March 10, 2026

Dedham School PTF Meeting Minutes

Date: March Meeting

Time Called to Order: 5:40 PM

Adjourned: 6:40 PM

Attendees

Katie McCourt, Madeline Wright, Jerry Troger, Jody Butilier, Carl Witham, Jennifer Soucek, John Lear

1. Approval of February Minutes

February minutes were reviewed. No major corrections were raised beyond items already

included on the current agenda. Motion made and seconded to approve the February

minutes. Approved.

2. Treasurer’s Report

Current balances were reviewed. Approximately $650 reflects previously approved expenses

not yet paid out. Clarified that this includes Math Olympiad shirts ($70) and Girls on the Go

expenses currently submitted (~$71.71) within the previously approved $450 allocation.

3. Teacher’s Room Supplies

Discussion focused on shortages in the teacher’s room including napkins, plastic utensils,

and K-cups. A large supply of these items was discovered in the storage closet, so no

immediate purchases are needed. The group discussed possible systems for supporting the

teacher’s room going forward, including an Amazon wish list, donation requests, or Signup

Genius lists.

4. Cooking Club Request

A request was discussed for reimbursement of cooking club ingredients. Estimated total for all

sessions was approximately $90–$100. Motion made to approve up to $150 for cooking club

supplies. Seconded and approved unanimously.

5. Voting Procedure Clarification

The group briefly reviewed the formal process for motions: motion, second, discussion, and

vote, to ensure meeting minutes clearly document approvals moving forward.

6. Hannaford Gift Card Fundraiser

The PTF applied for a Hannaford gift card fundraising account which allows the PTF to

receive approximately 5% back from purchases. Motion made to approve purchase of $1,000

worth of Hannaford gift cards once the account is approved. Motion seconded and approved.

7. Bottle Drive

Bottle drive remains an ongoing fundraising effort. Warmer weather may increase

participation.

8. Benevity Check

A check and paperwork from Benevity were reviewed. The group discussed concerns that

depositing the check could automatically enroll the PTF in their services. The group agreed

not to deposit the check at this time and to retain the paperwork for reference.

9. Storage Closet Clean-Out

Volunteers completed a major clean-out of the storage closet. Old items, duplicates, and

damaged materials were removed. Usable items were offered to staff and some items were

donated to Win-Win. Teachers were notified and invited to claim any items before donation or

disposal.

10. Spring Fling – Peakes Hill Lodge

Planning for the Spring Fling event was discussed. Venue costs at Peakes Hill Lodge are

$250 per hour for two hours ($500). Food platters are estimated at $175 and the DJ

requested $250. A deposit has already been paid. Motion made to approve $725 to cover

remaining venue and DJ costs. Motion seconded and approved.

11. Scratch-Off Fundraiser Flyer

The scratch-off fundraiser flyer was reviewed. Clarification will be added to indicate that

completed materials should be returned to the school office.

12. Bylaws Amendment Discussion

A proposed amendment to the bylaws was presented regarding eligibility for PTF officers.

The proposed wording would require candidates to be a parent, guardian, or caregiver of a

student currently registered at Dedham School. Per bylaws, the amendment will be voted on

at the next meeting.

13. Teacher Appreciation Gifts

Discussed.

14. Eighth Grade Graduation Flowers

Discussion continued regarding providing flowers for eighth grade graduation. Volunteers

expressed willingness to assemble bouquets if necessary.

15. Next Meeting

The next meeting is scheduled for April 14 at 5:30 PM.

16. Adjournment

Motion made to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 6:40 PM.