October 23, 2007 Parent Meeting Notes

GOGA Parent Discussion Group Meeting
Tuesday, October 23, 2007 – Nichols School Teacher’s Lounge

Follow-up Action
Next GOGA meeting
Person
All
Date/Time
Nov. 13, 2007 6:30-8:30
Location
Nichols School Library

Present
Carol Cain (Program Founder)
Lupe Cachiguango
Charlie Ellis
Elaine Moore
Sarah Hughes
Jodie Pope
Elizabeth Hartung
Bobbie Ameles
Julia Torrez
Zong Her
Linda Elsberry
Rhoda McKinney
Beth Johnson
Holly Elsberry

Agenda

• Introductions
• Presented GOGA, it’s purpose and goals.

Discussion, Decisions, Assignments

Get Out, Get Ahead! (GOGA) was introduced to the group.  Ms. Cain shared with the group how the program came to be and what the hopes for the program were.

Possible trips to visit several universities throughout the community, as well as visits to other culturally enriching trips were discussed. Also discussed was the upcoming trip to the UW-Madison on November 9, 2007. Ms. Hughes shared data information showing the achievement gap between African American and Latino students when compared to the White students. She also discussed the disproportionality issues the district is currently working to improve.

Parents, alumni, and others, shared their stories and experiences within the district. Problems related to cultural and racial insensitivities, lack of cultural competence and other discriminatory experiences were shared. There was a sense of anger, frustration and sadness expressed. Throughout the discussion, mentions of problems in the area of race and cultural relations were most prominent for parents and alumni at the middle school and high school levels. (This is also supported through various phone conversations with parents of students ranging in grades 5th through 12th, many of whom were not present tonight).

Parents expressed their excitement and renewed hope for the new program.   Ms. Her shared her knowledge and experience in data collection and suggested that the group form a charter. Ms. Moore and Ms. Johnson offered their assistance with mailing s and phone calls.

Tentative Agenda For The Next Meeting

• Feedback on UW-Madison trip.
• Next steps for GOGA

Call or email Carol Cain 608-209-5530 carol_cain@mononagrove.org with additions or corrections to these minutes.