A report from the St. Peter’s Parent and Teacher Association

This year has been very exciting for the St. Peter’s Parents and Teachers Association.  With $79,000 raised by our various fundraising events, we have been able to make several purchases that are making a positive impact on our students’ educational experience here at St. Peter’s.  Your outstanding efforts as parent volunteers and supporters of the school’s fundraising efforts have allowed us to do the following this school year:  

Complete the final $50,000 installment of SPPAT’s $350,000 pledge to the Capital Campaign for our new building.  

Purchase 16 new Dell computers and flat screen monitors for the classrooms at a cost of $14,700.  

Purchase the Accelerated Math software program at a cost of $580.  This program has already been installed and is being used in the classrooms. Like the Accelerated Reader program that St. Peter’s has been using, Accelerated Math offers greater challenges to our students.  Teachers have commented that having the additional new computer in their classroom allows students to work on both the accelerated math and accelerated reader programs with less wait time for a computer. 

Purchase an exciting new software program called Scholastic Keys.

This program, specifically geared toward elementary school learners, teaches students to use software such as Power Point, Excel, Word, etc. to enhance their classroom work.  This software will give our students valuable new computer skills that are needed as they enter middle school.  The Power Point program will be used as a tool in student presentations and Excel will be used in data collection exercises.  In addition, a new LCD projector will make instructions quick and clear to all at computer stations, while completed assignments can be printed at the new laser printer. The software, projector and printer will be ready for use when school resumes in August. Total project cost $2100.  

Purchase a complete set of fine art prints that corresponds with the Core Knowledge Visual Arts Sequence used in Pre K through 5^th grade. Cost of Art prints $1500.  

Purchase the Betty Lukens Deluxe Felt Board Bible Set.  This set will be used by teachers to bring Bible stories to life for our students in the younger grades and preschool classrooms. It contains scenery items, backgrounds, overlays and figures to illustrate 182 stories from the Old and New Testament. Cost of Felt Boards $350.00  

Purchase an AED Device (Automated External Defibrillator) and fund training for entire Staff. An AED is a device that analyzes the heart's rhythm for any abnormalities and, if necessary, directs the rescuer to deliver an electrical shock to the victim. This shock, called defibrillation, may help the heart to reestablish an effective rhythm of its own. The SPPAT funded purchase also prompted the Church to purchase an additional device ensuring access and protection for church and school. Cost of AED and Training $3000. In addition SPPAT is funding the credentialing of our Staff at a cost of $300.  

Teacher Appreciation Expenditures were $9500. This included beginning of the school year classroom improvement funds, coffee, Christmas and Year End Luncheons, year end bonuses and an Extreme Makeover of the Faculty Lounge.  

SPPAT Funds are also used for Gardening, Field Day, Mentor Program for new Families, Graduation, Grandparent’s Day, Volunteer Appreciation and Workday Expenses.  

Furthermore, Immediate Future Expenses approved, as requested by the School Board, include $18,000 to be used for start up costs associated with a new receptionist and School Crossing Zone Lights.

It is SPPAT’s charge to use the monies generated by the fundraisers to further the education and environment of all our children. We truly appreciate the support you have given the school and our children by donating your time to volunteer projects as well as the financial support you have given to the school’s fundraising programs. 

Kay Baker

SPPAT President