Southern Wake Academy

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a review of the agenda, which included moving the finance update earlier for a remote presenter. Key discussion items involved the school logo; specifically, whether to seek legal advice and pursue trademarking due to unauthorized use on social media platforms, with concerns raised about the associated legal costs and lengthy process. Another major topic was the land use of several undeveloped acres behind the loop. The board discussed obtaining initial engineering drawings, potentially costing between $5,000 and $7,500, to explore developing sports fields, weighing this against the costs of fencing (estimated at $25,000 for the soccer area) and potential return on investment from field rentals (estimated at $26,000 to $30,000 annually). Discussions also touched upon necessary ancillary costs like arborist reports and bleacher maintenance requirements, and the need for future strategic budget allocation for the project.

Key discussions included the election of a new Secretary and a review of the Treasurer's Report showing fund balances from June through September 4, 2024, with a current balance of $9,160.86. Planned PTO events for September, October, and November were outlined, including Adopt A Highway, the Fall Festival (where pizza will be sold), and the Vendor Fair (which will feature a PTO snack booth). The Uniform Swap Event was highly successful, generating $4,715.78. The board updated guidelines on their Facebook page. Questions raised included seeking PTO assistance for a School Resource Officer (deferred to the school board) and inquiring about the date for Senior pictures (set for 10/29).

The meeting included a Treasurer's Report detailing bank balances as of January 31, 2025, and February 5, 2025. It was noted that all supplies for teacher grant recipients have been purchased and delivered. Upcoming PTO events scheduled include a highway clean up, a teacher/staff luncheon, Teacher Appreciation Week, a dress down day, and a National Honor Society Induction. A suggestion was made regarding gift baskets for Teacher Appreciation Week organized by grade level.

Key discussions included the restructuring of PTO board positions for the 2025-2026 school year due to lack of outside interest, resulting in Gina Lawrence becoming President, Brian Murawsky Vice President, Kristen Crawford Secretary, and Sherri Calhoun Treasurer. The Treasurer's report detailed bank balances across several months, noting an increase in April attributed to a dress down day collection and a Booster check refund. Fundraising activities covered yard sign sales for 8th grade and seniors, and a March dress down day. Upcoming events scheduled include Adopt-A-Highway, Teacher Appreciation Week logistics (including basket assembly and theme), and a change in process for Uniform Donations, shifting to scheduled collection by a volunteer. The Quarter 4 Portfolio Luncheon was changed to boxed lunches from Publix due to scheduling conflicts with teacher graduation practice. Additionally, the school hired a marketing firm to create an advertisement featuring current students.

Key discussions included the Treasurer's Report showing current PTO funds of $4,769.40. Updates were provided on recent events such as Teacher Appreciation Week, Testing Treats distribution for MS and HS students, a successful Adopt-a-Highway cleanup, and the 8th Grade Graduation signs fundraiser which provided $200 for the MS celebration. Financial updates were given on the Chipotle Spirit Night and the HundredX Fundraiser, which is expected to yield about $2k for the PTO. The Book Fair concluded successfully. Upcoming events include the Teacher Appreciation Luncheon and a Uniform Swap Event, for which collection is ongoing. Senior Initiatives updates noted a Carowinds trip was attended by 35 students and 4 chaperones. The 2024-2025 PTO Officers were approved, including the President and Treasurer, with the Vice President role pending appointment. Reminders were given regarding directing policy questions to school administration.