Tuesday, January 1, 2019

2019!


154 comments:

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST
Date: January 5 2019
Subject: Merle Herren
Timeline: as specified

July 1 2017 - Dec 31 2018
* All Open Work Orders Status to include Explanation on why not complete

November 1 2018 - Dec 31 2018
*Daily Log /productivity summary on Mr Herren's
Am specifically looking for accounting for his work day activity

Thank you

We may have dodged a bullet said...

Anybody who still thinks we need a charter school in our community needs to read this article:

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/12/us/politics/tm-landry-college-prep-investigation.html

Merle MUST go!!! said...

Merle has to go!!! I overheard Albert, Ben, and the supervisors having a meeting today with the maintenance guys at Hill Ave. and of course Merle constantly accuses them of outsourcing. I was told the board president "indirectly" yelled at him for this already at a B&G meeting about this. He's constantly talking about how Annette has a master plan to outsource the maintenance mechanics and custodians and how she's so corrupt with the architects. He must say it 30 times a day. He is beyond sick in the head and everyone can see that. He's an absolute embarrassment to the district and part of the reason the district is where it's at. Everything is a conspiracy, just ask him. He's a cancer. Dr. Norrell please do something about him!! Also, we don't want him as chief union steward. We need an election where all of us get to vote!!

Laesch finally showed he is a Trumpster said...

Laesch is a slave trader of 131. He thinks we are no better than landscapers and migrant works. This fool actually proclaimed reading and math are not important. He thinks we are all victims and can only have careers with our backs and hands. He actually wants our students to not take AP classes and not get a education. Is he really a Progressive or Donald Trump. Sounds more like The Donald but then again somebody needs to clean Trumps hotels.

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-superintendent-contract-st-0109-story.html

Get A Clue said...

You close school the Monday after Thanksgiving when there is only a few inches of snow. You let students out early 2 days ago with a little slush, but the temperature is -25 degrees and deathly dangerous, and its "come on in". Get a damn clue. Snow isnt an issue like cold! Cold is actually dangerous for students & staff, dummies! This district wants to shut down the world's activities at the mere mention of snow, but brutal, dangerous cold is no problem.

Teacher said...

Plus attendance was atrocious.

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 11:10 AM
To: Amanda L Sanderson; Steve Megazzini
Subject: FOIA Request

Date: Feb 4 2019
Subject: Afilliated Fire Systems
Timeline: Jan 1 2018 - Feb 3 2019

Purchase Orders
Invoices
Elog between Alberto Tijerina and Afilliated Fire Systems affiliatedinc.com
emails between Alberto Tijerina and mlopez@affiliatedinc.com

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 11:05 AM
To: Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: Feb 4 2019
Subject: East High Christmas Tree Fire
Timeline: Dec 2018

All invoices related to repairs and service
Incident reports

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Tuesday, February 5, 2019 11:36 AM
To: Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: Feb 5 2019
Subject: computer software program
Timeline: July 1 2017 - Jan 31 2019

Ref: the following program
1 cleantelligent
2 Purchase Orders
3 Invoices
4 Competitive quotes
5 Training Schedules to include those attending
6 Emails to/from clean intelligent

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Tuesday, February 5, 2019 11:34 AM
To: Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: Feb 5 2019
Subject: computer software program
Timeline: July 1 2017 - Jan 31 2019

Ref: the following program assetpanda
1 Purchase Orders
2 Invoices
3 Competitive quotes
4 Training Schedules to include those attending
5 Emails to/from asset panda

Thank you

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-black-history-month-aurora-st-0207-story.html


https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-school-start-times-st-0206-story.html

November, December, January minutes: where are they?? said...

No approved minutes have been posted on the district website since NOVEMBER.

Are we not paying central office staff to do their jobs? How is withholding this information from the taxpaying public acceptable, or even legal??

anonymous1 said...

This new proposed schedule really stinks.I would like to know what group of parents are okay with this. Why would I want my child to be in school at 7:30 am. This is the best you could give us? This is only for your convenience D131 to save money for buses! Hope parents are at the February 19th meeting at 7pm to complain.

Squeaky wheel gets the grease said...

Approved minutes have finally been published online.

Actually.... said...

Studies show that the younger students could benefit from earlier start times while the secondary school students benefit from later start times. But that would make too much sense and youwotkd have to actually look up and see what successful surrounding districts do. But keep complaining cause you might actually have to be a parent to your children.

Take your bs elsewhere said...

#1- OUR President is doing some great things, so a comparrison would actually be a compliment. Maybe John is just being a realist, but he never said what you are alleging. Look at numbers, facts, and reality. Stop living in your pretend world where 131 students are ALL going to be rocket scientists. We have students in this district that WILL need college, and go on to successful careers that need a heavily educated profession. BUT...the facts are out there. Demand in trades & skilled labor is at an all-time high. FACT! So we do need to educate our students in the trades, and prepare them for that CAREER. The numbers dont lie...this is not a community overflowing with doctors & scientists. The problem with all the left wing nuts, and people that only believe what the media shows them, is that they are too ignorant to do the actual research for themselves, and look at the #'s and FACTS.

Correct said...

Yes they do. And saving taxpayers money on busing is a GOOD thing, dummy.

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST
Date: Feb 15 2019
Subject: Clean Telligent
Timeline: April 1 2018 - Feb 15 2019

1 Date/Time this program has been used
2 Training schedule/Summary
3 Reports/Summary generated from using this program
4 Presentations/Discussions to B&G committee
5 Payment Summary to Clean Telligent

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST

Date: Feb 5 2019
Subject: computer software program
Timeline: July 1 2017 - Jan 31 2019

Ref: the following program Cleantelligent
1 Purchase Orders
2 Invoices
3 Competitive quotes
4 Training Schedules to include those attending
5 Emails to/from clean intelligent

Ralph Padron said...

rom: R Padron
Sent: Friday, February 15, 2019 11:14 AM
To: Jennifer Norrell
Cc: Mark McDonald; Beatrice Reyes Childress; Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson; Lisa Morales; Annette Johnson; Alex Arroyo; bschubert@d131.org; Ken Darby; Kimberly Hatchett; dbarreiro@d131.org; Joe Smith
Subject: Cleaning Software

Good Morning
Questions/Comments/Red Flags
1 Jorge Villagomez Freire was the point person in purchasing this software
2 Monthly Charge is $ 272.00
3 Contract began 04/19/2018
4 Contract is AUTO RENEWAL (Cancellation requires 30 day notification)
5 Is anyone aware of AUTO RENEW and will it be cancelled)
6 Credit Card Payment appears to be auto pay & was declined on August 1 Invoice (page 3 )
7 Jorge Villagomez appears on the Nov 1 2018 invoice user list (He had already resigned months ago)
8 Bigger question Has this program been utilized by the 4 designated users?
9 Why is Ben Hettell no on this list?
10 Who is monitoring this activity?

FOIA is necessary to find out usage time, reports, and more
More forthcoming as I receive FOIA responses

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Monday, February 11, 2019 7:35 PM
To: Jennifer Norrell
Cc: Mark McDonald; Beatrice Reyes Childress; Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson; Annette Johnson; Alex Arroyo; bschubert@d131.org; dbarreiro@d131.org; Ken Darby; Kimberly Hatchett;

Subject: Fire Alarm Scandal Part 1
Greetings

Many questions arise

1 Email dtd June 12 2018 clearly states THIS WAS A RIGGED CONTRACT
"I can always make a quote up with that amount and send it on over to you to AVOID the bidding hassle"

​2 PO dtd 07/26/2018 for amt $ 18,989.00
3 Invoice dtd 07/31/2018
4 Start date contract 07/01/2018
5 How can a contract begin without an authorized Purchase Order?

This PO is very troubling and necessitates an additional FOIA to answer more questions
More troubling issues concerning this company and Bldg & Grounds to follow
raising more suspicious activity requiring FOIA responses to validate.

Merle must go said...

I heard Merle was talking crap about Albert, ben, dr. Norrell, and Anette today yet again. He just keeps telling everyone how they want to outsource the maintenance department and he has all these conspiracy. He's running the union into the ground under his "leadership". Someone needs to get this mentally unstable lunatic in line. He's hurting ourr union. The next negotiations will go awful with him in charge. Why can't my union members see that? Time to vote him out!!!

Ridiculous said...

Come on, when is it going to be enough. East High has zero consequences for bad behavior. The students run that place. She is so concerned with numbers, numbers, numbers, and data, data, data. Meanwhile, the kids are just going crazy, with all this coddling and slaps on the wrist. And the gig is up on hiding/altering the real #'s, the place is just up for grabs. I have multiple kids show up to my class 20-30 minutes late daily, if they show up at all. Then they tell us this "sweep room" is a new idea. But with a little digging, I found out it is just a holding tank. No consequences/documented discipline for that either. And we cant enforce consequences from the teacher/staff level, that has to come from above, but the directive has clearly been handed down. Keep those FAKE numbers pretty, at all costs. 4 of the 5 deans dont do a damn thing to the kids, and the kids know it. But what is so obvious to anyone with half a lick of common sense, is that if you had any measure of discipline, and made these students have a real consequence if they didn't go to class, then the important #'s would go up by default, because THE KIDS WOULD BE IN CLASS. No consequences = students not in class. Try to understand that complex equation! Quit hiding behind- "oh, little johnny is special ed, so we cant give him any consequences". Most parents in this district dont know what the hell special ed is anyway. So instead of staying a mile away from the line, how about going right up to the line, and getting our building and classrooms back. Its tough to educate & get good numbers, when you are not putting measures in place to make students accountable. It was a wreck last year, and we came back, and not one policy/rule/consequence was different. What the hell did you expect?? Way to know what running a 4,000 student high school is all about!

Ralph Padron said...


Subject: FOIA REQUEST
Date: Feb 25 2018
Subject: Merle Herren
Timeline: as specified

Jan 1 2019 - Feb 25 2019
1 Swipe in/out daily history at Buildings Please sort by day
2 Work Ticket Progress during this time Issued/completed/status of unfinished
3 Pay history to show Reg hrs worked & Overtime hours worked per pay period
I am specifically looking for time spent on Overtime and assignment justifying OT

Oct 1 2018 - Dec 31 2018
1 Summary swipe In/out at BLDG & Grounds Bldg on Hill Ave morning only time clock
2 If above is not correct please provide security swipes for 1st swipe in morning and swipe for next stop
3 I am specifically looking for starting to time to arrival at 1st building

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...



From: R Padron
Sent: Monday, February 25, 2019 5:48 PM
To: Jennifer Norrell
Cc: Mark McDonald; Beatrice Reyes Childress; Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson; Lisa Morales; Annette Johnson; Alex Arroyo; bschubert@d131.org; Ken Darby; Kimberly Hatchett; dbarreiro@d131.org; Joe Smith
Subject: Re: Cleaning Software

Greetings

UNBELIEVABLE this FOIA exposes a ZERO usage for this potentially helpful program.
Guess we will never know.

1 FOIA response today again shows another wasted purchase using Taxpayer Dollars for a software program that has NEVER been used in nearly a year.
2 $ 272.00 invoiced monthly for users since April 2018
3 $ 2,625.00 software
4 Another example of the fiasco in the Bldg & Grounds Dept.
5 Good money into a bad investment
6 If anything comes out of this at least cancel the usage (read cancellation notation)

Again Bldg & Grounds is 1st in Wasted Taxpayer Dollars and Incompetence

To Acually said...

It is the middle school that is starting 30 minutes earlier at 7:30, so that spits in the eye of research. Get a clue, you lonely dolt.

No discipline said...

Middle school level is the same way. A couple of the same students who run halls every period, throw books, curse at teachers and receive a slap on the wrist (if anything) from admin. These are kids who get multiple referrals in a single day. Teachers and support staff have had enough and it seems admin has, too, since these kids are left to do what they please. If my kid was the one having a book thrown at his head, I would be furious that all the offender gets is a referral written up with no follow through.

No more Merle said...

I agree with what "Merle Must Go" said. Merle is always telling people how Annette has a master plan to outsource the maintenance department. He's always saying how she is conspiring with Cordigan Clark. Merle has even been telling people that he is putting a team together to negative campaign against Annette for when her board seat comes up for 2021 because he wants her gone. Merle is real good at blaming everyone else,(administration, supervisors, people who haven't worked in the district for years) but ultimately him and the union are the biggest problem and the reason the buildings in this district are the way they are. He's truly sick in the head and everyone can see it except the other union members who are too stupid to know him being in charge is bad for them. Merle is so rude to his fellow union members, Albert, Ben, Jessie, Mike, and Antonio. Does anyone realize how many people have gone to HR because Merle has harassed them? Merle is telling everyone how he has the ear of Dr. Norrell and she's on his side and not Annette's. Dr. Norrell should ask that question of how many people Merle harasses in this district and then decide if she wants to keep doing business with him. Dr. Norrell needs to take care of this guy once and for all. Things will never change with him in this district. They should make Luis the chief union steward.

B&G said...

Agreed! Merle has harassed me and I've gone to HR about it and I know I'm not the only one. Merle belittles EVERYONE. He needs to be fired. Ralph Padron look into this please! Merle is a POS person that makes this a miserable department to work in.

Truth said...

And sadly that's what it will take before anything changes. It's going to havd to be the big one, "the death", "the shooting", "the $50 million dollar injury settlement", etc before the distrct/principals will finally crack down & be held accountable. They are ONLY concerned with numbers. And they FAKE THOSE as much as possible!! They'd graduate a toy poodle if they thought it could keep the hat on its head. These buildings have ZERO discipline/consequences for students. And nobody cares. Its so completely obvious that the directive has been given. NO DOCUMENTED DISCIPLINE, NO SUSPENSIONS, MAKE THE REFERRAL PROCESS AS DIFFICULT AND LENGTHY AS POSSIBLE, MAKE THE TEACHERS HAVE TO TAKE AN EXTRA STEP TO WRITE TARDY REFERRALS INSTEAD OF JUST CONSEQUENCING STRAIGHT FROM THE ATTENDANCE REPORTS. And the list goes on and on. And who loses in the end??? SOCIETY!

Admin travel?? said...

Ralph, can you please look into the travel expenses currently being racked up by Administrators? There has been a long standing policy of no out of state travel, and now it seems some Principals are never in their buildings! How can this be justified? Also please look into all of the job postings, there are additional Admin positions with large pay tags attached. Where is the money coming from? I am a taxpayer and I am shocked that all of this is happening without anyone questioning any of it?? We have been promised no tax raises by Annette and she has kept her promise so far - are we are not concerned about being fiscally responsible anymore?

A staff member said... said...

A PPA was attacked at the high school by 2 students recently. It happened in the hallway near the Main Office. Sadly this is not surprising nor shocking to anyone that works at the high school. During lunch periods/study halls, the halls are full of disrespectful students wandering, often times being loud/swearing down the halls. When staff address students about where they are supposed to be, they are often ignored or sworn at. Not worth it to follow up with Dean’s because the consequences are ridiculous. If they are assigned an In School Suspension, the kids don’t mind. They get to use their phones all day and mess around. Friends visit them and walk in and out delivering chips or standing at the door and having conversations with the ISS kids.

Re: staff member said said...

All that matters are the numbers for the administrators. We don't have metal detectors, and in this day and age this is ludicrous. There are no consequences for anything to make numbers look good for administrators. Because attendance is the largest cause of failures, we are told to change grades at the end of the semester and offer kids who did not come all semester a chance to get their grades up by retaking tests long after the test date. We are attacked; we are sworn at, no one cares and deans do nothing.

What’s the master plan? said...

Two new admin hired last night....$365,000 in new positions. Where is this money coming from? What’s happening to our current administrators? Who is in charge? What is the plan???

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-administrators-st-0307-story.html

Merle is a loser. said...

Merle is a psychopath and yes I've heard he's telling people that his #1 goal is to get Annette Johnsom voted off the board because she wants to outsource B&G. He's a nutcase who is spreading his mental cancer through the department. Merle only talks bad about our custodial staff and to him maintenance are the only ones who matter. The way he's operating and wrecking this department will lead to Annette and the board to have to outsource the department at the end of this contract. He's the problem, not the solution people. I agree we should vote Luis Salas into the Chief Steward position.

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST
Date: March 11 2019
Subject: AED s for all Dist 131 bldgs
Timeline: July 1 2017 - March 11 2019

1 Inspection Program Policy
2 Inspection Program Results
3 Status of all Battery to include expiration date
4 Purchase Orders
5 Competetive Quotes
6 Alberto Tijerina ELOG from current vendor
7 Internal Emails with key word "AED"
8 Reports of actual usage in schools (Incident Reports)

D131 Parent said...

Ralph, the AED electrodes also all have expiration dates

Cell phones out said...

Why do we not have a cell phone policy in our district? Especially at the high school!!!

New admin positions?? said...

More new positions posted today, all $80,000 and above. Where is the money coming from? Someone please investigate this!

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Tuesday, March 12, 2019 12:13 PM
To: Jennifer Norrell; smegazzini@d131.org; Mark McDonald
Cc: Pat DalSanto; Annette Johnson; bschubert@d131.org; Alex Arroyo; Kimberly Hatchett; dbarreiro@d131.org; Alex Arroyo; Ken Darby; Lisa Morales; Amanda L Sanderson; Joe Smith; Beatrice Reyes Childress
Subject: Part 1 Will Alberto Tijerina remain at EA?

Here are the facts regarding his failures/scandals under Dr Norrell's "Watch"
1 Overtime costs and hours submitted were not monitored resulting in WASTED Taxpayer Dollars
2 Work Tickets to Maintenance Dept incomplete
3 Certa Pro Painting of Rollins & Brady Schools gymnasium
Prevailing Wage pending investigation by Dept of Labor (I submitted complaint not D131)
Sub contracted by Certa Pro
No Sign In/Out at Schools during this project (Security Issue)
4 Fire at East High due to non working smoke detectors $ 60,000 + in damages
5 Contract to Affiliated Fire Alarm. Email to Alberto indicates this was rigged
6 Clean Intel Software Purchase NEVER used yet still monthly invoice is being paid
7 Asset Panda Software Purchase for Inventory Control Never Used. 131 already has a program to do this
8 AED Investigation awaiting FOIA results
9 Elevator Inspection awaiting FOIA results
10 Benivedes Steam Academy Storage Unit almost built on Com Ed property

Part 2 Under Dr McDonald's watch will follow soon
Remember the 7 Space Parking lot at East High

STOP TEACHING IN SPANISH!! said...

THE ESL DEPARTMENT NEEDS TO UNDERSTAND THAT THEY ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE TEACHING THEM IN SPANISH. I WALK BY THESE CLASSES ON MY PREP, AND ITS 100% IN SPANISH. IT IS FOR ALL STUDENTS NEEDING TO TRANSITION TO LEARN AND SUCCEED IN ENGLISH. THE DEPARTMENT CHAIR (VIVANCO), AP FOR TEACHING (COSTELLO), AND PRINCIPAL (KOSAK) AT THE HIGH SCHOOL DON'T ENFORCE THIS FOR THOSE TEACHERS. I DON'T KNOW IF MIDDLE/ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IS ANY BETTER. BUT THESE TEACHERS ARE JUST TEACHING IN SPANISH AND ITS BEEN BROUGHT TO THE HS AND DISTRICT'S ATTENTION. THE TAXPAYERS ARE NOT PAYING FOR STUDENTS TO LEARN IN SPANISH, FROM SPANISH SPEAKING TEACHERS, WHO CAN HARDLY SPEAK ENGLISH THEMSELVES. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED, SO WHEN I GET THESE STUDENTS IN MY CLASS, I CAN COMMUNICATE WITH THEM. AND ITS ALSO RECENTLY BEEN ADDED TO THE HR JOB DESCRIPTIONS- "ABILITY TO WORK IN A CULTURALLY & LINGUISTICALLY DIVERSE" ENVIRONMENT. WHO DO THEY THINK THEY ARE FOOLING, THEY WANT TO HIRE PEOPLE THAT SPEAK SPANISH. THIS IS DISCRIMINATORY HIRING PRACTICES. GO TO FRANCE, GERMANY, SPAIN, CHINA, AND SEE IF THEY CATER TO YOU TO KEEP ON LEARNING IN SPANISH, OR IF YOU NEED TO LEARN THE LANGUAGE OF THEIR NATION! SCHOOL BOARD & SUPERINTENDENT- PLEASE ADDRESS THIS PRACTICE OF TEACHING STUDENTS 100% IN SPANISH. THE FUNDS AND RESOURCES ALREADY DEVOTED TO THIS RIDICULOUSNESS, THAT MANY OTHER FLOURISHING DISTRICTS DON'T HAVE TO USE FOR THAT, COULD BE USED FOR TECHNOLOGY AND MANY OTHER PROGRESSIVE TOOLS.

I’d like to know that as well said...

Cellular phones seem to be the #1 culprit in starting feuds and being a distraction. And with the number of emotional distress emergency situations that have been seen at the schools, phones need to be banned from leaving lockers in the least.

New principal at EA said...

So now that its official, the new principal at East High needs to be someone to bring sone student discipline, and the chains need to be taken off by the district office personnel. Let somebody come in from a business standpoint, LIKE BYRD WAS, and run the place so its all about a functioning school...not about graduating dummies, and making them do well on standardized tests that mean ZERO in the real world. Forget the numbers...what the teachers, staff, AND TAXPAYING COMMUNITY want is good citizens! I dont care if they know how to diagram a sentence or prove a theorum, i want them to understand order & behavior in a civilized society, THAT will make them employable.

Correct said...

Indeed. Im at a middle school, and at many other districts middle schools, and even high schools, phones are to be kept in lockers at all times. When people give up on rules because they say they cant enforce them, its a cop out. You can enforce anything with consequences that are strong enough

Ridiculous said...

Yep...more number crunchers, and people wanting to re-invent the wheel. You need like 4 or 5 district level admin MAX. An HR person, a B&G person, a finance person, ONE education/curriculum person, and the Superintendent to oversee it. And thats it.

DeNoot does not speak for the majority said...

Why are we allowing Julie Denoot to speak for us and arrange a protest?

REALITY Kosak was a horrible building leader. We have complained many times to leadership and the new Sup about discipline and the lack there of. If we protes, admin will not take us seriously and have an excuse not to take our complaints seriously.

Conflict of interest said...

How is the superintendent hiring the American Institutes for Research, a previous employer of hers, at a minimum cost of $206,000 not a conflict of interest?!?! ¿Seems a bit unethical or immoral, no? And why did the board let her get away with doing that as soon as she was hired? Now we have wonderful teachers receiving RIF notifications this week. That $200K+ sure would be nice to keep a couple teachers on board.
Now the super is bringing in her own crew. If you don’t agree with her, you’d better get the hell out of the way. There are going to be a lot of changes coming in the following years, and I have my doubts as to how that is going to improve morale. The lack of discipline to help numbers look good is already pissing off many employees. If this 5 year plan doesn’t pan out, the citizens/taxpayers/stakeholders had better cause a scene.

Exactly! said...

This district is run like a Fortune 500 company, just without the money, progress, and organization.

Hmmm... said...

I wonder if we’re at the same school?

Oh well said...

American Institude is a State provider and has been assigned to the District because of poor performance. The new State funding formula requires this get your facts straight. I for one like Norrell and am glad the cancer of the the queen Beatrice Reyes Childress and her crew has been removed.

WOW...GOOD CALL said...

Get the FOIA check going Ralph...was it put out to bid per district policy??? Was it a necessary purchase/hire?? The HS has had THREE AD's fired by Annette until she could get her 2015 contract negotiation informant in there (and he is god awful & just heaping ALL responsibilities on coaches, AD department won't even organize Senior Night anymore), and the previous AD's were fired/back stabbed for trivial nothings (gym uniforms, food for holiday tourney, miniscule clothing bids) Nothing near 6 figures...thats for sure.

She's a nut job said...

Yeah, but nobody takes her seriously. Or most of that wacko brigade of socialist/communitst nut jobs.

Melinda too said...

Yeah, she's a goof. And melinda is another one. They organize stuff & its get 6-7 people, at best. They are a joke.

Telling it like it is said...

AIR comes from a list of approved third party vendors that the State has pre negotiated rates with. The District must pick a service provider from the list. This is a State manidate and if our district was not in tier 3 which means State mandated override we would not have them.

The process followed to pick AIR American Institude was as follows. Several vendors apply to work with EA. The building principals interview and score them. The District has score sheets from our principals and AIR won. There is no budget your facts straight.

The process was followed and it is unfortunate that again the blog is writing lies and destroying careers.

Lies exposed adults exposed said...

Let's talk about process

The new AD was a friend of Kosak and interviewed by committee of three candidates applied and again a score sheet was used.

One AD was fired for purchasing a TV from Wal-Mart for his house. The last AD purchased over $100,000 of no bid sports equipment from Lansing Sports a business owned by his wife's uncle. To date very little equipment is accounted for.

Let's ask why is it ok with staff and the community that employees other districts will not hire come to EA and pillage.

As for Julie DeNoot she has filed many student displine reports against Kosak now she is stirring the pot. It shows again the EA ok attitude. It is fear that we will actually get somebody better. I guess it is just fine with some staff members to steal and lie but sadly for our students have many adults who steal education everyday from them because EA is OK

Thanks said...

For letting me know the process. Because the district sure never explained it for the public. I got my info from the Beacon. D131 needs to let the community know how this works. Throw it on the webpage or something.

"lonely dolt"?? said...

thats the best you could come up with?? Ok, bud. The point remains. Saving money for taxpayers is a good thing, but prior to altering start time, drop the ESL program. Put them in an intensive 6-12 month program at an alternative location to JUST LEARN ENGLISH, then they come to school like any other American!

No kidding, huh. said...

Gee...i wonder why he "graded out" highest. Could it be the same reason when Mary Pable (RIP) didnt make it past the first interview round for candidates for athletic secretary, a call was made to let it be known in no uncertain terms, that SHE would be the choice. Maybe Kosak just wanted to skip that phone call. And as for Renner, he didnt buy a tv for his home, everyone knows that story, so try again. And Williams was a clown, no argument there, but he was not a criminal, if so, he would have been charged. Neither was Cam, but when it wants somebody out, out they go. So like I say, the informant buddy now has it, and he is all about as little responsibility as possible, putting it all on the coaches. AD is a job for an energetic go-getter that CARES about East Aurora athletics, not just another office job. You had one a few years back, but let them loose for PE uniform purchasing bids. When in fact, it was just sticking with the same LOCAL company that had been a supplier for YEARS, and making sure they could come in and meet the lowest possible price.

Get real said...

Ha ha let's talk about patronage how is it that the union VP's sister just became the principal at Cowherd? Judy

Non-union said...

Last I heard, admin positions are non-union...and principals, being approved by the school board, would fall neatly into that category.

??? said...

Why og WHY was Steve Magazzini moved from HR?! I hope it’s for someone with far more experienced than he is! With 4 years already in the district, I can’t see that being accomplished! HR has come along way under him. Most of the team is pleasant! The same can’t be said when Joan was around!!! If Nitza has been in education for 14 years and the last 10 are in elementary... not sure how she was the best candidate for a secondary position!!! What happened with Yolanda? She’s awesome! YOU GOT BIG SHOES TO FILL NITZA!! Glenda also has big shoes to fill. There’s only one Areceli! I hope Mrs. Williams has worked with as much money our district has. Although with the size of her current district I doubt that! Something tells me she wasn’t the best qualified applicant for that position! Actually, NONE IF THE ABOVE ARE!!!!!!! Ralph, you should look into this hiring mess and figure out what the hell is going on!! These are all probably Norrells besties and she’s hooking them up! Shame on them!

Johnson parent said...

My child goes to Johnson and keeps coming home telling me that most of the kids in the room do not listen to the teacher. Kids are screaming, kicking the walls and fighting. That the principal takes kids out but come back and do the same thing again. Any help on how parents can help the teacher because I don't think she is getting the help because my child keeps telling me stories. I feel my child is not in a safe place or learning because of the issues in the room

SSC old timer said...

Glad to see Steve M take over a troubled department he repaired many relationships in HR and hopefully he can end the line of employees going to Padron. Padron has cost our department hundreds of thousands in lost wages pulling unnecessary documents. It's our understanding Steve wanted to focus on just one department. He had been running both so we are all cheering for Steve to s top the FOIA harassment.

YLONNDA has not been at work or visable for months it takes days to find her or get her to approve recs. The field trips are another fiasco.

ARECELI was only nice once she knew her job was up and other than being Beatrices lap dog we are not sure what she did.

Good to see the witch is gone. Bea and hubby packed boxes today.

Just for the record they had large interview groups of our Union and building Principals sit in on interviews with Norrell the entire process was transparent. Dr N listens to us nobodies

Well said said...

Yeah, this is BS!! The only ones that needed to go were beatrice & heather. She is just brining in pals. Its pretty obvious. I see all women...who if traced, all have a connection back to her. This board is ridiculous w their choices, hire a damn man that has exceptional people skills...LIKE ALL OTHER DISTRICTS THAT DO WELL. Instead we keep hiring fat lady book worms, with ideas that all sound good on paper, but dont help anyone, or stand a chance in the real world. We are like a district of chicago politics...pathetic

The new 131 said...

Yep, from K-12, the 131 policy is let the kids act like animals all day, keep them there long enough to be labeled "special ed", the district gets more money, and the buildings are told to deal with the disruptions all day, yet dont give any consequences. See how this is working out, guys. This district has a higher percentage of kids labeled "special ed" than ANY district in the state!! Its a joke. You gotta see through their crazy lies, and unreal visions of what works. And see what these people are really all about. Fantasy Island

Go away said...

To well said we hired a da** man fat boy Mike Popp, Crespo, Thrukenbrod and let not forget the $120,000 man Hanley. All had low education levels. Then we had McDonald who sat in meetings sleeping. We could also go back and talk about all the former male superintendents but let's not go there. Leave it to the blog to attack anyone who attempts to move 131 along. Norrell's only mistake was promoting Carrillo and Rosario.

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-pratt-victim-family-east-aurora-fundraising-st-0324-story.html

Big mistake said...

Promoting Carrillo was a big mistake, Norrell will learn that quickly!

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2019 9:00 AM
To: Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson
Cc: Jennifer Norrell; Mark McDonald; Kimberly Hatchett; Annette Johnson; bschubert@d131.org; Alex Arroyo; Ken Darby; dbarreiro@d131.org; Kimberly Hatchett
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: March 24 2019
Subject: Consultants - Conferences
Timeline: July 1 2018 - March 24 2019
1 List of all consultants
2 Pay rate and amount paid
3 Job Description/purpose
4 Reports submitted of work performed

Subject: Conferences
Exclude the October 2018 Dallas Conference
1 Purpose of Conference
2 List of those attended
3 Cost per individual
4 Airfare per individual
5 Hotel
6 Ground Transportation,
7 Registration /Conference Fee
8 Meals
9 All other costs not mentioned above

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Monday, March 25, 2019 12:01 PM
To: Korbel, Ken
Bloom Township Dist 206
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: March 25 2019
Subject: American Institutes for Research
Timeline: School years 2012 - 2019

1 All contracts, invoices for AIR
2 Competitive Quotes
3 Emails to / from Jennifer Norrell with AIR

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...

Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: March 2 2019
Subject: American Institutes for Research (A I R )
Timeline: July 1 2018 - March 25 2019
1 All contracts,
2 invoices
3 Competitive Quotes
4 Emails to / from Jennifer Norrell with American Institutes for Research (AIR)

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...

Recently I was contacted by a new source requesting I audit the questionable spending of taxpayer dollars by Dr Jennifer Norrell. Example of FOIA #1 this week requesting documents concerning all "Consultants" hired under her "Watch".
1 Remember when I audited the consultants Marian Hoyda hired which uncovered the "Pippen Consulting" whom were charging $2,000.00 per day justifying it as a Husband & Wife team justifying their fees. Other findings revealed more questionable spending.
2 Regarding conferences/seminars: I was informed that a Los Angeles conference was recently held and D131 sent staff to attend. Need to confirm this allegation.
3 The October 2018 College Board Forum in Dallas Texas cost $ 9,000.00 +.
The out of town events were questioned.
A Does the Chicago area have equivalent Forums
B Three of the seven individuals attending have been dismissed eff June 30 2019.
Beatrice Reyes Childres Yolanda Stovall Heather Kincaid
4 FOIA #2 was brought to my attention to insure this was on the up and up.
My FOIA's have proven the wastefulness of Taxpayer dollars and exposed corruption throughout the district.
Dr Norrell does not respond to any of my reports.
5 Mike Popp chose that strategy also. Remember his famous promotion
of Sarah Waddell, Asst Principal at Dist 204 to Asst Superintendent at D131.
FOIA's to D204 helped proved his shenanigans.
It appears recent promotions and hirings is a return to the Popp era.
6 Dr Norrell told me that she is only interested in "HER WATCH" only.
I guess if a felony was committed previously, then it doesn't count.
7 Accountability for the Superintendent is necessary or are they immune?
My contacts continue to come forward. Where would Bldg & Grounds be if the FOIA's were never submitted.
Overtime, Work Tickets, East High Parking Lot, Purchasing scandal after scandal, building a storage unit on Com Ed property
8 The Ben Williams AD at East High purchasing with out PO's and favoring a certain vendor.
9 Dept of Labor Complaint I submitted is still under investigation
Let's see what becomes of that. Norrell refused to submit the complaints

No doubt all of the above proved very embarassing
Being a Forensic Auditor I explain it like this
FOIA's breed more FOIA's
More subjects need to be investigated.

Here are the concerns/questions
Is Dr Jennifer Norrell a careless spender of Taxpayer Dollars?
Has an atmosphere of fear of retaliation and vindictiveness begun?
Reminder that EA D131 is a POVERTY DISTRICT not a private company with a CEO

Minutes, minutes... said...


Board minutes haven’t been posted on the website since January 8, even though Feb. 19 minutes were approved at the last Board meeting

EA Admin said...

Something has to be done about Merle and the custodian union. I saw him speak at the board meeting and about puked. I have been in the district as a building administrator for many years and myself and my fellow building Principals have NEVER seen more response or better results from B&G as we have since Albert, Jorge, and now Ben have been with the district. Merle walks around our schools telling everyone how Annette and Albert want to outsource the union and Merle intentionally doesn't want to get our work orders done so he can say he needs more union workers. That's a fact and also the reason he spends hours a day bothering others and just running his mouth. Albert and his staff are getting the work orders complete and Merle doesn't like that. Merle NEVER has and NEVER will put the students first. It's union corruption first, and kids wherever they end up with Merle. It's clear as day and hopefully the board and Dr. Norrell can see it because everyone else can.

Ralph Padron said...

There is reason to believe this is another job started without a Purchase Order & possibly more

Date: April 2 2019
Subject: Triple H Mulch Quote $ 4,400.00
Timeline: March 1 2019 - April 2 2019
1 Purchase Order
2 Invoice
3 Prevailing Wage Documents
4 Insurance
5 Emails between Triple H & Alberto Tijerina and Ben Hettell

Stupid Merle said...

Agreed! I'm in the union as Merle and he's running us into the ground! Albert planned great training for us last week and Merle throws a fit about it. Surprise! Jk not a surprise!. He's always going to do the opposite of supervisots because he doesn't want positive things to happen for out kids Every other employee appreciated the training. Merle is going to be the reason that they have no choice but to outsource us. Albert and the supervisors are trying to do great things for us! Merle is just a miserable person who has decided he won't work with supervisors. When we get outsourced because of Merle's actions let's all remember how he's acting right now. It's going to happen the way he is. The pathetic excuse for a human just really needs to get laid. Haha

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Friday, April 5, 2019 9:35 AM
To: Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson
Cc: Kimberly Hatchett; Alex Arroyo; Annette Johnson; dbarreiro@d131.org; bschubert@d131.org; Ken Darby; John Laesch
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: April 5 2019
Subject: Aeration, Rolling & Groundskeeping Services
Timeline: March 1 2019 - April 5 2019

1 Quotes
2 Purchase Orders
3 Invoices
4 Insurance
5 Prevailing Wage
6 Emails between vendors and Alberto Tijerina

BOE : Please investigate this

Magnet Parent said...

Dr. Ballard will not allow any assembly at Fred Rodgers Magnet, the teachers and the kids are not allowed to celebrate anything. My daughter said they been allowed only one spirit week this year, her club raised money for a dance and it was still denied. These kids work hard and test well and they’re not allowed to celebrate. Sad this principal has to go! Bad news since he took over everyone hates him!

Minutes, minutes... said...

Wow, Jan. 8 minutes have posted, finally, but no other Board approved minutes — what is the deal?

Magnet mom said...

Not true, I have more than one child there and we love him! He holds very high standards and holds the teachers accountable for what they are supposed to be teaching.

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST

Date: April 8 2019
Subject: East Aurora Extension Campus Building Repairs
Timeline: July 1 2018 - April 8 2019

1 Purchase Orders & Quotes of any bills reimbursed to the Urban League for Building Repairs
2 Invoices for Building Repairs paid by the D131
3 Reimbusement transactions from Urban League for any of the above

Ralph Padron said...

ToL Theodia Gillespie

Just want to review and clarify major points per our conversation yesterday
1 You were disappointed that my FOIA pointed to irregularities with the Urban League
2 The ministers of East Aurora were going to the April 15th BOE meeting to "Call Me Out"
3 Big Issue was that disenchanted Staff from EA had contacted me to be their "Bulldog" vs Dr Norrell
4 You emphasized this was a Hispanic vs African American issue & I was attacking an African American
5 Norrell would not talk to me because she has many "daggers in her back"
6 I was to back off and give her a chance due to the situation she inherited at 131
7 I emphasized to you that Dr Norrell has done a great job however the issue of Alberto Tijerina is at the forefront and her not firing him
8 I emphasized several times the FOIA NEVER made an allegation. It's puprose was to gather documents.
9 I was contacted to investigate the "Step" installed by Stokes Excavating. You were out of town and not aware of this work.

Red Flags immediately appeared
1 Who authorized this work to be done
2 Was anyone notified at the Urban league of this Work Order
3 Does the Urban League have any intention of paying this invoice to D131
4 I do not appreciate your false accusations against me nor recruiting ministers to speak out against me
5 Have you forgotten the meeting we had with Dr McDonald and Peggy Hicks discussing the problems at D131.
6 Your big concern was that let D131 fix it and not let any of this get to the Newspapers
7 Am disappointed that Theodia Gillespie attempting using the RACE CARD to intimidate me.
8 Comment I head today "What is Theodia hiding with all the work done which EA D131 has paid for
8 Have they been reimbursed and who is making the decisions to have to work done.
Future FOIA's should answer many a concern

Ralph

We deserve better said...

The most recent School Board meeting minutes posted online are from January 7th.

This is unacceptable, and probably illegal as well.

Shouldn't the central office be held responsible for publishing approved minutes in a timely manner? And doesn't the taxpaying public have a right to see them without waiting three months??

Who is dropping the ball here? Who is being paid for a job they are NOT doing??

Possible?!? said...

How can people get jobs (instructional coaches) without having to interview?

Tomcat105 said...

According to The IL Open Meetings act minutes from meetings are to be posted after they have been approved. You can look that up on The State Attorney's Website. I don't know what The States Attorney does about that but it shows how this Board disrespects the community.

Ralph Padron said...

To: BOE

Maintenance department has a valid concern regarding outsourcing.
FOIA response red flags appear immediately

1 Why is Diamond Cut Landscaping picking up leaves and cutting grass @ $ 125.00 hr 28 hours total $ 3,500.00
2 Would OT been cheaper
3 PO dtd April 1 2019 Invoice April 2 2019
4 Email dtd Nov 1 2018 mentions attached quote: What is the quote for?
5 PO address and Invoice address do not match
6 Was work done before PO date of April 1
7 Who approved this work

8 NO PREVAILING WAGE DOCUMENTS
9 Were any of the work areas on Park District Property

More forthcoming

Who represents who said...

Why is the Instructional coach at the HS a member of the union governing board? Why does the union spend hours meeting with Norrell? Ralph, please FOIA the missed time our union is absent from the classroom in meetings with Norrell?

Because.... said...

...this is the same district that dumbed down the AD position for the disrespectful and overwhelmed Fil.

Ralph Padron said...

Greetings B&G Committee

1 Upland Design Plainfield Il charged $ 19,000.00 for Inspection and Recommendation for Playground Equipment.
2 Surrounding Dist 129 W Aurora 308 Owego 204 Indian Prairie do their own inspections (see attached PDF's)
4 Does Alberto Tijerina (Director Bldg Grnds) have a plan to inspect the playgrounds
5 Who selected this company
6 Appears that Upland will be making a presentation to get the business
7 Again $ 19,000.00 for this Inspection

Let's not forget the $ 125.00 hr for leaf pickup and mowing

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-special-needs-st-0422-story.html

Union is Union said...

EVERYONE is a member of the same union... so what position should you be in to be on the governing board?? What are you suggesting?? The entire membership ELECTS those that they feel will represent the members and their interests the best. And that can come from ANY dues paying position. If you dont like it, leave the union. Peace!

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Tuesday, April 23, 2019 9:43 AM
To: Steve Megazzini; Jennifer Norrell; bschubert@d131.org; Annette Johnson; Ken Darby
Cc: Kimberly Hatchett; arroyo2000@gmail.com; dbarreiro@d131.org; breyeschildress@d131.org; Phil Morris; Pat DalSanto; Lisa Morales; Mark McDonald
Subject: East High Extension Campus: Violation plus Fabricated "Emergency"

Please forward this to new BOE members Avis and Juan
Timeline
Nov 1 2018 ROE notifies EA of violation
Mar 25 2019 Work performed by Stokes Excavating
Mar 25 2019 Invoice created
Apri 5 Purchase Order Created
April 18 Email from ROE specifically states this WAS NOT AN Emergency

1 Who determined this was an Emergency on PO
2 Was Urban League notified of this violation and work performed
3 Who authorized Stokes Excavating to proceed
4 Re Invoices: Who wrote "EMERGENCY per ROE"
5 EA notified Nov 1 2018 - why was PO created 11 days after work performed

NEW LEVEL OF INCOMPETENCE said...

A STUDENT BROUGHT A TASER TO EAST HIGH. THE STUDENT HAD IT IN THE BUILDING. A FRIEND OF THE STUDENT ALERTED AUTHORITIES. THE TASER WAS FOUND AND THE STUDENT RECEIVED....(drumroll please)....1 WHOLE DAY OF IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION!!! AND THAT FOLKS, IS THE DISCIPLINE LEVEL AT EAST AURORA. AND, IVE HEARD ON FIRST HAND ACCOUNT THAT THIS STUDENT, WHO ADMITTEDLY HAS ISSUES, HAS LITERALLY BEEN HEARD SAYING, "I DONT WANT TO BE HERE, I WANT TO BE EXPELLED". SO, AT THIS TIME, YOU LITERALLY CAN NOT BE EXPELLED FROM EAST HIGH. GO TOMCATS!

Lies. said...

Incompetence

Maybe you should study the law or maybe you need a Norrell's self taught reading class!

Students can not receive discipline as a result of a manifestation of her disability. Students are afforded protection under the law. Please stop over exaggerating and if you don't like it working at EA get another job or leave the union.


Uh oh said...

WELL, #1, I DONT WORK AT EAST HIGH, BUT I GET MY INFORMATION FROM A VERY RELIABLE SOURCE. IF YOU WANT TO ABSOLVE YOURSELF FROM KEEPING YOUR SCHOOL SAFE, AND YOU DONT THINK YOU CAN FILL OUT THE PROPER DOCUMENTATION TO GET A STUDENT W A WEAPON IN THE BUILDING EXPELLED OR MOVED TO AN ALTERNATIVE SITE AT TGE VERY LEAST, THEN CLEARLY YOU NEED TO GO BACK TO "NORELL'S READING CLASS"...WHAYEVER THE HELL THAT MEANS. SAFETY SHOULD BE PRIORITY #1 FOR THE STAFF & STUDENTS. BUT I TELL YOU WHAT, JUST KEEP USING EXCUSES UNTIL ONE OF THEM BRING A PISTOL IN, THEN MAYBE YOU'LL HAVE A GOOD TIME EXPLAINING TO THE LAWYERS WHY YOU KEPT A STUDENT AROUND WHO ALREADY SHOWED A HISTORY OF BRINGING WEAPONS INTO THE SCHOOL.

Uh oh said...

SURPRISED IT WAS A FEMALE TOO. DIDN'T KNOW THAT PART UNTIL YOU REFERNCED IT. APPARANTLY YOU ARE VERY CLOSE TO THE SITUATION....HMMMM. BE CAREFUL

Ralph Padron said...



From: R Padron
Sent: Thursday, April 25, 2019 8:32 AM
To: info@auroratownship.org; william.c@auroratownship.org
Cc: brenda.h@auroratownship.org; david.m@auroratownship.org; dolores.h@auroratownship.org; david.m@auroratownship.org

FOIA REQUEST
Date: April 25 2019
Subject: Senior Assistance Lawn Service/Snow Removal Program
Timeline: Fiscal Year 2017 2018 2019

1 Criteria/Qualifications
2 List and number of residences receiving this program
3 Approval Process to include names of those approving
4 Names & Wages paid to workers performing lawn cutting/maintenance

Snow Removal Program
1 Criteria/Qualifications
2 List and number of residences receiving this program
3 Approval Process to include names of those approving
4 Names & Wages paid to workers performing snow removal to include time per residence spent

Please provide the following documents via email response

131?? said...

What am i missing here? How is this related to SD 131? Thanks.

Ralph Padron said...

East High Ext Campus Snowplowing Invoices in Question

1 Is this company owned by Keith Milsap mgr of operations at EAH Extension Campus?
2 Price per snowplow is $220.00 & $100.00 per salt application.
3 How long does it take to do this service?
4 Could B&G do this less than 1 hour of OT? I believe so.
5 Who approved Milsap as a vendor (conflict of interest) and does he have insurance
6 Compare dates billed with the days EA 131 did snowplowing. Will they be the same amount?
7 Does Milsap determine when it necessitates to snowplow
8 EA should determine all of the above as above is very suspicious and costly tax dollars

9 NOTE: Jan 19 2019 2 snowplowing and 2 salt applications = $ 640.00 total for 1 day
Please investigate

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-east-aurora-school-board-st-0502-story.html

Waldo teach said...

Dr. Norrell, I'm pleading with you to do something about The 50 year old virgin Merle and his union members. They came into our school about a week ago harrassing one of our teachers because she's been complaining because our building is filthy every single day. He's becoming very well known as the district bully and he continues to do it to all staff members at all levels. We are tired of it. Our school is filthy and often garbage is not even taken out. We've got custodians that are drunks and others that are mentally unstable. And as for Merle, all his does is walk around talking to people and harrassing others. Tim and himself can't get the heat right in this building. He's making a joke out of the custodial union. Fix this please.

No worries said...

A middle schooler was tardy getting to class and was heard saying to another student, “I’m going to get an in-school suspension and I don’t caaaaaaare!” Glad this discipline is working so well!

Sooner or Later... said...

Yeah, sooner or later you'd think these geniouses would figure out that the students in 131 dont need to be hugged and patted on the head, and they need some actual discipline. This is a district that needs some negative reinforcement. But the people who know it all think things like class-colored attendence flag wars will do the trick. Clueless!

Manifestation said...

If a manifestation of a disability causes a threat to the safety of other students (i.e.- bringing a weapon to school) then obviously you'd need to find an alternative way to educate the student (i.e.- an alternative school where they are searched every day, WHICH THIS DISTRICT HAS). The person that wrote this is correct, your admin is incompetant. Where'd you get your type 75...mail order or cracker jack box?? That school needs to be gutted, not just the principal.

HS admin is a joke said...

Its official, HS admin needs to be gutted. I agree with the people above. These people (AP & principal) are clueless about how to run a 4,000 student high school and its faculty. They are looking for someone to point the blame at now that the district has had to come in and START to turn it into a functional high school. Its still nowhere close, but the AP over there (since the principal has already checked out) is running around just looking for other people to blame, when you allowed it to get to this point with NO STUDENT DISCIPLINE. Now they have gone to the point of trying to write staff up their staff for absurdities. I heard 5 staff members were written up for not looking into bathroom stalls that were occupied. How crazy is that desperate attempt. That should be the final straw for the district to do what they need to do. As a teacher in the building, Ive heard the guy has no business managing a bingo game. But like I was told he said himself in front of multiple staff "he's gonna do what he wants because he wants to, until the district office tells him he cant". That's a heck of an attitude. Yeah, well you did such a great job with choosing to let students do what they want, while bustings balls and pointing fingers that now the district has had to come in, and they had to throw out dozens of evaluations that he did because of incompetance and failure to follow a simple contract. Good job "doing what you want until someone tells you that you cant". Maybe you both can can back to Plainfield and teach Spanish again, thats about where you should be. But their is a change in the near future!! Do the right thing Dr Norell, Im sure you will.

Agreed said...

Yeah, admin is definitely clueless and on a power trip. Horrible combination.

EA....not OK said...

To support earlier posts, communication and admin are gruesomely underwhelming. From mismanagement of resources and funds (being required to go to elementary schools, having DC’s do the work of AP’s or leave the building for a million other petty excuses), being flippant and condescending to feeling like they can do whatever they want with no repercussions, the high school setting is sadly toxic. I remember decades ago when admin and teachers worked together rather than being abused by people just because of a fancy title. You would think they could tell us who the next principal is, sadly we just have to listen to rumors and if they are correct....he’s no better than what we have and will
Continue this sad cycle of brutality. Optimistically, it should get better!

Pandemonium said...

It is a sad day in EA that we find out Norrell will continue to pay parents to help in classes (if they show up) but our high level Tudors with degrees lost their jobs this month. It is our understanding that the controverial program ended years ago but it appears our incompetent admin kept it. Now Norrell is keeping it. What has changed?

Paying parents $1,500 dollars to volunteer in classrooms is wrong. Union members show up at board meetings and carry a sign they will cave. It's not like our Union will support us. Jeff Mleczko became a instructional coach with only a few years of teaching service and Judy Durham's sister is now a Principal in EA. See a pattern we get RIF notices, unfair transfers, and laid off but the favored few or ones that make noise are protected.

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/ct-abn-east-aurora-parent-mentors-st-0523-story.html

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/ct-abn-east-aurora-high-new-principal-st-0522-story.html

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/opinion/ct-abn-crosby-suicide-postcards-st-0524-story.html

Unbelievable said...

Now the District Dictator wants to take away the international trip that has been years in the planning, way before her arrival. Time to move out of district to one that doesn’t prevent students from gaining invaluable real world education nor divides the staff. She doesn’t care though as she won’t be here long once she builds up enough bullet points on her resume for the private sector.

Student financial abuse said...

Here is the reality folks. Michael Aye, Jessica Joyce and Simon Rodriguez who now has a six figure salary with the City of Aurora are charging low income students a premium to go on a trips to Greece and Spain. Check with EF Tours their trips are free. The trip would allow young adults from 14 to 18 years old to go unsupervised. Yes folks their trips are free and the only thing the District Superintendent is guilty of is not pressing charges and firing these individuals for stealing from the students.

Someone please stop her said...

Hot off the press

NORRELL- Sources revealed she is hiring another crony who lost his job at Oswego East and Bloom as HS Principal now he is being hired at $115,000
A year as AP at Allen. When is it going to stop? The SSC is a revolving door. Many report even with increases they are looking for a job. However, Savage is a outrage for the many that struggled so long with with low wages in our district. Good luck to the many Principals with applications still out. They know what they have been told and it will come at the price of teachers. News Flash Norrell money can't buy loyality.

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/ct-abn-east-aurora-administrators-appointed-st-0620-20190619-42oevg3ksnco3jhp5m4ucpqroa-story.html

All about image not children said...

The EA joke continues with a article written by none other than Denise Crosby. In the article Norrell talks about working with a local group to prevent teen suicide. The joke is prior admin worked with other agencies and because it was not the good Dr Norrell's idea a abrupt stop halted simular programs. Ask Magnet and Waldo about Elyssa's Mission. See everyone if she can not take credit or create a story about herself it will not happen.

OBA said...

It looks like #131 has 3 violations by not posting board minutes.


WEBSITE POSTING REQUIREMENTS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN ILLINOIS
GOOD GOVERNMENT / Policy Point
February 27, 2014
Under state law local governments in Illinois are required to post the following information on their websites, as applicable. All public bodies Open Meetings Act The Open Meetings Act has the following requirements for public bodies: Minutes posting Any public body that has a website must post the minutes of a regular meeting of its...
Under state law local governments in Illinois are required to post the following information on their websites, as applicable.

All public bodies

Open Meetings Act

The Open Meetings Act has the following requirements for public bodies:

Minutes posting

Any public body that has a website must post the minutes of a regular meeting of its governing body (i.e. County Board, Board of Trustees, Board of Commissioners, School Board, etc) on the website within 10 days after the approval of the minutes by the public body. Public bodies must approve the minutes of the previous meeting either by the next meeting or within 30 days, whichever is later. These minutes must stay on the website for at least 60 days after their initial posting.

Norrell's report said...

When is the BOE going to wake up and see they have a run away train?

Does the BOE think training employees of a few months and having them resign or get fired in a few months is fiscal responsibility?

Recently the BOE approved hundreds of thousands of dollars in leadership training and admin started professional development for this. Already three employees will resign and many others are still looking for a job. So BOE when are you going to stop the train? Is has already left the tracks.

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Thursday, July 11, 2019 2:10 PM
To: kontiveros, Amanda L Sanderson
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: July 11 2019
Subject: see below
TimelineL Mar 1 2019 - July 11 2019

Dr. Lisa Dallacqua
Application
Resume
Offer Contract
Board Report / Approval

Dr. Ann Williams

1 Application 2 Resume 3 Offer Contract 4 Board Report/Approval
5 All communication and documents to include emails, text messages, all documents and organizational charts
6 All D131 documents with Key word : Ann Williams

Ralph Padron said...

Date: July 11 2019
Subject: Ray Bauer & Dr Kim Ontiveros
Timeline: May 1 2019 - July 11 2019

Ray Bauer
Application
Resume
Offer Contract
Board Report / Approval
All communication and documents to include emails, text messages, and organizational charts produced between district 131 Staff and external parties
All D131 documents with Key word : Ray or Raymond Bauer

Dr Kim Ontiveros
Timeline: March 1 2019 - July 11 2019
Application
Resume
Offer Contract
Board Report / Approval

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Thursday, July 11, 2019 8:13 AM
To: Jennifer Norrell

Subject: This is so wrong and criminal

Good Morning to all

This is what is wrong with the hiring system
1 Did 131 give Alberto a good recommendation and intentionally avoid the truth?
2 Can East Aurora D131 set the record straight and give the facts to Dist 59

Please read the application and current contract of former BG Director Alberto Tijerina

3 He gets demoted at 131 yet finds a higher paying job $ 128 K at Dist 59 Elk Grove
4 That is all fine and my question is this:
5 Did anyone mention to D59 his demotion, incompetence, and costly decisions.

Please check on this and hopefully D131 will contact D59 to give them the facts
I believe EA 131 owes this to the Taxpayers

Please respond

Thank you
Ralph

As Norrell turns said...

Glad to hear Ralph is back. Someone outside of the district needs to ask the hard questions we can not rely on the BOE. Employees have been terminated for no reason or for questioning Norrell in meetings. More resignations happen daily with no end in sight. Norrell has now resorted to hiring rejects and buying off current staff.

Recently a HR position was eliminated when the long term employee came back from vacation and was told to pack her boxes after many years of exemplary service. The asformentioned in Ralph's FOIAs are all patronage hires. Ralph needs to ask why Norrell hired Lisa Morales daughter with no experience or a teaching degree to run assessments on educational programs. That one is a stretch and shows desperation to buy loyalty or maybe something else. Inquiring minds would like to know.

The second of two Asst Superintendens resigned this week because of frustration. Her constant change in direction, tantrums and favorism of incompetence like Campbell lead to the departures. Ralph needs to ask if a policy exists on posting of positions. The replacement for the Asst Superintendent has already been hired from the new Asst Superintendent of Human resources former district. This hire begs is the new HR Superintendent hired to promote Norrell's agenda or follow the rules.

Other surprises will follow.

Ralph Padron said...

Date: July 12 2019
Subject: Scott Savage & Jennifer Kuyper
Timeline: Jan 1 2019 - July 12 2019

For Jennifer Kuyper
Application
Resume
Contract
Emails to/from 131 May 1 2019- July 1 2019

For Scott Savage
Application
Resume
Contract
Emails to/from 131 May 1 2019- July 1 2019

By Erika Hobbs, Patch Staff
May 20, 2019 6:51 pm ET | Updated May 23, 2019 6:34 pm ET

Scott Savage, resigned to pursue a doctorate degree, Paicely said.

​Regarding above:
Policy which would cover educational assistance for Mr Savage pursuing a Doctorate Degree

Ralph Padron said...


From: R Padron
Sent: Saturday, July 13, 2019 9:12 AM
To: Jennifer Norrell
Cc: Steve Megazzini; Amanda L Sanderson; bschubert@d131.org; dbarreiro@d131.org; Annette Johnson; Kimberly Hatchett; amiller@d131.org; Alex Arroyo
Subject: Dr Kim Ontiveros

Good Morning Jennifer

I am sure you were aware of this article

https://www.rblandmark.com/News/Articles/4-5-2019/D103-interim-superintendents-resign/

Article published April 9 2019
did the Superintendent insure the BOE was aware of this incident/article?

"HR director takes new job"

District 103 will also have to hire a new human resources director. On the morning of Election Day, Human Resources Director Kim Ontiveros resigned, effective June 30.

Ontiveros was hired on April 1 as the new executive director of human resources in East Aurora School District 131. Ontiveros has been the human resources director in District 103 since July 1. Before that, she had served as the principal at Home School in Stickney for seven years.

Ontiveros was HR director last summer when the district unknowingly hired a middle school teacher who was facing charges of attempted murder. That teacher, Andres Rodriguez, was not truthful on his job application, and his background check came back clean because he had not been convicted of any crime.

Simmons still stucks said...

I was once filled with hope that EA had a leader who could run EA with objectively, seeking input from teachers and staff AND break down layers of mayhem. One Team One Plan sure looked promising. One year later we watch a district that riffed employees, terminated and new administration.

In our building alone we have Co Principals both earning $135,000 per year running Simmons. What does that mean? Patterson can not explain this and Campbell has yet to answer what our structure is. Carrillo if you listen to the rumor mill she is a patronage repurpose from Elementary loyal to Norrell that had three titles in the last several months.

If the rumor mill is true this weekend none other than Lisa Morales, secretary to Norrell was just awarded another patronage hire of her own. Is it not enough that her husband was saved again? Yes folks, for those not keeping up with the Hollywood shuffle, Wilson is now at Dietrich as a AP making $120,000 a year. Big raise for someone who was a non renewal at Waldo. Ask yourself with all the qualified staff how is it Morale's daughter can review teacher programs without a teaching degree. If salary rumors are true she now makes more than a teacher with a MA teaching seven years

Sorry, Dr Norrell we are forced to share on the blog because we are well aware of new level of intimidation and bullying going on between you and your trusted staff.

Ralph Padron said...

FOIA REQUEST
Date: July 15 2019
Subject: Eaglewood Resort & Spa Cabinet Retreat
Timeline: July 2019

1 Purpose of retreat (documents/announcement of any sort)
2 Price quotes/comparison of other resorts/venues
3 List of all participants
4 Itemized expenses to include receipts
5 Transportation
6 Speakers fee and all other costs
7 Purpose of Speaker
8 Itenerary for entire retreat
9 Comparison of previous 3 retreats costs against this years

10 I am specifically looking for D131 to account for every penny on this retreat
11 I do understand that all invoices may not be received however if not please send what you do have and send others upon receipt

Thank you

Ralph Padron said...

I addressed the following at BOE MEETING tonite

1 Job Posted Thursday July 11 2019 read
Executive Director of Numeracy, ESSA, Reporting, and Grants
2 Ref: Personnel Report dtd July 11 2019
ITEM N shows this position being filled by individual from Lyons Dist 103 Same Dist as the new HR asst Supt came from
3 Is it legal to advertise a position and hire someone say day.

4 Ref” Personnel Report dtd July 11 2019
5 ITEM “I” Educational Programs and Communications specialist
6 THERE IS NO POSTING FOR THIS POSITION
7 STAFF MEMEBERS WHO WERE LAID OFF AND NOT BEEN RECALLED
DID THEY HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION
8 THE APPOINTMENT APPEARS TO BE A NEPOTISM HIRING
IS THIS A Violation of the Collective Bargain Agreement

9 Ref Personnel Report ITEM “E” ADJUSTED APPOINTMENTS
10 PRINCIPAL FROM BEAUPRE HAS BEEN named DIRECTOR OF HR
11 EA NOW HAS ASST SUPT AND A DIRECTOR FOR HR
12 HAS THIS EVER HAPPENED BEFORE?

TO: BOARD OF EDUCATION
I ASK A MOTION BE MADE TO TABLE THESE 3 HR ISSUES FROM THE PERSONNEL REPORT FOR FURTHER EXAMINATION. VIOLATION OF COLLECTIVE BARGAINING & ILLEGAL HIRING ARE THE ISSUES. THE FACTS ARE THERE WARRANTING THE BOE TAKE ACTION.

THE INTEGRITY OF THIS BOE IS AT STAKE. THERE IS NO SENSE OF URGENCY IN APPROVING THIS TONITE. 2 WEEKS IS ALL I REQUEST

Wondering said...

Did they honor your request or approve as written?

EA Exposed said...

Wondering here is the sad state of affairs

The replacement for Kincade already resigned. We feel, he heard about the daily turmoil folding at the SSC and ASC. The BOE needs to fact check anything coming out of Norrell mouth. She told the audience we never hired anyone from Lyons 103. YES you did! They had to remove his name in the middle of the meeting because he was smart enough not to work with the rejects who are forced to take the daily temper tantrums of Norrell.

This is the fifth high level cabinet member to leave or not except a job in two weeks. This is after the upheaval of the multi terminations and forced resignations.

On another note

MORALE'S daughter was hired for a job created exclusively to spin data. The rumor mill has it that will be her job!. The BOE should ask or answer why they just promoted Brittney Henning? They should also ask WHY have two employees doing the same job?

Director of HR was hired and promoted from within at the meeting. All of Elementary knows she was on the bubble for needs improvement herself but Garcia along with others are part of the kiss the queens bootlick circle. Again we ask the BOE why two positions running HR. Ask why a senior employee was let go. She did not resign BOE like Norrell stated.

Norrell prides herself on jive. We are all well aware of the daily retroic, listen and look BOE

Ralph Padron said...

Just heard that Superintendent Norrell publicly stated that no one was hired from Lyons 103. According to the Personnel Report dtd July 11 2019 DERRICK NAGLAK was listed as appointments/hiring. This forces me to FOIA Following information

1 Recording of Board Meeting July 15 2019
2 Copy of Personnel Report
3 All communications between Mr Naglak and D131

4 Norrell is very shrewd with her wording last night.
5 SHE OUTRITE LIED AND MISLED EVERYONE
6 She never addressed why Derrick Naglak appeared on the Personnel Report nor the Identical Date of the posting and Personnel Report

Truth is that Norrell has created a TOXIC ENVIRONMENT
Fear, Intimidation, and Bullying is her legacy

Will keep updates as they are reported and verified.

Ralph Padron said...

Sent: Friday, July 19, 2019 8:19 AM
To: Jennifer Norrell

Subject: Question on Hiring of Ray Bauer

Good Morning
Just received this FOIA response yesterday and immediately RED FLAG appears:

​1 Please explain why there is no application for Mr Bauer
2 Timeline is specific
3It is findings such as this which force me to report this to the Attorney Generals Office for an explanation

Thank you

Wondering 2 said...

Who is Ray Bauer? What position was he hired for? I can't keep up with all of the changes!

No equity in 131 said...

Oswego Administration received a 1% raise for the entire year. They will not be paid for in district travel nor will they be allowed to buy vacation back. These are all benefits our administration receives. It is interesting still (4) district level administration switched to Oswego taking decreases in pay as much as $38,000 per school in salary and TRS.

It shows even with money admin. will not get abused by Norrell.

Also, Ralph you should FOIA pay for Mr. George Allen who is a guest at Dr. Norrell's wedding today. You should also FOIA travel on Allen since he started and the lavish trips he has taken with teacher union 604 leadership. Make no mistake about it teachers, and support staff, while your union brothers are still sitting home with NO recall notices your union is having a party with someone who does not hold a MS in school leadership like the other qualified individuals who lost positions.

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Tuesday, July 23, 2019 8:43 PM
To: Jennifer Norrell ; Kimberly M Ontiveros ; Subject: Suspicious Personnel Report

Greetings to all
1 Note page 2 Line N is blank Why?
There should have been an explanation stating
Derrick Naglak hired then removed for whatever reason

2 Personnel Report dtd JuIy 11 read :
ITEM N Derrick Naglak hired for Executive Director of Numeracy, ESSA, Reporting,and Grants
Board Members please refer to your Agenda Packet

3 Report dtd July 16 ref: pg 3
Add C Andrea Estrada
Delete D Andrea Estrada

Derrick Naglak hiring then resigning needed to be explained instead of a BLANK line

Did the BOE approve the Personnel report with Line N stating Derrik Naglak's name and position or the Blank Line N
Board of Ed: Please demand Jennifer Norrell and Kim Onteveros correct this Personnel Report
I am requesting a revised and corrected copy

I stated at the July 15 BOE meeting
job Posted Thursday July 11 2019 read
Executive Director of Numeracy, ESSA, Reporting, and Grants

Ref: Personnel Report dtd July 11 2019
ITEM N shows this position being filled by individual from Lyons Dist 103 Same Dist as HR Asst Supt Kim Ontiveros came from

Is it legal to advertise a position and hire someone say day.
This all points to a cover up
Dr Norrell: Please reply (you never do)

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Wednesday, July 24, 2019 12:37 PM
To: Kimberly M Ontiveros ; Amanda L Sanderson
Subject: FOIA REQUEST

Date: July 24 2019
Subject: George Allen
Timeline: July 1 2018 - July 24 2019

1 Email Log
2 Internet Log
3 Cell phone Log
4 All travel reimbusements with receipts
5 Credit Card Statements

Ralph Padron said...

Greetings
Just received this FOIA response re: East Aurora Dist 131 Cabinet Retreat
Eaglewood Resort Itasca Il (see attached)
$ 10,243.24

DOA Productions (see link & attachment)
$ 760.00
https://www.doaroomescape.com/

Full report forthcoming to include cost for Out of Town Speaker
1 Peter Gorman Leadership Associates
2 Air Fare, Speaker Fees and travel expenses
3 Initial FOIA response omitted several costs

Will request these missing costs
Please Respond Dr Norrell

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Saturday, July 27, 2019 11:57 AM
To: Jennifer Norrell
Subject: Scott Savage Inquiry Pt 1

D131 East Aurora Elementary Asst Principal (Allen) $115,000.00
D206 Bloom Township HS Principal $128,000.00
D308 Oswego HS Principal $118,600.00

These are the facts
1 Bloom Township is the same Dist Jennifer Norrell came from (coincidence or not)
2 Salary for Asst Principal at Elementary School is $ 115,000.00
3 How does this compare with other AP's in D131
4 How does this compare with previous AP's at Elemtary Level
5 I have a FOIA submitted to compare the above
6 Mr Savage's 131 application answer salary for Oswego is overstated

Note D308 Oswego resignation and effective date are July 11 2017
Start date at Bloom is also July 11 2017

Attached emails raise 2 Major Questions
1 Why did Mr Savage not hire for Director of Special Ed
2 Why did Lorrie Campbell enclose Administrator Tuition Reimbursement Policy
3 Certainly appears that Savage is targeting to use that program to further his career at Taxpayer Expense
4 Is Lorrie Campbell part of this suspicious hiring
Maybe since Supt Jennifer Norrell and Scott Savage are from Bloom

More on this Issue will be sent soon

Again I am requesting Jennifer Norrell respond

anonymous1 said...

We were all excited for Dr. Norrell to come and lead our district but this lady is definitely something else, she is definitely a BIG Bully. BOA you MUST keep a close eye on this one and all of the administrators. Look at the district and schools...so many changes and positions openings. I wonder why people are leaving the district or schools? I'm sure you are all wondering but will you do some investigating is the question!

Hmmm... said...

From the district website:

East Aurora School District 131
Special
Wednesday, July 31, 2019 7:00 PM
School Service Center - 417 Fifth Street, Aurora, IL
I. Roll Call
II. Public Comments
III. Executive Session for the Purpose of Discussing Safety and Security and the Appointment, Employment and Dismissal of a Specific Employee
IV. Motion to Approve the Personnel Report as Presented
V. Adjournment

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

Anybody know what this is about??

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Tuesday, July 30, 2019 1:39 PM
To: Jennifer Norrell
Subject: PT 2 D131 Cabinet Retreat Eaglewood Resort Itasca Il Suspicious Cost

1 Just reviewed speaker cost info: (see attached)
2 Dates were July 11.12,13 2019
3 Proposal date was JULY 28 2019 2 weeks after Peter Gorman spoke
4 FEE WAS $ 5,000.00
Questions/Comments
1 How can Jennifer Norrell allow a proposal for $ 5,000.00 be accepted and approved AFTER THE EVENT
2 This is identical to making a purchase, receive it then giving a PO and paying it
3 Was any BOE member aware of this?
4 There certainly was never an invoice. Was this already paid via another method of payment?

Is everyone aware that this same speaker is scheduled for this Thursday and Friday Retreat at the Paramount Theatre

Again Jennifer Norrell loves spending money at the TAXPAYER and D131 Educational expense
Will Jennifer Norrell ask the D131 attorney to comment on this

Please respond Supt Jennifer Norrell

newshound said...

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/ct-abn-aurora-school-fire-st-0730-20190729-gtd7wosnbzgovoa5l6k2yi4ebe-story.html

anonymous1 said...

I'm not sure I am understanding this based on the minutes from June 3, 2019. The Director of Student Services got demoted to a Certified Position for some reason. But now I see he got promoted to the Executive Director of Student Services. If he was not doing his job as the Director what makes you think he will know what to do as the Executive Director. Why do we need an executive and a director...These are my taxes paying. I just do not understand this district. If a person is not capable of doing their job let them go! o

Lock Him Up said...

Antonio Jaimeson is threatening custodians and others that include the racist term mexicans and blacks to do their work. gimme a break Jaimison: you are a convicted felon, thief, DUI criminal, and a poor excuse for a supervisor. Why you still have a job is the scam of the century. Lets not forget when you brought 2 of your children to the hill and wanted to keep them there as a babysitting center. The only reason you are employed is because HR screwed up royally. Many a time there was reason to fire you but the race card is played often and now that Avis Miller is there to protect you. Get rid of this disgraceful felon !!!

A Positive Sign said...

Just looked at the Kane County Roe website. East Aurora has about 30 openings still to fill. That is definitely a record for the least amount of positions still to fill at the beginning of the school year. In recent years we started with 100-150 positions empty. Apparently paying teachers a more regionally competitive wage does have its positive consequences. It’s too bad we had to fight Annette Johnson for so many years before it happened. How many great teachers did we lose over those years. Hopefully that is taking a turn for the better. Still lots of work to go with the board and administration.

EA oldtimer said...

Union Members

It is sad that we are still biting the hand that feeds us! If Annette Johnson would have not been involved in the finances of EA we would have nothing. EA is certainly better! Maybe our Union should stop taking trips with administration and STOP wasting the districts money. Sadly Gerry was so busy licking the boots of Admin yesterday we had no time for union business.

Look at the facts said...

Keep it real folks it is the State of Illinois not our Union. The school Board has given us raises on more State funding with every contract. When we make moronic senseless statements it makes us look foolish. The SB has been fair in distributing additional funds.

Let's talk about what is not fair at the HS! Mlesko should not have been selected as a Instructional Coach. He has the least amount of teaching experience. He was driving the bus that lead to Marina's demise and if Simpson does not play the game fingers will wag. Mlesko does not want to teach and adminngranted him this favor. Simply put he used his title at 604 to get a promotion.

Ralph Padron said...

To: Supt Jennifer Norrell

Upon reviewing this FOIA response RED FLAGS and all types of questions arise
Questions/Comments
1 Scott Savage comes from Bloom HS (Principal) and takes position of Asst Principal Allen Elementary
2 THIS IS WHERE DR JENNIFER NORRELL CAME FROM (NO COINCIDENCE)
3 Has no Elementary School Experience
4 His salary of $ 115,000.00 is the highest for any Elementary Asst Principal
5 Only Waldo Middle School Asst Principal makes more at $ 119K
6 Lets not forget the Educational Compensation Policy sent to Scott Savage via Lorrie Campbell
7 Savage's Resignation letter from Bloom clearly indicates his pursuit of a Doctorate
8 Again NO COINCIDENCE Jennifer Norrell takes care of her people

This and many other scandals are and will continue on HER WATCH
Does any Board Member question Norrell based on the facts
Dan Barriero certainly won't !

Please respond (again I don 't expect one)

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Friday, August 9, 2019 4:27 PM
To: Jennifer Norrell
Subject: Another Scandal in Hiring

Note: the following on the organizational chart
1 Lisa Dalacqua Executive Director Assessment Data & Curriculum
2 Britany Henning Assessment Data & Coordinator
3 Educational Programs and Communications specialist $ 52,000.00 salary + benefits
THIS IS A NEW POSITION. Was it created for Samantha Loveland (Lisa Morales Daughter)
Lisa Morales has been an asset to D131 for years and her credibility was of high stature
4 Has she let Norrell buy her loyalty?
5 Why does Norrell spend money so recklessly to appease her "YES STAFF"
6 Who were the other candidates who applied for this job
7 I have not seen this position ever posted and am curious if the BOE was aware of this
8 Could this money been better spent for hiring another teacher. Answer is yes

BOE do your job and have Supt Norrell explain this scandal
She will come up with another one of her Excuses.
MORE reports to surface as more employees contact me

Staff said...

Ralph, thank you for talking and bringing things up to light. As employees we are afraid to say anything because of retaliation. We are not allowed to voice our concerns god forbid we go directly to the board members, if they ever respond. The organizational ladder keeps getting longer to resolve a problem. Most of these administrators are useless but making some good money. Why can't they be evaluated just like teachers? I wish the building staff was able to evaluate the building administrators. If they did I bet the board would see why so many people are leaving not only the buildings but the district.

LOL said...

"Mlesko drove the bus that led to Marina's demise" Really? Did he also drive the bus that led to the firing of many in the entire district? Not even sure how many total, but it has to be upwards of 30 plus admin throughout the district (either fired or moved to different positions). So what about the 2nd year teacher at the high school that is an instructional coach, what did she do to get the position?

Screwed over by 604 said...

So what about the 2nd year teacher at the high school that is an instructional coach, what did she do to get the position?

So what about that position? Many of us have asked Mestek what procedure was followed and when did interviews take place. Mestek never responded. So Gerry why did you not file a gievance? See folks, Mestaek wanted Mlesko in and asking questions would have stopped the process. Ralph needs to ask why our brotherhood did not ask for seniority hiring first and interviews for the shake of transparency.

If the truth hurts Jeff Mlesko toooooo bad you did drive the bus along with Judy Durham as your passenger.

Ralph Padron said...

From: R Padron
Sent: Sunday, August 11, 2019 11:39 AM
To: Board of Education
Subject: PT 1 PLEASE INVESTIGATE the dismissal of Claudia Ruiz

Good Morning BOE

The change of personnel at D131 has been controversial to say the least yet the most disturbing was
the release of Claudia Ruiz. Someone very close to the situation passed along this info

1 July 2 2019 Meeting in Supt Jennifer Norrell's office
2 Present: Norrell, Kim Ontiveros, Steve Megazzini, Claudia Ruiz
3 Claudia had just returned from vacation and had no idea what was about to happen
4 Norrell informed Ms Ruiz that the BOE had decided not to renew her contract
5 Reason: There were many complaints from Local 604 Teacher & SEIU Custodial Staff regarding her being difficult to these members.
6 Ms Ruiz responded in 8 years she never had anyone complain and was never written up
7 Her reviews were always good
8 Norrell turned to Steve Megazzini who agreed
9 She filed for Unemployment immedately.EA responded she was "LAY OFF" DUE TO LACK OF WORK

PLEASE REQUEST THE FOLLOWING TO GATHER THE FACTS
10 Did the BOE actually make that decision
11 Were there any write-ups for Ms Ruiz
12 Reviews from H/R past several years
13 Dismissal Letter from EA
14 EA Response to Unemployment regarding Ms Ruiz
15 Why was Claudia's non-renewed contract NOT on the Personnel Report
16 When was the BOE AWARE of this

17 Once you gather the facts Judge for yourself whether this warranted dismissal
18 Since this is a Personnel Issue I cannot FOIA the above however the BOE is the hope of setting the record straight.
19 I have advised Claudia Ruiz that if the above can be proven true, then look at options available to you.

East Aurora D131 Board Of Education: PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS

Agreed said...

Yes. This guy is not only a joke, but dangerous. As a psych major, he has all the indicators of an unstable & aggressive human. If he gets fired (which he should), its going to be unsafe for those around him. He needs to go...how the f*@% did he get hired, and who kept him after learning of all this?? Thats the real question.