3/26/26 Thornton-Donovan Parent Association Meeting Minutes

Written By Lorna Montalvo

Thornton-Donovan Parent Association Meeting Minutes
Date: Thursday, March 26
Next Meeting: Thursday, April 9

Welcome and Introduction
The meeting began with an introduction to Roy Weinberger, Thornton-Donovan’s new music teacher.

Mr. Weinberger shared some background about himself, including his experience as a performer in genres ranging from symphonies to funk. He also offers private music lessons for students. He discussed aspects of his teaching philosophy, including encouraging students to speak up, ensuring that every child leaves having learned something, and incorporating music literacy skills such as reading treble clef. His contact email is rweinberger@td.edu.

Agenda Items Discussed

  • Spring BBQ planning

  • Graduation gifts

  • Payment methods for future events

  • Student Council Blood Drive reminder

1. Spring BBQ Planning

The Parent Association discussed planning for the Spring BBQ, including food, drinks, games, setup, and cleanup.

A SignUpGenius is currently being created. Once it is sent out, families will be asked to let the school know what they can bring, including:

  • Food

  • Drinks

  • Games

  • Coolers

  • Tents

  • Tables

Families should also indicate how much they are able to contribute.

BBQ Dates

Two dates were discussed, with one date serving as a rain date.
May 16th with May 17 will be used, as the rain date.

Attendance and Cost

It was noted that in 2025, about 80 people attended. There were no leftovers, but the event also did not run out of food.

A flat fee of $20 per family was discussed.
New families will not be charged.

Volunteer Needs

Volunteers will be needed for:

  • Setup

  • Breakdown / cleanup

There was also discussion about having:

  • Outdoor activities

  • Wristbands

  • A checklist system

  • Wristbands for food

Food Ideas and Contributions

The group discussed possible food options and keeping the food simple. It was suggested to continue with sandwiches and additional items brought by parents.

Teresa volunteered to provide:

  • Paper goods

  • Garbage bags

A possible food contribution from Omar at Pruzzos was discussed, including:

  • 3-foot sandwiches: vegetable, American, and Italian

  • 2 trays of tenders and fries

  • Sausage and peppers

  • Plain wings and buffalo wings

  • Grilled chicken sandwiches without bacon

  • Sliders

  • Sliced bread

  • Fruit platter

  • Icies

Omar / Pruzzos Contact Information
347-861-9179
Omaralrubai1027@gmail.com

Location link:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3baejLBrG6wZgS9p9?g_st=ic

Additional BBQ Idea

Lisa suggested having a “Take a Book, Leave a Book” table at the BBQ as part of a book club idea.

2. Graduation Gifts

The group discussed graduation gifts for this year’s graduates.

  • There are 9 graduates this year.

  • The budget discussed was $125.

  • The PTA will meet before graduation to decide what will go into the blue gift bags.

3. Payment Methods for Future Events

The Parent Association discussed payment methods for future events, including lessons learned from the Dave & Buster’s event.

It was agreed that the PTA will work toward establishing its own payment accounts for:

  • Venmo

  • Zelle

Virginia and parent Liz plan to go to the bank to begin setting this up.

4. Prom and School Calendar Notes

  • Prom is scheduled for June 4

  • Final exams will follow shortly after

5. Fundraising Idea

Lisa F. suggested a raffle featuring Fun in the Sun themed baskets. More contents are needed for the baskets.

It was noted that baskets were previously given with students.

6. Student Council Blood Drive

An additional reminder was shared regarding the Student Council Blood Drive.

  • The drive needs a minimum of 60 people

Lorna Montalvo