Thursday, August 24, 2017

A new school year "rolls" on

New school year, new books, new buses...let's make it grEAt!!

192 comments:

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-back-to-school-st-0827-20170825-story.html

Band parent said...

Saw this posted Monday afternoon on the band Facebook page:

"Please do not miss these rehearsals. We have seen a decrease in attendance. Every single person is a vital part to the entire show. We need you to show up.

Please call a friend (even if that friend has not come to a single rehearsal) and get them to practice tonight. It isn't too late to catch up"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here's a newsflash/reminder: East High is the ONLY public high school in this area that REQUIRES band students to participate in marching band. Our kids' family members, friends, and co-workers who go to West High, Waubonsie Valley, Oswego East, Batavia, Naperville Central, etc. do NOT have to march. Many students at those schools do choose to participate in marching band and have a great time with their friends as an optional extra-curricular activity. But only East High refuses to join the 21st century and make marching band OPTIONAL. No wonder attendance is a problem, when just across the river students can hold down a part-time job or have time to do their AP class homework without committing big blocks of time after school and on weekends to marching rehearsals.

Ea all the way said...

Working at East High this week has been infectous. The facilities are wonderful and something our students deserve. It shows with all the emphasis on the football field it will not produce a winning record. Becker should get replaced he is the problem. Our students do not identify with him and last nights 2 point loss was another example. Becker was on the field during the second half on his cell phone.

Time to consider other options said...

Football should be eliminated! Huge health risks to students, high costs, low attendence at games. Lets focus on what this community wants! Many other schools are doing the same.

Happy camper said...

Here goes the elimination cheer. Sports must go, and music and band. Toss out the arts and make EA bland.
A new stadium was just completed. Not good timing for cheering for getting rid of football. Go today, Sunday, Aug. 27th and watch the young people play and the cheerleaders who are just starting.
Start your campaign with those parents and kids. Squash whatever school spirit could be started at the elementary and middle school level.
Ask those community members,what they want. I didn't see you clarifying what the focus should be, with your killjoy comment.

Students' best interests said...

Nobody wants marching band eliminated (or football either for that matter). Just make it an optional, extra-curricular activity, as every other district in this area has seen the wisdom of doing.

Observer said...

"Many other schools" are getting rid of football? Really?? Name one public high school in a 50-mile radius. I'll wait...

Happy camper said...

Sorry, I got a little unhappy there and got on a rant to "..... other options." I agree with 8:43 & 8:39AM. Other options was trying to create a debate with vague and generalized comments with no supporting statements. I should have ignored them. EA is on a good path. They need some tweeking like, what has been mentioned, with the band and a few other areas. I too shall wait to hear what schools have gotten rid of football.

More Administrators Now Than Ever Before said...

There's only one group who wants to get rid of sports and encore, that's our central office administrators. They are cutting them in every way they can. Just look what they are doing to the Magnet Academy right now. If our administrators had their choice, the kids would be in a gulag of math and language 24/7 until every kid passed PARCC. I don't see it changing as long as the administrators evaluations are based on test scores.

Ever wonder why we have to hire so many staff members for the students social emotional health. Administrators have taken away nearly all the social emotional outlets students have historically had. Keep cutting encore and sports and eventually there won't be any kids left at school. Students used to be able to take multiple encore classes. Twenty years ago students could take auto shop and band or building trades and a foreign language. Now many of the students can't fit one encore class into their schedule because of the pressure to pass a useless test. Do we really want a country where everyone has the same skill set? A homogenized and pasteurized workforce with one goal... to further enrich the corporate elite? Education has certainly changed in the past twenty years and all for the worse.

More Administrators Now Than Ever Before said...

https://www.illinoispolicy.org/illinois-schools-are-top-heavy-and-its-crushing-the-classroom/

How Much Have Your Taxes Gone Up For This? said...

In 2000 the district had about 50 administrators district wide. With all the administrators hired recently we have nearly double that number. Now include all the support positions added...administrative assistants (secretaries), coordinators, counselors, social workers, psychologists, etc. and we are paying hundreds of people (most of them significantly more than teachers) that never teach a single class. We are spending millions on all these people and will spend millions more in their retirement. All this to push policies that most teachers would say interfere with the education of children and create so much red tape that make it almost impossible for teachers to do their jobs teaching.

This has and is being done state wide. Thousands of useless jobs have been created that are costing taxpayers billions of dollars. We are not wasting money on education, we are wasting money on useless educational bureaucracies.

Step up BOE said...

Amen! I recall it being pointed out way back when, how our admin. Radakovich, Roberts, Gonzales and many others were getting hefty wages and raises. The old school board we had for years, did nothing to stop it. All these years and nothing has changed?! Pray for change.

SMH said...

I agree , let get rid of all central office administrators. Let's privatize admin. While we are at it let's have school choice, vouchers and charters added as well. John, I hear your ramblings load and clear. Most teachers and schools secretly are happy if Magnet is dismantled cause they all of the rest look bad.

MAGNET the untold story said...

Ballard had issues at Johnson School and they transferred him to Magnet. Why? At Johnson he changed many traditions of the school and did not ask. Word with principals was he was Hoydas pet.


Admin did not know the schedule got completely changed until one of the teachers called Reyes Childress. The slience on the phone was deafening.

Since that time Ordaz, Kincade, Hoyda, Reyes Childress and McDonald have been making excuses. We say call the Beacon, talk to parents, and call school board members (let us not forget Shubert daughter attends the school) (let us not forget Johnson ego will not tolerate negative PR).

Mestak better file the proper greivances and stop making excuses.

What a difference a river makes said...

From the West High band page:

"The Blackhawk Marching Band is a spirited and energetic extra-curricular ensemble focused on representing West Aurora High School and District 129, entertaining fans, and supporting Blackhawk Football. It is open to all band students who are enrolled in one of the seven concert ensembles (grades 9-12). Marching band is an extra-curricular activity and is treated in the same manner as a sport, and therefore students must meet eligibility requirements.

Our non-competitive band performs at all West High home football games as well as several area parades throughout the year. The marching band rehearses two days per week outside the school day: Mondays & Thursdays 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. The Blackhawk Band also has a mini-camp at the conclusion of the school year, and a preseason marching camp approximately 10 days prior to the start of school in August.

Whether before, during, or after the game, no band supports its team, entertains its fans, or plays as hard as the Blackhawk Marching Band!"

Meanwhile across the river our kids are having to choose between their part-time jobs, doing their homework, and playing in a band. Some band students don't show up for rehearsals at all and others show up grudgingly with a negative attitude. So sad, and so avoidable!

Our Band is a Shining Example of EA Pride said...

To: What a difference a river make

Will you shut the he!! up already. If you like the West Side so much more...MOVE THERE.!!!!! Im sure it won't be long before you're criticizing that program as well.

The East Aurora Band Program has been growing by leaps and bounds the past few years. The quality of the music has improved greatly. They are building a new fine arts wing to accommodate that growth. Apparently they are doing awesome things there. Please, if you are are going to keep up this ridiculous barrage of our kids, at least have the cajones to stand up and be recognized so that veryone can let you know what they think of you.

Join the 21st century said...

You don't have to move to West High to find a good volunteer marching band program. You can move to:

Batavia
Waubonsie Valley
Metea
Naperville Central
Neuqua
Oswego
Oswego East
Naperville North

Actually, ANY public high school in this area of Illinois EXCEPT East Aurora High School.

It's hardly a "ridiculous barrage" to want our kids to have the same opportunities and choices as other area band students. On the contrary, a volunteer marching band is what our kids DESERVE.

EA Pride said...

To: Join the 21st century

Awesome!!!!! You have lots of places to choose from if you don't like the programs on East Side. Good riddance!!!!!

Magnet sucks said...

Its time Gerry step up and defend teachers. So far nothing from our fearless leader. He talked about a house divided it is a union divided. Complaints of working conditions go unsolved. Recently we contacted Gerry about changes to our class schedules at Magnet. With no warning every schedule was dismantled. Teachers who had not taught certain classes in their careers have been asked to prepare lesson plans two days before school. We have asked our union for help and nothing. He is worthless. The administration is also worthless or have egos so large they can not admit Ballard screwed them. Shame on the two Interiums mostly Dr Hoyda our big curriculum expert. Can Hoyda really defend this as sound administration. Then there is the board, call them, and you hear twenty minutes of what is wrong with the board. Clueless everyday behavior. Who ends up getting screwed are the students. It will take us all year to get our feet under us.

Students' best interests, again said...

To EA Pride--

There are two kinds of people in our district: those who stubbornly defend an outdated policy that forces band students to march, and those who want our kids to be able to have the same choice as their cousins, friends, and co-workers. I am in the second category and not planning to move anytime soon.

EA Pride said...

My childs bus was on time and it is a great day in EA. No more 50 minutes out of my day to get my kids to school. Thank you School Board and you Ms J for sticking it out.

Do Something Then said...

If you have our students' best interest in mind, then do something other than post on a blog. Until you actually do something; communicate with a band director, show up at a school board meeting, send a letter, make a phone call; you are just complaining.

Band parent said...

I have done the following so far: emailed a school board member, left a phone message with an administrator, and spoken personally with several of my fellow parents. I feel strongly about this issue and will continue to advocate for, you guessed it, our students' best interests!

Hopeful but Still Skeptical said...

To: EA Pride
Im also a fan also but the kids bus came 15 minutes late and there were 65-70 students crammed into it. And this was Day 1, not everyone shows up the first day of school. Also come winter time, more students will use busing. The kids were in the aisles. It was very unsafe. They certainly have a lot of work to do before they can call it a success. Of course we also have to see how much this all is really going to cost.

EA Pride said...

SO skeptical you are telling me my children do not deserve a ride on the bus? I have had to work nights with my husband working days just to get my kids to O'Donnell, Simmons and East. Really what have you done but complain.

The band debate is stupid get over it

Proud alum and grandparent said...

What's stupid is that my 17-year-old granddaughter had to drop band because she needs to keep her part time job, but her 16-year-old cousin at West can be in band during the school day
AND work after school and weekends.

What's stupid is that college costs keep going up and unlike the 1990's those part time jobs are a necessity for most families today.

And what's stupid is clueless, privileged band directors and/or administrators who won't join EVERY OTHER local district in making marching band an optional, extracurricular activity.

Becker has to go said...

to: Ea all the way said...

I have never been to an IHSA contest where a head coach is on their cell phone. It's your right and responsibility as a parent to contact Becker and ask him why he was doing this instead of coaching the kids. Your next call should be to the Athletic Director to report this. I am sure the game film will show Becker talking on his phone. Ask for a new head coach, Coach Kukuc would be a great interim head coach, he relates and motivates the kids and is a full time teacher.
The Becker News, I mean The Beacon News, Becker blames the loss on special teams. Get off your cell phone Kurt.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-bus-st-0829-20170828-story.html

Magnet said...

A magnet teacher friend just sent me a video of the first day. Total chaos in the gym, as students were herded in to get paper schedules. Kids yelling, nobody knowing where to go or what to do, very disorganized.

Parent meeting tomorrow evening.

Concerned at the Demise of our Flagship said...

Where and when is the meeting?

Magnet School news said...

Hoyda talked with us and just because she said sorry Charlie we should listen to her. Gerry Mestak is her new lap dog. He luvs her attention. If we want to be on a committee to discuss changes we need to submitt our name to Gerry. They already stated they will not go back on the current instructional minutes, so what is the point? Reading and math block schedules allow for zero time in encore programs. We are like all other schools in our district.

Ruminations on EA life said...

Glad to see busing in EA! Yes, the first couple of weeks are going to be a mess with it-it's to be expected. A shortage of drivers doesn't help.

The district will realize that marching band should be voluntary when there aren't enough kids signed up for band.

Good job to the football team! Losing by 2 in a season opener isn't shabby. But having a coach on his phone during the game is weird. I give credit to Becker for returning to his alma mater to coach a struggling program.

The hiring of administration seems to be getting out of hand. Go to 131s website and look at all of the administrators and office staff in each department. It's ridiculous. Some of these are new staff who are getting paid more than many teachers. These large school districts seem to be more like executive corporations than educational facilities. Do we need so many people running HR? Transportation? Technology? How many "administrative assistants" are really needed? 'Cause we have a ton of them (5 alone in Educational Services Dept.)!

Hopefully the board steps up to the plate on the next contract. We're losing quality educators in this district. Across the river, they pay full TRS to their teachers, and a higher salary to boot. I know EA won't ever pay full TRS, but that is almost 10% of an EA teacher's salary that is not being taken home to pay for utilities, groceries, child care, rent, etc. I won't cry poor for teachers, but 131 is definitely way behind surrounding districts. You're not happy with the education your child is getting? Then get better teachers who will take notice of East's pay. And I don't want to hear the Board say that they don't have money, after the bragging of how much is in reserves and because SB 1 should be passed by the end of the week to give additional monies.

Go Tomcats!

Band parent said...

The problem isn't not enough kids SIGNED up for band, it's not enough kids SHOWING up for rehearsals. We have our first home game against West a week and a half from now, in the brand new stadium, and of the more than 300 kids supposedly signed up for band only about 150 show up on a regular basis to practice. There will be a lot of holes in the formations on the field and many kids just standing there because they don't know where they're supposed to go. So embarrassing and so preventable.

Magnet said...

Anybody know when that magnet school parent meeting is?

News you can use said...

It's at 5:00 p.m. today, in the Magnet gym.

Please come said...

5 pm at Magnet

Being our union is not backing teachers our parents need to be involved. The administration set the meeting at a time not convenient for families. Please come and voice your displeasure.

Parents, Dr Hoyda told teachers they will not consider giving us back encore opportunities. That is what made this school special. The school as it stands today does not have as strong of a curriculum as other middle schools in the district. Remember our fellow teachers at other schools have been teaching with materials all last year. The lesson plans had been developed. We can not use their lesson plans because students at Magnet do not need as many interventions. The online pieces are not developed. Parents please ask WHY we only had one day to prepare for your children?

Newsworthy said...

I'm hoping the Beacon News shows up. Maybe channel 5 too!

The Parents Have the Final Say About Their Childrens Future said...

To: Please Come
Understand what this meeting is for. This meeting is deflect as much of the criticism away from the next board meeting as possible. They want the parents to vent as much steam at them as possible so the board will not hear the anger.

The administration will not change the Magnet back unless they are forced to. Since the administration doesn't give a damn about the teachers opinions, that will happen only one of two ways. Either the parents will put enough pressure from on the school board so that they will order it done OR the parents can pull their children out of the Magnet school. If no children are enrolled there. They will have to back off or close it.

In short, the parents have the same power teachers do at negotiation time, they can strike. Parents USE YOUR POWER!!!

Publicity and image said...

Hoping the media gives this issue some coverage. Some people in our district are more about image than what's best for students, so any negative attention is sure to grab their notice. If nothing else, the next board meeting will be packed!

SAD day at Magnet said...

Revolt against teaching to the test! That is why the schudule changes happened at Magnet. They told us students are not preforming as well as they could be? Really we have a winning formula and if students take subjects they care about they do better. SORRY Ballard , Gerry and Hoyda that the State standards do not ask questions about Hordiculture and Robotics. Classes have been cancelled because of the State tests not because of students and their performance.

??? said...

So what is the story behind the mess at the Magnet school? Admin decided to dump the cuuriculum the week before students arrived?

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/opinion/ct-abn-crosby-magnet-academy-st-0830-20170829-column.html

Magnet said...

So how did the parents' meeting go at Magnet yesterday?

And who is going to help pack the place at Tuesday's School Board meeting??

The Magnet Hit An Iceberg said...

Dr Ballard just flat out lied to everyone. He tried throwing Angie Rowley under the bus every chance he could. He claimed scheduling hadn't benn done but the parents had their children's schedules in hand that they received weeks ago. They claimed they couldn't figure out Angie's schedule but district policy requires thirty days notice for employees leaving. Angie was willing to give this time but the district administration told her no thanks. They never had an intention of keeping the same curriculum.

The central office administration has charged through this with all the grace of a bull in a china shop. They have communicated with no one...not parents... students... teachers... union... school board... not one stakeholder. Teachers have started the year demoralized, completely unprepared for the curriculum they are now supposed to teach. Teachers found out about room changes from the janitors and Dr. Ballard was observing teachers the first day or more accurately bullying and harassing teachers on the first day.

Considering that all curricular changes must be adopted by the school board (and this was NOT done), not only should the previous schedule be reinstated but the administrators who made these decisions, heads should roll. They have turned this school upside down by not following board policies. If a teacher violated board policy and caused a small fraction of this turmoil, they would be terminated.

The only ones that have the authority to right the ship again is the school board. Let's hope they carry out their duties because we are sinking fast. Many of our best parents are already looking for other schools to send their children to. How is that going to help our bottom line when our funding depends on attendance rates.

Questions said...

Magnet Parent (and tax payer),
Where was Dr. Yolanda Stovall while all this was going on and why did she not take charge while the principal transition was being completed. Again she reports to Dr. Hojda and again the district is passing the blame. Is the board going to allow this incident to go without asking what happened, how did it happen and who is responsible? The district insiders are right. You can't have the district run by part-time superintendents when full time district administrators are making continuous unchecked errors. Please board don't blame this on the teachers as usual.

Magnet observed said...

Nobody blamed the teachers the facts are 5 teachers will be paid all day to suggest changes. The fact is the Magnet kids only had 160 minutes of instruction as compared to other middle schools getting 250. The teachers are all certified to teach in the subjdct area they had been assigned to. Jerry did not put the teachers on the committee he sat with admin and picked them. The reality is that most teachers at Magnet are happy with what they are teaching.

Administration SUCKS said...

Magnet Observed is obviously one of the Ahole administrators turning the Magnet upside down. The fact is the entire staff is traumatized and begging for relief. The fact is they talk about the social emotional welfare of the children but kids were crying all over the building because their favorite classes are being taken away. The fact is these parents chose to send their children to the Magnet school to get away from the insanity going on at the other middle school, not to watch it being turned into a carbon copy of the other failing schools. The fact is being certified is not the same as being highly qualified. Many teachers will be teaching subjects that they've never taught in their careers. It's also a fact that administration receives their bonuses based on meaningless test scores not the well being of the children. And as always, the fact is it's the children who will suffer because of the poor choices being made by disconnected administrators.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-aurora-superintendents-st-0831-20170830-story.html

Another One Bites The Dust said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-interim-superintendent-resigns-st-0903-20170901-story.html

SAD day at Magnet said...

Maybe Mrs Hoyda left because she like so many before her can see teachers are hopeless and excellance can not be achieved in this district. Today a handout was distributed after school saying come support teachers. There was no mention of students. Ask most,teachers in this district do the bare minimum.

Told ya so . . . said...

Part I of Annette's master plan to get Queen Bea to the superintendent position: check.

newshound said...

Here's a link to 16 pages of recent articles about our district:

https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?ik=41147510

More questions said...

Magnet Parent (and tax payer),

The point I was trying to make is, why does the district administration wait until the last minute to try to deal with issues like Magnet scheduling? Just like the busing bell schedule issue they forged ahead without thinking of parents and teachers which caused unnecessary problems and controversy. Why didn't Dr. Stovall bring it up to the superintendents during the last school year so it could be dealt with during the summer? Why aren't they checking on district concerns? Are you telling me no one knew "Magnet kids only had 160 minutes of instruction as compared to other middle schools getting 250" and that it was a problem that needed addressing?
Why do we now have to pay "5 teachers a full days wages" to straighten out a mess that the $120,000.00 a year Dr. Stovall and $100,000.00 Dr. Hojda should have had well solved long before school started? These administrators were brought in for top dollar to avoid things like this from happening (no excuses they been here over a year). I have a further concern for all the accusations of bullying being done by Dr. McDonald and Dr. Hojda.
The school board and the central office have really left the new principal and staff at Magnet trying to straighten something that is not their fault. Speaking for a number of parents we support the principal and the teachers at Magnet. I feel bad for them and the students. We start another school year with controversy caused by district administration. I will be at the board meeting on Tuesday.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-buses-week-1-st-0903-20170901-story.html

Fallout and drama said...

A Magnet 4th grade teacher just left.

A Magnet Social Studies teacher just left.

The Cowherd band director just left.

Buckle up and stay tuned!

anonymous1 said...

Dr. Ballard and Araceli Ordaz were responsible for the changes. Ballard didn't want Stovall overseeing him so he brought his supervisor Ordaz. He couldn't figure out the schedule and made changes without guidance from teachers or the board. He needs to go.

Magnet mess said...

Sounds to me like someone wasn't holding Angela Rowley accountable to make sure she was implementing the appropriate number of instructional minutes in core courses. I mean...come on!! Isn't that BASIC administrative responsibility?? How do you mess that up?!
Sounds to me like fresh eyes discovered how inadequate of a job Rowley did and knew it needed fixed. Rowley set everyone up for this mess and her supervisors obviously failed to notice it. Not Ballard's fault...he just discovered it. He didn't ask to get moved to Magnet. He is just as much a victim as the students and teachers. Angela Rowley's circus and she left behind some of her monkeys.

MAGNET PARENTS MEETING said...

6:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 6 at the School Service Center (School Board meeting at 7 p.m.)

A little History Of the District for Our New Administration said...

To Magnet Mess:

The Magnet curriculum under Angie Rowley was board approved. The new mess is not. Angie did her job. Prior administration knew the history of the district and the Magnet school. This bumbling group of amateur administrators is stumbling blindly in the dark.

The district first added minutes to the school curriculum to accommodate the many students in the district who were not meeting state standards and needed the extra remedial core work. This did not meet the needs of the students in the district who are functioning at a higher level. The Magnet school was set up for the students in the district who ARE meeting and exceeding standards and therefore do not need double the minutes on remedial math and reading. Those students don't need the remedial time, they need to be challenged with practical applications of what they have already learned. In other words they need those extra encore classes to challenge themselves and move forward.

This is an example of why the merry go round of central office administration is always setting the district backwards. They come in not understanding any history, they get twisted and turned by a disfunctional school board, they don't listen to the staff who have been in the district for years and their only real concern are the test scores because they want their administrative bonuses.

Now we're back to everyone at Central Office in survival mode. People are being thrown under the bus and nobody trusts anybody. They all just want to keep their jobs.

District 131 SNAFU

The neighbor who has been watching said...

A huge AMEN to a little history. A very well stated and precise account!

tell the truth said...

Anonymous Fallout and drama said...

A Magnet 4th grade teacher just left.

A Magnet Social Studies teacher just left.

The Cowherd band director just left.

Lets not tell lies on the blog the two Magnet positions left while Roley was still working there. The band director bears looking into

Gotta be a reason said...

Anybody know why Tony Garcia stormed out of Cowherd and left his job? Terrible timing for our band kids!

Another Teacher of the Year Gone said...

To:Gotta be a reason

The real question is how does anybody last as long as the band director did in this district. It is the most abusive environment you can imagine for staff members. The vast majority of our teachers (and administrators) resign within the first three years. It's one of the main reasons why our kids have the issues they do.

Cowherd sucks said...

Story is missing money

Not as Anonymous as You Think said...

Cowherd sucks is Fil Torres and he knows it's a story because he made it up himself.

Do we have a Union? said...

I guess that means Tony Garcia resigned the union. Gerry Mestak and Loretta Holt should follow. They have done nothing. My last contract over three years has put an additional $14,800 in my pocket. My friends in the BA and MA columns will never suffer with other school districts because pay in some cases is better. Lets focus on MA plus, but my fear is our incompetent leadership.

Tony made big promises and for him to strom out on his kids after the school year started in band is not fair and shows poor character. We do have obligations to our students. Tony also pushed for a expensive Chicago law firm which again will lead to a disaster. What happens when we burn through our funds ? This also means Tony has let down the membership. Please ask ourselves why have they cut out Local 604.

My colleagues at Magnet are also not happy. Gentile gets what she wants but other teachers injured the most do not get a chance at the committee. It seems like the other solutions will not get looked at for months. I will be attending the rally and I hope other teachers will as well since we have no representation.




newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/opinion/ct-abn-crosby-east-super-st-0906-20170905-column.html

Consultant? said...

Yeah, keep Hoyda on as a consultant. Somehow we can't afford to hire extra teachers or assistants, or give teachers a decent raise. But yeah, go ahead and keep Hoyda as a consultant with a six-figure salary after she chose to resign.

EA Teacher said...

I couldnt of said it better myself. I have 29 1st graders in my class because we got rid of a 1st grade position last year but they can afford to keep hiring administrators. So much for students being the priority. We could hire 2-3 classroom teachers for every admin they hire and who have no direct impact on the students.

Ralph Padron said...

To Board President Annette Johnson

Are we back to the Popp era of overpaying positions due to internal politics
After reading the recent articles concerning EA D131 circus involving Marion Hoyda, I find it appalling
that Mrs Hoyda

1 Resigns for personal reasons at the beginning of the School year
2 Continues on as a curriculum consultant without pay reduction

Beacon News Sept 6 2017
Hoyda's pay likely would not change when she becomes a consultant, school board President Annette Johnson said. As interim superintendent, she and McDonald are paid $1,000 a day for days less than 10 hours, and $1,200 for days that run longer. Each can work no more than 100 days a yearwithout facing pension penalties because they are retired.

3 WHY IS THERE NO PAY REDUCTION ?

Here is her pension per BGA PENSION DATABASE

NAME Agency 2017 Amount Yrs Service
Marion M Hoyda Teachers Pension TRS $ 167,651 32

BENEFIT START DATE
7/1/2011

4 Since when does an employee resign then can name their new position
a Lesser Responsibilities
b No deailngs with cabinet decisions/leadership
c No longer Accountable to the Board of Education

Ms Johnson, I have been informed that Mrs Hoyda has destroyed morale within the cabinet and the District.
Are we back to the era of Mike Popp when he rewarded those who are destructive to the EA district

You must be personally held accountable in CORRECTING this travesty of OVERPAYING POSITIONS NOT WARRANTED
Was there another candidate considered for this position or is Marion politically correct with you and your Board Members in not pursuing someone.

If I wasn't so involved with wrapping up my investigation of the corruption at Dist 204 Indian Prairie and another govt agency I would be speaking at each Board Meeting demanding your accountablity to the community in allowing this waste of Tax Dollars

I am not asking but demanding an explanation and corrective action on this issue.
Our past confrontations were explosive and I have no problem revisiting EA Board meetings confronting your leadership

HER PAY MUST BE REDUCED SUBSTANTIALLY
Her reputation of caring for the children at 131 can now be proven by accepting a sizable reduction in salary.
Her annual $ 167 K Pension speaks for itself

Ralph

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/opinion/ct-abn-crosby-east-stadium-st-0908-20170907-column.html

Jerry ple said...

Jerry Mestak has turned into the lastest D131 lap dog. The d131 board had to ask why a encore teacher was not appointed to our Ad Hoc committee? Jerry agreed! You would think our fearless leader would have come up with that on his own. The teacher named will not speak up nor did she speak up at the meeting. She is afraid of any conflict so admin will run ruff shot over her.

Jerry also stood up at the meeting and lectured us for administration. Really? One can tell he made a backroom deal with Hoyda.

Hoyda is responsible for the Magnet mess up and now they will pay her at her old rate for less duties? THANKS Ralph for exposing her. MAYBE it is time to expose Jerry before he negotiates us into oblivion.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-hurricane-help-st-0910-20170908-story.html

EA District Union Worker said...

What is Dr. McDonald doing lying to the press? The article says " Tomcats take on their cross-town rivals West Aurora in a brand new $7 million stadium". That number is more than a million over budget. Not to mention the cost overruns on the engineering and storm water on the site itself. I am not sure what McDonald is watching (it isn't the construction project for sure.) McDonald can't even get the grass in the district for the opening of schools. He had to go out a hire a company to cut the grass, trim the bushes, and put down mulch (circumventing the union staff again.) This is a troubling pattern with McDonald. After all that the play grounds and fields still look terrible throughout the district. Our kids deserve better.
I'm wondering what the cost of using the landscaping company was. I did not see the invoice listed on the accounts payable for the district. Is there someone on this blog that could help me find out what the total cost was?

Tell the truth said...

The budget is under by 1 million on construction and the grounds have ne c er looked better. Just being negative

Fire becker said...

Time to fire the football coach. How many games will we attend that the team can not score a point. Beautiful event but Kurt Becker needs to go. We need a coach who isentify with our kids

Justifiably Cautious said...

To: Tell the Truth

Don't believe everything Annette Johnson states in public. We were told that the kindergarten center would cost $9 million. In reality, it cost closer to $17 million. You had to analyze the entire budget to figure it out. They are experts at burying the costs into other budgets. The board recently transferred money around in different funds including the education fund (yes that's the one that's supposed to go to teacher salaries). I'll believe the numbers when I see them.

Telling the truth said...

What has Annette Johnson stated in public? The Benevides Center was started while Annette was president but finished by Dr Popp and Mr Hull while he was President at the time read the plate out in the hallway at Benevides. Justifiably is just starting smack.

I loved the new stadium and all of the improvements over the summer.

Get the facts said...

Justify

I get my facts from reading the board attachments. Throughout the year they have stated $900,000 in overruns because of drainage. The other phases have come in better than projected so they are ahead of budget by million dollars.

The new classrooms need desk, technology, books, supplies etc. They come out of the education fund. Get yourself educated before popping off. With 4200 students at East Aurora High how do you think they are going to educate them? The expansion was needed for our district and long over due.

Ralph Padron said...

Ms Johnson

Since I have not heard from you It appears that the concerns I brought out of Marion Hoyda
have not been addressed as of yet. My previous letter was clear enough on why she should not be retained in any capacity.

Am receiving numerous INTERNAL requests to address the BOE not to hire her as Curriculum Consultant for the following reasons
Question: Is Marion indespensable that she must be retained? Absolutely Not !
Question: Are There internal candidates whom have the qualifications to take over the Curriculum YES YES AND YES

ALL have PHD's in Curriculum
Dr Laurie Campbell
Dr Yolanda Stovall
Dr Carla Johnson

All are at EA daily and fully committed to the education of ALL students
Their hours are not limited from 8-5
They know the district well and have the respect of those in the administration and Board
By selecting someone from within there is no need to get an outside consultant.
Eliminating this expense will prove that the BOE is looking at all options and benefits in hiring from within

Unlike Marion's
Leadership by FEAR is her style and EA needs to send a message this will not happen again (Do I need to mention names from the past)
Her Residence in Indiana creates additional costs which again is being absorbed by the Taxpayers
The Magnet School fiasco was under her leadership and should have NEVER happened.
The biggest concern with Marion Hoyda is her intimidation, disrespect to those administrators and teachers who have invested their lives in D131 in lieu of higher paying positions elsewhere

As you know I have been the Spokesperson for a large network of teachers, administrators (past & present) and the retaining of
Marion Hoyda WILL DETER highly qualified staff to serve at EA

EA has made tremendous progress in exposing and correcting those staff members responsible for the demise and corruption
for years.

Keep in perspective this community does not need abusive Staff ever again.
The decision is on the Board of Education to terminate Mrs Hoyda's employment at EA.

I do expect Bd Members John Laesch and Ken Darby vote to retain her however do not have a clue on the remaining BOE members

Retain her and you will destroy morale, possible expect an exodus of staff, however more importantly the CREDABILITY OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATATION is at stake.

Will pass this message on to the network which anxiously awaits my addressing this issue.

Ms Johnson again I expect you as President to lead the Board in the right direction
Do the right thing and let this era be the past thus move forward in strengthening East Aurora Dist 131

MAKE THIS A PUBLIC VOTE AT THE NEXT BOE MEETING
THIS IS CALLED TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY TO THE COMMUNITY

Will you as President consider all of the above

I am copying my entire network on this issue

Respectfully

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-aurora-memorial-st-0912-20170911-story.html

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST

Date: Sept 13 2017
Subject: Marion Hoyda
Time Line: as required

Please provide the following documents

Current Contract
Resignation Letter
Payment History beginning School Yr 2012 - current
Itemized expenses: Travel, Lodging, Food, etc

Thank You
Ralph

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST
Date: Sept 13 2017
Subject: Marion Hoyda
Timeline: Jan 1 2017- Sept 13 2017

Please provide the following
E LOG
Include to and from

Thank you
Ralph

Ralph Padron said...



Greetings Board of Education

Just had a brief meeting with a high ranking community member whom is very concerned about
the direction EA is heading. Evidently my latest emails to the network has raised much concern
specifically WASTEFUL SPENDING ON MARION HOYDA

Therefore they have requested I return to speak at the Board of Ed meetings to publicly bring out
the findings of my research.

I am formally asking to speak and additional 3 minutes at the next Board of Ed meeting on Sept 18 2017

Since the fear of retaliation from Marion Hoyda is a hot topic, my request is within reason.

Lengthy list of speakers would negate this request, however the importance of my participation
to prevent the downward spiral of East Aurora is the of the uttermost importance.

Boards in the past have allowed this extension within reason.
More than likely I would need no more than another minute or two

Please provide a written explanation if my request is declined.

thank you

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-hoyda-consulting-pause-st-0914-20170913-story.html

Ralph Padron said...

Sept 14 2017
Greetings Board of Ed

Upon reviewing the most recent FOIA response, I am requesting an audit be done
questioning Dr Marion Hoyda"s time sheets.

Why has she submitted many many $ 1,200.00 work days
Is travel time part of her hours
Is there a sign in and out log to support her entries

Contract reads per day
10 hours or less $ 1,000.00
exess of 10 hours $1,200.00

Do you really believe her hours are 100% honestly correct? I don't
I would be amazed if she can actually prove the hours are valid

Add up the excess $ 200.00 per day and see how much that comes out to

HAS SHE FORGOTTEN D131 IS A POVERTY DISTRICT

The excess $$$$ paid to her certainly could have been used in a more useful manner.
Please implement immediately a program to monitor her hours until her resignation date.

I still don't understand that someone on a $ 167K pension would require so much extra
Let's remember has a history of this type of corruption the past several years.
Do we add Dr Hoyda to that list?

Respectfully
Ralph

newshound said...

Here's a link to 36(!) pages of recent articles about our district:


https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?ik=41229056

News you can USE!! said...

This Monday's School Board meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the following location:

Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy - 157 N. Root Street, Aurora, IL

See you there!

District 131 SNAFU said...

Ralph has become nothing more than Annette Johnson's attack dog. He attacks anyone she tells him to. He has no qualms about ruining good people's reputations. With this Magnet debacle, Annette needs someone to throw under the bus, Hoyda's resigning, why not her? I predict they are going to say Beatrice is the savior who is going to swoop in and save the Magnet school even the she was the key player in its demise. Annette wants Bea as the next superintendent because she knows that she can easily control Bea.

Dr. McDonaldd and Hoyda have both worked an almost equal number of day and hours. They have both received almost identical compensation and are both receiving huge pensions but Ralph hasn't mentioned Dr. McDonald even once. If he was really concerned with the district as he states, he would be addressing both superintendents. What's your real motivation Ralph?

Union beware of John Laesch said...

John Laesch should stop posting. It shows Johns lack of commitment to hard working Union employees. It is clear the district needs a superintendent but not one that uses expensive consultants to do her job. The teachers at Magnet can prove the facts that Dr Hoyda did know about scheduling issues a week before and choose to move forward just ask the hard working administration that was put under the bus.

John should tell teachers the truth that he and his new wife are paying for private school for her daughter. The son and daughter will not attend East High because they think teachers at East Aurora and Waldo are not capable of providing a education or displine. The new Ms Laesch has also made those comments.

Sorry EA community John is only making a name for himself to run for future office. We do not need politicians that will tell you one thing and do another. Please John just resign.

Please resign said...

John Laesch is a 131 SNAFU. He defends employees like Crespo who abused teachers. He defends someone like Hoyda how abuses administration.

How unfortunate that now we learn John will not send his step children to our Schools. Time to resign John d131 employees have your number.

This Momma said...

Jennifer, I would like to assure you that many of us who read the blog, take the negative with a grain of salt. There has been one person that has used this blog for spreading their manure for as long as the blog has been here. Others have used it to speak out when they don't feel comfortable doing so in public. In part because of people like manure slinger. (Ms.) the Ms. has used people's family as target several times. She has no children and has no family so she feels comfortable there will be no retaliation in kind. It is really a sad thing her life is built, not on the things she would like people to acknowledge, but rather all the failures in the district and tantrums and confrontations that Ms. has had. If you have read the blog long enough, you can see a pattern. Whenever Ms. has bad light shined on her, when someone has brought out anything negative in her direction, you will see either repeated praise about Ms. And all she has accomplished (giving her total credit) or you will see someone else being attacked on the blog. If Ms. knows her accuser you will see multiple posts attacking that person. They may be signed by people claiming to be union, community or Tomcat, but Ms. is behind it. If Ms. doesn't know the person who has pointed out her failings, Ms. will attack the blog and a bunch of other people from her past as being the "false accusers" and lots of mudslining at random people. When attacking these people doesn't work she will take a low blow and make up lies about them or their family. She starts her lies in her small group of followers. Many appear to follow but it is the fear of being her next target that keeps people from confronting Ms. and giving the appearance they are in her corner. She believes she has power in money and her position. If she were to lose either........in EA it would be like the day Dorothy threw water on the witch.......a brand new day!
It is our right, as parents, to choose to home school, pay for private or send our child to Christian or public schools. But I would not put my child in harms way, where Ms. is in charge, if I were you, either.

Yo Momma said...

Momma you should have checked around Aurora with people who have had a history with your hubby. Talk about spreading manure after picketing a State Reps house one day on his own manure was spread on her porch. His ex funny how they both have the same name moved to Georgia with borrowed money from her parents to put an end to stalking. Many fear his vicous pit bull personality. Some wonder and feel sorry for the new Ms. knowing that she will support his failed political causes by working for him only to become like the old Ms. and others are just shaking their heads wondering what kind of Momma would take her kids from a life long home and uproot them. The new Ms. did spread the word to fellow Berners that EA TEACHERS are worthless and do not know how to even manage hallways. So no Ms. your hubby has lost key supporters in Aurora because of his history and you will soon find out Aurora does not want or need him. Lies will be exposed.

Magnet School news said...

Mrs Laesch, I am a mom at Magnet. I would never move my precious child away from her life long friends. Your rightous indignation is humorous.

You do not have a child in our schools and yet you attended our meeting last time and monopolized the reporters time. Parents would have liked to speak with her. Ms Laesch coming to our meeting and making it about yourself shows in your parenting. Its all about you.

Everyone who has children in Magnet please attend and dont forget it is at our school. Lets thank Mr Shubert for standing up for us.

Anonymous said...

It is hard to read this petty sniping when you have so many huge problems to solve. I got out of Aurora long ago but it is tough to see the elementary school I attended in the bottom 10% is Illinois schools. I was part of the last undefeated football team in 1963 and it is even harder to watch each year as the football team can't beat anyone. You have major problems and this petty squabbling isn't helping.

Aurorian said...

Jennifer most of the community feels sorry for you. Like past Jennifer this number may come in helpful to you Mutual Ground 630) 897-0084.

You won't be anonymous when you're judged. said...

Annette Johnson. I mean Aurorian: You really are one sick Bit€#. There is a special place in He!! for you.

Aurorian said...

Really not Annette, just somebody who knows and luvs the real Jenn Laesch. Many nites many phone calls helping her. Yes I agree there is a special place in hell for abusers.

This Has To End said...

Annette you're full of sh!¥. Jen recently chose to marry John and spend the rest of her life with him. She moved half way across the country to be with him and you want the Ea Community to believe that she made those choices to put her daughter and herself in danger? You want us to believe that despite being a Texan, her confidant is an Aurorian who wants to go on a school district blog to bad mouth them? Annette. You really are a sick Bit€#. Please, go get the psychological help that you need. The school district has these services available to its employees. Im sure they can make time for you.

Aurorian said...

Again not Annette someone who knows the real Jenn Laesch. Jenn worked hard on Johns campaign. When she became more popular than John the trouble started. She needed to move to Georgia for peace. Jenn like you gave her life for him but that was not good enough. Her real friends witnessed the mental munpliation. The military was not kind to John and he needs help. You should ask questions.

You Desperately Need Professional Help said...

Wow,isn't it convenient this anonymous "friend" of JEN's comes onto a school district blog to attack John in response to criticisms of Annette.

Annette, you're fooling nobody but yourself. These mysterious anonymous attacks always follow any criticism of Annette Johnson on here. The pattern is as predictable as is it psychologically disturbing. Annette again, you need professional help. If you need a reference, please ask. The are many psychologists who work for the district. They can direct you to the professions that you desperately need.

Not AJ said...

Ms Laesch, you are not the first person with board affiliation to have your motive questioned . I've read this blog for many years. Dan B. was attacked for sending his kids to private school on this blog before AJ was elected to the board. Ray H.was attacked for taking his child out of private school to come to the high school. Bruce S. will be attacked by either AJ or the union when he casts a vote contrary to her or them. It's a joke to pretend that AJ is alone in the personal attacks. Teachers, ad min, board members, maintenance staff and community in general all have use this blog to spread false news. The union got exactly what they deserved for supporting your husband. He was the alternative for Ray H. AJ is connected with the union behind the scenes as well. She convinced the teachers that Ray H. was anti union and dint think whites could teach minority students. The union made an alliance with Arroyo and your husband . Ms Laesch I dont know and will not spread any rumors about your husband and his ex but he is a strange character if you haven't noticed yet. In the end I agree with you , dont send your child to d131 schools if for no other reason than this blog.The blog in itself is simply a vehicle for transmitting truth, lies, and other info but there a plenty of staff posting including those charged with educating your child. You would in my opinion be neglectful to put your child in that environment . The majority of teachers don't live in the district and they would never put their children in this district . Lastly, your righteous indignation for your child is warranted but your husband brought a lot of this on himself and you are caught up. You made a choice and there are consequences for marrying public figures some good some not so good . Stop reading or this blog will eat you for lunch.

3rd Ward said...

Ms Laesch really, many people supported Jennifer Laesch in Aurora. They all heard the stories and anyone who knows John understands the minute you do not agree with him he fixates on you,they have all that experience. Ask yourself why he is not a Aurora Township Dem. He reinvented himself with the Bernie Sanders group but conflict was right around the corner on that. It is true that Jennifer became more popular than John and thats when the trouble started. She still keeps in contact with many of us. John's attacks on Johnson have just made her a victim. He openly campaigned against her and I voted against John. You are very nieve and hopefully you have a strong support system because you will need it.

To: This has to end said...

Men and women do exactly what you describe everyday . They marry an image or representation and find themselves in a bad situation, but that is Jennifer business not anyone else. With that said, people are always looking for love in all the wrong places. Jennifer quit talking about who is going to hell if you mean it literally . You don't get the luxury of condemning anyone to hell unless you're the almighty .

EA staff said...

To the Laesch's


The problem with your theory is that Annette Johnson spent the morning at the HS. Several anti John posts occurred during the Saturday morning.  She has hundreds of witnesses. 


John, the fact remains your first year on the board you supported many administrators who teachers had their rights violated by.  You also had conversations with many of us about the abuse and then turned our names into administration. This year you again did the same. Your new wife was openly condescending of EA teachers. She made comments about the lack of hall monitors. What are we to believe. You do not support us in student displine matters. You did support us when administration was photographing us in the halls. Yes, Ms Laesch thats to name a few. Ms Laesch, how can you say her child will be treated badly by the teachers or the blog? Teachers are professionals and many of the past board members have had children that have gone onto sucessful colleges and careers because of the teachers of EA. 


Ms Laesch clearly your attacks are directed at one person and not very professional. It shows you have a anger management problem. Texas displine does not work in Illinois.  I did not attend the Magnet rally, but I have seen posts on social media about teachers and parents wanting interview time but you Ms Laesch made it about yourself.  


Your husband made his bed with staff at EA and he needs to self reflect about that. It is not about anybody else but him and why he is disliked. We are well aware of Ms Johnson track record and although some things are not good most of the staff understands the schools are better because she helped stop coruption at the administration level. She also took the hard votes and today we have a leader that supports us. Ms Kosak has been a godsend.

Ms Laesch maybe your husband should have been attending events that show the true sprite of our school but he has not. It shows the disrespect for students and staff. He only uses his position to get his name in the newspaper and promote his cause.

Sunday morning said...

Wow...so much sniping on a Sunday morning! Maybe some of you should go to church instead of bashing each other.

Blog master's identity said...

Blows my theory out of the water about who the blog admin is. I thought it was Mrs Kaisershot who used to post as "churchmusician" and plays the organ at several churches but doubt she could screen & post comments on a Sunday morning. Maybe Annette is the blog master now;)

Confused about location of Board meeting said...

Tomorrow's School Board meeting is at the Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy...or at least, that's what this blog said. I also downloaded the agenda packet for the meeting from the district website. Sure enough, it says the meeting's at Magnet.

But when I drove by East High today I looked at the electric scrolling sign in front of the school and it said Board of Education meeting September 18, 7:00 p.m., at SSC. I can't figure out how SSC can stand for Magnet Academy---anybody know if it's a Spanish thing??

Magnet Parent said...

It's a mistake thing.

The district website and blog are correct: the meeting is at Magnet, not the SSC (school service center). It's important that parents show up tomorrow to speak and represent our students.

It would be grEAt if many of us would call the high school office tomorrow and let them know about the mistake, and that the community counts on being given correct information.

See you tomorrow at 7 p.m. at MAGNET ACADEMY.

Ralph Padron said...

Sept 4 2017 email Marion Hoyda to Annette Johnson & Kimberly Hatchett
Marion is addressing her becoming a CONSULTANT TO THE BOARD.

"My daily rates/reimbursements will reflect what currently exists in the contract"

Marion Hoyda Contract reads per day
10 hours or less $ 1,000.00
exess of 10 hours $1,200.00
travel expenses also will be reimbursed

1 Is this the going rate for a Curriculum Consultant?
2 What is the current Curriculum contract for salary
3 How many Consultants does EA employ
4 What is the total amount paid since Marion took over compared to previous years
5 If there are other consultants being utilized, who recommended them
6 Why should a Consultant make the same amount as an Interim Superintedent

Evidently Dr Marion Hoyda has displayed that EA D131 should be rewarding her GENEROUSLY
regardless of it being a POVERTY DISTRICT

Will be sending numerous FOIA's to get answers
The taxpayers need to be informed of this issue

Ralph

Meeting info said...

Dear Confused,

The meeting is at Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy in the LRC (3rd floor) at 7. Since the Magnet mess is back on the agenda, staff members asked repeatedly that this get sent in a press release. Eventually, it was buried in a press release on Friday. Just another smoke and mirrors attempt to pass Magnet's new schedule without parents knowing what is going on.

Oldtimer said...

No good deed in East Aurora goes unpunished. Teachers and Parents are being accommodated at their home school and one posting at East Aurora High School becomes the news. I think it is a inconvience to goto Magnet.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-community-service-st-0918-20170915-story.html

Corrected sign said...

The sign in front of the high school has been corrected to say that tonight's meeting is at Magnet.

Thanks to all who called the school and/or posted on the blog to help make the correction happen. Our community DESERVES correct information!

Tonight said...

Wow! The union president just threw the Magnet teachers under the bus. I didn't even realize he was the union president until someone said it after his speech to the board when he scolded the teachers!

Yikes said...

What did he have to say about the teachers? Doesn't seem like they were to blame for the mess there. Did he think they didn't handle the ridiculous changes well?

Jen Downard said...

First and foremost, I am not hiding. This is Jen Downard. I do not need to hide. Setting the record straight, I did not, repeat did NOT move to Georgia with money from my parents; nor did I move, to get away from John stalking me. Really! Is that all you guys do. You spew crap about others to make yourself feel better. You must really hate your life and yourself. To attack others, because you do not feel good until you have made others miserable........

All of you are right. I, along with many, many others worked hard on John's campaigns. John is a person of HOPE and inspiration. He has the support of many, to include family, friends, the Unions (his brother & sisters) and many Veterans. He has worked tirelessly to make not only Aurora EA, Kane County, and other political campaigns better, but also his Country a better place to work and live. How many of you can or will work on little sleep, miss many family events, maintain a 40 hr+ work commitment, and still assist in the work of politics whether issue based or to assist those that have a desire to 'better' their community/country?

If y'all must know, John & I are friends. I wish him and his new family well. To meddle in their life, for you to be so condescending of where one should enroll their child, is NONE of you business. Leave the children out of your condescending remarks. Again, shows how little and immature you are, to attack a child.
If John should run for political office, yes, I would be there, AGAIN, to help support him. Because I know John would be doing it for the RIGHT REASON, other than those that do it for POWER. Remember, absolute power corrupts absolutely!!
~Jen Downard

Momma said...

Jen and Jennifer, John is a fortunate man to have had two such wonderful ladies support him. I know John and I believe his heart is in the right spot. When you put yourself in the political arena you become a target for every person with an ax to grind. It is even worse when a fellow elected person, is in it for the "power" as Jen pointed out. We all know who the power monger is in the local elected circle. All of you have put too much into doing good works for all the right reasons to let some one with no moral background get the best of you. She has brought out the worst in several decent people. Don't let it happen to any of you. Stay on the path of working for the good of all and not for the power of self. It isn't an easy road but you will feel much better in the end and the trust of others will follow.

What he said said...

He pretty much said that the teachers have to be resilient like the students and deal with the changes. I feel bad for the teachers...no support!

Staffer said...

Ha ha John Laesch ever hear of the word fake news.

Then there is Mr Laesch the board member who avocated for smaller class sizes at Magnet. If he would have brothered to come to the meeting he would have seen the presentation of the districts best and brightest. Teachers at Magnet teach small capped class sizes and some of the classes had less than 10 kids. Mr Laesch have you ever visited a school in EA? Oh thats right your wife told us we dont know how to manage hallways. Mr Laesch come and see we still have many classes over 32 kids and they all have different issues and many need interventions. We have your number just say anything to get attendtion.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-magnet-schedule-st-0920-20170920-story.html

In agreement said...

I totally agree with Ms Gervais comment about the value of the arts. However I believe that students throughout the district should have more opportunities with the arts. Thinking outside the box would require someone understanding that while most areas of life in America have evolved over time with the exception of our antiquated education model from the 19th century. While magnet is the jewel of EA it still misses the mark compared to many schools in the area therefore some tweaking is good. Last but not least Ms Gervais is in self preservation mode. We all know that when academic changes and budget cuts occur that the arts are the first to get the ax

Magnet two said...

The district mentioned the possibility of two Magnet schools. I think that would be a good thing for our district. The district should focus on one being about the arts.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-interim-superintendent-pay-st-0920-20170921-story.html

Newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/opinion/ct-abn-crosby-magnet-parents-st-0922-20170922-column.html

Tomorrow night's meeting said...

Special
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 7:00 PM
School Service Center - 417 Fifth Street, Aurora, IL
I. Roll Call
II. Superintendent Search
A. Search Firm Presentations
III. Public Comments/Questions
IV. Adjournment

Ralph Padron said...

Board of Ed & Interim Superintendents
Recent FOIA revealed the following

Marion Hoyda hired these consultants
Randy and Sue Pippen (husband & wife) invoiced to D131 East Aurora over $ 102,000.00 for consulting services
Billing was $ 2,000.00 per day or $ 1,000.00 per person.

Their Current 2017 pension with TRS
Randy L Pippen $ 147,310
Susan A Pippen $ 115,606

I understand this husband/wife consultant team is under contract until March 2018

Can someone stand up and tell them their services are no longer needed.
Need to put the Marion Hoyda Era behind and not be hindered any further
Is there a connection with Marion and the Pippen's ?
Probably rewarding her friends with hard earned taxpayer dollars

$ 263 K pension plus $ 102 K for consulting
It is all about the MONEY not the EDUCATION OF A POVERTY DISTRICT

Stop the Bleeding PLEASE

Ralph

Questions said...

Where the heck are the board minutes from August and early September meetings??

Isn't the district legally required to post minutes within two weeks of approval?

And aren't we taxpayers PAYING for someone (or someones) to do their job and make sure this information is publicly posted?

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-budget-st-0927-20170926-story.html

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-marion-hoyda-consulting-st-0928-20170927-story.html

We need new leadership said...

We are disgusted with our Union leadership who promised change and transparency. Recently, Mestak called the Magnet teachers out for being cry bulliesat a BOE meeting. The sad part is some MS teachers believe this but a Union President should never call out his paying members. Life in 131 is not defined by Cowherd alone.

Then there is the case of the mysterious departure of Tony Garcia long time agitator and Mestak pal. Rumors are flying about the admin questioning his integrity. Why leave, why not stay and fight? Why let your students down by not having a teacher at the beginning of the year? Garcia gives us a bad name. We are also left to question what about the EA treasury books. Jerry made no announcement to membership about who is the new Treasure and no announcement about our locals financial status.

The other question is why no annoucement about the lawyer Mestak hired? How much are we paying him and does our local have the dollars to do so? Is 604 contributing or will we run out of funds before our contract is resolved?

Jerry never answers calls or questions and our building reps do not know what is going on. So much for transparency.

Not As Anonymous As You Think You Are said...

Recently Annette Johnson had Ralph Padron FOIA Marion Hoyda’s emails. This was all part of the attack Marion had to endure because she disagreed with the Magnet School changes. There were emails going back and forth between most of the board and administrators. One thing stood out in all these emails. Annette Johnson consistently misspelled Gerry Mestek’s name. In every email from Annette Johnson she spelled Mestek with an A instead of an E (MestAk).

Now if you look at all the posts on the blog here, every post that’s critical of Gerry Mestek and the union spells Mestek incorrectly with an A. As is frequently the case on here, Annette Johnson is just trying to create dissention.

The fact is that the union is in better financial shape than they ever have been. The union has raised about $100,000 for legal defense (This is unfortunate as Local 604 and the IFT should be paying for this). This is an incredible accomplishment considering that the union spent about $15,000 more than they took in the year before. They were going in debt and sinking fast. Unlike the district books, the union books are reviewed by an internal audit by union members, an outside accounting firm and a Local 604 review. In addition, Gerry and the new union treasurer confirmed at the last union meeting that the books are in perfect order. Ask your building representative.

Don’t believe most of what you read on here. The vast majority of the posts are written by the school board and administration and are meant to attack the union.

peak a boo...we know it's you... said...

You are absolutely correct about deliberate posts by certain individuals to create problems. As long as people check the facts, there is usually no problem. It is when some people believe everything they read without question, then share it as undisputed facts.....it starts as plain and simple malicious gossip created by a hateful people and escalates when foolish people allow themselves to be manipulated.

Fake news said...

John Laesch or his minions should stop posting fake news again. Maybe Johns pro Bernie friends can tell John or others that Annette was at a Dem picnic at Phillips Park when the need leadership post was made. Unlike John who is a outcast to Aurora Dems others have better things to do than posting on a blog. Sorry John several witnesses.




newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-consultants-st-0928-20170929-story.html

The news story said...

"Johnson said she was not aware of the number of consultants working in the district or the dollar amounts paid to them. A department or superintendent can hire a consultant without a board vote, she said.

Payments to some consultants appear in the lengthy list of bills that comes before the board for approval at school board meetings, but determining which individuals in that list are consultants is not always easy, she said.

"I'm not making excuses," she said. "But I will tell you, from a board standpoint, the board members would have a hard time with that because even as a senior board member I would myself."

What!?!? This coming from the self proclaimed financial/ accounting expert? Quit trying to run the district, let the supt. do their jobs and do yours, Annette! As a school board member, especially a "senior" member, you should be overseeing those payments with a fine tooth comb. Had you been doing your job, most of the expenses would be familiar to you by now and you should have spotted things that stood out. D131 does not have money to waste and you were elected to be be the voters eyes and ears, when it comes to the money being spent for our students education. How are your fans on the NE side gonna like how you are allowing their taxes to be wasted? Our teachers were creating their own curriculum, when the district left them high and dry with no help implementing common core. There would have been a good time to hire some help, rather than expect teachers to devise plans while attempting to keep our children on track.
Yes, you are making excuses, and poor ones at that. If you don't understand what's going on ask questions or educate yourself, don't rubber stamp the budget.

Here we go again said...

Annette stopped Hoyda's wild consultant spending that is why she left. Hoyda had BOE members fooled. It was up to Hoyda to give a comprehensive report to the Board on what she was spending. The only fool taking up her cause now is none other than John Laesch. Last month it was Crespo and a year ago it was Popp. Do we see a pattern here teachers? John has a history of backing up self serving administration.

Taxpayer67 said...

Have to agree with The News Story why didn't the BOE and The Board President see these expenses. What else are they overlooking.

How could Annette stop Hoyda's wild spending when she herself stated she didn't notice it in the list of bills. I bet she is the one too push the two Superintendents instead of getting just one. People Annette believes she should run the district and it isn't her job. The most important job the board has is to hire a Superintendent. Also the board should follow the IL School Code and have parents with complaints go through the chain of command.

As long as this School Board continues to act as Johnson is the one running the board this district will continue to have these problems.

Sax Player said...

Annette needs to check into the activity funds for the Cowherd band.

District 131 SNAFU said...

The continuing pattern on here is getting monotonous. Bad news in the paper for Annette. Once again, she either knew what was going on and allowed it to happen or she was completely incompetent as hundreds of thousands of dollars were wasted. What is the response? Attack John Laesch and the union anonymously on the blog. They had nothing to do with the hiring and paying overpriced consultant but she needs a distraction from her incompetence. It’s like Trump attacking the media and democrats everytime he shows his incompetence. It really is pathetic.

Disappointed said...

I will say that Local 604 and IFT are a joke. Didn't do jack squat for us during the last negotiations. Having been a former member of NEA, I can say they run a better-oiled machine bar none.

SNAFU watcher said...

District 131 SNAFU is the screen name for John Laesch and his few naysayers. John is attempting to bring a divide Union members. The fact is we have received a decent contract last time and we must continue to be a unified group. John has done nothing for the children or membership everyone knows his focus is Annette and it is a waste of his time and efforts.

John lost the support of many with his tape recording of Annette arguing with Joan Glotzbach a true hater. John also lost support with his defense of Crespo and Popp. What John does not understand is employees complained and Annette responded. He needs to stop wasting time people who don't matter.

The fact remains Gerry should send out newsletters and are elected building reps need to keep us better informed. Unless a email was missed there is no announcement of our new treasurer.

Tomcat69 said...

Annette had no right to talk to Joan and the other person that was with her the way she did. She had no authority to do so as the Board President and until this district realizes that the Superintendent is the one that runs the district we will continue to fail. I really don't understand why those two even meet with her she had no authority to so so. John did the right thing to bring this out but there are still some who think she has the right to do so. Joan did do things she might not should of but remember no one was watching and that includes Annette.

Felt the wrath of Joan said...

Did you ever have a meeting with a meeting with Joan when she was mad or upset? Her entire body would shake. Annette was justified in her treatment of Joan afterall the district and teachers suffered financially and we paid higher health care costs for years. Joan did not perform her duties and she should have been terminated long ago.

Blame to go around said...

Boy oh boy, John and Annette are busy on the blog. Both of you need to grow up. News flash, John is responsible for the hiring of the consultant unless he voted no. Annette stating that she simply missed the consultant cost is a pitiful excuse but if the other BOE members were doing their job someone should have at least question the cost. Instead they put it all on Annette to do and allow her to take both credit and blame. Just like Trump she is a narcissist and will never own up to a mistake; it’s always someone else fault

Tomcat69 said...

No Annette wasn't justified to talk to Joan. You people need to read the IL School Code about Board Members. No wonder this district is the laughing stock of surrounding ones.

Oldtimer said...

Joan Gloztbach had what was coming to her in a meeting she yelled at my wife and was even shaking she was so mad. Annette has helped change the distrct but everything at East Aurora gets played out in the Beacon. I know West Aurora has many consultants and has hired a former board member in a back room deal. Why is that not reported?

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-fred-rodgers-schedule-st-1004-20171003-story.html

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-hoyda-st-1004-20171003-story.html

Where the heck are those minutes?? said...

Still no minutes posted from AUGUST or SEPTEMBER School Board meetings.

Inexcusable.

EA-notOK.

WHO is being paid at the Service Center to NOT do their job??

Will Ben step up said...

Another Friday another football blowout. Why did East Aurora even build a stadium? Oh that right for soccer and track. Becker has more coaching than any other sport. I believe its 15 for the just for his group. Its time for Ben Williams to step up and fire Becker after this season. The sole purpose of EA football is to give other teams a win. These are teams that have not won all season. Lets use Barlett for example zero wins until they play East. Barlett scored 25 points against East. Come on folks at least Jefferies made a game of it. Willams needs to step up for the kids.

West is best I guess said...

I am not a parent but I do have two teen-aged nieces, one lives on the West side and the other near Waldo. Both play in the band, and I have a nephew who plays football for West so I go to games and concerts on both sides of town. I went to the Panther marching event on Saturday and this is what I saw:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U437-KCTtPg

They are a smaller band but make a lot of good sound. My niece (she's a 10th grader) says that everyone in the band is there by choice (marching at WAHS is an optional activity, like a sport).
She says that she has a lot of fun but probably won't march next year because she wants to get a job and save for college.

I also went to a EAHS game in September and saw their marching show:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAXk7Gd-yjw

The uniforms looked good, the show was interesting, and there were a lot of kids on the field but my niece (freshman) says there were a lot who missed rehearsals and there were gaps in the lineup from people who were missing. That's probably because marching is a required part of being in the band at East (my understanding is other districts have gone to volunteer marching band, why not East?) What really bothered me is that they were playing along with recorded music through the whole show!? When I was in school the kids performed the music themselves and were proud of being able to make a good sound on the field, but now it's acceptable to play along with a track.

EA-OK standards, band edition??


EA-OK is not okay said...

I found some videos of other area marching band shows from the last few weeks:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-sTtjOntv8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHpsX6QrBI8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKZ2sFRQJeg

Metea, Oswego, and Oswego East marching shows. Smaller bands (not mandatory marching for their band students), but impressive sound and no gaps in their formations.

And most importantly, no playing along to recorded music!

newshound said...

Here's a link to 16 pages of recent articles about our district:

https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?ik=41380266

Unknown said...

I'll never understand how people will continue to bash the band at East even after how far we've come from 7 years ago. Instead of applauding people will always find something to complain about instead, it's so sad.

We can do and be better said...

Victor, I am the band alum and aunt who posted on October 9th. I admit that I am upset because one of my nieces doesn't get to choose whether or not to march, and may have to drop out of band next year in order to keep her part time job. I don't think it is bashing the band to post videos of other schools performances and point out that East High band is the only one to play along with recorded music. Especially West High's band program is a fair comparison because our kids have similar economic backgrounds, and since I have a family member in each group I have a unique basis for comparison.

For many years our district has had a reputation for coddling certain programs like the band and excusing less than excellence. Some call this "EA-OK", meaning that standards and expectations for our kids are lower than other districts. I find this unacceptable and, frankly, insulting. I do applaud my niece's performances, but I will also point out shortcomings because OUR KIDS deserve the best, not "EA-OK"!

Unknown said...

There is most likely a reason some of the parts are played by a recording.
First off, it calls for a piano, it’s most likely they don’t have anyone who can play the piano at a competent level. They haven’t in past years.
Second of, there’s a Synth part, what else do you expect this to be played by?
I think the fact marching band is mandatory is great.

Excuses much? said...

For your information there ARE synth and keyboard players at East High. I know because they are included in the East Side Percussion group. And if you think it's great that marching is mandatory then you are definitely in the minority, considering that NO OTHER public high school in this area requires band students to march.

Unknown said...

Never said there wasn't any piano players, just said there wasn't any competent ones, same probably goes for synth players. There has to be some reason why we don't use actual people instead of the recording aside from the fact we just don't want to. And if there isn't, oh well, still isn't an excuse to go as far to say we are lower standards for our students. Having marching band being mandatory is great, it covers the gym credit for a full school year. Allowing students to take an another elective along side band, like a foreign language or some other class. And having a job doesn't suddenly make things impossible, I knew plenty of people who had a job and still balanced school (and band) perfectly fine, myself being one, it's not difficult.

Nice try but nope said...

Here's one reason to use recorded music throughout a marching show: it covers up bad tuning and missing parts. Hard to disguise the fact that kids were missing from the formation, though, since gaps were obvious at the beginning when they were lying down on the field.

And as far as being able to take an extra class, that has changed since you graduated in 2010. Now there is one fewer class period in the school day (class periods are longer). It's no coincidence that many schools went to a voluntary marching program when they switched to block scheduling!

And as far as a job is concerned, I only know my nieces experience in band the past 2 months. She had marching rehearsals after school and many evenings AND activities almost every weekend (games, parades, competitions) for 6 weeks straight. Which is fine because she's a freshman but she wants to get a part time job next year and what boss wants to work around that kind of schedule?

It's time for our district to do what's best for students and stop trying to hold on to what worked 40 years ago.

2 more cents worth said...

I have to agree about the after school job. If you are working a job for pocket money or the experience of having a job, you can probably manage band and work. Or if you work for a friend or family member who is more understanding. If you work to actually pay for things you need or full time after school as I did, an employer does not want a worker who cannot commit to a consistent schedule. Not to mention, it is unfair to coworkers who have to pick up the slack.
The part about the music that is not being played by the band, I find that sad. Is there no other music that the students could play that would not require accompaniment by recorded music?
I realize the video was probably not the same as hearing it live, but the other music was distracting and disappointing. I like hearing the students. I am not a critic of their music, even if they did play poorly, I would rather hear JUST the EA band playing. My guess would be, most of the people in the stands, especially parents, would, also.

Unknown said...

The current schedule only allows for one elective (aside from gym, band, or ROTC), which was changed during my last year in the 2013-2014 school year. All for what, a few extra minutes in core classes? Many people in band were against this change at the time because it hurt us who were in more than one band. The jazz band was moved to after school that year and saw a huge decrease in attendance even though it still had the same people from the year before, which would most likely happen with the marching band if it were moved to something like after school, especially if it kept its gym credit.
I only worked all through high school to help myself save up for university (And I wish I hadn't), out of all the jobs I had, every single boss was extremely understanding of my situation and was okay with it. They worked it out with me, so that I could work as many hours as I could while still having the days off that I needed.

Actual Band Booster said...

Band Booster meeting tonight at 7:00 pm in Hawks Auditorium. Only lasts an hour. Come and get answers to your questions.

Longtime resident said...

Victor, I didn't like the change in scheduling either because it made it more difficult for students to explore different areas of interest like band, art, drama, etc. in high school before they had to narrow their focus on their college major or job skills. And you were extremely fortunate to have bosses and co-workers who were flexible and understanding; too many of our kids do not!

Our experience said...

I notice you're a computer science major, and so was my son. So maybe you can relate to his experience. He knew in grade school that he wanted a career in the video game industry, specifically in programming (turned out pretty well, as he makes a six-figure salary programming for Oculus). But we (his parents) insisted that he develop his artistic and physical self as well as his brain, so he took karate and played in the band. When he got to high school at WVHS his options were limited (block scheduling), so he decided to take band and not
learn a foreign language, against the advice of his counselors. He also chose to participate in the (voluntary) marching band his junior year. He wanted to march his senior year as well, but he and his best friend planned to go to QuakeCon (which was the same week as marching band camp). So he didn't get to march his senior year BUT was still able to be in Wind Ensemble, which met during the school day. Because marching was an extracurricular, optional activity my son and many of his friends were able to continue in band without being penalized or letting their band mates down because of their absence.

Staffer said...

The school district has a focus on core instructional hours. We can all argue whether that is good or bad look what is happening at Magnet.

EA Band Student said...

Where are you getting this information from? I’m in the band, there is no recorded music, and there are two piano players in the percussion. Please don’t spread lies just to make the band look bad.

If you really wanted to help the school be better, you’d talk to the school or the directors about it. Or you’d go to the band booster meeting someone mentioned.

If what you wanted to do was anonymously talk trash to try to make the band look bad, you’d post on a board like this one.

Former EA Band Student said...

"there is no recorded music"...

Go ahead, look at the video again:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAXk7Gd-yjw

There are no keyboards/synthesizers among the percussion ensemble in the lower right of the screen. Yet piano, harpsichord, and organ lines play throughout the whole show. It also sounds like there are strings, which would either have to come from a synthesizer or keyboard on a strings setting.

You are either clueless or deliberately lying or both.

But the TRUTH you choose not to mention is that East High is the ONLY public high school in our area that still requires band students to march. And some of your fellow students are having to choose between earning much-needed income and playing in band. That is WRONG.

EA Band Student said...

I don’t know what to tell you. There are two piano players in the percussion. There is no recorded music. I’m not lying to you. They are playing synthesizers. You can’t tell what anyone is playing in the video you posted but trust me, I’m in the band, there are two guys who play piano/synthesizer. They stand in the front of the field by the drum major next to all of the other percussion on the front of the field.

The string sound you hear is an electric violin solo, one of our color guard guys plays it. He’s really good.

I don’t know anything about the requirement to march, that’s not up to me. If you have a problem with that you should talk to our directors, not anonymously complain on this board. Or, again, go to the band booster meeting.

More evidence said...

Here's another video, this time of the Sandwich Music Fest competition last Sunday:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucHNkhvIBRk&t=55s

I put the image on full screen on my desktop, and could see NO keyboards in the percussion section (located for this performance in the center front of the band). There were also two large amplifiers pointed toward the band on either side of the percussion (maybe so the band could hear the recorded track?). Also, when the keyboard/synth solo music was occurring no percussionists were moving (playing)--although several marimba players did join a few bars later.

My understanding is that the percussion ensemble did not include synth/keyboard players at the beginning of the year, and Mr. Kulick is just recently asking for two students to audition to play keyboard. If there were (as you claim) two guys playing keyboard then they and their keyboards were invisible in the video.

I'm choosing to believe that you are a band member who stands in the back of the formation and can't really see what's going on in the front. You've been told that there is no recorded music and you haven't seen evidence to the contrary. But I only know what I see and hear, and it looks to me like there is indeed a recorded track.

EA Band Student said...

Mr. Kulick told us in class that he was looking for two keyboard players for the winter percussion ensemble because the keyboard players from marching band are switching to other instruments.

You really can’t see much in the video you posted. I don’t know why to tell you here, there were two keyboard players in marching band. I know who they are. I’ve talked to them. I’ve seen them play. The sound effects you hear are all being controlled live with a sampler, there’s a kid who did that during the show.

So what you’re suggesting is that the directors are running some big conspiracy? That we’re playing along to recorded music and, even though I know who the keyboard players are and have talked to them, and seen and heard them play, that there’s some secret track that plays along with our performance? But that I don’t know about it because I stand in the back? That’s what you’re “choosing to believe?”

And that in our practice the directors just start and stop the track wherever we are starting our practice?

And that we have absolutely perfect tempo every single time we play so it always works with the recording?

You’re really going to some great lengths to try to make the band look bad anonymously. You’ve spent a lot of time looking at YouTube videos to try and prove a teenager wrong. Maybe you should talk to someone at the school about it. Call the principal, call the directors. They’ll tell you the truth. Or you can keep bad mouthing the hard work of me and my friends anonymously on the internet.

Up to you.

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-superintendent-search-delay-st-1018-20171017-story.html

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/opinion/ct-abn-crosby-pitbull-victim-st-1018-20171017-column.html

Pictures, please said...

Anybody have a photo or video that clearly shows keyboards being played in the percussion section of the marching band show?

Unknown said...

That's something I've never understood either. People will come here to this forum and ask all these questions about the band, when they could be solved ever so easily by going to the band booster meetings or just talking to Liska.

Move on please said...

Besides google /Facebook do employees get multiple choices. We have created a bunch of whinny brats with participation trophy’s who think everything should revolve around them. I worked as a student and that meant I sacrificed something else even if it was simply hanging out with my friends or doing homework after 8:30. The reality is young adults like thes young people should at their age begin to make prudent and practical choices . My children didn’t get to run me and their mom around like chickens with our heads cutoff. They had choices also . The choice was pick a club, activity or sport that you enjoy or that you have a gift in . My son wanted to wrestle and play basketball . One year he wrestled and the next year played basketball. Some events are natural conflicts and you have to choose. Rules are rules unfortunately . If East says marching band is mandatory and it does work for the students who have to work then move on. Otherwise we adults are creating little monster who think the world revolves around them. Perfect example 1600 Pennsylvania Ave in DC has a person occupying the bosses seat who doesn’t take responsibility for anything it’s always someone else’s fault. When he does get his way he whines and lashes out like a spoiled child who had it all and was shipped off to boarding school. The previous occupier was as bad in a different way. He was like most of you. He thought that everyone has the right to have a choice about everything. There are and should be norms in life and yes some of the are hundreds of years old and they work just fine.
Move o please

Some do try to ask said...

Victor, you make a good point about going directly to the source with questions and concerns (like the band boosters or one of the THREE full-time band directors...not just Mr. Liska!). But please don't assume that those who post here haven't already tried to speak with someone in the central office or band office.

I have a friend who is a retired D131 employee, who has family in the district. This person set up an appointment with our district's Director of Student Activities for a face-to-face meeting to discuss the mandatory marching policy. Come the day of the meeting...the DSA didn't show up, didn't call/explain/apologize. The retired employee called his office multiple times afterwards to try to reschedule and never got the courtesy of a response.

So it's understandable that some people might be frustrated with following the "proper channels" and resort to asking their questions on a blog. At least it gets people's attention and some sort of discussion going!

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-buildings-and-grounds-st-1019-20171018-story.html

Inquiring minds said...

There seems to be a huge number of personnel who leave the district. A few have been let go, but many resign after, what seems to be, a short time. Either the person doing the hiring is not making very good selections or EA is a less than desirable place to work. Anyone in the know privy to why EA has such a big turnover? Many staff used to chose to stay until they could retire. Now people are being let go and others leave as soon as opportunity allows.
Often we are compared to neighboring districts, how do we compare here?

Response to "Pictures, please" said...

Here's a video of the marching band's performance at a recent indoor competition:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDyajcgcBzA

You can clearly see that there are two piano keyboards in the back row of the percussion. One of the keyboards has an open laptop (looks like an Apple logo), and it looks like the person standing behind the keyboard is using his right hand to play piano keys and his left hand to push computer keys. Is the piano/harpsichord/organ sound being digitally enhanced? Is the laptop being used to control sampled or recorded sounds? Who knows...personally, I think it's a good thing to use technology to enhance a performance as long as it's allowed for everyone.

It is, after all, 2017.

Ditto said...

I, too, have wondered that. Many of them seem to be getting at or near 6-figure pay, so why wouldn't they stick around? It's either forced resignations or a horrible work place.
And why is the board finally realizing that they should determine what they want in the next super? What have you been doing regarding hiring a superintendent since Popp left? Seems like they planned on having interim supers for a while, as the search won't even start until next year. Let's try for some consistency here, people!

EA Pride said...

The superintendents back to the Serial Bully have done a bad job running the district. We have had more stability in 1 1/2 year than before. They should keep them! I went to our meeting yesterday and very few buildings had any complaints and if they did they are very minor. Much better working conditions this year.

Ex band parent said...

I spoke with my daughter who was in the wind ensemble from 2010-13. According to her there was never any recorded music or enhancement at all. Marching band was mandatory at that time because not enough students wanted to participate. She assumes that other bands in the area hand plenty of willing participants for marching bands thereby no need to force the issue.. Lastly wind ensemble / jazz band are honor programs well during her tenure it was and comprised of talented upperclassmen who competed for a few spots

Grandma said...

"Marching band was mandatory at that time because not enough students wanted to participate"

Really??

How is a policy that FORCES band kids to march in students' best interests?

And why does West High seem to have no problem getting kids to sign up for (voluntary) marching band?

Especially now, when block scheduling has limited students' options to take non-core classes, why should students have to choose between an after school/weekend job and continuing their high school band experience?

Inquiring minds want to know.

Block Head said...

Who is on block scheduling? Neither East or West has block scheduling. You don't have a clue.

To Grandma said...

As a previous person stated how is students having everything revolve around gong to serve them in the long term in the real world, It freaking band . Maybe working is in their best interest. Maybe focusing on core subjects is in their best interests . Maybe taking gym for the physical fitness is in their best interest . I’m sorry but I don’t get to everything I want. Maybe free college, the same free insurance that politicians have, maybe amnesty in America , maybe equal treatment is in everyone’s interest but guess what that’s not the way it is. Deal with the way things are and not how they should be and you won’t have to play victim all the time

Grandma is on point said...

Grandma may be clueless about block scheduling but she's right on the money when it comes to speaking up for her (and our) kids. Why should our district be the last holdout in requiring marching? Don't kids east of the Fox River deserve the same choices as their cousins on the west side? And now that there are supposedly 300 kids signed up for band at EAHS there should be plenty of volunteers who WANT to participate, so why would anybody need to force kids to march??

Think said...

If an English or math or any other subject teacher cannot mandate a student shows up at 7pm for a grade why does band get away with it?!? No other core subject can mandate a student is required to show up after school hours for a grade......this is why a lot of schools have made marching band an after school activity. Please stop letting your allegiance to band cloud your judgment

Get a life said...

East Aurora should focus on core subjects not the band. If everyone cared about actual education in 131 it would be a different district. Try working on interventions in 5th grade and have multiple pullouts because of the band.

All Students Need A Practical Application of Theoretical Concepts said...

To: Get A Life

Over the past twenty years, the district has gone to more and more time spent on core subjects by eliminating the much needed encore classes. What has been the result? Lower test scores and higher drop out rates. Removing practical application and focusing on theoretical concepts with young concrete thinkers doesn’t work. It never has. There is a ton of research to support this but unfortunately the only thing that our administrators can do is count minutes. Everytime the scores come back lower than they did before, their response is more of the same, add minutes by cutting the practical application of those concepts. It’s been a twenty year downward spiral with no end in sight. At least not as long as we allow those who gave up teaching to make the decisions regarding education.

Just a Wild Guess... said...

Students who take Band do not have to take PE. Could it be that without the marching aspect Band would not count as a PE credit? Perhaps that's why marching in mandatory. To keep the PE credit intact. Could a student Band (any Band class) into their schedule if they had to take PE also? Just a thought...

newshound said...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-construction-budget-st-1026-20171025-story.html

Nice try said...

And the required concerts during the winter? They don’t march then

Guess again said...

Wild Guess, students don't get a PE credit for participation in choir, drama, or art classes. Yet kids still manage to fit those classes into their schedules, if that is their passion.

Why should band be any different? Kids who WANT to march should have the OPTION of marching, just like they have the option to play a sport after school or get a job on weekends.