PARENT PARTICIPATION
MORRIS PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION
The Morris Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), the local parent group, has as its main purpose to act as a dynamic support group dedicated to a high quality of education in the Lenox Public Schools. The Morris PTO sponsors informational programs and funds special projects. PTO funds are mainly raised through one large fund-raising project. Some ongoing projects include Kindergarten Parents Reception, Reading Is Fundamental, Yearbook, Children's Book Fair, Family Fun Night, Skating Party, the Thanksgiving Gathering, and the annual Field Day. The PTO has also given generous financial support to the Library, to the faculty and staff, has supported numerous artistic performances and events, and has put money and time into each of the school playgrounds.
The PTO is actively looking for parents to participate in their activities. If you would like to be a part of this group enhancing the education of the children in Lenox, please contact one of the PTO representatives listed on the back cover of this handbook.
MORRIS SCHOOL SCHOOL COUNCIL
The Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993 established School Councils in each school in the Commonwealth. The Morris School School Council normally has nine members (4 parents, 3 teachers, 1 community representative, and the elementary principal). The Council meets once a month to assist the principal in (1) adopting educational goals for the school that are consistent with local educational policies and statewide student performance standards, (2) identifying the educational needs of students attending the school, (3) reviewing the annual school building budget, and (4) formulating a school improvement plan. Whenever there is an opening on the Council, parents will be notified and may express an interest to be a member. All School Council meetings are posted at the Town Hall and are open to the public.
PARENT RESOURCE CENTER
The Morris School has a Parent Resource Center in the Library. Materials are available in the PRC on a variety of issues including parenting, siblings, health topics, discipline, special needs, and much more. All materials are available to be borrowed.
PARENT SURVEY
We conduct an annual survey of parents to determine your level of satisfaction with your child’s education and general procedures at the school. We do this in early May and release the results to the school community in June. Your input is important.
SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS
Morris School seeks parent and community volunteers to help in classrooms, assist with special projects, accompany children on field trips, help with special events etc. Persons interested in volunteering at Morris should contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Mrs. Hopper at 637-5570. The volunteer coordinator conducts training, discusses confidentiality and matches volunteers with assignments as they arise. Potential volunteers are advised that per district policy all must complete a CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) background check. CORI forms are sent home with student information packets at the beginning of the year and must be completed before accepting volunteer assignments. Once completed, CORI review is good for three years.
