CH Yearly Board Planning Meeting

2011-12 CH Board of Directors

 

Karl Vizmeg, Matt Haines, Heather Evans, Debra Didier, Michelle Crowly, Rachal Milford, Heather Shepherd, Einue Piper

Tonight we had the annual CH board retreat. As you can see the theme was the celebration of our 5 years of serving our children. The board for this coming year will be leaner than in the past. Three of last years board members are leaving: Deena Pyle, Angie Lylewhite and Greg Featherstone. We want to sincerely thank them for the incredible service they provided to our school. Unlike the picture shows this was a working meeting and below is the recap of the 4 1/2 hour "retreat".  It is a recap of our past year and our hopes and aspirations for the next.

Channing Halls fifth year of existence has been tremendous! The year started out with completion of the 4000 sf addition to the West side. Then we got IB certification, a beautiful annual giving brick walkway and the most successful fund-raising campaign yet. Internally, in the boardroom (library) the not so evident- but significant- accomplishments included streamlined meetings, important policy updates, an Annual report, and most importantly maintaining our financial stability. Indeed, we were even able to provide the teachers with a much deserved bonus after having their pay frozen the last few years due to the recession.

Now for the next year. Under the professional moderation of Kathy Gowans, the new board brainstormed the needs and goals for the next year. We identified the basis of our success so far- financial responsibility, governing by policy, adhering to our vision statement and commitment to the IB principles. These, obviously, would be the core we will continue to focus on.  But to continually strive to improve and provide more for our children we searched for further goals. This centered around encouraging more participation of our families in the learning experience of our students. The more parents are involved in their childrens education the greater the outcome- mentally and emotionally. To do this we will seek to improve our communication with the families so they know what is expected, what options there are and how to get involved. Parental involvement at school gives the message to our students that we care. If we show that we care what happens at school, they will care to do better.

We are looking forward to working with more parents on our committees and in the school. We hope to develop an informed community of responsibility, caring, and giving at Channing Hall.