Conference in Chicago this weekend, reps from 131 will attend

This is a letter to the editor from a paper in McHenry County, that was emailed to me. One man's POV on school board conferences. (May be seen at: http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/11/19/opinion/letters/doc4923ed1f7f70d289859069.txt )

Many professions have associations for workers with similar jobs to share ideas and successes. The government “public” school industry takes this concept to an incredible (and costly) level.

School boards, administrators, business officials, principals, public relations officials, nurses, science teachers, psychologists, transportation directors, special education administrators, superintendents, social workers, food service managers – to name a few – all have “associations.” For a partial list, visit www.chrisjenner.org/SchoolAssociations.htm.

Many of these associations maintain legislative agendas, some of which promote more and more revenue, while very few drive for responsible spending or improved student achievement.

The annual climax of school associations in Illinois is November 21-23. More than 12,000 school people swarm over three downtown Chicago hotels, all courtesy of Illinois taxpayers. No fewer than nine seminars are offered on how to raise taxes. More than 250 vendors will tout their architectural, financial, and legal services; carpets, roofs, bleachers, etc.

A handful will offer products and services actually related to learning.

Ask your local school officials what’s spent on this “conference” and how the improvement in our schools is measured. What did your public school district’s architects, accountants, and lawyers spend entertaining their “clients” – with what’s ultimately public money?

Positions opening in the Spring

Community service positions available. Team attitude a plus. Concern for the future of ALL the EA children an absolute necessity. Part time, rewarding-serve as an elected volunteer.

Elections for the East Aurora Board of Education will be April 7, 2009. The terms of 4 of the current members will be expiring.
For those wishing to have their name put on the ballot, nominating petitions may be obtained at the School Service Center.

Information is included in the petition packet on how and when to file. Candidates will be on ballot in an April 2009 election.

Two members of the Board of Education will hold Open Houses to discuss the East Aurora Board of Education roles and responsibilities.
The Open Houses will be held on Wednesday, November 5 at 6:30 p.m. and
Saturday, November 8 at 1:00 p.m. at the School Service Center – 417 Fifth Street.
These events are open to the public. All community members are welcome to attend.