be provided as prizes. In the next few weeks Deb will put out emails seeking volunteers to chaperone the
After-Prom.
2. Melissa Goemann reported on the Silent Auction, which is the main fundraiser for the After-Prom.
The Auction is all online and opens March 23 and runs through April 6. She requests everyone to spread the
word about the Auction.
3. Cathy Shrestha reported on the budget. Currently have $17,500 in bank less $6,000 deposit
recently paid to Dave & Buster’s.
4. Andrea Abrams is the MCPPTA Delegate and attended the March 6 Rally for school construction in
Annapolis. She said many Montgomery County officials were also there stating they were trying to get more
funds for MCPS.
5. Liz reported on the PTSA scholarships. About 17 applications were received and 5 scholarships
worth $500 each will be awarded to 5 students. Eligibility requirements include being on FARMS at one point
during the students MCPS career.
6. Liz also noted that Membership forms were available and it’s possible to join any time.
VIII. Adjournment
Meeting was adjourned at 8:55pm.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Susan Luck