Current Documents

August Agenda

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 08/12/2025

Time: 6:00PM

Location: Microsoft TEAMS Meeting

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members:  Gina Foster – Facilitator, Monica Roberts – Principal, Deidre Caldwell – Parent, Keisha Lash-Edwards – Parent, Edward Lee – Parent, Rachael Shields – School Employee, Arianne Warner – School Employee, Azuloy Life – Teacher, Maya Jones – Teacher, Maya Solomon – Community, Thomas Morse – Community

PM Call to Order (Principal)

PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Principal)

PM Action Item: Approve Previous Minutes (Principal)

PM Discussion Item: Member Introductions (All Members)

PM Action Item: Approve nominated Community Member (Principal)

PM Action Item: Elect New Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Parliamentarian) (Principal)

PM Action Item: Action Items: Staff Standing Committees (Budget and Finance, Outreach and Communication, Principal Selection) (Chair)

PM Discussion Item: Confirm Parent/Community and Student (HS only) Superintendent Advisory Council Representative

PM Discussion Item: Determine Meeting Schedule for SY25-26 (All Members)

PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning (Principal) See page 3 for more detailed information

PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

A. Potential School Staffing Changes

B. Shifts in District Policy or School Practices

C. Calendar of Upcoming School Events

D. Training Requirements for all Members

PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair)

August Summary of Action

Date: 08/12/2025
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Microsoft Teams
SGC Members: Gina Foster (Facilitator), Monica Roberts (Principal), Deidre Caldwell (Parent), Keisha Lash-Edwards (Parent), Edward Lee (Parent), Rachael Shields (School Employee), Arianne Warner (School Employee), Azuloy Life (Teacher), Maya Jones (Teacher), Maya Solomon (Community Member), Thomas Morse (Community Member)
Not in Attendance: All members present
Action Items Approved: Agenda, Community Member Nomination, Officer Elections (Chair – Warner, Vice Chair – Caldwell, Parliamentarian – Shields), Standing Committee Assignments
Discussion Items: Member Introductions, Superintendent Advisory Council Representatives (Lash-Edwards and Morse), Meeting Schedule (2nd Tuesdays at 6:00PM), Strategic Planning (tabled), Drafting Next Meeting Agenda
Information Items: Principal’s Update (First 10 Days Expectations, Device Policy, iReady Testing, Laptop Use, Staffing Freeze and Vacancies, Parent Newsletter Reminder)

                                                                           September Agenda  

School: Sandtown Middle School 

Date: 09/09/2025 

Time: 6:00 PM 

Location: TEAMs 

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d 

SGC Members: 

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member),  Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member) 

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair) 

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair) 

6:05PM Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair) 

6:10PM Action Item: Finalize Council Staffing* (Chair) 

6:15PM Discussion Item: SGC Council Development Opportunities (In Person Officer Training and Cross Council) ** (All Members) 

6:20PM Discussion Item: Determine SY24-25 Council Norms (All Members) 

6:30PM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (All Members) 

6:35PM Discussion Item: Review 2024 Council Self-Assessment and Create Initiatives*** (All Members) 

6:45PM Action Item: Approve Strategic Plan**** (All Members) See page 2 for more detailed information 

6:50PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)  

6:55PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members) 

7:00PM Action Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure (Chair) 

7:05PM Action Item: Cross Council Events 

7:10PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members) 

7:15PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair) 

September Summary of Action

Date: 09/09/2025
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Microsoft Teams
SGC Members: Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Chair), Diedre Caldwell (Vice Chair), Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Maya Jones (Teacher), Keisha Lash-Edwards (Parent), Edward Lee (Parent), Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Thomas Morse (Community Member), Myana Solomon (Community Member)
Not in Attendance: All members present
Action Items Approved: Agenda, Previous Minutes, Council Staffing Finalization, Strategic Action Plan
Discussion Items: Officer Training & Cross Council Events, SY24–25 Meeting Norms, SGC Website Compliance, Strategic Plan Goals, Drafting Next Meeting Agenda
Information Items: Principal’s Update (iReady Reading & Math Proficiency, Discipline Data, Attendance Trends—8th grade chronic absences, Volunteer Needs)

September Minutes

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 09/09/2025

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: TEAMs

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d

SGC Members:

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member),  Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member)

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair, Warner) Motion to begin the meeting (M. Jones); seconded (Life)

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair)

6:05PM Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair); Motion to approve (Caldwell); Seconded – (Shields)

6:10PM Action Item: Finalize Council Staffing* (Chair).  Roberts says the Council is fully staffed.

6:15PM Discussion Item: SGC Council Development Opportunities (In Person Officer Training and Cross Council) ** (All Members)

·       Chair (Warner) reminded all council chairs to attend one of the In-Person Officer Trainings. 

6:16PM Discussion Item: Determine SY24-25 Council Norms (All Members)

·       24-25 Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students

6:17PM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (All Members)

·       Sandtown website SGC page in compliance

PM Discussion Item: Review 2024 Council Self-Assessment and Create Initiatives*** (All Members)

6:18PM Action Item: Approve Strategic Plan**** (All Members) See page 2 for more detailed information

·       Principal Roberts went over the Strategic Action Plan Goals:

o   Strengthen Work Force Engagement by increasing teacher retention

o   Ensure Impactful Programming by improving SEC proficiency in Reading

o   Prioritize Safety and Operational Efficiency by decreasing ISS and OSS days

o   Deepen Community Connections by improving student school attendance

o   Enhancing Performance for all Students by increasing number of students reading at or above grade level and increasing Milestones proficiency in math

·       Motion to approve Strategic Action Plan (Caldwell); Seconded (Lee); Approved by all members

6:22PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

·       Data Overview

o   SMS on track to meet goal for iReady Reading Proficiency

o   SMS on track to meet goal for iReady Math Proficiency

o   SMS on track to meet goal for Discipline data goals

o   Attendance data shows the most chronic absences are coming from 8^th grade

·       SMS Volunteers needed: Morning duty, afternoon dismissal, lunch duty, copies, cafeteria monitors, bathroom monitors, hall monitors, PBIS Store

6:25PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

·       No proposals at this time

PM Action Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure (Chair)

6:26PM Action Item: Cross Council Events

·       Dates - Monday, September 29 | South Learning Center | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Friday, October 3 | North Learning Center | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

·       These sessions are a unique opportunity for SGC members to learn from district leaders, the Governance & Flexibility Team, and each other. They bring together councils from across the district, creating space for collaboration within feeder patterns and across grade bands.

·       Members interested in attending: Lee, others TBD

6:29PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

·       Morse requests to be added to next month’s agenda to discuss Community Partners to help with Strategic Action Plan goals

6:33PM Discussion Item: Public Comment (Chair)

6:33PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair); Motion to adjourn (Morse), Seconded (M. Jones)

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students

October Agenda

School: Sandtown Middle School 

Date: 10/07/2025 

Time: 6:00PM 

Location: Teams 

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d 

SGC Members: 

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member), Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member) 

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair) 

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair) 

6:05PM Action Item: Approve September Minutes (Chair) 

6:07PM Discussion Item: SY25-26 Council Initiatives* (All Members) 

6:15PM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance** (All Members) 

6:20PM Discussion Item: Debrief Fall Cross Council Meeting (All Members) 

6:25PM Public Comment 

6:30PM Discussion Item: Strategic Plan Update/Review All Members)  

6:40PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members) 

6:45PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)  

6:45PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)  

6:55PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members) 

7:00PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair) 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students 

October Summary of Action

Date: 10/07/2025
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Microsoft Teams
SGC Members: Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Chair), Diedre Caldwell (Vice Chair), Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Maya Jones (Teacher), Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Thomas Morse (Community Member), Myana Solomon (Community Member)
Not in Attendance: Keisha Lash-Edwards (Parent), Edward Lee (Parent)
Action Items Approved: Agenda, September Minutes, Charter Dollar Expenditures (Scoreboard, Polaroid Cameras, PBIS Store Items, Saturday School Pay, Math/ELA Camp, Amended Baseball Proposal), Finalization of Committee Chairs
Discussion Items: SY25–26 Council Initiatives (PBIS, SEC Reading Scores), SGC Website Compliance, Strategic Plan Review, Charter Dollar Proposals, Fall Cross Council Meeting Debrief, Drafting Next Meeting Agenda
Information Items: Principal’s Update (PBIS Celebrations, Beta Club, Red Ribbon Week, Basketball Game, Cookie Fundraiser, Soccer Team Record, Unit Test/Discipline/Attendance Data, Volunteer Needs)

October Meeting Minutes

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 10/07/2025

Time: 6:00PM

Location: Teams

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d

SGC Members:

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member), Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member)

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair), motion to approve (Solomon), seconded (Brown)

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair); motion to approve (Solomon), seconded (Brown)

6:05PM Action Item: Approve September Minutes (Chair); motion to approve (Shields); seconded (Caldwell)

6:07PM Discussion Item: SY25-26 Council Initiatives* (All Members)

·       Options for Council Initiatives - PBIS Initiatives to address discipline; Employee retention; increasing students enrolled in Acc/Adv classes; Improving SEC reading scores; Improving Student attendance.

·       1^st Goal – Focusing on PBIS Initiatives.  These can be used to address discipline, encourage attendance, and can reward academic progress

·       2^nd Goal – Improving SEC reading scores

 

6:15PM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance** (All Members)

·       Website checked for compliance

6:20PM Amended Action Item: Finalize SGC Committee Chairs

6:25PM Public Comment

·       No public comment

6:30PM Discussion Item: Strategic Plan Update/Review All Members)

6:30PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

·       Scoreboard (Athletic Department)

·       Amount $5,000

·       Charter Dollar Expenditure Categories: Community Connections and Operations

·       Vote: 6 yes, proposal approved

·       Two Polaroid Cameras (PBIS)

·       Amount: $400

·       Charter Dollar Expenditure Categories: Student Support, Interventions, Technology

·       Vote: 6 yes, proposal approved

·       Paraphernalia for the PBIS Store (hoodies, shirts, stuffed jaguars, hats, towels)

·       Amount: $1,200

·       Charter Dollar Expenditure Categories: Student Support, Community Connections, Other, Interventions

·       Vote: 5 votes, proposal approved

·       Additional Pay for Saturday School Personnel

·       Amount: $5,000

·       Charter Dollar Expenditure Categories: Interventions, Operations/Personnel

·       Vote: 6 yes, proposal approved

·       Math/ELA Enrichment Camp

·       Amount: $5,000

·       Charter Dollar Expenditure Categories: Student Support, Inventions, Operations/Personnel

·       Vote: 5 yes, proposal approved

·       Sandtown Baseball Team

·       Proposed Amount: $5,300

·       Items proposed to be purchased: baseballs, 15 helmets, pitching machine, 15 practice shirts, 15 game uniforms, indoor facility rental fee

·       Final Amount: $1,500 (15 practice shirts, 15 game uniforms)

·       Baseballs ($150) will be purchased by community partners

·       Vote: 5 yes, amended proposal of $1,500 approved

7:07PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)

·       Proposals have been approved

7:09PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

·       PBIS Celebrations for Students and Staff

·       Beta Club Shout-Out

·       Red Ribbon Week. 

o   T-shirts are for purchase

o   Parent vs. Teacher Basketball Game on Friday, 10/31. 7^th grade: 9:15AM, 8^th grade: 1:00PM, and 6^th grade: 2:05PM.  Looking for volunteers!

·       Sandtown Sweethearts Cookie Fundraiser through November 7^th

·       Soccer team finishes the season with 4-3 record

·       Review of unit test data thus far

·       Review of current discipline data

·       Review of attendance data

·       Parent volunteers needed, especially for bulletin board upkeep

7:20PM Discussion Item: Debrief Fall Cross Council Meeting (All Members)

·       No members currently present

7:20PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

7:22PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair); seconded (Solomon)

November Agenda

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 11/11/2025

Time: 6:00PM

Location: TEAMs

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d

 

SGC Members:

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member), Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member)

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair)

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair)

6:05PM Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair)

6:07PM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website Audit Results (All Members)

6:15PM Informational Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (Advisory Council Representative)

6:20PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning Update (All Members)

A.      Review Feedback

B.      Monitor Progress

6:30PM Discussion Item: Create Council Initiatives (All Members)

6:45PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

6:55PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)

7:00PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

7:15PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

7:20PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair)

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students

 

 

November Summary of Action

Date: 11/11/2025
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Microsoft Teams
SGC Members: Monica Roberts (Principal), Diedre Caldwell (Vice Chair), Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Maya Jones (Teacher), Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Thomas Morse (Community Member), Keisha Lash-Edwards (Parent)
Not in Attendance: Dr. Arianne Warner (Chair), Myana Solomon (Community Member), Edward Lee (Parent)

Action Items Approved: Agenda, October Minutes, Charter Dollar Expenditure (Basketball Team Uniforms)

Discussion Items: SGC Website Audit Results (Compliance achieved), Strategic Planning Update (Feedback review, progress monitoring), Council Initiatives (Budget Committee met; others to follow), Cross-Council Meeting Debrief (South Zones collaboration, “What If” scenarios, parent engagement, attendance issues, Drafting Next Meeting Agenda

Information Items: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (AI in schools, county budget challenges, health insurance options), Principal’s Update (PBIS Celebrations, Math Unit Assessments, Discipline/Attendance Data, Volunteer Needs, “Turkey, Tally, and Tech” event recap)

November Agenda

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 11/11/2025

Time: 6:00PM

Location: TEAMs

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d

SGC Members:

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member), Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member)

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair)

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair), Motion to approve agenda (Chair); seconded (M. Jones)

6:05PM Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair); Motion to approve October minutes (Morse), seconded (Brown)

6:07PM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website Audit Results (All Members)

-          Original results were satisfactory, except for the Action Summaries.  Shields made the necessary changes.  We are in full compliance now.

6:15PM Informational Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (Advisory Council Representative: Lash-Edwards)

-          Discussions about AI use in school

-          Discussions about the county’s budget (Senior Exemption passed at last election, will result in loss of revenue).  Looking for new ways to generate revenue for the county.  More information at: www.fultonschools.org/glide

-          Discussions about health insurance about moving from the state plan and providing different options for non-certified staff. 

6:20PM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning Update (All Members)

A.      Review Feedback

B.      Monitor Progress

6:20PM Discussion Item: Create Council Initiatives (All Members)

-          Budget Committee met last month to create initiatives

-          Other committees plan to meet soon

6:20PM Discussion Item: Last Month’s (September) Cross Council Meeting (Life)

-          This meeting was an informative collaboration of attendees of the South Zones 1, 2 and 3 of School Council Members that were administrators, teachers and parents. 

-          “WHAT IF Scenarios”:

o    What if a natural disaster occurred and school building was destroyed?

o    Teacher Shortages

o    Budget Cuts Staff/Extracurricular Activities had to be cut  

o    What if your school merged with another campus 

o    What if technology failed for a week 

-          Small Groups – Elementary/Middle/High – What are some “existing issues?” 

o    Elem/Middle – Parent Engagement (reps – as teachers and parents/the only time they have heard from teachers are at the beginning of the school year – or behavior issue – 

o    High School – Attendance  

-          Announcements: 

o    FCS Graduation Rate is 91.9 – 95% Goal 

o    Reading Proficiency is currently 75.8 – Goal is 80% Determined by GA Milestones 

o    GA Milestones – Also 80% proficiency 

o    Every school should have submitted a school action plan and submitted it by Sept. 30^th  

o    Every school receives $30,000 charter dollars that should be spent by the end of the school year with SGC approval – Align our spending with our goals – fund ideas that bring goals to life and create visible impact for students and teacher  

o    We are considered a charter school district since 2012 and we are now up for renewal that will extend until 2031 – with us being a chartering district this keeps SGC central in decision making 

-          Representatives from: 

o    Community Schools – Mrs. Patricia Barlow: who shared insight on the protocols of schools partnering with the community and reviewed the partnership agreement forms and apps, the dos and don’ts of setting up partnerships, building partnerships and telling our Sandtown Story.  

o    The Assessment Dept – Reps who oversee monitoring our school plans and goals and ensuring we are in alignment with our goals and reviewing our school data on a regular basis (examples – Deeping community connections, utilizing fiscal resources, strengthen employee engagement, prioritizing safety and operational efficiency,) 

o    Community Engagement – Rebecca Goddard – Many of these activities are listed on our website – Family Matters – Oct. 25^th – Tri Cities form 10 -2 

-          Nov. 15^th – Roswell -High from 10-2

o    Family Fun, Interactive Sessions, Free Food and Give aways 

-          Jan. 24^th (Sat/Marta Transportation) –

o    GA Tech Parent Event for Parents only – 8:30 – 3:30 – Make it Take it, Gun Safety, How to Support Children at Home, Mental Health and Nutrition Safety

6:30PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

-          Sandtown Basketball Team

o   Proposed Amount: $931

o   Items to be purchased: new uniforms for the team ($55 each = $825, plus tax $68.07, plus shipping $37.12)

o   Vote: 6 yes, approved

6:35PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)

-          New uniforms for the Sandtown Basketball team approved

6:40PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

-          PBIS Student Celebrations: PBIS Store, Perfect Attendance, “Caught Doing Good”, Fall Festival, November Skating Event

-          PBIS Staff Celebrations: “Caught Doing Good”, Apple Nachos, Yogurt Bar

-          Review of Data:  Math Unit Assessments, Discipline, Attendance

-          Volunteers needed at Sandtown

-          Turkey, Tally, and Tech put on by the Math Department and Dr. Warner was on November 11^th.  Math workshops were organized and families received Thanksgiving raffles.  Turn-out was low, however.  Principal Roberts is open to ideas to get more engagement and a higher turn-out next time.

7:00PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

7:00PM AMENDED Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair); Motion to approve October minutes (Chair), seconded (Shields)

7:00PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair) 

December Agenda

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 12/09/2025

Time: 6:00PM

Location: TEAMs

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d

SGC Members:

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member), Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member)

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair)

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair)

6:05PM Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair)

6:07PM Discussion Item: Schedule Spring Committee Meetings* (All Members)

6:15PM Informational Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (Advisory Council Representative)

6:25PM Discussion Item: Strategic Monitoring Update** (Principal)

6:35PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

6:40PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)

6:45PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

6:55PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

7:00PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair)

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students

 

Notes and Reminders

*Committee Meetings

 

Outreach & Communication Committees should plan to meet in January to start planning for the Spring Parent & Teacher Elections.  Budget & Finance Committees should plan to meet in February to prepare for the council’s annual budget approval.

 

 

**Strategic Monitoring (December)

December Summary of Action

Date: 12/09/2025
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Microsoft Teams
SGC Members: Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Chair), Diedre Caldwell (Vice Chair), Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Maya Jones (Teacher), Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Thomas Morse (Community Member), Keisha Lash-Edwards (Parent), Edward Lee (Parent), Myana Solomon (Community Member)
Not in Attendance: None

Action Items Approved: Agenda, November Minutes (No Charter Dollar Expenditure proposals submitted)

Discussion Items: Spring Committee Meetings Scheduled (Budget & Finance – Jan 27, Outreach – Jan 13, Parent Superintendent – Feb, Teacher Superintendent – Feb), Strategic Monitoring Update (No updates), Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (None submitted), Drafting Next Meeting Agenda

Information Items: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (Calendar feedback via Thought Exchange, Color Guard wooden rifle policy concerns, Senior tax exemption impact, Potential changes to FAVE structure, Email communication restrictions, Elementary bus rider safety, PTO support for tech insurance fees, Anti-Semitism and free speech concerns, Legislative advocacy and Fair Share list), Principal’s Update (i-Ready Winter Diagnostic Dec 8–12, Reminder to parents: Check Smore/newsletter for updates)

December Minutes

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 12/09/2025

Time: 6:00PM

Location: TEAMs

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d

SGC Members:

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member), Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member)

6:09PM Call to Order (Chair)

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair); motion to approve (Lash-Edwards); seconded (Jones)

6:05PM Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair); motion to approve (Caldwell); seconded (Shields)

6:07PM Discussion Item: Schedule Spring Committee Meetings* (All Members)

·       Budget and Finance Committee – January 27^th 2026, 5 pm

·       Outreach Committee – January 13^th 2026, 5 pm

·       Parent Superintendent Committee – February 2026

·       Teacher Superintendent Committee – February 2026

6:21PM Informational Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (Advisory Council Representative)

·       Draft Student Instructional Calendar Feedback: The council reviewed the draft student instructional calendar, inviting members to provide feedback via a Thought Exchange, and encouraging members to share the survey with their school communities. Please share this link with your school communities to gather feedback.

·       Color Guard Wooden Rifle Policy Concerns: A parent had concerns about the use of wooden rifles in color guard demonstrations at schools, prompting a discussion about policy inconsistencies, parental notification, and possible alternatives. District staff are committed to discussing the matter with district leaders.

·       Senior Tax Exemption Impact and Collaboration: Questions were raised on the recently passed senior tax exemption on school funding and the potential for increased collaboration between school boards and city councils.

·       Potential Changes to FAVE Structure Due to Budget Cuts: Questions were raised around the continuation or change in structure of FAVE, and Dr. Looney is committed to stakeholder engagement before decisions are made. 

·       Parent-Teacher-Student Email Communication Restrictions: The Strategy and Technology department is working on a solution. The goal is to have a solution by early second semester. 

·       Student Instructional Calendar Start Date and Committee Representation: The early August start is influenced by the desire to provide full fall and winter breaks, align with neighboring districts, and accommodate the preferences of a narrow majority of stakeholders. The calendar committee includes representatives from all school zones and levels, as well as district staff, teachers, and parents, ensuring diverse input in the decision-making process.

·       Elementary Bus Rider Identification and Safety: A suggestion was made to implement a manifest and photo identification system for elementary bus riders to improve safety and accountability.

·       PTO Support for Technology Insurance Fees: Advice was requested for PTOs to determine how they can preemptively pay technology insurance fees for students in financial need without violating privacy.

·       Addressing Anti-Semitism and Free Speech in Schools: Concerns were raised about anti-Semitism experienced by their child, and they asked about the balance between free speech and school disruption. Dr. Looney discussed the applicable laws, ongoing administrator and teacher training, and invited private follow-up for specific incidents.

·       State Legislative Advocacy and Fair Share List: The following is the list of the Fulton County Schools’ Delegation. Their contact information can be found on the state legislative website: https://www.legis.ga.gov/

·       Sen. Jason Dickerson	·       Rep. Todd Jones	·       Rep. Deborah Silcox
·       Sen. Shawn Still	·       Rep. Jan Jones	·       Rep. Betsy Holland
·       Sen. John Albers	·       Rep. Scott Hilton	·       Rep. Sheila Jones
·       Sen. Josh McLaurin	·       Rep. Chuck Martin	·       Rep. Mekyah McQueen
·       Sen. RaShaun Kemp	·       Rep. Michelle Au	·       Rep. Tanya F. Miller
·       Sen. Sonya Halpern	·       Rep. Ester Panitch	·       Rep. Kim Schofield
·       Sen. Donzella James	·       Rep. Shea Roberts	·       Rep. Robert Dawson
·       Rep. Derrick Jackson	·       Rep. Debra Bazemore	·       Rep. Lydia Glaize

 

6:25PM Discussion Item: Strategic Monitoring Update** (Principal)

·       No updates from Principal Roberts

6:25PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

·       No proposals

6:25PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (Chair)

6:25PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

·       SMS is currently taking i-Ready Winter Diagnostic the week of 12/8-12/12. 

·       Reminder to parents – please refer to parent smore/newsletter for important information from SMS and Principal Roberts

6:30PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

6:32PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair); motion to adjourn (Shields); seconded (Life)

January Agenda

School: Sandtown Middle School

Date: 1/13/2026

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: TEAMs

TEAMS Link (if applicable): https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDhiOWY2MDktZjM2OC00MTRkLTk2NGItZGEwNDYxZWRjMjI3%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%220cdcb198-8169-4b70-ba9f-da7e3ba700c2%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2293a84b80-5585-4e3d-ac48-dea4108b5f38%22%7d

SGC Members:

Principal Monica Roberts (Principal), Dr. Arianne Warner (Dean-Chair), Mrs. Diedre Caldwell (Parent- Vice Chair) Mrs. Rachael Shields (Parliamentarian), Mrs. Maya Jones (Teacher), Mrs. Keisha Lash-Edwards (Elected Parent), Mr. Edward Lee (Elected Parent), Ms. Azuloy Yvette Life (Teacher), Mr. Thomas Morse (Community Member), Mrs. Myana Solomon (Community Member)

6:00PM Call to Order (Chair)

6:02PM Action Item: Approve Agenda (Chair)

6:05PM Action Item: Approve Previous Month’s Minutes (Chair)

6:06PM Discussion Item: Planning for Parent/Teacher SGC Elections*

6:08PM Discussion Item: Planning for Annual Budget Approval**

6:10PM Discussion Item: Schedule Spring Committee Meetings (All Members)

6:15PM Discussion Item: Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals (All Members)

6:30PM Action Item: Approve Charter Dollar Expenditure Proposals*** (Chair)

6:35PM Informational Item: Midyear Data Dive**** (Principal)

6:45PM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (Principal)

6:55PM Discussion Item: Draft Next Meeting’s Agenda (All Members)

7:00PM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Chair)

 

Meeting Norms: Silence Phones, Be Respectful of Others’ Opinions, Work for the good of all Students

 

 

 

Notes and Reminders

*SGC Parent/Teacher Elections

 

The declaration period for parents and teachers interested in serving on their local SGCs will run from February 2^nd to March 27^th.  Click here to check how many council seats your school has open for these positions in this year’s election cycle.

 

**Annual Budget Approval

 

FY26 Budget development begins on February 2^nd  and will conclude on February 20^th (Elementary Schools), February 27^th (Middle Schools), and March 6^th (High Schools).  SGCs should schedule their February and March meetings prior to their budget closure date to ensure the council has time to discuss and approve FY26 fiscal allocations.

 

All Dates are Subject to Change

 

 

***Charter Dollars

 

This year, schools have received $30,000 in Charter Dollars to help meet their strategic goals through local innovative solutions. These funds should be used for non-personnel purchases such as supplies, registrations, communications, etc. When purchasing personnel, schools are advised to use other funding sources allowable for positions. If Charter Dollars are requested for personnel, the expenditure will require approval from the Zone Superintendent, SGC, and Executive Director of Governance and Strategy. Additionally, any materials purchased to support literacy instruction must align with GaDOE literacy requirements.

 

Each Charter Dollar expenditure requires an SGC vote for approval, the completion of the Charter Dollar Expenditure Form, and is subject to the same district guidelines that govern school cost center budgets. All Charter Dollars must be spent in the year they are received to support our current student population. We encourage SGCs to schedule discussions early in the year to plan for these expenditures, ensuring all purchases are made before end-of-year spending deadlines. See our Charter Dollar Matrix for examples of FCS-supported expenditures.

 

****Midyear Data Dig

January is a great time to partner with the Assessment Department for an SGC data dig to review fall trends and set priorities for spring.