Current Documents

August Agenda

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 08/20/25

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Team Planning

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

7:00AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:02AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

7:03AM Action Item: Approve June Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

7:04AM Discussion Item: Member Introductions (All Members)

7:10AM Action Item: Elect New Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Parliamentarian) (H. Rucker)

7:15AM Action Item: Action Items: Staff Standing Committees (Budget and Finance, Outreach and Communication, Principal Selection) (H. Rucker)

7:25AM Discussion Item: Confirm Parent/Community Superintendent Advisory Council Representative (Chair)

7:30AM Discussion Item: Share Meeting Schedule for SY25-26) (All Members)

7:35AM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning (H. Rucker)

7:40AM Action Item: Star Readers Club (M. Levine)

7:50AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

A. Current & Potential School Staffing Changes

B. Updates in District Policy

C. Calendar of Upcoming School Events

8:00AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

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

 

 

 

 

August 20^th SGC Summary of Actions

School: Northwood ES

Date: August 20. 2025

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Team Planning

Current SGC Members Present:

Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest member: Katie Lawson (SGC Facilitator)

 

7:08AM Call to Order (Cary Blumenfeld)

7:08AM Action Item: Approve August Agenda

•  Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

•  Second: Sharon Perrin

7:08AM Action Item: Approve May  Minutes

•  Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

•  Second: Sharon Perrin

7:24AM Action Item: Elect New Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Parliamentarian)

•  Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

•  Second: Kaleigh Nattrass

7:40AM Action Item: Elect Standing Committees (Budget and Finance, Outreach and Communication, Principal Selection)

•  Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

•  Second: Andrea Bourgeois

8:00AM Action Item: Vote on Budget/Star Readers Club

•  Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

•  Second: Sharon Perrin

8:16AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (Cary Blumenfeld)

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

 

August 20^th Meeting Minutes

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 08/20/25

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Team Planning

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest: Katie Lawson (Facilitator)

7:05AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:08AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Sharon Perrin

7:08AM Action Item: Approve May Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Sharon Perrin

7:09AM Discussion Item: Member Introductions (All Members)

·       New members were introduced as well as returning members

·       New members: Crystal Robinson (elected parent), Lindsey Burke (elected parent), Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff), Andrea Bourgeois (community member)

7:10AM Discussion Item: Beanstack (N. Sickle)

·       A new program/platform is being introduced to teachers and then pushed out to students.

·       Students will be logging minutes.

·       The goal for the school is 75,000 minutes

·       Students will be writing their books on book spines for individual recognition. There will be group celebrations as well.

·       Ms. Sickle will speak with PTA (Sharon Perrin) about marrying our reading programs/incentives (Reading Counts).

·       Ms. Sickle will speak with Cary Blumenfeld (Method Real Estate) and Sharon Perrin (IMPACT Accounting Partners) about funding the celebrations/rewards as NES business partners.

7:24AM Action Item: Elect New Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Parliamentarian) (H. Rucker)

·       Ms. Rucker and Ms. Lawson reviewed the officer position responsibilities and nominations were made.

o   Chair: Cary Blumenfeld, Vice Chair: Lindsey Burke, Parliamentarian: Rachel Needham

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Kaleigh Nattrass

7:25AM Action Item: Action Items: Staff Standing Committees (Budget and Finance, Outreach and Communication, Principal Selection) (H. Rucker)

·       Ms. Lawson reviewed the committee opportunities and each member chose their committee.

o   Budget & Finance: Heather Rucker (chair), Nicole Sickle, Sharon Perrin, Kaleigh Nattrass, Rachel Needham

o   Communication & Outreach: Michelle Levine (chair), Cary Blumenfeld, Lindsey Burke, Crystal Robinson, Andrea Bourgeois

o   Principal selection Committee: Cary Blumenfeld (SGC Chair), Sharon Perrin, Rachel Needham, Nicole Sickle

o   PTA Council Rep: Sharon Perrin

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Andrea Bourgeois

7:40AM Discussion Item: Confirm Parent/Community Superintendent Advisory Council Representative (Chair)

·       Crystal Robinson volunteered to serve on the parent/community superintendent advisory Council.

7:41AM Discussion Item: Strategic Planning (H. Rucker)

·       Ms. Rucker reviewed the 6 components of last year’s strategic plan:

o   Increase % of students scoring proficient and distinguished on GMAS from 65.7% to 69.2%. EOY: 75.7% GOAL MET

o   Decrease number of office referrals from 37 to 30: EOY: 28 GOAL MET

o   Increase % of students with disabilities meeting the GMAS reading indicator from 40% to 45%: EOY: 49% GOAL MET

o   Increase % staff to recommend Northwood as a place to work: remained 100% GOAL MET

o   Increase % of charter dollar expenditures: remained at 100% GOAL MET

o   Increase % of parent/guardians who recommend Northwood: remained at 100%, but increased promoter to 88% and passive down 4.8 GOAL MET

·       Ms. Rucker shared that a draft of this years strategic plan will go to team leads and then to SGC for approval at the September meeting

o   Schools will be given the goal from FCS based on last years performance.

o   We have not received sub group data to determine which group we are choosing.

o   We will be adding Math, ELA and Science to the goal of reaching 80% in proficiency on GMAS.

8:00AM Action Item: Star Readers Club (M. Levine)

·       Ms. Levine discussed the success of the STAR Readers Club and asked members to vote on the budget ($6000) for the full year.

·       Ms. Rucker asked members to vote on funding $10,000 towards supplies for school.

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Sharon Perrin

8:05AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

A.      Current & Potential School Staffing Changes

a.      The district is looking at the enrollment SEAT process, and Northwood’s 3^rd grade might be impacted with a collapse of a class.

b.      SGC discussed budge concerns that FCS is facing.

B. Updates in District Policy

C. Calendar of Upcoming School Events

a.      Northwood will continue to promote reading.

b.      We will be refining a feedback process for teachers and students.

c.      We are promoting AVID strategies throughout the school.

 

8:15AM Discussion Item: Share Meeting Schedule for SY25-26) (All Members)

·       The calendar is on our website and posted in our team.

8:16AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

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

 

 

 

September Agenda  

School: Northwood Elementary School 

Date: 9/24/25 

Time: 7:00AM 

Location: Team Planning 

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal) 

7:00AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:02AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:03AM Action Item: Approve August Minutes (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:05AM Discussion Item: SGC Council Development Opportunities (In Person Officer Training and Cross Council) ** (All Members) 

7:15AM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (M. Levine) 

7:18AM Discussion Item: Review 2024 Council Self-Assessment and Create Initiatives (H. Rucker) 

7:20AM Discussion Item: Review 2025 Strategic Plan (H. Rucker) 

7:40AM Action Item: Approve 2025 Strategic Plan (All members) 

7:45AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)  

1. Beanstack Update (N. Sickle) 

2. Star Readers Update (M. Levine) 

8:00AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld) 

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

 

2025 In Person Officer Training 

All SGC Officers (Council Chairs, Vice-Chairs, and Parliamentarians) are required to complete Officer Training (unless completed in previous years).  Please note that this will be a more in depth, hands-on training for newly elected officers. This is different from the Officer Training Module found in the Canvas Training.  

 

Click below to register to attend one of the sessions. 

 

In-Person Officer Training Sign Up Genius 

 

Fall 2025 Cross Council Events 

 The Governance & Flexibility Team is excited to invite all School Governance Councils to our Fall Cross Council events—two engaging mornings designed to connect, collaborate, and inspire. 

  

Dates & Locations 

• 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. 

  

This year’s theme centers on three key pillars: 

• Teamwork – Kicking off the governance year with energy and excitement for our shared work 

• Integrity – Defining our goals and committing to action within our schools 

• Accountability – Monitoring strategic priorities and sharing progress with our stakeholders 

  

We are asking each school to send at least one representative to one of the two events (both sessions will cover the same material). Once every school has a representative registered, we will open additional spots for other members who would like to join. 

  

Register now via our Sign-up Genius link to secure your spot and join us in shaping another successful year of governance in Fulton County Schools. 

 

2025 Fall Cross Council Sign Up Link 

 

September 24^th SGC Summary of Actions

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 9/24/25

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Team Planning

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest member: Frederick Benschine (SGC Facilitator)

7:02AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:02AM Action Item: Approve Agenda

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Lindsey Burke

7:03AM Action Item: Approve August Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Nicole Sickle

7:55AM Action Item: Approve 2025 Strategic Plan (All members)

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Lindsey Burke

8:10AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

·       Second: Nicole Sickle

September 24^th Minutes

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 9/24/25

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Team Planning

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest member: Frederick Benschine (SGC Facilitator)

7:00AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:02AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

·       Motion: Cary Blumenfeld •

·       Second: Lindsey Burke

7:03AM Action Item: Approve August Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

• Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

•         Second: Nicole Sickle

7:05AM Discussion Item: SGC Council Development Opportunities (In Person Officer Training and Cross Council) ** (All Members)

•         Discussion of cross council event

o   Crystal Robinson

o   Possibly Sharon Perrin

•         Discussion of in person officer training

o   All new members need to attend the training.

o   It’s similar to the Canvas SGC training

7:15AM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (M. Levine)

•         The website is up to date.

7:18AM Discussion Item: Review 2024 Council Self-Assessment and Create Initiatives (H. Rucker)

•         Ms. Rucker reviewed all responses from council members. Most responses were always, one or two often.

•         Stressed making sure all voices are heard

•         If you think of a way to get our work out into the community, please let Ms. Rucker know.

7:20AM Discussion Item: Review 2025 Strategic Plan (H. Rucker)

•         Ms. Rucker reviewed the 6 metrics in our action plan and shared that Northwood made their 24-25 goal on all 6! Northwood’s reading indicator went up to 88.1%, surpassing the district threshold of 80%. Ms. Rucker reviewed some changes to the 25-26 plan.

o   Enhance Performance

§  Milestone Proficiency in Math

§  Milestone Proficiency in ELA

§  The team discussed if we were adding Science

§  Ms. Rucker showed her color chart that compared scores and explained the difference between passing (scoring 2, 3, 4) and proficient (3, 4)

o   Insuring impactful programming

§  Milestone data from last year made the decision for this year.

§  Special Ed 29.3% proficiency rate in math (scored 3, or 4)

§  ESOL 28.6% proficiency rate in math (scored 3 or 4)

o   Prioritizing Safety and Operational Efficiency

§  Discussion about office referrals vs. minor reflect and refocus forms.

§  Discussion that the focus is shifting from PBIS to CCRPI score.

o   Strengthening Employee Engagement

§  Survey to staff

o   Using Fiscal Resources Effectively

§  Last year SGC spent all their funds ($46,000).

§  This year we were allotted $30,000, and Northwood proposes to use 100% this year as well.

o   Deepen Community Connections

§  We’d like to see a move to more 5s in the survey instead of 4s.

§  New surveys will be smaller and more frequent

•         The team discussed GMAS and there were some recommendations about leaving notes on sidewalks or notes on the wall from parents as encouragement.

 

7:55 AM Action Item: Approve 2025 Strategic Plan (All members)

•         Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

•         Second: Lindsey Burke

7:56AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

A.      Beanstack Update (N. Sickle)

a.      Students were taught by METI how to log in

b.      Teachers were taught at staff meetings

c.      Students will be handing in book spines

d.      We’ve almost hit our annual goal of 75,000 minutes, and discussed a celebration. If we read for two hours we can double our goal.

e.      DEAR, book donations, themed days for reading were all discussed as potential ideas.

B.      Star Readers Update (M. Levine)

a.      We have two paras who are willing to teach.

b.      Next step- meet with reading coach to decide which 10-15 kids would benefit the most.

c.      The team discussed Amira.

8:10 AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

 

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

 

 

November Agenda  

School: Northwood Elementary School 

Date: 11/19/25 

Time: 7:00AM 

Location: Team Planning 

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal) 

7:00AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:02AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:03AM Action Item: Approve September 24th  Minutes (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:05AM Discussion Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (C. Robinson) 

7:15AM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (M. Levine) 

7:20AM Discussion Item: Update 2025 Strategic Plan (H. Rucker) 

7:30AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)  

1. Beanstack Update (N. Sickle) 

2. Star Readers Update (M. Levine) 

3. CAREingPaws Update (H Rucker/R Imhulse) 

7:50AM  Action Item: Proposed Budget Allocation 

8:00AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld) 

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

 

  

 

November 19^th SGC Summary of Actions

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 11/19/25

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Team Planning

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest member: Frederick Benschine (SGC Facilitator)

7:08AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:09AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Nicole Sickle

Second: Sharon Perrin

7:09AM Action Item: Approve September 24^th  Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Andrea Bourgeois

7:37AM  Action Item: Proposed Budget Allocation

A: $3,000 for 95 Phonics Lesson Library for intervention work

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Nicole Sickle

B: $10,000 for classroom materials and supplies for remainder of year

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Kayleigh Nattrass

C: $1,000- for front atrium monitor/projector

Motion: Nicole Sickle

Second: Lindsey Burke

7:59AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary B

Second: Nicole Sickle

 

November 19^th SGC Minutes

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 11/19/25

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Team Planning

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

7:08AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:09AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Nicole Sickle

Second: Sharon Perrin

7:09AM Action Item: Approve September 24^th  Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Andrea Bourgeois

7:10AM Discussion Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (C. Robinson)

o   Robinson went to the Fall Strategic Action Plan meeting  (everyone submitted)

o   topics mentioned at meeting:

o   Passing of the Homestead Exemption decision and the future impact on schools

o   Starting to look at school budget for next year (will be very different)

o   New tool: Custodial: allows parents to monitor student devices

o   Parent Safety Summit: to discuss online safety, mental health, nutrition, physical safety etc.

o   Discussion on how to get more partnerships with the Engagement Committee

o   Robinson had a chance to listen to what other people from different schools are concerned about (color guard using the rifles etc.)

o   It was stated there should be at least one representative from each neighborhood on the PTA or Foundation Committee

o   It was shared that many people do not understand that we are a Charter System and what that means (some schools shared in the meeting that they have had people go on Facebook Live to explain all about the Charter System

o   Introduced the Glide Website ( where people can share suggestions or ideas on how to better the school)

-

7:18AM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (M. Levine)

o   everything is compliant

7:19AM Discussion Item: Update 2025 Strategic Plan (H. Rucker)

o   Zone Superintendent  approved Strategic Plan

o   There is going to be a continued heavy emphasis on monitoring subgroups

o   There is an increase in referrals than in previous years

7:22AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

A.      Beanstack Update (N. Sickle)

o   Northwood has a total of 96,651 so far this school year.

o   Northwood earned Beanstack district trophy for having the highest student participation rate in October.

o   The school also met the Back to School Beanstack-Challenge of 75K minutes.

o   Teachers and students celebrated meeting our goal with DEAR Days and a dance party.

o   A class from every grade that logged the most minutes was able to celebrate with an outdoor lunch during the month of October.

o   The Beanstack Bulletin Boards are being added to by students and teachers (sharing what they are reading)

 

B.      Star Readers Update (M. Levine)

o   The program started on November 3^rd and meets two times a week.

o   The program uses interactive games and outdoor activities to help re-enforce or teach skills.

o   There are currently 14 participants (first and second graders). Some students that tested out are asking to go back in they love the program so much

o   There are a handful of ESOL students in the program that are able to work with the ESOL paraprofessionals. These teachers are able to use their strategies when working with the students and know how to best support them in trying to close gaps.

o   Parents are aware of the program, and the students really enjoy it.

 

C.     CAREingPaws Update (H Rucker/R Imhulse)

o   Sadie and her handler Teresa  will come read with four students for 15 minutes (10:00-11:30) on Tuesdays.

o   There is data that shows that students reading to a dog is very successful in grades 1-3  (especially for students that know how to read but need a boost of confidence)

o   Sadie and Teresa would also like to become a part of the Northwood community by joining on Read Across America, Book Fair etc.

o   Sadie will come on November 20^th to visit Beanstack winners across the school.

 

7:37AM  Action Item: Proposed Budget Allocation

Remaining Funds Proposals:

A: $3,000 for 95 Phonics Lesson Library for intervention work

o   The Lesson Library would be available to four  teachers to use (two for EIP teachers and two for Extended Learning teachers)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Nicole Sickle

 

B: $10,000 for classroom materials and supplies for remainder of year

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Kayleigh Nattress

 

C: $1,000 for front atrium monitor/projector

o   The idea is that there would be a rolling slideshow of students and the wonderful things that are happening in classrooms. (Phil Chaffer (VanGuard) has stepped up to help make it happen. It is$180 for the display.

o   There is an idea of a photo link being shared with TeamLeads and Specials teachers so that they can help share pictures.

Motion: Nicole Sickle

Second: Lindsey Burke

 

Discussion Item:

o   The district is working on finding the initiative that this group will support, having flexibility in enhanced performance. There has been massive growth around the district of the Charter System. The Charter System gets assessed every year.

 

7:59AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Nicole Sickle

 

 

February Agenda

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 2-4-26

Time: 7:00 AM

Location: Team Planning

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

 

7:00AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:02AM Action Item: Approve February Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

7:03AM Action Item: Approve November 19th Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

7:05AM Discussion Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (C. Robinson)

7:15AM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (M. Levine)

7:20AM Discussion Item: Update 2025 Strategic Plan (H. Rucker)

7:30AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

A.      CCRPI Information from 2025

B.      Family CCRPI Survey for 2026

C.     Reading Focus Updates

D.     Upcoming Elections - discussion

8:00AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

 

 

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

 

 

 

February 4^th SGC Summary of Actions

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 02/04/26

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Science Lab

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest member: Allion Bauer (Reading Initiatives)

 

7:05AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:06AM Action Item: Approve Amended Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Kaleigh Nattrass

7:06AM Action Item: Approve the November Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Kaleigh Nattrass

7: 43 Action Item: Approve presented budget.  (H. Rucker)

o   Budget was presented for approval with changes for FY 27

Motion: Nicole Sickle

Second: Crystal Robinson

8:13AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Lindsey Burke

Second: Nicole Sickle  

 

February 4^th SGC Minutes

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 02/04/26

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Science Lab

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

7:05AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

 

7:06AM Action Item: Approve Amended Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Kaleigh Nattrass

 

7:06AM Action Item: Approve the November Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Kaleigh Nattrass

 

7:07AM Discussion Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (K. Lawson)

• Robinson was not able to attend. K. Lawson gave the report.
• All councils present.
• Student advisory councils have expanded 5-6 members from each high school. They spoke about project and lead breakout rooms.
• Q + A with district leaders
• The next Superintendent’s Advisory Council meeting is this month

 

7:10AM Discussion Item: Website Compliance (H. Rucker)

o   Levine reports the website compliant. She will add the link for last month’s minutes.

 

7:13AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

A.      2025 CCRPI Information- YAY! (highest it has been since 2018)

B.      CCRPI 2026 Family Survey (currently at 13.23% and goal is 20%)

C.      Upcoming Elections (Sharon Perrin and Rachel Needham)

 

7:18AM  Discussion Item: Update for SGC Funds 25-26 (H. Rucker)

A.      Alternate Funding Source secured for phonics resource

B.      Supply requests in process for second semester + AVID needs (re-purchasing binders for students)

C.      Mr. Chaffer assisting with monitor and mount selections for atrium

 

7:26 Budget Committee: Discussion Item 2026/27 (H. Rucker)

A.      Mrs. Lynch and Mrs. Rucker attended district budget prep meeting February 3^rd

B.      Per pupil reduction + GLIDE impacts

C.      Personnel

o   Flex Position Proposal

o   EIP .5 ESOL Paraprofessionals

o   .5 Media & ESOL Paraprofessionals

o   Non-Personnel remains the same as FY26

 

7: 43 Action Item Approve Presented Budget (H. Rucker)

o   Budget was presented for approval with changes for FY 27

Motion: Nicole Sickle

Second: Crystal Robinson

 

7:53 Discussion Item: Reading Initiatives (Allison Bauer)

o   Bauer shared all the different reading resources that students have access to

o   Northwood celebrated World Read Aloud Day on the announcements.

o   Update: Read Across America Planning

o   Cafeteria Takeover- menu matches picture books

o   Masked Reader

o   Guest Readers

o   East Roswell Library Partnership

o   Storytime for K/1

o   Monthly Calendar of Events

 

8:13AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Lindsey Burke

Second: Nicole Sickle

March Agenda  

School: Northwood Elementary School 

Date: 3-25-26 

Time: 7:00 AM 

Location: Team Planning 

TEAMS Link (if applicable):  

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal) 

 

7:00AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:02AM Action Item: Approve March Agenda (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:03AM Action Item: Approve February 4th Minutes (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:05AM Discussion Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (C. Robinson) 

7:12AM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (M. Levine) 

7:13AM Discussion Item: SGC Parent/Teacher Elections Update (H. Rucker) 

7:15AM Discussion Item: Spring Cross Council Update (H. Rucker) 

7:30AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)  

1. Reading Focus  

2. Advance planning for next year 

7:45AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld) 

 

 

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

March 25th SGC Summary of Actions  

School: Northwood Elementary School 

Date: 03/25/26 

Time: 7:00AM 

Location: Science Lab 

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal) 

Guest member: Fredrick Benschine 

 

7:07AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld) 

7:06AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld) 

Motion: Sharon Perrin 

Second: Andrea Bourgeois 

7:07AM Action Item: Approve the February Minutes (H. Rucker) 

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld 

Second: Kaleigh Nattrass 

7:09AM Discussion Item: Advisory Council Reports (C. Robinson) 

• Topics mentioned at meeting: 

• Policy Feedback regarding the Facility Expansion Program 

• Superintendent and Legislative Update  

• Community Feedback and Questions 

7:20AM Discussion Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker) 

• Topics mentioned during meeting: 

• SGC Election Update 

• Cross Council Update 

• Reading Bowl Team: placed 2nd at Regionals 

• Reading Focus 

• Changes to GAMTSS Designations (indicators) 

• SCG Funds 

• AVID Showcase Event 

8:16AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld) 

Motion: Lindsey Burke 

Second: Crystal Robinson   

March 25^th SGC Minutes

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 03/25/26

Time: 7:00AM

Location: Science Lab

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest member: Fredrick Benschine

 

7:07AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:06AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Sharon Perrin

Second: Andrea Bourgeois

7:07AM Action Item: Approve the February Minutes (H. Rucker)

Motion: Cary Blumenfeld

Second: Kaleigh Nattrass

7:09AM Discussion Item: Advisory Council Reports (C. Robinson)

o   Topics mentioned at meeting:

o   Policy Feedback regarding the Facility Expansion Program

§  The district requested feedback on this draft policy regarding the Facility Expansion Program: Community Involvement in Project Planning for donated structures. Key feedback from parent included:

§  Funding Logistics: Some PTO/PTA bylaws require direct payment to entities rather than to Fulton County.

§  Capacity Concerns: There are concerns regarding Fulton County’s bandwidth to manage project requests under this policy.

 

o   Superintendent and Legislative Update

§  House Bills 382 and 1116: These could impact district revenue if passed.

§  House Bill 1009: This bill has passed and will implement a K-12 cellphone ban during instructional hours (with limited exceptions), pending the Governor's decision.

 

o   Community Feedback and Questions

§  Domestic Violence Education: A parent requested support for House Bill 1411 to ensure it is reviewed and advanced.

§  Furlough Day Reversal: Dr. Looney explained that staff was able to save $30M this year, so decision was made tto reverse the furlough day for this year. While the furlough day remains in the proposed budget for next year, a final vote will not occur until June, with the decisions on the bills above playing a huge role in the decision. 

§  Leader In Me Program- Parent talked about the success of the leader in Me program that they had. https://www.leaderinme.com/

 

7:17AM Discussion Item: Website Compliance (M. Levine)

o   NWES’s website is compliant

 

7:18AM Discussion Item: Communication and Outreach Elections for 26/27 Update (H. Rucker)

o   SGC vote starting this Friday the 27^th

7:22AM Discussion Item: Cross Council Update (H. Rucker)

o   H. Rucker attended meeting

o   H. Rucker would like for the SGC to work more together as team

§  She plans to encourage all members to be apart of the agenda / ideas

7:35AM Discussion Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

o   Reading Bowl Team: placed 2^nd at Regionals (school held a small parade for the team after Regionals)

o   Changes to GAMTSS Designations  have changed (indicators)

o   Attendance, GMAS proficiency rates (Math and Reading) and discipline

8:05AM Discussion Item: SCG Funds for 2025-2026 (H. Rucker)

o   New monitor in atrium has been installed ( still figuring out how to keep the iPAD that helps display the images to hold battery and how to keep updated pictures in the presentation moving forward)

o   Basic Phonics Lesson Library with Decodable Passages

§  used by the EIP and ESOL students

8:06AM Discussion Item: AVID in Action Summar of AVID Showcase Event (H. Rucker)

o   Extremely successful for everyone involved

o   Fulton County Board members and principals from other schools (even outside of the state of Georgia) were extremely impressed with how NWES implements AVID in the classroom

o   The NWES students were excited and proud of their work

o   It was an amazing event and something we should all be happy about

8:16AM Discussion Item: Next SGC meeting (H. Rucker)

^o      Wednesday, May 13^th

o   New members will be invited to join

8:17AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Lindsey Burke

Second: Crystal Robinson 

 

May Agenda

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 5-13-26

Time: 7:00 AM

Location: Science Lab

TEAMS Link (if applicable):

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

 

7:00AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:02AM Action Item: Approve March Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

7:03AM Action Item: Approve March Minutes (C. Blumenfeld)

7:05AM Discussion Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Update (C. Robinson)

7:12AM Discussion Item: Review SGC Website for Compliance (M. Levine)

7:13AM Discussion Item: Membership  (H. Rucker)

A.     Celebrate & Thank Members Rolling off Council (S. Perin, M. Levine, N. Sickle, R. Needham)

B.     Welcome New Members (A. Fitzgerald, R. Imhulse, D. Evangelista & Olga Brochstein)

7:20AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

A.      Reading Focus

B.      GAMTSS updates

7:30 AM Complete Council Surveys (All members)

A.     Council Self-Assessment (completed individually)

B.     Principal Feedback Survey  (completed individually)

C.    SY25-26 SGC Reflection Form (completed as a group)

7:45AM Action Item: Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

 

 

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

 

School: Northwood Elementary School

Date: 05/13/26

Time: 7:00 AM

Location: Science Lab

SGC Members: Sharon Perrin (elected parent) Lindsey Burke (elected parent) Crystal Robinson (elected parent) Andrea Bourgeois (community member) Cary Blumenfeld (community member) Nicole Sickle (appointed staff) Kaleigh Nattrass (elected staff) Rachel Needham (elected staff) Michelle Levine (appointed staff) Heather Rucker (principal)

Guest member: Fredrick Benschine, Amanda Fitzgerald, Ryann Imhulse, Danielle Evangelista, Olga Brochstein

 

7:07AM Call to Order (C. Blumenfeld)

7:07AM Action Item: Approve Agenda (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Crystal Robinson

Second: Andrea Bourgeois

7:07AM Action Item: Approve the March Minutes (H. Rucker)

Motion: Nicole Sickle

Second: Linsey Burke

7:08AM Discussion Item: GA MTSS Changes + CCPRI Changes (N. Sickle)

7:31AM Discussion Item: Superintendent Advisory Council Updates (C. Robinson)

7:28AM Discussion Item: Website Compliance (M. Levine)

7:29AM Discussion Item: Star Readers Celebration (M. Levine)

7:43AM Discussion Item: Old and New Member Recognition (H. Rucker)

7:52AM Informational Item: Principal’s Update (H. Rucker)

7:56AM Discussion / Action Item: Council Surveys

8:16AM Meeting Adjournment (C. Blumenfeld)

Motion: Andrea Bourgeois

Second: Crystal Robinson