Check this page every month for the meeting agenda, budget, and previous meeting's minutes. 

Next PTA Meeting 

October, 2025 at 7:00 PM

All are welcome to join us!  

Meetings are usually held in the Sparke GPR, 

PTA Meetings are a great way to hear from: 

• K-4 grade level teachers as to what's going on in the classrooms

• Both elementary principals regarding news in our schools 

• The PTA will update you on all activities, fundraisers and volunteer opportunities

2024-2025 Meeting Minutes

Island Trees Elementary PTA Meeting Agenda

June 4, 2025

Meeting was opened at 7:04pm

OPENING MEETING:

Inspirational Message: Maryann Borra- “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”- Gandhi

Minutes From the April Meeting were approved and posted

Treasurer’s Report: Melisa Esposito- Current balance is $74, 001.82. The outgoing amount being used towards vendors for multiple first and fourth grade events is $12,344.47

Correspondence: Laura Maxon for Princess Saa-Matos- Various cards were received from staff members from Sparke and Stokes to say “thank you” for teacher appreciation week.  Also the PTA read a note from Coach at Sparke who will be retiring this year.

Board of Ed Report: Marissa Cifarelli- Recognition of tenure for 18 teachers district wide. The top 10 of the class of 2025 were recognized. Updates to the district’s safety plan were approved. The plan is 59 pages and can be found under BOE agenda item #3. The summer camps and programs for K-12 were approved and a parent square message was sent out regarding signups. The Board thanked the community for the passing of the budget. Vinny Papandrea and Larry Ortolani were re-elected. The HS Big Apple Social Studies trip to NYC for the college conversation Spanish class was approved.

PTSA: Melissa Rufael- Over Memorial Day weekend four ITMMS students competed in the International Academics Competitions National Championships in Orlando Florida.  Congratulations to them for representing Island Trees! Mr. Keegan has sent home a Parent Square message as well as an email to register your child if they are entering 7th grade and will be going on the 7th grade trip to Boston. The first 100 students that register and pay the deposit will be guaranteed for the trip.  Any students that register after that will be wait-listed and then if they have at least 35 wait-listed students, then they will be able to add a third bus for the trip.  The deadline for the registration is June 8th. The deadline for the Island Trees summer enrichment camps is June 6th. The GOAT fundraiser was a big success and everyone who ordered will be notified as soon as items are available to pick up. Important upcoming dates:

Monday June 9th at 7pm- National Junior Honor Society Inductions at the HS

Tuesday June 10th at 7pm- The 5th and 6th grade Spring Concert in the HS auditorium

Wednesday June 11th at 3pm- ITMMS Athletic Awards

Monday June 16th- Senior class picnic

Thursday June 19th- All schools are CLOSED

Thursday June 26th- Senior Prom

Friday June 27th- Last day of school. Dismissal for the MS and the HS is 10:40am. Graduation is at 6pm at the HS.

Thursday June 5th- Last PTSA meeting at the MS library

SEPTA: Bella Totino-SEPTA would like to thank everyone who attended the painting night on April 24th. It was such a wonderful evening!! We would also like to thank the HS Baseball/Softball staff and athletes for hosting the challenger clinic on April 26th. Our kids who attended had a great experience. SEPTA would like to wish everyone a wonderful end to this school year and a fun and restful summer!!

Library: Susana Ribeiro- All-Ages Summer Reading Kickoff will be on Monday, June 30 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM. The library offers ZUMBA on Wednesdays @ 9:00am. Free haircuts and manicures will be available on Tuesday, June 10 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Meet dogs from Last Hope Animal Rescue on Saturday, June 28 at 11AM - 2 PM. Teen Harry Potter Terrarium craft will be on Tuesday, July 8 from 6:15 - 7:45 PM. You can meet the Harry Potter animals on Saturday, July 12 from 10 AM - 12 PM. REMINDERS: The Library offers notary services and free museum passes. NEW Library Hours: Monday - Thursday 9am - 8pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, CLOSED SUNDAYS

TEACHER’S REPORT:

Mrs. Schramm and Ms. Mertz- Sparke Teacher reps.

Ms. Martin and Mrs. Emigholz- Stokes Teacher reps.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT:

Dr. Fisher- Sparke Principal

Mrs. Ackerman- Stokes Principal

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Cultural Arts/Assemblies- Andrew Cornicello- The planetarium assembly was a big hit at Stokes. The librarian at Stokes reported that there has been an increase in solar system books being taken out since the assembly. The planetarium assembly will be held at Sparke tomorrow.

Fourth Grade Committee-Fourth Grade Celebration, T-Shirts, and Yearbook/Yearbook Donation, 50/50- Melisa Esposito- The Fourth Grade Celebration is on 6/7. The yearbook is complete and is currently being printed. It is $32 to order a copy of the yearbook. You can send in cash or check or use the CheddarUp link to order yours today! The yearbooks should be here in about 2 weeks and will be given out to the students at school.

Square One Art- Lori Wood for Marissa Cifarelli- Projects are completed and items are available to purchase from the website.

First Grade Send Off/Shirts- Maria Grupposo- Neon shirts have been ordered and will be given to all first-grade students which can be worn to the fun fair and the first grade send off. 

Special Persons Boutique-Lori Wood- This was a great event back in May. The students had a great time shopping.

School Supply Kits- Lori Wood for Princess Saa-Matos- Supply kits are available for purchase for the next school for grades K-5th grade. The deadline for purchase is 7/1 and the kits will be shipped directly to your home.

Sparke Fun Fair- Erin Vangelli- We are all set for the Fun Fair. The “Mad Scientist” is coming. We will have inflatables as well as a DJ again. Volunteers are needed so please reach out to help during this great event!

Elementary Family Picnic- Erin Vangelli- We have a DJ lined up for the picnic. Richie the Ice Cream man will also be coming. We are waiting to hear back about the food trucks that will be coming.

Greeting Card Fundraiser- Erin Vangelli- This fundraiser was run in May. We sold 59 boxes of cards which raised $767 for the PTA. We still have two “All Occasions” boxes for sale if anyone is interested.

OLD BUSINESS:

PARP at Sparke-Maria Gruposso- This was a very successful event and there was even a visit from the bulldog!

Honorary Life & Founders Day Awards & Dinner- Laura Maxon- This was a very fun event held at Domenico’s. The award dinner will be held at a new location next year.

Hershey Park Tickets- Andrew Cornicello - This fundraiser raised around $1200 for the PTA. Just under 200 tickets as well as 35 parking passes were sold. Next year the tickets will be available electronically.

Sparke/Stokes Staff Recognition Luncheon-Maria Ginestri- Staff at both schools were very thankful for the amazing luncheon.

Literacy Event for Incoming K Students-Lori Wood- The PTA provided books for all incoming Kindergarten students.

JUNE

Friday, June 6th

Fourth Grade Send Off Celebration

Stokes School During the School Day

Tuesday, June 10th

RAINDATE-Fourth Grade Send Off Celebration-Stokes School During the School Day

Thursday June 12th and Friday June 13th

Kindergarten Celebrations at Sparke School During the School Day

Wednesday, June 18th

Bus Ride for Incoming K Students

During the Morning at Sparke School

Friday, June 20th

Fun Fair at Sparke During the School Day

Elementary Family Picnic at Sparke in the Evening

Monday, June 23rd

Grade Four Stokes Moving Up at ITHS in the Morning

Wednesday, June 25th

First Grade Send off at Sparke During the School Day

Friday, June 27th-Last Day of School-HAPPY SUMMER

Meeting was closed at 7:32pm.

April 2, 2025

Reflections Presentation Before the Meeting-Facilitated by Carol Romano

OPENING MEETING:

Laura Maxon opened the meeting at  7:14pm. 

Inspirational Message: Lori Wood for Maryann Borra- “Community is much more than belonging to something: it’s about doing something together that makes belonging matter”

Minutes From the March Meeting were approved and posted

Treasurer’s Report: Lori Wood for Melisa Esposito- Current Balance: $80,249.64  Pending outgoing: $9,152.15 Estimated operating budget: $71,000. Profits from the Blitz fundraiser are estimated to be around $25,000. More accurate numbers will be available and shared at the next PTA meeting.

Correspondence: Lori Wood for Princess Saa-Matos- No correspondence

Board of Ed Report: Marissa Cifarelli- The Board of Education recognized some student winners including the MMS spelling bee winner, HS Girls Winter track relay team, the Nassau County wrestling champion and the Patriot’s Pen Youth Essay contest winner. The board also approved some new fire doors at Stokes. They also approved a new policy regarding extreme heat condition days.  Schools will follow this protocol to make sure everyone is safe during days where it can get too hot. This protocol includes turning off classroom lights, opening windows, pulling down shades and turning off items that use electricity. If the heat conditions rise to 88 degrees, this may result in students being sent home if they cannot be relocated to a cooler place. There is also a new position on the board called the “Ex Officio” which is a student from the high school that will sit in on the board during the meetings to get a the perspective of a student.

PTSA: Gina Campagna for Melissa Rufael- The Island Trees HS baseball team has an Autism Acceptance apparel sale ongoing until April 11th. Junior prom is from 7pm-11pm on Friday April 4th.  The National Art Honor society and high school art expo is Monday April 7th at 6pm at the high school. The MS talent show will be on Wednesday April 9th for the 5th and 6th grade students and Thursday April 10th for 7th and 8th graders.  The time for both days is 3:15pm. Registration for Summer enrichment camps and programs are open. The Island Trees High School family and consumer science department is offering a free educational program for preschool children. Application forms will be available in the ITHS main office April 7th through April 11th. The MS BOGO book sale will be on May 15th and 16th. The PTSA will be hosting a Goat USA fundraiser, there will be goodies and T-shirts available. There is still some spirit wear available. Email PTSA if interested. Next PTSA meeting will be on June 3rd in the Middle School library.

SEPTA: Bella Totino- Happy Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month! The Blitz was amazing and thank you to all that attended. SEPTA raised $1,500 which is $500 more than last year. Reminders: April 9th at the IT Library there will be a Special Needs Planning Workshop at 6pm in the Small Community Room. April 24th will be the SETPA Paint Night at Pinots Palette from 6:30pm-8:30pm. April 26th is the Challenger Baseball/Softball Clinic for grades K-12 from 10am-11am at ITHS.  Registration is via email. The next SEPTA meeting will be on May 22nd at 7pm in the ITMS.

Library: Gina Campagna for Susana Ribeiro- The Seed Library is now open (while supplies last). The library will be hosting a “Make Your Own Candle” Night on April 16th at 6:30 pm. There will be a petting zoo on April 16th at 2:00, 2:30 or 3:00pm on the front lawn.  The event will be moved to the community room if it rains. The Spring Paint Night will be on May 8th at 6:00pm.  All supplies will be provided. Spots are limited and the fee is $5. Registration begins 3 weeks before the start of the program. Reminders: the library offers notary services and free museum passes. There are new library hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday-CLOSED.

TEACHER’S REPORT:

Mrs. Schramm and Ms. Mertz- Sparke Teacher reps.

Ms. Martin and Mrs. Emigholz- Stokes Teacher reps.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT:

Dr. Fisher- Sparke Principal

Mrs. Ackerman- Stokes Principal

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Cultural Arts- Roseann Castro-Sparke and Stokes- Janice Bruckner will be here to help celebrate PARP week at Sparke. The Planetarium assembly will be held again in the spring and John the magician will be at Sparke towards the end of the year.

Fourth Grade Committee, Fourth Grade Celebration and Yearbook- Laura Maxon for Melisa Esposito- A committee will be formed. The yearbook is underway and due on April 25th. Fundraisers will be rolled out soon.

School Store-Laura Maxon for Maria Ginestri- The final school store will be held sometime in the spring.

Square One Art- Marissa Cifarelli- The student’s artwork is on its way to the facility.  There is a two-week turnaround and ordering instructions will be sent home soon. Your child’s artwork can be added to various items including magnets, mugs, and canvas bags.

PARP- Roseann Castro for Maria Grupposo – The theme for Sparke’s PARP week is “Knocking it out of the PARP”. Volunteers are needed for counting minutes on Fridays. There will also be a family reading night next week.

Honorary Life & Founders Day Awards & Dinner- Laura Maxon- The dinner will be held at Domenico’s on 5/1. Winners for both awards have been selected and will be notified soon.

Hershey Park Tickets- Andrew Cornicello- We are finalizing the cheddar up account so we will be able to take electronic payments for tickets. Tickets will be available for anyone to purchase even if you are not a member of IT.  We are looking into an option to mail tickets to those that order and cannot pick up tickets in person.

Special Persons Boutique- Laura Maxon- The Special Person Gift Fair will be on 5/7 at Stokes and 5/8 at Sparke. Volunteers are needed to help set up both fairs, move the fair from Stokes to Sparke and the day of the fairs to help the students shop.

Sparke Send Off Shirts & Celebration- Roseann Castro for Maria Grupposo- Autograph books and shirts are in the works for the end of the year.

School Supply Kits- Laura Maxon for Princess Saa-Matos- Conversations have begun with the principals to get the supply lists for next year so the school supply kits can be created and ready for ordering.

Book Fair at Sparke- Roseann Castro- The book fair at Sparke will be on 5/10. Volunteers are needed to help the day of the fair to help the students shop. As always there will be a table of free books for students to shop at also.

Fun Fair-Erin Vangelli- We are in the early stages of planning the fun fair. We are going to meet soon to get everything set up. If anyone has any ideas for a fun craft, please email your ideas over.

Greeting Cards-Erin Vangelli- We are going to be doing the Greeting Card Fundraiser again this year. It is going to be the same as last year with a box of cards being $30. This year they combined the two “All Occasions” boxes to make them a little better. This fundraiser will begin after spring break and pick up will be sometime in the beginning of May.

OLD BUSINESS:

Blitz- Lori Wood- The Blitz was a big success and a great night. Thank you to all that helped. If you have any suggestions for next year, please let the PTA know.

APRIL & MAY PTA CALENDAR

Sign Up Sheets for all in the back and please don’t forget to sign in to the meeting!

APRIL

Tuesday April 1st thru Friday, April 11th PARP at Sparke

Thursday, April 10th

Sparke Book Fair

Sparke Family Reading Night

Wednesday, April 23th

Admin. Professionals Day

MAY

Thursday, Principals Day May 1st

Thursday, May 1st

Founder’s Day & Honorary Life Dinner

5:30-9:30 p.m.

Friday, May 2nd

National Lunch Hero Day

Tuesday, May 6th

Nurses Day

Sparke/Stokes Staff Recognition Day

Luncheon

Wednesday, May 7th

Special Person Gift Fair at Stokes

Thursday, May 8th

Special Person Gift Fair at Sparke

Kindergarten Orientation at Sparke Evening for Incoming K Students

Friday, May 9th

Field Day at Stokes

RAINDATE is 5/16-Field Day at Stokes During the School Day

Tuesday, May 20th

Authors & Artists at Sparke During Day

Thursday, May 29th

Literacy Event for Incoming K Students at Sparke During the School Day

Friday, May 30th

Sparke Field Day During the School Day

Wednesday, June 4th

PTA Meeting -Stokes School 7:00 p.m.

(Volunteer Recognition and Refreshments)

Meeting was adjourned at 7:38 pm.

March 11, 2025

Laura Maxon opened the meeting at 7:02 pm. 

OPENING MEETING:

Inspirational Message: Maryann Borra- “Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those who are giving more” – H. Jackson Brown Jr.

Minutes From the January Meeting were approved and posted.

Treasurer’s Report: Melisa Esposito- Current balance is $47,657.09.  Pending outgoing is $8,066.  Current operating budget is $39, 591.09.

Nominating Committee- 2025/2026 Slate Vote: Melisa Esposito reporting for Maria Grupposo- The comittee met on 2/7 to discuss the Elementary PTA Board for the upcoming 25/26 school year. The proposed board members were reviewed and voted on.  The 25/26 Elementary PTA board was approved.

Correspondence: Princess Saa-Matos- No correspondence

PTSA: Melissa Rufael- THE 25/26 PTSA board was voted on and approved. The high school will be starting      regents review sessions and A/P reviews started on March 10th. All other reviews begin on April 7th. One winner from our Reflections contest will be going to the state level. The Middle school BOGO book sale will be on 5/15 and 5/16. The PTSA will be hosting a Goat USA fundraiser where there will be goodies and       t-shirts available for purchase. There is still some spirit wear available. Email PTSA if interested. Island Trees Dollars for Scholars scholarships applications are now open with a March 19th deadline. Information can be found on the Island Trees District website. The link for the school supply kits for the 5th and 6th graders will be available soon.

Upcoming events:

March 18th, 19th and 20th - Middle school production of Beetle Juice Jr

March 21st - 5th and 6th grade social at ITMMS

March 31st - April 4th is the 6th grade trip to Ashokan

April 4th is the Jr Prom

The next PTSA meeting will be on June 3rd in the middle school library.

SEPTA: Bella Totino- The T-shirt and bracelet fundraiser raised $100.  Flyers for our Inclusive Spirit Week will be handed out this week.  Our spirit week will be 3/17-3/21 (Monday- wear green, Tuesday- PJ day, Wednesday- Mismatch color day, Thursday- Superhero day, Friday- Crazy Sock Day).  March 21st please wear socks that are going to be noticed for Down Syndrome Awareness! Sock coloring pages were also sent home so the students can decorate them and send them back into school to be displayed. April 9th at 6pm there will be a workshop for Special Needs Planning in the small community room at the IT Public Library.  They will discuss learning how government programs may pay for basic living expenses; the importance of precise planning; steps to take so your loved ones have a lifestyle you desire for them during your life and after death.  April 24th is the SEPTA Paint Night at Pinot’s Palette from 6:30pm-8:30pm.  April 26th is the Challenger Baseball/Softball Clinic for grades K-12 from 10am-11am (siblings are welcome) at the Island Trees High School.  You can register for this great event via email.

Library: Gina Campagna reporting for Susana Ribeiro- ADOPTION EVENT- Meet some Furry Friends looking for a Forever Home - March 29th 11am - 2pm. A Spring Paint Night will be held on May 8th at 6pm. All    supplies will be provided. Spots are limited! • Fee: $5. Registration begins 3 weeks before the start of the program. The library will be having a petting zoo on Wednesday, April 16th at 2:00, 2:30 OR 3:00 PM on the Front Lawn. (The event will move to community room if it rains). Don’t forget the library offers Notary    Services and Free Museum Passes. The library has new hours: Monday - Thursday 9am - 8pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, CLOSED SUNDAYS.

TEACHER’S REPORT:

Mrs. Schramm and Ms. Mertz- Sparke Teacher reps.

Ms. Martin and Mrs. Emigholz- Stokes Teacher reps.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT:

Dr. Fisher- Sparke Principal

Mrs. Ackerman- Stokes Principal

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Cultural Arts- Andrew Cornicello- We have Janice Buckner coming back to Sparke for PARP this year. The planetarium assembly will also be returning at the end of May. Stokes field day will have a DJ and the DJ is booked for every remaining event for the schools.

Fourth Grade Committee and Yearbook- Melisa Esposito- The yearbook cover was submitted. If you haven’t sent in your baby pictures for your 4th grader, please submit them via email. Be on the lookout for flyers containing information regarding the money collection for the yearbook. March 24th the photographer will be coming back to Stokes to take club pictures and class pictures on the stairs.  The committee will be having a meeting after the Blitz to discuss upcoming events.

School Store- Maria Ginestri- As always, the students love coming and shopping at the school store. There will be one remaining school store for the year.

Book Fair- Roseann Castro- The book fair at Sparke will be on April 10th. There will be a new table of    modern classics.  Information will be going home in the first week of April.

Square One Art- Lori Woods for Marissa Cifarelli- The students have completed their art pieces and they have been sent to the company. Parents can then put the designs their children created on various items including mugs, stickers, bags, etc. Order forms will be sent home.

Blitz- Lori Woods & Laura Maxon- The Blitz will be on Friday 3/28 at the Island Trees Middle School. All the gifts and baskets have been wrapped. Thank you to everyone that helped wrap. The Blitz will have a DJ and MC.   Flyers were sent home containing information about how to purchase tickets. Many great items are available. The doors for the event will open at 5:30pm if you pre-purchase your tickets.  If you purchase your entry ticket at the door of the event, you can enter at 6pm. Set up for the Blitz will be 7pm-9pm on 3/27 at the middle school. We are still taking donations and sponsorships which can be added to baskets.

VIP Day- Maria Ginestri & Maria Grupposo- It was a fun day for everyone.  The students and their VIPs did crafts together. The students also put on a singing performance for the event. It was a successful day for everyone.                          

PARP at Sparke- Melisa Esposito for Maria Grupposo- PARP will run at Sparke on April 1st- April 11th. The theme will be “Hit it out of the PARP”. The bulletin board will be put up on April 1st. Books have been     purchased to be given out for the students. We need volunteers to help count minutes on Fridays if anyone is interested. April 10th Sparke will be having a family night with crafts and reading activities. Volunteers are needed.

Honorary Life & Founders Day- Laura Maxon- The district dinner will be held on May 1st at Domenico’s. The flyers went home if you would like to nominate someone. The Honorary Life award can be a parent or   community member. The Founders Day award is to nominate a teacher, staff or administrator. Flyers have been sent home with information.

Hershey Park Tickets - Andrew Cornicello- This fundraiser will be running again this year. Information will be sent home soon containing information. Friends and family can purchase tickets as well this year.

OLD BUSINESS:

Math Mania- Lori Woods for Maria Grupposo- The names of the students who participated in Math Mania are on the bulletin board at Sparke. It was great to see so many students participate in Math Mania.

Pizza Kit Fundrasier-Lori Woods- The fundraiser raised a few hundred dollars for the PTA and the pizzas were delicious. The kits were provided by Vincenzos in Levittown.

PARP at Stokes- Roseann Castro- The theme this year was “Hit it out of the PARP” and all the students did a great job reading throughout the week.

MARCH & APRIL PTA CALENDAR

MARCH

Begin Process of School Supply Kits

Thursday, March 27th

Blitz Set Up at ITMS-7:00 p.m.

Friday, March 28th

Blitz at ITMS-5:30 p.m.

APRIL

Tuesday April 1st thru Friday, April 11th PARP at Sparke

Wednesday, April 2nd

PTA Meeting -Sparke School 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 10th

Sparke Book Fair

Sparke Family Reading Night

Wednesday, April 23rd

Admin. Professionals Day

UPCOMING COMMITTEES TO BE FILLED:

Sign Up Sheets for all in the back.

-   Book Fair- Please contact Roseann Castro if you can assist with the fairs or are interested in co-chairing.

-   PARP-Sign up to help with counting students’ minutes at Sparke.

-   Blitz Canvassing Committee- Contact Lori Woods if you are interested in assisting with obtaining donations for our Blitz, volunteering at the Blitz, or setting up the night before.

Next meeting will be April 2nd.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:40 pm.

January 8, 2025

OPENING MEETING:

Inspirational Message: Maryann Borra- “A successful team is a group of many hands and one mind.” Bill Bethel

Minutes From the November Meeting were approved and posted

Treasurer’s Report: Melisa Esposito- Current Balance is $56,415.20. Pending outgoing is $11,000-$12,000 depending on amounts from Miss Chocolate. The current operating budget is $44,415.20.

Correspondence: Laura Maxon for Princess Saa-Matos- The PTA received holiday cards from the teachers.  There was also a thank you from Princess Saa-Matos.

Board of Ed Report: Lori Wood for Marisa Cifarelli- The Broadway trips into NYC for the middle school and high school students have been approved.  Recognition has been given to All Court, All Star and LIFSA high school students. The 2025-2026 school calendar has been approved. 

PTSA: Melissa Rufael- Next PTSA meeting will be on March 4th at the MS library.  There is some leftover spirit wear from Homecoming including t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, patches and Jibbitz.  If interested, please send an email to    ITPTSAPres@gmail.com. Middle school PTSA Scholarships- students must be members of their 8th grade year to be     eligible for consideration of the PTSA scholarship. The Winter Wonderland Dance for the 7th and 8th graders will be on January 10th at the MS. There will be an informational parent meeting on Wednesday January 22nd at 6pm about the 6th grade Ashokan field trip.  High school orientation for current 8th graders will be on Thursday January 16th at the High School.   High school PTSA Scholarship- students must be members ALL FOUR YEARS while attending the high school to be eligible for consideration of the PTSA Scholarship.  The High School Scholarship requirement form should have been distributed mid-December. If you need a copy, please reach out by email.

SEPTA: Bella Totino- We raised $250 on December 13th with our Pizza Fundraiser in conjunction with Vincenzo’s Pizza Place. Thank you to everyone who came and indulged that day! A special thank you to the Castro family who donated $300 to SEPTA with their family’s Halloween display donations. On December 5th, SEPTA held a workshop with presenter Nicole Lannarone who presented on behaviors and strategies for increasing positive interactions. Although the turnout was not great, those who did attend gave us great feedback and were glad they attended. We are looking forward to upcoming events including inclusion spirit week and additional assemblies.  SEPTA would like to wish    everyone a very happy and healthy new year ahead!

Library: Susana Ribeiro- The library has new hours: Monday - Thursday 9am - 8pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, CLOSED SUNDAYS. Come stop by and visit for the Nassau Library System's Winter Library Tour from January

25th - March 3rd. “Take Your Child to the Library Day” will be on February 1st.  Family Movie Night will be showing Despicable Me 4 on February 18th. Passport Services with the Town of Hempstead Presented by Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray’s Passport Office will be on Wednesday, January 15 from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM in the Small       Community Room.  You can apply for or renew your passport at the library. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY! Some reminders: The library offers notary services and has many great free museum passes.

TEACHER’S REPORT:

Mrs. Schramm and Ms. Mertz-Sparke Teacher reps.

Ms. Martin and Mrs. Emigholz-Stokes Teacher reps.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT:

Dr. Fisher- Sparke Principal

Mrs. Ackerman- Stokes Principal

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Fourth Grade Committee, Fourth Grade Celebration and Yearbook- Melisa Esposito- The Square Dance was a success. Many families attended and everyone had a great night. The cover for the 4th grade yearbook is due soon. Baby  photos of your 4th grade students will be needed in the next few months. A fourth grade committee will be            established soon and a meeting will be set in order to discuss the 4th grade events.

School Store-Lori Wood for Maria Ginestri- The last school store was in November. There will be two more this year.  Dates are TBD. 

Nominating Committee- Maria Grupposo- A Google form will go out once we know the intentions of all the current board members.  

Stokes Book Fair-Roseann Castro- The book fair will be on January 23rd. All the students will get a free Dog Man comic book in honor of the newest Dog Man book/movie.

PARP-Roseann Castro- PARP is in full swing! The theme this year is “Knock it out of the PARP”.  Thank you to Melisa Esposito for helping with the decorations in the lobby at Stokes.  PARP will run from January 8th-24th.  Family Reading Night is January 14th at 7pm.   

Reflections-Laura Maxon for Carol Romano- There were so many amazing submissions this year and it was so      beautiful seeing all the different interpretations of the theme “Accepting Imperfections”. A total of nine winners were selected by a committee for visual arts, literature, dance choreography and photography. Thank you to all the children for their hard work. We will be honoring these winners at our next PTA meeting on March 5th. We are looking forward to seeing more beautiful work in the years to come.

Square One Art-Lori Wood for Marissa Cifarelli- All materials for the Square One art project were received and the art teachers are ready to begin the projects with all the students. Further information will be sent home about this in six to eight weeks.

Blitz-Lori Wood & Laura Maxon- The Blitz is on March 28th! Setup up for the Blitz will be the night before on March 27th. We will wrap raffles on March 8th. Now that the year has begun, we will start canvassing for raffle prizes.

VIP Day- Maria Grupposo- VIP day will be on March 7th.  The craft for this event has been ordered. All the students at Sparke will get to invite one very important person to school that day.  We will need volunteers to help sign in guests. If anyone is interested in helping out, please reach out.

Math Mania- Maria Grupposo- Math Mania will begin on January 27th.  Family Math Night will be on February 6th at Sparke.

Cultural Arts-Andrew Cornicello- The “B-Fit” assembly will be on Monday January 13th at Stokes for PARP.  The PTA is   looking into bookings about kindness for P.S. I Love You and Valentine’s Day.  We are also looking into having Janice Buckner come to Sparke for PARP.

Hershey Park Fundraiser-Andrew Cornicello- Information will be sent out regarding purchasing Hershey Park tickets. Sales will not close out until April.

OLD BUSINESS:

Square Dance-Melisa Esposito

Spirit Day-Maria Grupposo

Picture Re-take Day- Roseann Castro

Holiday Plant Sale-Lori Wood

Elementary Holiday Night- Maria Grupposo

Gingerbread University- Roseann Castro

Thanksgiving Baskets-Bella Totino

Holiday Gift Fair- Maria Grupposo

UPCOMING COMMITTEES TO BE FILLED:

Sign Up Sheets for all in the back.

-   Book Fair- - Please contact Roseann Castro if you can assist with the fairs or are interested in co-chairing for next year.

-   Blitz Canvassing Committee- Contact Lori Wood if you are interested in assisting with obtaining donations for our Blitz

-   Capital Improvements Committee- Contact Laura Maxon if you are interested in assisting with various improvement projects across both schools.  Playground stencils and buddy bench upgrade.

FEBRUARY

Nominating Committee to Form TBD

January 27th – February 14th

Math Mania Sparke

Thursday, February 6th

Family Math Night Sparke

MARCH

Begin Process of School Supply Kits

Wednesday, March 5th

PTA Meeting -Sparke School 7:00 p.m.

Board Meeting After                                                                                                         

Friday, March 7th

VIP Day at Sparke During School Day

Saturday, March 8th

Blitz Basket Wrapping

11:00-4:00 p.m. -Shifts throughout the day

Thursday, March 27th

Blitz Set Up at ITMS-7:00 p.m.

Friday, March 28th

Blitz at ITMS-5:30 p.m.

November 6, 2024

OPENING MEETING:

Lori Wood opened the meeting at 7:03 pm.

Inspirational Message: Maryann Borra- “Together may we give our children the roots to grow and the wings to fly. We are in it together.”

Minutes From the October Meeting were approved and posted

Treasurer’s Report: Melisa Esposito- Current balance- $55,893.85. Pending outgoing- $16,800.00. Current operating budget- $39,093.85.

Board of Ed Report: Marissa Cifarelli- The athletic placement process for MS students who are requested to “play up” at the JV or V level has been amended. School aid specialists (external auditors) did a review of the school budget and found $450,000.00 increase in aid from the State. The middle school will hold the History Bee, Geography Bee and Spelling Bee regional competitions on 3/22/2025. The general fund budget was approved. The money from insurance proceeds were used for a new security vehicle.

PTSA: Melissa Rufael- The PTSA has 324 members for the school year. We held a welcome back breakfast for the high school and middle school staff. The PTSA budget for the 24/25 school year was voted on and passed. The class of 2025 group photo will be rescheduled, date TBD. The school banner fundraiser sold 106 banners and since it was such a success, the PTSA is considering having another banner fundraiser in the spring. The book fair for the middle school is 11/07 and 11/08. Sports night for the middle school is 11/08 and the PTSA will have an apparel table at sports night to sell spirit wear. The PTSA Reflections contest is accepting submissions until 11/8. Pickup for the pie and baked items sale will be on 11/26 at the high school. There will be no school for middle school students on 11/21 for parent teacher conferences and 11/25 for the high school students for parent teacher conferences. The next PTSA meeting is on 12/03 at 7:00 pm at the middle school.

SEPTA: Bella Totino-November 20th there will be a OPWDD (Office for People with Developmental Disabilities) workshop that will take place at 7:00 pm at Sparke. Registration is required. You can find the QR code on Parent Square or flyers that are being sent home to register. This workshop will help you gain an increased awareness of support and services administered by OPWDD. Starting this month at the MS, Ms. Ferone and Mrs. Cifarelli are leading an afterschool “Best Buddies Club”. This club will be made up of special education students and general education students. It will be an opportunity to nurture new friendships through playing games, arts and crafts and so much more!

Library: Gina Campagna for Susana Ribeiro- The Library will be CLOSED Veteran’s Day November 11th. The library has many activities and events going on in November. There is a “Thankful for Family Canvas” project on November 21st @ 4:30 pm for children ages 5-10 years old. Family Movie night will be showing “Inside Out 2” on Friday, November 29th at 2:30 pm in the Community Room. Chair Yoga will be every Tuesday from now until November 26th at 11am. Zumba classes will be offered every Wednesday at 9:00 am. Toddler Time is Thursdays at 10:00 am. There will be an EA Sports College Football 25 Tournament Thursday, November 14th at 7:00 PM in the YA Room and the children can play to win exciting prizes in a PS5 tournament! No registration required.

TEACHER’S REPORT:

Mrs. Schramm and Ms. Mertz-Sparke Teacher reps.

Ms. Martin and Mrs. Emigholz-Stokes Teacher reps.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT:

Dr. Fisher- Sparke Principal

Mrs. Ackerman- Stokes Principal

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Membership- Encourage your friends to join as members. Our PTA gets a portion of each membership due collected and increased membership makes us eligible for awards, grants, and scholarships.

Box Tops- Please download the app and scan your receipts.

Holiday Plant Sale- Princess Saa-Matos- The school will again be having a holiday plant sale this year. All orders are pre-purchase only. The last day to order will be Friday November 15th A flyer will be sent home with the information about how to order. You can pay by Cheddar Up or check. You can see color pictures of all items for sale on Cheddar Up. Pick up of your orders will be on Wednesday December 11th at Stokes from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. If you can't make it to pick up your orders, please make arrangements by emailing the PTA. Volunteers are needed to help distribute the plants at pickup.

Elementary Holiday Night- Maria Grupposo- Elementary Holiday Night will be on 12/17 at Stokes. There will be holiday crafts to complete, a visit from Santa and a table to write and send letters to Santa. More information about this event will be coming home soon. Volunteers are needed if you would like to help.

Gingerbread University- Roseann Castro- Gingerbread houses/cookie sets can be purchased through the PTA. These sets can be decorated at the Elementary Holiday Night or you can pick it up and decorate at home. Flyers will be going home with all the information about ordering.

Blanket Fundraiser-Erin Vangelli- Our blanket fundraiser has been very successful with us selling over 75 blankets so far. This fundraiser runs through Friday 11/8 so make sure to place your orders! All the blankets will be available for pickup prior to the holidays. Pick up dates will be announced once they come in.

Cultural Arts- Andrew Cornicello & Maria Ginestri- Mistlestunes are confirmed for assemblies at Stokes and Sparke on 12/9. They are very excited to be returning to Island Trees! We are currently working on assemblies for PARP and PS I Love You Day.

Fourth Grade Committee & Square Dance-Melisa Esposito- The Fourth Grade Committee has not met yet. The Committee will be meeting soon to help discuss and make decisions regarding the special events for our fourth graders. The Fourth Grade Square Dance is next week on 11/14.

Reflections- Carol Romano- The theme this year for the Reflections Contest is “Accepting Imperfection”. Students can create a beautiful work of art expressing this year’s theme. Students can use various types of mediums including dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography or visual arts. Please send in your child's completed work to their teacher by December 9th. If your child's piece is selected to advance, you will be contacted with a student entry form. If you have a music file or video file please be sure to e-mail to carolromano92@gmail.com.

School Picture Re-take Day-Roseann Castro- If you would like to have your child retake their school pictures, retake day will be on 11/14. Information will be sent home on a flyer.

School Store-Maria Ginestri- The first school store will be on 11/20. Items are in the process of being ordered.

Spirit Day- Maria Ginestri- This year the PTA has ordered school spirit patches for each student that they can put on their hats, backpacks, etc. The bulldog will also be visiting classrooms on 11/15 for Spirit Day.

Thanksgiving Baskets-Bella Totino- Once our families in need are identified, we will be shopping appropriately and have baskets/gift cards available for pickup in the main offices. Delivery can be arranged also if needed.

Holiday Boutique – The Holiday Boutique for Sparke will be on 12/10 and 12/12 for Stokes. The students are excited to shop for family and friends for the holidays. Flyers will be coming home in the upcoming weeks with information. Volunteers are needed for both boutiques to help students shop. Students can pay by cash or you can send check made out to Island Trees Elementary PTA. Change from checks will be given in cash.

OLD BUSINESS:

Harvest Sale-Princess-Saa Matos- The harvest sale was a great success. We sold more items than last year.

Kindergarten and Second Grade T-Shirts- Melisa Esposito- T-shirts were a hit. The shirts were a better quality this year. The tie-dye looked great at Stokes and everyone loved them.

Book Fair- Roseann Castro-Thank you to all the volunteers, both book fairs went very smoothly.

Read for the Record-Lori Wood & Laura Maxon- PTA provided the books for the event and all the extra books went to the school library.

Halloween Celebrations- Maria Ginestri- Thank you to the volunteers for all of the events including pumpkin picking, parades, class parties and story walk. Halloween went so smoothly and was a great success!

Sign Up Sheets for all committees and upcoming events are in the back.

NOVEMBER

Gingerbread University Sales to Begin

Holiday Plant Sale

Reflections

Thursday, November 14th: Picture Re-take Day Sparke & Stokes During School Day

Thursday, November 14th: Grade Four Square Dance (Pending Caller)

Friday, November 15th: School Spirit Day Sparke & Stokes During School Day

Wednesday, November 20th: School Store 9:00 a.m.

DECEMBER

Adopt-A-Family/Holiday Giving Program

Tuesday, December 10th: Sparke Holiday Gift Boutique

Wednesday, December 11th: Holiday Plant Sale Pick Up

Thursday, December 12th: Stokes Holiday Gift Boutique

Friday, December 13th: Kindergarten Holiday Celebrations

Tuesday, December 17th: Elementary Family Night & Gingerbread University

NEXT MEETING:

Wednesday, January 8th

Sparke School 7:00 p.m.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:39 pm.

October 1, 2024

OPENING MEETING:

Lori Wood opened the meeting at 7:07 pm. 

Inspirational Message: Maryann Borra- “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart” -Elizabeth Andrew

Board Introduction

Minutes From the Last Meeting in June were approved and posted

Budget (Approval) / Treasurer’s Report: Melisa Esposito- Current balance: $44,156.33. Current operating budget is around $37,500.00. The cultural arts budget has been increased to have more assemblies throughout the school year. The budget was reviewed, voted on and passed.

Correspondence: Princess Saa-Matos- PTA hosted a faculty breakfast in September at both schools. There were several nice cards given to the PTA from the staff at Sparkes and Stokes for the wonderful breakfast.

Board of Ed Report: Marissa Cifarelli- A lot of the meeting pertained to the middle and high school. Some highlights include approval for the UPK for 2025-2026 school year, a new club at the MS called “Future Engineers Club”, along with improvement projects at the MS and HS.

PTSA: Melissa Rufael- Parent- Teacher- Student Association.  This group is for middle school and high school students. First meeting will be 10/22 at 7:00 p.m.

SEPTA: Bella Totino- First we would like to thank Carol Romano for her incredible leadership! She has taken this ball and is running with it. The first SEPTA meeting Will be October 10th at 7pm at the Middle School.

2024-2025 SEPTA Board Members

President- Carol Romano

Vice President- Tara Carroll

Treasurer- Lori Wood

Recording Secretary- Jean-Marie Marciano

Chaplin- Roseann Castro

SEPTA Liaison- Bella Totino

Fundraising Specialist- Callie Osborne

Corresponding Secretary- Marissa Cifarelli

SEPTA was present to welcome new members to our schools at Meet the Teacher nights! SEPTA also walked in the Homecoming parade. Our group was made up of students, parents, teachers, teacher’s assistants and administration. We had a great time! Future goals for SEPTA include Inclusion Spirit week, start an afterschool club to promote socialization skills, art therapy, anti-bullying assemblies in the MS and the HS and hands on events at the Elementary schools where the children can have exposure to understanding different disabilities and coping strategies. Wishing everyone an AMAZING school year!

Library: Susana Ribeiro- Island Trees Library will participate in The Great Giveback, focusing on Last Hope Animal Rescue.  October 19th you can stop by the library to meet some adoptable animals. Teens will have an opportunity to earn community service hours. October 1st through 19th the library will be collecting the following supplies: paper towels, heavy duty garbage bags, canned or dry cat food, Science Diet dog food, and new toys. Chair yoga is every Tuesday from now until November 26th at 11:00 AM. Free museum passes are available. Some museums included are the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, American Airpower Museum, The Fire Island Lighthouse and the Long Island Children's Museum. Family movie night will be showing Inside Out 2 on Friday November 29th at 2:30 PM in the community room. Teen events and Halloween arts and crafts are Thursday October 24th at 7:00 PM.

TEACHER’S REPORT:

Mrs. Schramm and Ms. Mertz-Sparke Teacher reps.

Ms. Martin and Mrs. Emigholz-Stokes Teacher reps.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT:

Dr. Fisher- Sparke Principal

Mrs. Ackerman- Stokes Principal

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Membership- Just a reminder that anyone who signed up and was selected to be a Class Parent will need to renew PTA Membership.

Box Tops- Please download the app, select our schools, and scan your receipts. This program will send money to our PTA which can be used to help fund activities and events for the kids.

Kindergarten and Second Grade T-Shirts- Melisa Esposito- The orders have been placed. Ordering new T-shirts was offered to Sparke and Stokes if your child needed a new shirt or outgrew the shirt they already had. They will be distributed once they come in. PTA Council is collecting gently used Island Trees merchandise, t-shirts, hoodies, erc. at the Middle School to distribute to families in need. If you have any items you would like to donate, please send them in.

Fall Fundraiser-Erin Vangelli- We are working with a woman-owned blanket company to create cozy blankets for our fall fundraiser. We're still in the early stages and working on design and logo. Our plan is to have everything ready and in time for the holidays. Information about this will go out through email, flyers, parent square and on all Island trees social media.

Harvest Sale- Princess Saa-Matos- Every year the school teams up with a nursery to offer plants for sale. The order has been placed. Pick up of ordered items is on 10/9 at Stokes from 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. You can reach out to the PTA if you cannot come to pick up your orders at that time. This year we sold 70 more plants as compared to last year. If anyone is available to help at the plant pick up night, please reach out to the PTA.

School Pictures- Roseann Castro- Flyers are going home containing information on dates for each school. Picture day at Sparke is on 10/9 and Stokes is on 10/10. Volunteers are needed during the day to help with paperwork and help the students get ready before taking their pictures.

Cultural Arts- Lori Wood for Andrew Cornicello and Maria Ginestri- Volunteer signups: We will be collecting and inputting the information from all of the volunteer signup forms that were sent home in the middle of September. This will allow for us to have a full list of volunteers in one location. Monthly calendar- Monthly calendars were sent home in the middle of September. We will be sending an updated one home monthly to allow all parents to be reminded of events going on at the school and the ability to possibly volunteer! Assemblies- We have secured our winter assembly for both Stokes and Sparke for December 9th. It will be a band playing holiday music. We will be working with the principals to secure more assemblies throughout the school year.

Reflections- Carol Romano- This year’s theme is “Accepting Imperfections”. Students get to submit projects to express what that theme means to them through various types of art including photography, drawings, videos, poems etc.  The deadline is 12/9. Help is needed to form a committee which will look through the artwork and help pick the winners. If you are interested, please reach out to Carol.

Book Fair- Roseann Castro- Book fair will be at Stokes 10/16 and 10/17.  The book fair will be at Sparke on 10/18.   Emails will be sent out if you are interested in helping the students shop at the bookfair during the day or to help set up the bookfairs the night before.  E-wallets can be set up for payment instead of cash.  Information will be sent home about that.

Halloween-Lori Wood and Laura Maxon- Every year the PTA works with a nursery to order pumpkins. Pumpkins are ordered for K-1st and 4th grade.  On Halloween, there is a pumpkin patch, story walk, and a parade. Volunteers are needed throughout all events during the day as well as in the morning to set up the outdoor activities for the students.

Spirit Day- Lori Wood for Maria Ginestri- Spirit Day will be on 11/15.  The students will get a visit from the Island Trees Bulldog and have the opportunity to take photos in all the classes.  The PTA ordered a handout so everyone will come home with a little something this year.

Fourth Grade Committee-Melisa Esposito- This will be an exciting year for our fourth graders with a lot of events coming up.  A flyer will be going home to review all the events for the year including the square dance, yearbook, special t-shirts, fourth grade special events and their moving up ceremony. Pictures will be taken throughout the moving up ceremony. Volunteers are needed for all events and a separate meeting will be held and a committee will be formed. Please reach out to be a part of such an important year for our fourth graders.

Capital Improvements-Gina Campagna- We have been working with the principals to improve some things around both school buildings.  New fence cups were installed on the fence between Stokes and Sparkes which look great.  We are in the process of ordering new Buddy benches for both schools which will have the schools’ names on them.  We are also in the final stages of ordering stair riser decals to go up on one staircase in both schools, which contain motivational quotes.  Now that the weather is cooling down, we would like to paint some outdoor stencils/games in the recess areas on the blacktop.  The schools have already purchased amazing stencils that can be used including sensory paths, hopscotch and mazes. If anyone knows a company or person who could help complete the outdoor painting project, please reach out to Gina.

OLD BUSINESS:

Painting Paw Prints- Volunteers Touched up at both schools and decorated above main doors.

School Supply Kits- Princess Saa-Matos- Supply kits for next year will go out in the spring.

Bulletin Boards-Maria Grupposo (Sparke) Melisa Esposito (Stokes)- Bulletin boards will be updated with the different seasons.

Kindergarten Signs/Bus Line / Hallway and Bathroom Volunteers- A big THANK YOU to all who helped out!

Elementary Welcome Back Breakfast- Laura Maxon for Maria Ginestri- Beautiful display and amazing food!! Bagel & Deli Creations in Bethpage gave us a great deal once again.

Custodian’s Appreciation Day-October 2nd -Bella Totino- The principals provided all the names of the day and night custodial staff in both schools. All custodial staff members will be given gift cards to show our appreciation for all their hard work.

UPCOMING COMMITTEES TO BE FILLED:

-   Halloween @ Sparke- One chair to help plan and set up the Pumpkin Patch and Story Walk before school starts. Get volunteers to help out during the event. Please contact Maria Ginestri if you can assist with this event.

-   Reflections- One chair to work with Carol Romano and learn for this year and next year.

- Fourth Grade Committee- Sign-up sheet available for interest.  Contact Melisa Esposito with questions.

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER PTA CALENDAR:

Wednesday, October 2nd

National Custodian’s Day

Wednesday, October 9th

Sparke Picture Day During School Day

Harvest Sale Pick Up 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 10th

Stokes Picture Day During School Day

Wednesday, October 16th & Thursday, October 17th

Stokes Book Fair

Friday, October 18th

Sparke Book Fair

Thursday, October 31st

Halloween Celebrations Sparke & Stokes During School Day

NOVEMBER

School Store Date TBD at 8:30 a.m.

Wednesday, November 6th

PTA Meeting -Sparke School 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 14th

Picture Re-take Day

Sparke & Stokes During School Day

Thursday, November 14th

Grade Four Square Dance

Friday, November 15th

School Spirit Day

Sparke & Stokes During School Day

Meeting was adjourned at 7:49 pm.

Minutes from 2023-2024 School Year