Title
School and Community Relations Committee Meeting of November 17, 2008
Body
[The meeting was called to order by Chair Korge at 6 PM. A quorum requirement was met immediately.
Excused Absence: Barbra Harley requested an excused absence. Chairperson Debbie Korge requested more explanation regarding her absence to be submitted at the next meeting.
Vacant Positions: Lili Diaz vacancy has not been filled. Ms. Ana Rodriguez, Ponce de Leon Middle School Principal, would like to be the member of the School and Community Relations Committee. Secretary Garcia informed the committee that no word from City Clerk's Office has been received.
Minutes: A motion was made to accept the October 14, 2008, minutes with one minor change. Motion was made by Victor Shabanah and seconded by Joan Reitsma. Motion was accepted and passed.
New Member: Doug Austin was introduced to the committee. He was appointed by Commissioner William Kerdyk, Jr. Mr. Austin mentioned that he would like to make positive contributions to the community through this committee, thus helping our public schools in the area.
Education Compact: Chairperson Korge mentioned that the agreement continues between the Coral Gables and Miami Dade Public School Board. They continue to strive to meet certain goals.
Coral Gables High School Principal: Mr. Humberto Miret informed the committee that Ms. JoAnne Gans' mother passed away while she was attending a wedding in Las Vegas. If you wish, please call or email her your condolences.
Coral Gables High School Activities: Many sport activities have been scheduled to take place. In particular the Homecoming Dance and Football took place last week. The newspaper was printed in color. Many good things are happening at the school which they are very proud of.
Realtor Open House: This is a fair in which realtors come in to the school in order to showcase the high school. Joan Reitsma mentioned that the perception about the public schools needs to be change and this is an excellent way to change the public's perception. This fair will begin early 2009. This is an excellent way in networking for the school. A video will be shown to the realtors highlighting all the various things that are happening at the school.
Painting: The high school is currently being painted piece by piece. Members mentioned that the school looks very nice with the fresh coat of paint!
FCAT Retake: Ponce and Coral Gables High School are pinpointing the problem areas for those students who had difficulty passing the exam.
Chamber Program: Several students from the level of elementary to high school will give a two minute talk about the relationship that exists between the chamber and the community. Joan Reitma
mentioned that this is an excellent. The Chamber of Coral Gables will have its Christmas Party at the Biltmore Hotel on December 4, 2008. If you are not a chamber member, the public is invited. The reception and silent auction will take place.
Police Issues: The Youth Resource Unit has been very active in investigations investing Department of Children and Families neglect/abuse cases. There has been an increase in those types of cases. The Toy Drive will take place and all of the toys will be donated to the Community Partnership for Homeless and the Barnyard. This is conjunction with the Coral Gables Police Athletic League, Coral Gables Police Explorers, and the Coral Gables Fire Explorers. The toys will be distributed on the 22nd of December. We are extremely busy this time of year with all of the charities asking for assistance and donations. Chairperson Debbie Korge asked all members to donate an unwrapped gift for the cause.
Enews: Members were reminded to submit "good things" about the school to Anna Garcia so she can forward the information to Maria Higgins.
Coral Gables Adult Center: Mr. Cazanas informed that several classes are not held due to lack of participation. Advertizing is crucial for the night school. Again Chairperson Debbie Korge mentioned that it was in the best interest for the school to forward the class information to Anna Garcia. This information will be forward to Maria Higgins for the Enews.
City Projects Update: None
Next Meeting Dates: The SCRC will meet again on Tuesday, December 16, 2008, at 6 PM. The location will be announced.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:40 PM.
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