I spoke recently with one of our State representatives. Concerning school finances, they "do NOT think it's about more money. It's about the kids." Which I agreed. They went on to explain the "schools have not been accountable to the state and communities" for sometime.
This is why the state has required the schools to have a balanced budget by 2010.
Similar to our contribution through property taxes, the state has been paying into the schools (with taxpayer money) and is not seeing the accounting for these funds.
For YEARS our district has gone over budget and borrowed against our children's future. The future is here and now and they want us, community members, to pay for it. In some ways we are responsible. We should have been more involved, earlier on, and required more accountability sooner.
The community was not asked for it's input until the district surplus of cash had run dry. In turn, we the community did not ask for more accountability till the district wanted us to cough up more cash. For both sides it has been all about the money and we all are using the kids as the
bargaining chip for our response to the budget dilemma.
This isn't about busing, or kids getting to school or field trips. It is about getting our kids the best basic education we can afford. Schools cannot continue to take over as social workers and surrogate parents to give kids trips to the zoo and offer alternative schools to chronically truant students. Programs for students who want to be in school and whose parents make the effort to be involved are paying the cost. These students are losing lifetime opportunities that cannot be replaced.
National Honor Society, fine arts, clubs and activities are a small investment in keeping students encouraged about school and creating an atmosphere of community within their school. Not to mention, it looks great on the college application.
Below you will see a proposal that was mentioned at one budget forum. It was put aside quickly and I, for one, do not know why. In the list of alternate reductions you will see nearly 3 million could be saved by cuts to administrative positions only. Why wasn't this plan discussed more at the Tuesday Talks? Or at more of the Board forums?
Alternate Reductions
1.1.) Service Center Admin.
a) 81,000
b) 65,000
c) 30,000
d) 76,000
e) 87,500
f) 24,000
g) 65,400
h) 60,900
Total 489,800
2.2.)Elementary Admin.
a) 599,813
b) 319,614
Total 919,427
3.3.) Middle School Admin.
a) 492,059
b) 109,469
Total 601,528
4.) High School Admin.
a) 270,752
b) 10,000
c) 266,415
d) 90,000
e) 197,000
Total 834,167
Grand Total - All Alternative Reductions= $ 2,844,922
84 comments:
"These students are losing lifetime opportunities that cannot be replaced".
Amen to that, Veteran Tomcat!
There is no substitute for the character development a student achieves performing in a play, singing in a choir, or competing in a track meet. These are activities that involve and educate the "whole person"--physical, intellectual, and social. And they involve skills which translate well to the business world: teamwork, confidence under pressure, cooperation with others.
So the current School Board would rather deny our children these irreplaceable opportunities than consider administrative cuts? Seems to me we need some folks on the Board who care more about our kids and less about their own personal (or is that "personnel") agendas!
And let me hear another , amen! to anon 6:50pm.
Very well put!
What your "plan" fails to consider is what you would do to reduce expenses another $4 million over the next 2 years. The true deficit that needs to be reduced by 2010 is closer to $6.7 million. Your "plan" is ambiguous at the elementary and secondary levels so why would anyone have considered it. Your real issue is that you don't value administrators and think that there are too many. Unfortunately that is a short sighted opinion that demonstrates a lack of knowledge about how school district's are run in this day and age. The reality is if these programs are so valued then step up to the plate and pay for them. Stop trying to do education on the cheep and blaming everyone else for the current state of affairs. This deficit has been coming for years but no one in this community bothered to even go to a school board meeting to know what was going on. The need for more money is only a "shock" because people weren't paying attention not because it came out of the blue. Wake up and start finding ways of supporting the school district instead of constantly bashing it.
Hey this wasn't "my plan", this was an "alternative" considered by the administration at 131. So your "Why" question is better asked of them.
"demonstrates a lack of knowledge about how school district's are run in this day and age"
Yep, I suppose you may be correct. I do not need a Phd. to know you cannot spend money for 7-8 years, that you do NOT have, and think this is good business practice. Possibly, the way things are "run in this day and age" are not realistic and a bit "short sighted" considering the future of 131.
Realistically, I personally, do not have 900K to save the fine arts. It doesn't mean that I am NOT seeking alternative ways of funding some of these programs. Which I am sure sports boosters is doing likewise for athletics.
You reiterated what I have stated about the communities lack of involvement. Regardless, that does not excuse past, present or future admin and school boards for waiting until the financial situation became dire.
We have educated professionals in our district that were hired to oversee and make prudent decisions, concerning the educating of our children, and an elected board that was to be monitoring those decisions.
Secondly, I am not saying I do not value admin. But yes, I do question some of the present admin's value to our district. Especilly, since their works have allowed these reductions to be necessary to an extreme degree. Definitely, I feel we are top heavy.
I admit to not attending meetings. I cast a vote for a school board that I thought would best represent me and the best interest of our students when making these decisions. I was wrong. I can admit it, why won't others admit their errors.
I am not privy to all the business discussions of admin & the board, so I am not "bashing" the district.
I am only attempting to gain insight into why certain choices/ decisions were made. I keep asking questions and getting no answers.
Anon 9:15 what would you have done had you been a district manager?
There is a lot of fat in the budget that is protected and never brought up for considerationn when cuts are discussed. What does EA need a PR person for? If they are serious about tightening their belt why not speak for themselves. This is a luxury we can not afford. They just hired another new administrator this year knowing that the budget is in the red. A district curriculum director to watch the other curriculum directors. WHAT A WASTE OF MONEY!!!! We have way too many aids,secretaries and misc. staff whose only skill is that they speak Spanish. Lets look at cutting some of these. There is fat and it needs to go. Most of this fat is in the form of jobs that have gone to friends and family of other district employees. Cut the favors and make due with just the employees and programs that we really need.
Why do we need 4 assistant super intendents? This is not the norm. There is alot of savings here if 2 were done away with. I, like veteran tomcat, trusted the school board members when I voted them in. It is quite apparent now that I was wrong. Why did not the school board start paying attention when they started dipping in the $20 million reserve? Ask them what is left of this reserve. The plan that veteran tomcat is showing was the alternative plan. I was at that meeting when it was showed. Get rid of all the unnecessary personnel. Why does not the administrators take a cut in pay as other places have done? Now this, would be for the students and prove that the school board really does have the best interest of the students in mind and at heart.
annon 7/20/07 @ 7:44Am
Fogot to tell you-
Amen to what you posted.
how often are the school board elections? and what are the requirements for being on the ballot??
also, who is this new administrator that is overseeing the administrators of the curriculum (that was mentioned by 7:44 Am anonymous)
School board elections are every 2 years. Members serve for 4 years.
4 positions are up this time, 3 next time.
Canidates must get a petition of approx 50 sigantures adn some other paper work (nothing too involved) to get on the ballot.
The packet with all the requirements maybe gotten at the school service center.
High hopes or poor choices ?
What is with this board and admin?
First they update (for a big buck) the high school auditorium. They build new stages at the middle schools.
Last night the board voted to purchase new books. One of them being a music theory book.
If the referndum doesn't pass or if it does, Roberts has already said the 75 cent increase is not a sufficient amount. What a waste of money for stages and books when we'll have no performance programs to utilize these investments.
On Friday morning, the Norman family's home located in the 9th Ward of Aurora was destroyed by fire. The family lost much more than just personal items; Sherry Norman, mother of two and wife of Lee lost her life. As you can imagine the family is in shock and is struggling just to get by. The Georgetown Relief Effort Neighborhood Organization (GRENO) is trying to help the family with some basic needs. The WalMart Store located on Rt 59 and the Kohls's Store located in the Fox Valley Mall have agreed to match any amount of gift certificates purchased on behalf of the Family. The 17 year old daughter is a student at Waubonsie Valley High School. If you would like to purchase a gift card for the family at either of these two stores, please see Jackie at the WalMart and the Store Manager at Kohl's. The donations are for the Lee Norman family. Gift cards can be dropped off at my home, 2582 Sagamore Circle, or at the home of Ms. Dee Hakala (GRENO Board Chairman) at 3024 Long Grove Lane. If you can't drop them off, call me and I will come and get them 375-9375 (leave a msg if no answer).
Leroy Keith
Alderman, 9th Ward
Since there is so many people wanting new members on the school board I'm wondering if anyone is doing anything money wise or just getting the word out to friends and neighbors about them or helping them money wise to get signs or buttons out there to help them? I haven't heard of anything and I don't have alot of money but maybe for them just alittle bit would help if you really want to have new members on the school board.
I think it'd be great if we could have some campaign buttons made--I would definitely wear them!
Yard signs are good, too--but the only people who see them are those who drive or walk by your house. A button, however, would be seen (and noticed) when I went to work, shopping, movies, church, walking the dog, etc. A potential conversation-starter, dont'cha think?
I think our school board should have a policy like this that Cary, IL has after seeing who contributed to the last referendum.
Vendor/Contractor Conflict of Interest
Any company or individual doing $10,000 or more in business with the District within a fiscal year shall not contribute to any political campaign that directly affects the District while doing business for the District or for a period of two years after completion of business with the District. Further, the District will not enter into significant business with a company or individual that has contributed to a political campaign that directly affects the District within two years prior to commencing business.
Political campaigns that directly affect the district shall be defined as:
School board election
Tax or bond referendum
I am working on getting signs and buttons. When I have all the information I need I will post it. If anyone might be willing to help pay for a sign or whatever, it would be appreciated, as the runs running are paying for them on their own and some family members. There will also be signs aboaut the referendum.
Sorry did not proof read before posting. It should say the ones running and about is spelled wrong
Yard signs are put in the area's where the people are running and when people go to vote they might notice them on the way. Buttons are good but if you don't work with people in your district or when you go to the store there are people from all over so they might not even look and see what they are about.
But everyone has their own way of looking at things but I think both ideas are good.
Someone posted on the openlingblog that these are the D131 canidates for school board. Some of these
names I haven't seen before is this true?
All Candidates
Dan Barreiro
Carol Farnum
Donald Herbig
Fernando Salinas
Leticia Ruiz
Marisa Marrufo
Esmeralda Ibarra Dominguez
Cornelia “Nell” Johnson
Rayanne Carlson
Dee Weaver
Actually, I would prefer to wear a button because I do not live in the district, but I do have a family member who works for D131 and our family strongly supports Dee and Rayanne's candidacy.
I work for two large churches within D131 boundaries, and I'd estimate that I interact with hundreds of potential voters on a weekly basis who might take note of the button and perhaps consider voting for the candidates based partly upon my endorsement.
Yard signs are great, too, especially for those whose house or business is along a well-traveled street.
Has anyone considered bumper stickers?
Has anyone come up with any money to do any of this should be the question.
I have been paying attention to this site and I wonder if anyone is meeting together about why this referendum should not pass. If anyone has, is it open to anyone who cares about the children and why this should not pass? If anything is being done about this, please post where I and others can come to help out. I have seen in the yes website about their meetings, but cannot find anywhere in this site or other places to help take care of the mismanagement of D131s monies. Please let us know who really do care. Thank you in advance for info on this.
So now after three weeks from when the canidates had to turn in their petions we find that there are three others. How did the Beacon miss this why didn't they call the Beacon and have their names but in? We all know school board members and administrators read this blog and openline so why until Friday did nothing come out about this. I would think if these canidates that are running and not have a mention in the paper would say something to get their name out there if they really were interested in running for school board makes one wonder what there motives really are or if someone put them up to it. The time for just voting for the first four canidates had ended and it time for us voters to get out there and let people know how this school board has misused our money. I read the paper about the thrid ward meeting at what the Russell said and he just show me that he has no respect for us.
Glad to see this site grow!
I posted on openlineblog and will do the same here. I see that the two aldermanic forums were organized and hosted by The Roundhouse, perhaps Scott would be interested in hosting a school board candidate forum? I would love to participate so Scott is your reading contact me at my new email site dee4schoolboard@hotmail.com.
Yes we have a group that would like to see reform before any referendum. We have had about 4 meetings to date and will be having another soon. We are in the process of trying to order signs. We DO NOT have ANY sponsors (no ADS, no construction companies, no retired teachers or current teachers) so we have been also trying to pool our personal finances to get this done. Becasue this will be out of OUR pockets we will be asking for approximately $5 per sign (actual cost). We expect to be going door to door soon with actual facts we have gathered through our research and questions we have asked. We are looking for help, voluntgeers and of course anyone that would like to help with the cost. Contact us at my email dee4schoolboard@hotmail.com, or at this blog or even openlineblog.com. We don't have a website, sorry. We are taking the direct approach. Fact to face, fact for fact. No fluff, no big promises. Just true answers.
We welcome anyone that would like to help out. Please understand when we say some members would rather remain anon (I am not sure how to spell!) but feel free to contact me. I am listed in the phone book also.
We are also available to speak at neighborhood meetings, group meetings, church functions whatever. Contact us and we will be more than happy to come and speak with your group.
Let me just take a moment and thank everyone that has come forward to speak, pro and con. Involvement is what is important. I hope to speak with all of you in the near future. I look forward to it.
OOPs I apologize for my spelling errors. I guess I should have read over what I did.
My computer crashed and I am not used to using a lap top!
I am an employee in 131. I see the waste and needs. Unfortunetly, the needs take a backseat to the pet programs. I know who the new adminstrator is that was refered to in the Feb. 20th blog. Her name is Denean Adams and she is being paid to go to other peoples/groups meetings and report back to central office. Talk about creating a job for someone! As for the PR person, Clayton Muhammad, he spends most of his time sending pointless emails out to the staff. The common practice is to delete whenever you see Clayton's name on an email. This month we have been getting daily emails supposedly about Black History. What we have received is a series of emails about hip-hop artists, young sports figures, and the like. Nothing that stresses the importance of getting an education! It seems Mr. Muhammad is very taken with the glitz of the young and semi-famous. Yes, I and most others in the district agree that these are two unnecessary positions. We are looking at 30+ in a classroom and the district is paying for fluff!!!
To anon 8:19 thank you for your input and allowing us to hear your side. It took alot of courage to post your points and I hope your bravery will encourage others.
As a member of the "reform" group let me tell you that we (meaning the public) is aware of what is happening. We haven't been able to prove alot of it but that doesn't mean it isn't happening. We are trying to defend our teachers, aides, ppa's, counselors, and yes even administrators that put the students first. We understand that what is happening has been in the works for a long time and the "secrecy" runs deep. We are committed to making a change in this district and we will not back down. As the truths come out, more people will find the courage to join us and the change will happen. It is time.
Please pass the word to your co workers and above all Thank You.
Did you see Justina Wang's article in the Beacon?
She has actually written the point of view from the community side.
It has been a while since the Beacon has allowed the publics perception to be validated.
The final part of her article says the real questions are directed at us.
"Do I believe he (Roberts) gave me a straight answer? Do you believe the district (131)will use your tax dollars wisely?"
I think those questions have been answered time and again. In the openline, at the meetings, people have spoken out, have asked questions and for years have not been getting straightforward answers.
Thank-you, Justina!
When was it in the beacon I didn't see it.
Today, Tuesday Feb. 27th
Oops! It was Monday, Feb 26th front page
So Justina wrote something about the reasons some don't want the referendum big deal that's proably all you'll hear. Why doesn't see go out and see why those last three canidates haven't asked the beacon to put their names in the paper. Bet we never hear anything about it.
What $54,000 really means for a teacher
By Bill Zettler
Is $54,000 per year too much or too little for a grade-school teacher in Grayslake? In a recent letter a husband said his wife's $54,000 salary with two degrees and 10 years' experience was "far below private industry salaries." I disagree.
First of all, let's not confuse a master's degree in education with a master's degree in nuclear physics. As everyone knows, advanced degrees in education are designed of, by and for the teachers for only one purpose - higher salaries.
In the parallel universe that is our public school system, salaries are based on pseudo education credits, not on performance. Three recent examples include visiting a feed grain dealer, visiting a dairy farm and, my own personal favorite, going to Arlington Park racetrack to study probability theory. Each of these two-day so-called courses was worth two credits and result in pay increases for the teachers. Imagine putting "visited dairy farm" on your resume and expecting a higher salary because of it.
Let's assume that Mr. Husband would agree that a 40 percent increase, to $75,000 a year, would put his wife at or near "private industry salaries." That would put her $300-a-day teacher salary just slightly lower than her $312-a-day private industry salary because in the real world people work 12 months or 240 days a year not nine months or 180 days a year.
So what would she give up for $12 a day? Well, her current 10-minute round-trip commute easily could turn into three hours a day if her new $75,000 job took her out of Lake County. That means she would be gone at least 11 hours a day as opposed to the six hours a day called for in her current teachers contract. That's three bucks an hour. And what about the summers off and the two weeks at Christmas - is that worth $12 a day?
Of course, in the private sector, Mrs. Teacher could be fired at any time - no tenure in the real world we non-teachers work in. What is a lifetime guaranteed job worth? Maybe 30,000 degreed former Motorola employees could answer that question.
And while Mrs. Teacher has been averaging more than 6 percent annual increases recently, the rest of us have been averaging less than 3 percent. Mrs. Teacher should plan on fewer and smaller increases.
Finally, the $4 billion taxpayers contributed to the Teachers Retirement System last year equals $21,000 per teacher, about four times what the average private-sector company contributes for that same $54,000 salary. That means taxpayers are paying Mrs. Teachers' $54,000 salary and $21,000 pension contribution at the rate of $416 a day vs. $341 a day for the $75,000 salary and $8,000 pension contribution in the private sector. Making $75,000 in the private sector would mean a cut in pay for Mrs. Teacher.
So if Mr. Husbands' wife is willing to sit in rush-hour traffic, give up her summers with the family, take a cut in daily compensation, allow her employer to fire her at will and accept Social Security as her main source of retirement funds, then I suggest she take the first $75,000 job she can find.
State’s attorney to review possible meeting violations
By Jeffrey Gaunt
Daily Herald Staff Writer
Posted Sunday, February 25, 2007
Community Unit District 300 likely violated the Illinois Open Meetings Act last year.
But to date, the only group to ask the Kane County state’s attorney’s office to investigate is District 300.
School board President Mary Fioretti, in response to a Daily Herald questionnaire, said she asked the state’s attorney’s office to look into claims the board violated state law.
“Even though our board and counsel felt that we were compliant, I requested a review by the Kane County State’s Attorney,” Fioretti wrote. “They were surprised at our request but, after consideration, declined the review in order to avoid a conflict in case a challenge was made.”
At issue is a series of closed meetings last year covering topics that range from budget discussions to talks on the location of a high school graduation ceremony.
Those topics — and others discussed in District 300 over the past six months — do not qualify as exceptions to the Open Meetings Act.
Yet school board members discussed them behind closed doors.
Kane County State’s Attorney John Barsanti said Friday that no resident has come forward with a formal complaint.
And Barsanti confirmed that he denied Fioretti’s request to review the district’s meetings.
“They’ve got their own lawyers,” Barsanti said. “For us to give advice for something we might be investigating and prosecuting would be a conflict.”
But the state’s attorney’s office won’t investigate unless someone — other than the district — files a formal, written complaint.
The civil division, which would handle any complaint, is located on the fourth floor of 100 South Third St. in Geneva.
They can be reached by phone at (630) 208-5320.
In the meantime, Fioretti said, district officials have asked their own attorneys to draft new guidelines to help the board comply with the Open Meetings Act.
“Our attorney drafted a more extensive set of guidelines and outlined text to read each and every time we are to recess into closed session,” Fioretti wrote. “I believe that we have complied in the past and have taken the appropriate steps to ensure we are in compliance going forward.”
$54,000.00 a year for that teacher and her husband combined is making triple or more thant the people in poverty level or below in D131. Wonder if this teacher lives in D131 as Dr.Roberts does not. This poverty level area or below is paying Dr.Roberts over $200,00.00 a year to ask for a tax raise when he does not even do a good job. Let us wake up and face the roses, all this referendum will do is make administations salary higher and no benefit to the children. Thank you to the poster 2/26/07 @ 8:19am for posting what you did.
The otherside of the story from a parent who wouldn't want a teachers job.
WHAT TEACHERS MAKE
The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life.
One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with
education.
He argued, "What's a kid going to learn from someone who decided his
best option in life was to become a teacher?"
He reminded the other dinner guests what they say about teachers:
"Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach."
To stress his point he said to another guest; "You're a teacher,
Bonnie. Be honest. What do you make?"
Bonnie, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness replied, "You
want to know what I make?
(She paused for a second, then began...)
"Well, I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could.
I make a C+ feel like the Congressional Medal of Honor.
I make kids sit through 40 minutes of class time when their parents
can't make them sit for 5 without an I Pod, Game Cube or movie
rental...
You want to know what I make?" (She paused again and looked at each
and every person at the table.)
I make kids wonder.
I make them question. I make them criticize.
I make them apologize and mean it.
I make them have respect and take responsibility for their actions.
I teach them to write and then I make them write.
I make them read, read, read. I make them show all their work in
math.
I make my students from other countries learn everything they need
to know in English while preserving their unique cultural identity.
I make my classroom a place where all my students feel safe.
I make my students stand to sing our National Anthem because we live in the best
country in the world .
Finally, I make them understand that if they use the gifts they were
given, work hard, and follow their hearts, they can succeed in life.
(Bonnie paused one last time and then continued.)
"Then, when people try to judge me by what I make, I can hold my head
up high and pay no attention because they are ignorant...
You want to know what I make?
I MAKE A DIFFERENCE. What do you make?"
in my twelve years of education I had about three teachers that fit your "story" above. It sure would be nice if it applied to all teachers but unfortunately it does not.
Lets just keep ripping down the teachers. Even though they are the only people keeping your kids from being stuck in the "poverty level" too. Get a GOOD education and get a better job. It is that simple. It is no wonder the kids don't respect their teachers beacuse their parents don't respect them either.
I see this from a parent's perspective. This year my younger child is graduating from high school, so I would estimate that I've seen 14 years of public school education (in districts 131 and 204) "up close & personal", including honors classes and band.
And I can honestly say as a "consumer" of public education that almost ALL of the teachers who have taught my children have been outstanding! They are definitely deserving of a decent salary and benefits. In contrast, however, my experiences with administrators and school board members have been less than positive. Especially in District 131, my concerns have been brushed aside and I've been treated as less than an equal partner in the education of my children.
My kids' teachers have always been willing to communicate with me about any questions I might have,
without making me feel that I was "attempting to access restricted information". Maybe some fresh new faces on the School Board will open up the lines of communication in the higher echelons of the district as well. If and when that happens, I'll consider opening my wallet for a referendum!
I agree with you churchmusician about getting our there and making changes. I think one way we can is talking to people about school board canidates. I know I haven't really gave much thought to them when I went to vote didn't really know anything about them and just voted from the top and I must say I never saw so many running before. We spend alot of time learning about other political canidates and don't take the time to find out who is taking care of our money on the school boards. It's time we really looked at our taxes when they come and see how much the school districts get and make sure they our spending our money wisely for the children and not giving administrators in the last four years before their retirement 20% raises so they can have a good pension can someone tell me what that has to do with the education of our children? In reading articles about the changing ways of school boards I noticed that the state seen this and now they have a cap on administrators raises can be I believe it is 6%. They have also seen the wasteful spending and that is why they want them all to have a balanced budget by 2010. So now after this school board has sold land that they should have got more from because they didn't use a commerical realestate person to make sure that got the money they should have and tried to hide it then accepting a donation from begilow if the drive=in was voted down which we will proably never see and the 20 million they had as surplus that we don't have now they want us to vote for a referendum. Lets make them accountable for this and make sure they are doing it for the children.
can either Ms. Carlson or Ms. Weaver or someone else who is very familiar with D131 contact me at
drodriguez85@yahoo.com
and leave me a phone number where I can get a hold of them. I wanted to get some details on how the district has handled some things. I also had some ideas into how we can possibly save extracurricular activities, fine arts, sports without passsing the referendum.
Thank You.
DR Class of '03
drodriguez I have sent my contact information from dee4schoolboard@hotmail.com. Can't wait to hear your ideas.
Did anyone read the articile in the Beacon yesturday about Ryland Clayton and Dr. Roberts and the early voting? I did a web search and found articles about the early voting and the rules. Maybe these guys need to read HB1968 about this. These guys still don't get it about laws dealing with elections and referendums. So Clayton if you want to start a committe or task force I suggest you first read the rules about early voting.
Illinois Yes. Early voting. No excuse required. The period for early voting by personal appearance begins the 22nd day preceding a general primary, consolidated primary, consolidated, or general election and extends through the 5th day before election day. A permanent polling place for early voting must remain open during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Source: 10 Ill. Comp
So they should just not try. Maybe they did read that and maybe they were hoping to chang a rule or two. Just like you all want "reform" on how schools are funded because you are all too "poor". They want reform on how voting works. Give them a break.
To annon 3/03/07 @ 2:16pm
They just want to change rules to get this referendum to pass. There already is early voting and absentee voting. This should be enough. Oh, I would like to give them a break alright, but not in this.
If they are going to try they should know that the mayor or Carol Hoylt cann't do it they have to get a senator to purpose a bill to let this happen. These are Il. bills not just something that people can change overnite for a referendum. There are election laws and ethic laws that might be broken if they just put up an early voting both at a pep rally or school fuction. As time goes by I see this school district breaking so many laws and it's a wonder no one has turned them in. Have they even do a ethic code like Lisa Madigan has on her website? It states a school board should of by 2003 but they haven't enforced it yet. But just because they haven't doesn't mean there isn't something people can do if they have proof they have. Why do you think the school board members that get elected this time has to take a oath of office?
It has been a while since I posted. But I see that nothing has changed in this blog. It appears to be the same group harping about the same stuff. Alot of information posted here is simply not true.
Dr. Roberts does not make over $200,000. The newly hired Supt at 204 will starting his first! Where do you think Sheri Eagle ended when she retired?
I would like to point out that many decisions that were made under the former Supt and the former Board President's leadership are the reason the District is where it is at now.
I think they left the current board and administration holding the bag. If you think the current board does not hear you, you are mistaken. The budget situation was not created over night and will not be fixed over night.
In regards to replacing all of the board, I think this is very narrow minded. Each of the 10 candidates should stand on their own merits. Voting for new blood is no guarentee that you will get what you are looking for.
If you think the current board does not care about D131 kids you are wrong.
"If you think the current board does not care about D131 kids you are wrong"--NOT!
It was the current board that bungled the land sale, possibly losing millions of dollars for the district.
It was the current board that insisted upon hiring a fresh-out-of college kid to replace a beloved band director, ignoring hundreds of citizens' letters, calls, and yard signs.
It is the current board that continues to maintain secrecy in refusing to answer taxpayers' sincere questions and concerns, especially regarding financial matters. Only in the past year and a half or so has a PASSWORD been required to access district news and press releases. And only in the past two years have citizens been required to sign in to speak at a board meeting, and been limited to five minutes or less.
Unfortunately, we can only replace 4 of the current board members this election. But it's a start--and hopefully will tilt the balance on this board toward openness and accountability.
It's worth a try, IMHO!
Way to go March 4, 2007 11:13 AM. These people can't let anything go. They will keep mentioning the same 3 ideas 57 times and every time they will state it like it is some new grand thing. The board does not listen, they messed up the land deal, I miss the old band director. Boo-Hoo. Get over yourselves and shut up until new information comes out.
I don't see anything wrong with reminders...at least up until election day.
I bet you Dr. Roberts does make over 200,000 because when you add up all the benifits he gets that is also included in the salary base. You can not tell me that he would take anything less than what the old superindent would. Giving the administrators that retired last year those big raises does not tell me they care about kids. Don't tell me its common practice or you cann't give someone a 3% raise because it happens all the time to people out there that doesn't work for the state. The only reason that they won't anymore is because the state seen this and put a cap on their salaries.
I think it is pretty funny that you think the state reads this stupid web site.
To annon 3/04/07 @ 12:40pm
You forgot the 4th idea about the donation that Bigelow was suppose to give. It is fact and true.
To annon 3/04/07 @ 2:12pm
What makes you think that anyone on this blog thinks the state reads it, because of what was stated in annons 3/04/07 @ 2:09pm?
No one thinks the state reads this blog. What was stated is that the state has seen all the districts giving big raises to administrators and put a cap on it. Check out the champion.org or Illinois Loop to find out information about this. If I had the proof that some say that has been going on in this district I would contact the state but they are corrupt enough their selfs.
veteran tomcat or whoever, is there a committee or whatever that meets where someone could come and help out or give idea, or is this being handled by setain people and keeping the rest in the dark like the school board? I have been paying attention to this site and have not seen anything yet to make it more than a one sided deal just like the school board.
Yes, there is a group of people that have gathered together a couple times to discuss how we might get the word to people who may not otherwise be getting both sides of this referendum issue.
The group consists of a few people who have met when attending district meetings. We have not "kept anyone in the dark", our chats had been mostly after a meeting while standing outside a school or district building. We then moved to an indoor place away from the school and have met informally a couple times.
It is my understanding there are other groups campaigning against the referendum. So I believe there are many avenues to becoming involved 7:32, maybe you have not let your interest be known.
If there is anyone that would like to be included in getting facts to the voters or if you have suggestions and ideas you would liek to share, please email me or Dee at EA131VoteNo@aol.com with personal contact info and we will get in touch with you.
Please do not send any personal contact info through this blog.
This comes from the yes131 website.
Did someone not multiply right? or am I mistaken?
100,000 x .0075 = 750 dollar increase in taxes, not 250!
In any case, the website is very misleading.
What does a tax increase mean for me?
The proposed tax rate increase may affect Seniors Citizens differently than non-seniors, but it would not appear on anyone's tax bills until June of 2008.
The district is asking to raise the tax rate by $.75, from $3.68 to $4.43
and then to keep it at that rate for the next four years.
The dollar amount increase translates to $250 for every $100,000 in market value that your house has or slightly more than $20 more on a monthly mortgage bill.
What this means is that everyone would see an increase in their tax bill that they receive in 2008 . Subsequent increases in your tax bill will only occur if the value of your house increases.
My mistake on the last post. I had mistaken myself by forgetting to divide by 3 because of the EAV. So I think it does come out to be a 250 dollar increase. I am sorry for any confusion.
Full disclosure is bad news for the public school's big spenders
POLITICAL RADAR: JANUARY 24, 2007, 2:37p.m.
It’s that time again when school districts around the state cry poor and go begging to the taxpayers for more money. Well, it’s not quite begging anymore. Nowadays they actually threaten the taxpayers. If they don’t belly up to the bar, the “it’s for the kids” sentiment becomes “do what we want or we’ll punish the kids.”
Years ago, school districts would argue that higher taxes and higher spending would bring about better schools. Today, their only argument is a more honest one: if overburdened taxpayers don’t give them even more money they’ll make the schools worse.
Special programs – art, music, and of course athletic programs – are all on the chopping block if the citizens don’t do what the bureaucrats and school board lemmings tell them to do.
There is never any proof given that more money is required, even though it would be easy enough to provide. In the age of the Internet, a school district need only disclose all the details about revenues and expenditures online.
There is a movement around the country to force government bodies to submit to full disclosure, and some governments – even school districts – have agreed to post their check registers online.
Have these “under-funded” school districts provided evidence of wise spending? Have they posted all the details of all the employee contracts – including those of administrators – on the web? More people are becoming aware of the fact that many school boards prefer to keep some of the perks and some of the details of the benefit packages away from the public eye, since the scale of their generosity with money earmarked for educating kids would rouse ire on the part of the taxpayers.
School boards don’t provide any such details, and they disclose information only as required. In many districts, even the elected school board members have trouble getting school administrations to comply with Freedom of Information Act requests.
“We’re accountable to the public and they have entrusted us with the responsibility” the school board members might say. That’s true but we all know elected officials often make costly mistakes. We need look no further than the “earmarks” in Washington, D.C., and the enormous debt levels accumulating in Springfield.
U.S. Senators Barack Obama (you may have heard of him) and Tom Coburn last year sponsored legislation calling for a new Internet database enabling taxpayers to do their own research on Congressional spending. This bill has received a groundswell of support. The idea is a simple one: “in order to cut wasteful spending, we need average citizens to become more involved in monitoring budgeting decisions.”
Full disclosure and citizen oversight aren’t new concepts. Obviously the public has always been involved in making the decision of whether, in the words of Thomas Jefferson, “taxes were deficient or superabundant.”
In 1802, President Jefferson, said that there should be,
“…a simplification of the form of accounts in the treasury department and in the organization of its officers so as to bring everything to a single centre, we might hope to see the finances of the Union as clear and intelligible as a merchant's books, so that every member of Congress and every man of any mind in the union should be able to comprehend them, to investigate abuses, and consequently to control them."
It’s quotes like this that help us understand why some school administrators and school board members would prefer that history not be properly taught in the public schools.
The sunlight of full disclosure is coming – with or without the cooperation of the taxeaters (and sometimes thieves) who prefer to keep the public business out of the public eye. When even a liberal Democrat like Sen. Obama can grasp
To annon 3/05/07 @ 12:36PM
I like your posting.
Speaking of disclosure & openness, I notice that both districts 129 and 204 are holding public forums for school board candidates--giving the public an opportunity to meet the candidates and ask them questions before the election.
And how about District 131? Where's our opportunity to meet these folks who supposedly want to continue to work with US to make our schools "better"? Is the current board afraid, maybe, that someone may bring up a topic they'd rather not discuss? Or maybe they know that some of the challengers have been VERY willing to dialogue with the public, and the "old guard" prefers to maintain their tradition of secrecy and silence.
Or maybe I'm mistaken? Maybe there ARE candidate forums planned for D131, and I just haven't seen them publicized. If so, could someone please enlighten me--when are they? Where?
And why haven't I seen them mentioned in the news media? Do I have to have a PASSWORD to find out about the forums on the district website?
If I sound a bit cynical, it's because I'm beyond frustrated with the way District 131 has chosen to do business over the last 2 years or so. And I'm counting the days until I have the long-awaited opportunity to help oust three of the jerks who have helped create this mess.
REPLACE THE SCHOOL BOARD FROM HELL!
Notice the Beacon News reported the scores for ISAT but not for the IMAGE test...hmmmm racist newspaper??????
to annon 3/06/07 12:32pm
i am curious, which 3 would you like to see be ousted? carol farum is on the top of my list, but i would now like to see all of them gone. did you really expect them to have a forum? they know at this point they are fighting a losing battle. i am quite certain that they read this blog because i read theirs to see what other propaganda that they might put in theirs.
What is IMAGE test?
The Illinois Measure of Annual Growth in English (IMAGE) measures individual student achievement relative to the Illinois Learning Standards. The results give parents, teacher and schools one measure of student learning and school performance in math and reading. IMAGE is administered to qualifying English Language Learners or Limited English Proficient students in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 11.
Both tests, IMAGE and ISAT will be administrated next week statewide.
to anon March 4 7:34
We do have a group speaking out against the referendum and some of us spoke last night at the South East Neighbors meeting. Their were representatives from the referendum committee that spoke also. I feel both sides presented their information and the group was more informed when they left.
If you are interested in hearing more or speaking with one of us we will be at the Third Ward meeting this Thursday at Phillips Park. If invited or informed, we will be glad to speak at any of the neighborhood meetings, clubs, groups, or events. Anyone wanting to help out can contact us at EA131VoteNo@aol.com. As Rayanne stated, please do not list your personal information on this blog.
We have a group of students and alumni that has shown interest in fundraising and brainstorming for the fine arts, please contact us at the same EA131VoteNo@aol.com if interested in helping out with that.
As for the posters who think we are just "whining" and stating the same facts over and over again, here's a new one for you.
Why is the district approving the purchasing of new music theory books for the high school when we are eliminating the program? Wouldn't our money be better spent updating a book that we will continue to us?
Also, for those that were interested, I have buttons available. Please contact me at EA131VoteNo@aol.com or dee4schoolboard@hotmail.com
To Dee Weaver
No one has said that music classes are on the chopping block so why can’t they have new books? The people who are against the referendum are nothing but a bunch of complainers and whiners who don’t support the kids in this district as seen by their actions and statements. I have yet to hear one person state how they would solve a $6.7 deficit without cutting programs. When you have a plan please feel free to share until then your statements are meaningless and don’t solve any of the fiscal issues. By the way West Aurora stated in today’s Daily Herald that they could be laying off up to 90 teachers if their referendum doesn’t pass. People in Aurora need to realize that you get what you pay for and if you don’t want to pay for programs and teachers, etc. then don’t complain when the cuts start coming and they will. Complain about the past over and over again and see how that helps the kids. When you say reform before referendum there are a few problems with that line of reasoning, such as what exactly is the “reform” and how do you plan to see it happen if elected, since you are only one of seven. Also even if everything that you think should be changed is that does not guarantee that a referendum would pass in the future, then what do you do?
Here is an interesting link....
It shows that the EAV of your property seems to go up every year, regardless of a tax hike.
You can also check what your EAV is.
http://www.co.kane.il.us/webapps/taxcollector/taxmenu.asp
To the previous poster, I believe music is considered a fine art? Am I correct or incorrect?
Superintendent James Rydland announced the reduction of seven administrative positions Monday, which will save the district over $500,000.
How many has District 131 cut?
To 8:21:
"I have yet to hear one person state how they would solve a $6.7 deficit without cutting programs."
Look at this post you have just commented under. Nearly 3 million could be cut in admin. Roberts would like us to believe doing so would affect programs. I think if teachers were allowed to run their programs and we weren't quite so top heavy with the managers of this district, we could cut that deficit in half.We could keep the teachers. They are the ones most needed to give our children what they need to succeed.
You may think this sounds simplistic, but as a community member equipped with few facts from my district admin. That is the best answer I give as an outsider.
Many times community members have been at meetings with suggestions or questions regarding ideas on realigning the budget. The response is usually we cannot discuss personnel. How can we understand and discuss intelligently what "reductions" may be more feasible, when we cannot become informed of the facts.
According to L. Chapa-LaVia when the schools are required to balance the budget, they will also be required to start posting it online.
It makes me think maybe things will not be made truly clear to the community until this happens.
When they become truly "transparent" as Dr. Roberts wants us to believe they are, and when they start responding directly to the communities questions and concerns.
I remain a no voter.
To March 6th 8:21 p.m.--
You seem to have a problem with those of us who "complain about the past over and over again". Well, I suppose I'm one of those folks--but I was paying attention in history class when I was taught that "those who do not learn from the past are doomed to repeat it". And I most definitely do NOT want this district to repeat the serious blunders made by a secretive school board over the last 3 years or so!
So I intend to continue to take every opportunity to "complain about the past", as you put it, in order to remind the taxpayers in D131 that we have a choice this spring. We can vote in some new people on the Board who have a proven record of being willing to dialogue with the public, or we can vote for more of the destructive secrecy we've witnessed in the recent past.
REPLACE THE SCHOOL BOARD FROM HELL!
Other than the band issue what has been so secretive. Nothing is done in secret it is done in the open, but if no one bothers to show up to committee or board meetings then you have only your self's to blame. I been to board meetings and if there are more than 2 or 3 people from the community there that's a surprise. If everyone that posted on this blog and the openline blog actually attended a meeting then maybe you would have a different opinion of what goes on in the district. The number one problem in this district is not the school board, administrators, or teachers. It is an uninvolved and apathetic community that sits on it's hands and blames everyone else and expects everyone else to pay for its education. The best thing that can come from this referendum and the school board election is to get people involved in what is going on in this district. Only then will change truly begin to happen.
Heelo 8:26,
I do not know if you are just making an obnoxious comment for blog entertainment on your part or if everything you wrote was sincere opinion.
I do know you are wrong about a few things, There had been at least 1/2 doz regular attendees to meetings,recently. A few years ago even more. Community members have gone to the board and administration with their concerns and complaints at the meetings and get nothing but blank stares and a maybe a brief "thank you for the info, we'll look into it" They became disgruntled and that spread til parents have the attitude "why bother."
The "district" is the board and the community. We the community elected the board to represent us, our children and their schools best interest. We have been lax in holding them accountable. As has the state, and that is why we are in this position of being required to balance the budget.
The administrators and elected school boards all over Illinois have not been good stewards of funds and the state now wants them to balance their budgets and quit spending money they do not have. Rightfully so!
As for secretive, maybe they are not secretive, but they are not always forthright in some of the business they do. The public should not be expected to attend every sub committee meeting of the board and attempt to oversee every aspect of their business. We entrusted them to do it and do it right. They obviously have been doing something wrong.
A big problem is lack of parent involvment.
You are absolutely correct "The best thing that can come from this referendum and the school board election is to get people involved in what is going on in this district. Only then will change truly begin to happen"
rc
"Other than the band issue what has been so secretive"?
Okay, you want specific examples? Here goes:
--The board destroyed audiotaped records of controversial meetings, despite citizens' repeated objections.
--Public access to press releases and district news on the D131 website is restricted to those who login with a password. This is not privileged information, but usually the same news printed in the local papers. Why should I as a taxpayer be told I have "attempted to access restricted information"? Secretive, much??
--The School Board publishes a sketchy, abridged version of the minutes to its bimonthly meetings (called "Board Bits") on the website. As of yesterday, there are 6 sets of "Board Bits" for the current school year that have still NOT been put on the website for the public to view!
Maybe others can mention still more examples--these are just the ones that came to mind for me.
Oh, and has anyone heard when our School Board candidates' forum on the East Side will be? Or would a forum maybe involve a certain amount of openness & communication from those 4 incumbents??
Which dates of the board bits are you talking about. I just looked and seen from 1-07.
There are 38 agendas posted, but only 32 "Board Bits".
Unless my math is wrong, that means that 6 are missing.
Why? Is there something the Board doesn't want us to know, or is someone just not doing their job of keeping the public up-to-date and informed?
Either way, it doesn't speak well of the folks we've elected to run this district. Time for a change, don'tcha think??
I think that is because their website is crap. They need to remove some of the 05's out of there and do the list as a whole year.
to anon March 6 8:21pm
First let me apologize for taking so long to respond.
As far as ideas for change, most will come if and when I am able to see the complete picture of what is out there. From what I know, I would cut the excess in administration, upper management, and bloated departments.
To come up with any type of plan would be remiss on my part. A true process cannot be even thought about until all the facts are on the table. I am not looking to be more of the same. I believe in honesty, sometimes to much so, as I have been told. Just last week as a matter of fact. No matter. I believe what we need is honesty and trust again in this district. Sure we need more people involved but I believe that will happen when they know there is something they can get involved with. For too long people have been pushed away, YES pushed away. We need to welcome new thoughts and ideas. Be open to what the public has to say. Maybe if someone had been listening more people would have been talking. Just a thought.
Thanks for your input.
Why is Dr. Radakovich's 2006 salary no longer available on thechampion.org? You go to 2006, and he is no longer listed.
Saw signs for no to the referendum. Does anyone know who to contact to get one?
I found that interesting too why his name was no longer on the list. I did a search of just his name and found him though. Maybe we should contact the champion and see what happened.
Year: 2006
Employee Name: Radakovich Michael L
Employee Salary: $261,451
Time: Full Time
Months: 12
Percent: 100%
Employment Type: Administrator
Experience: 18 years
Position: District Superintendent
Assignment: Administration
Degree: Doctorate
Grades: 0K - 12
District:
The Need for Public School Financial Transparency
The Illinois government-run school system continues to resist financial transparency. Instead of fully disclosing how it’s spending $20 billion dollars of taxpayers’ money, they cry out for more.
In the private sector there’s something called GAAP accounting practices. GAAP stands for “Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” In the government-run school system in Illinois we see PAAP – “Politically Accepted Accounting Principles.”
We’ve got a simple question: how can anyone not support full disclosure of all government revenues and expenditures? Yet when it comes to the public school spending crisis in Illinois, those who stand to personally profit from increasing taxes resist transparency.
As one observer has stated, it’s time to “solve the lexicography of the dissemblers.” Currently there is no citizen oversight of government-run school spending, and there’s precious little effective school board oversight, either.
There should be a standardized accounting and full disclosure of all district revenues and expenditures (including the district’s check register) on the World Wide Web, including:
A list of all employees in an organizational chart.
Every classroom expenditure should be outlined.
Every contract – including those of administrators, should be posted in its entirety. (It’s clear that many school boards prefer to keep some of the perks and some of the details of the benefit packages away from the public eye, since the scale of their generosity with money earmarked for educating kids would rouse ire on the part of the taxpayers.)
You can contact Rayanne, or myself here at the blog if you would like a sign. Right now we are out and are waiting on our only donation. If it comes thru we will be ordering more this week so please let us know so we know how many to order. You can also contact me at
dee4schoolboard@hotmail.com. The reform committee is also meeting about every 2 weeks if you would like to come. Please contact me at the above email address for dates and times.
What I found interesting about Radakovich was that he retired the 05/06 school year so why is his salary still listed in 06 budget? Shouldn't that be in the 05?
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