So, how are we supposed to know if the right amount was taken out for insurance each paycheck?? They are taking out less then last year? Does that mean I've been overpaying for years?? Who should I talk to about this? Advice please.
The big announcement is the 500 kids that go to Magnet will all have a computer seems like they got a grant and h school will become a stem school. Th kids can take the computer home. Bravo
Today, the Governor of Illinois, GOVERNOR PAT QUINN, and the Mayor of Aurora, MAYOR TOM WEISNER, visited the East Aurora Magnet Academy to see technology in action! ... Prior to touring the academy, the Governor held a press conference at the school to announce a new ONE MILLION DOLLAR grant coming to Aurora to improve wi-fi capabilities in all schools and throughout the city! We are very honored to have hosted Governor Quinn, Mayor Weisner, and dozens of local politicians on this unprecedented occasion! #EastsidePride
Where is press For soccer Team? Jason Rollins leaving hurt program. The current head coach was another guy pushed on the athletic department. board president gave his name and was only person interviewed. why not more people apply for job. Disservice to my kid and my hispanic community. We want to win in soccer and they treat us like this.
I agree with 9:30 AM. They can take money away from education but have money for WI FI. I am so glad the governor and mayor care so much about our kids! I can't be bribed for a vote. Take care of our students' education first; then maybe I can vote for you.
When you vote, don't forget the person who has done the most to destroy public education in this state. Linda Chapa Lavia. She, more than any other politician in the State of Illinois (Except for Quinn and Madigan) want to take away funding for public education and social services. Let her know what you think when you vote.
The Special Meeting is being convened to discuss the rescission of School Board Policy 715.13 (Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students) and School Board Policy 715.13R (Administrative Procedures, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students).
The East Aurora Board of Education will then review the aforementioned policies, in conjunction with the Illinois State Board of Education, with the goal of establishing anti-discrimination and anti-bullying polices that continue to support what is already outlined in the Illinois School Code and the East Aurora School Board policies while addressing specific areas of concern in our community.
BIG NEWS--- The East Aurora Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Friday, October 19, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.
The Special Meeting is being convened to discuss the rescission of School Board Policy 715.13 (Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students) and School Board Policy 715.13R (Administrative Procedures, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students).
THE BOARD NEEDS TO RESCIND THE POLICY THAT IT PASSED THIS PAST MONDAY NIGHT (which is why they're holding this meeting).
***COMMUNITY MEMBERS NEED TO SHOW UP AT THIS MEETING.***
This policy was pushed by Christie Aird and D131 is the first district in all of Illinois to have a such policy. THERE IS NO NEED FOR THIS POLICY. In fact, this policy subjects other students to students of the opposite sex being in their bathrooms and locker rooms. This also poses a HUGE safety issue for the transgender students. It means that a biological girl (who identifies as a boy) would be in a locker room of boys. Imagine what could happen there.
Also, there is no reason that the school district should force parents of elementary students to having to have conversations about transgender and gender non-conforming students because those kids' parents want certain accommodations...because we all know young children ask tons of questions.
THIS IS GOVERNMENT OVERSTEPPING ITS BOUNDS and an administrator trying to push an LGBT agenda.
In reference to the BOE policy being discussed on 10/19, and the article that 5:56pm posted: Shouldn't our BOE members read and THINK about the policies they are voting on? Maybe ask some questions? Maybe use some higher level thought processing to see if a policy really does need to be that extreme, or if it could be modified to be more moderate? Frankly, I'm a little concerned that Ms. Johnson is placing all the blame on Dr. Aird for this...what else has our BOE passed or will pass without reading and THINKING about?
No that is incorrect. Even with an ironclad contract Roberts can and should be fired. If the legal firm is advising the East Board that he cannot be fired they should seek legal counsel at another firm who knows contactual law. It would be a breeze to fire Roberts but the Board has to want to go this route and so far the only one doing anything on the Board is Johnson and for some reason she will not fire the guy. Maybe the other board members should look into why she supports the guy, because not a single person I know in the District supports him.
This is typical for the East Aurora School Board. They have no clue what they are approvong or the ramifications it has on the community. They simply rubber stamp anything that the administration wants to pass.
Now that it's "controversial" they will show how spineless they are and collapse under the least amount of pressure.
The fact is, only one organization has publicly come out against the policy and they have a long history of gay bashing. That is why the Illinois Family Institute is considered a "Hate Group". They are up there with the Westboro Bastist Church Members who go to military funeral and protest against dead gay soldiers. God's Punishment, according to them.
I'm not saying this policy needed to be passed but on Monday, the board followed what they believed was right for individuals who's gender is in question. Now the board is running away because of some far right hate group is publicly criticizing them.
The fact is, if we fled from our convictions every time some right wing hate group protested, we would still have guys in white sheets lynching African Americans because they whistled at a white girl and the schools would still be segregated.
There are gay individuals in our community. They deserve the same protections every other citizen deserves. While I believe in fredom OF religion, I also believe in freedom FROM religion. I believe people have the right to believe as they want to believe but they do not have the right to impose their beliefs on everybody else.
There may be a couple of items in the policy that should be rethought such as locker room usage (These students could easily be given seperate facilities to change)but there should be a public policy affirming GLBT status and the districts belief that all students should be treated equally and humanely.
This district was the first in Illinois and it has been a beacon of equality in it's non-segregation policies since the day it became a school district. It would be a real shame if this school board ran from this issue and in so doing, allowed these students to be treated as the Illinois Family Institute stated it, they have a "mental and moral disorder."
This board needs to take a stand against such hate groups, especially ones that are not even part of the East Aurora Community.
8:32 said is best! This is a weak BOE! What an embarassment to the entire community! They need to be removed! I can't believe that Annette Johnson is trying to blame it all on Christie Aird when seven idiotic Board Members read through that policy and still voted on it. If they didn't read it, then guess what? THEY FAILED! NO EXCUSES! We wouldn't expect our kids to do anything less and we should accept the kids who call themselves the BOE to do any less either!
Only 5 voted for it since 2 were absent. But I agree this policy has a lot of good in it and should be inacted. Public schools are for ALL regardless of any other factors. Supporters of the LGBT community need to be at the meeting Friday night to show support and that we shouldn't have a board that blames others and bends to special interests. I have heard this board specifically say that they stand for children- then show some backbone and stand for ALL children and be progressive in the sense of spreading equality through education to any and all persons
It is the board and administrations job to advocate for all the students of District 131. This includes the gender undetermined students. When they stop advocating for the students and instead cater to outside interests, it is time for them to step down or replace them.
The board members really need to stop and consider what their true responsibilities are. Are they here for the students or are they here to further the social agendas of hate groups?
Whether the policy should or should not be implemented is not the bigger issue now. Johnson is quoted as saying "“It’s something we (board members) would not have questioned in light of the attorney and the administrators bringing it forward"
Duh! What??? The Board is the overseer, the final decision maker. This pretty much sums up how this Board does business-It’s something we (board members) would not have questioned. That is called rubber stamping Madam President!!! And now she wants to blame yet another admin for HER negligence. How about pointing at the proper Admin-your beloved Dr.
(d) Each Beginning 180 days after August 23, 2007 (the effective date of Public Act 95-349), each school district and non-public, non-sectarian elementary or secondary school shall create and maintain a policy on bullying, which policy must be filed with the State Board of Education. Each school district and non-public, non-sectarian elementary or secondary school must communicate its policy on bullying to its students and their parent or guardian on an annual basis. The policy must be updated every 2 years and filed with the State Board of Education after being updated. The State Board of Education shall monitor the implementation of policies created under this subsection (d). Here is the url for the whole policy.
Where students having problems with the sharing of restrooms or locker rooms or where they ok with how things where. While we need to respect transgenders we also should respect others also.
This statement is not correct back in the 60's when busing was being mandated this district went all the way to stop it. Up until probably late 60's there where no or very few African Americans in or district.
This district was the first in Illinois and it has been a beacon of equality in it's non-segregation policies since the day it became a school district.
Who would be willing to dress as the opposite gender 100% OF THE TIME to get a cheap peek in the ladies room?
Gay (etc.) is NOT A CHOICE... did you wake up one morning and decide which gender you were going with? Neither did they... why do you care?
If someone walked into the opposite gender restroom and started gaping they would be removed immediately.
Do you know how many gay teens kill themselves every year? Tens of thousands. Why? They are made to feel like there is something wrong with them.
They are the way God made them. Instead of using the Bible to beat them use it to love and accept them
jooools
1:05 AM on October 18, 2012
The Illinois Family Institute is a far right anti-gay organization and their objection could probably be safely dismissed by the board, since "liberty" is usually the last thing they have in mind when they speak out.
Having said that, I'd be more concerned about the ethics of forcing unigender restrooms upon those students who would be uncomfortable in such a situation. One need not be homophobic to appreciate a greater degree of modesty when using the facilities, especially where stalls with doors are unavailable. It seems a simple solution would be to designate a third unisex option for restrooms, just as many public venues have done. Not to be thought of as special restrooms for transgender students, but yet another option for all, with no monitoring necessary. It may be too expensive for this year's budget, but something to consider for the future.
I think the board should be commended for its willingness to include the needs of homosexual and transgender students in its decision, but that should not mean that religious or otherwise conservative views on personal modesty must be relinquished in a place as intimate as the restroom. As the board reconsiders, they may find this really is a First Amendment issue.
Annette Johnson is a bully who doesn't want to be blamed for anything. The fact of this matter is that she was wrong. She is so quick to state in the paper that she likes to micromanage! Well, guess what ANNETTE, you should have micromanaged your own board and your own duties FIRST!
The hate group, Illinois Family Institute, doesn't even have an address. They have a web page and Post Office Box in the Northern Suburbs. Here is some information about the group I found on Wikipedia:
Illinois Family Institute (IFI) is a Christian organization based in Carol Stream, Illinois. Founded in 1990, its stated mission is "upholding and re-affirming marriage, family, life and liberty in Illinois", and it is affiliated with the American Family Association.[3] The organization's legislative arm is the 501(c)(4) lobbying group Illinois Family Action, founded in 2010.[4] The organization's executive director is David E. Smith, who in 2006, succeeded Peter LaBarbera, founder of Americans for Truth about Homosexuality.[5][6]
IFI is a vocal opponent of abortion, separation of church and state, "activist judges", the "marriage penalty", civil unions, same-sex marriage, gambling and drug legalization.[7][8][9] In 2009, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) designated IFI as an anti-gay hate group on the grounds that the organization is primarily "focused on attacking gay people and homosexuality in general".[10][11][12]
Illinois Family Institute was designated an anti-gay "hate group" in 2009 by the Southern Poverty Law Center.[25][10][11] The SPLC report stated that IFI was "heavily focused on attacking gay people and homosexuality in general". The SPLC further stated that the organization had "occasionally embraced the groundless propaganda of Paul Cameron", a researcher whose studies about the life expectancy of homosexuals the SPLC says have been "utterly discredited". Although IFI removed the Cameron advocacy from their website in 2009, SPLC maintains that IFI retains a "hard-line position" on homosexuality.[25][52][53] In its November 2010 Intelligence Report, the SPLC again listed IFI as an anti-gay hate group, citing rhetoric from Higgins which included the "likening the German Evangelical Church's weak response to fascism to the "American church's failure to respond appropriately to the spread of radical, heretical, destructive views of homosexuality".[25]
They discussed this policy at the July Finance and Personnel meeting. Check out the link here, PLUS the draft of the policy was given at that time. They've been sitting on this for three months.
hey donkeys... straight, gay, etc.- whatever you want to call yourself, the bottom line is THAT is just a sexual preference and doesnt have any business in the educational system at all. Gender is physical... you are what you are. if you dont like it, when u turn 18, go do something abt it. There shoudnt be any gay clubs either. Your personal life has no place in the educational system. This world has gone crazy with trying to make everybody happy.
School is not just about academics. As mandated by the state there are social-emotional standards that must be instructed. Gay-Straight Alliance helps ALL students learn to navigate in this highly diverse community. It serves as a safe-haven for students who feel as though they don't belong and that they are alone and afraid. Our schools and our students are pinnacles and role models for surrounding communities when it comes to acceptance. It seems like many adults on this site could learn a lot from our teens.
The BOE should really distance themselves from Annette. She always speaks on their behalf and threatens the staff with 'the Board' this and 'the Board' that when the BOE really has no clue about most of it. When a lawsuit is filed against the BOE I hope they step up and say that she does most of this crap on her own and not with all of them.
Well, now 131 made Channel 7 news. What else will take place in the next few days, weeks, months? Even if there were only 5 board members voting did you not read/discuss before you cast your vote? Shame on you Annette but of course you again put the blame on someone else. Dr. Roberts where are you? Your district is falling apart! Tell you what just let the teachers and parents run the district.
Idiots... All who voted ... Ask them to explain gender nonconforming.... Can't yet.... voted. Ask supt - can't . It was his job to prepare them and educate them.. Their job to ask the questions.. But when your nose is so deep into other things that have nothing to do with kids or parents .. It leaves no time to do the job- hire/fire supt and pass policy!!!! Incompetent- AJ needs to step down and her cronies should too!
Let's see if Annette pushes her mug in the cameras this time, ya gotta love the IMAGE campaign of incompetence she gives this board, always quick to point a finger at others when the stuff hits the fan. Say cheese!
This was an interesting response on the Beacon to those who justify their hate behind the auspices of religion.
pro-t
10:07 PM on October 18, 2012
So gay people are bad because it's in the Bible? I guess you're right Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination... End of debate.
But since you're such a Bible expert, do need some advice from you, regarding some other elements of God's Laws and how to follow them.
1. Leviticus 25:44 states that I may possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from neighbouring nations. A friend of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can you clarify? Why can't I own Canadians?
2. I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair price for her?
3. I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of Menstrual uncleanliness - Lev.15: 19-24. The problem is how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offense.
4. When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a pleasing odor for the Lord - Lev.1:9. The problem is, my neighbors. They claim the odor is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?
5. I have a neighbour who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2. Clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself, or should I ask the police to do it?
By voting to adopt an inclusive transgender policy, the board affirmed the dignity and needs of one of the most bullied and at risk group of children. Now, to cave under the pressure of ignorance, the board isn't just "undoing" what could have been an act of courage - it's actively demeaning those they should be protecting. Shame on them. Bunch of cowards!
It is my understanding Aird and the lawyers started this. Aird talked about keeping the school code updated. Aird had a hidden agenda and never discussed her policy with administration as well. Only to say we have a updated policy. The board needs to keep a eye her. She mentors only Gay Allience kids and often times has them over for dinner. Another violation of school code.
I work with Annette on the Board and she does keep the Board informed. The Board has been part of many great changes since she is President. Administrators don't like her because she pushes them. That said lets talk about the policy
Yes it was brought to the committee in July. Aird was in charge of this policy and per the committee notes it was a proposal. She told the Committee including Joan Glozabach this was a legal compliance school code policy because we had transgenger kids. She stated she was working with Pete Wilson District attorney. She intentionally did not bring it back for serveral months.
The same turn of events happened at all the meetings she attended. That would include Principal and administrative meeting. She never discussed how this would be implemented in the schools. Again, sliding it through.
The lawyers also never questioned her they just wrote the policy. They are the boards lawyers and never at any one tie did they say we would be the only ones with this policy.
There is plenty of blame to go around not just the Board President. I can assure everyone we already have programs in place this was unnecessary.
No matter what the board should of realized that there might be some slack about this. Two board members weren't at this meeting was it because they didn't want to vote on it. In the end the buck stops at the board they should of looked into it more and since Johnson is always at Central Office she should of took the time to look into it.
Ok if this is true then Aird should be fired. Serious consideration should also be given to finding and hiring new legal services for the district. This is the same law firm that keeps advising the board that they cannot get rid of Roberts. This simply is not fact. A decent law firm experienced in contractual law can properly advise the board on the steps to take to rid the district of a superintendant that has and continues to be a complete and utter failure. Johnson is protecting Roberts for some strange reason and telling the Board that there is now way to terminate him because of "his contract". If I was on the Board I would ask the lead attorney to come into a closed session meeting with the entire board and go on record as to what can and cannot be done to rid the district of Roberts. Advice to the Board: Do not take Johnson's word on Roberts, go to the attorneys directing and get an answer, I bet its much different than what Johnson gives you.
6. A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an abomination - Lev. 11:10, it is a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this? Are there 'degrees' of abomination?
7. Lev. 21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle- room here?
8. Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev. 19:27. How should they die?
9. I know from Lev. 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?
10. My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev.19:19 by planting two different crops in the same field, as does his w:fe by wearing garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town together to stone them? Lev.24:10-16.Couldn't we just burn them to death at a private family affair, like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws? (Lev. 20:14)
So you're following God's advice to the letter of the law? Or do you just think Gay people are icky?
Why just blame one person. Yes Aird brought it to the table but with something this delicate ALL should have been informed. Why take a vote if you are not clear with facts including Annette.
Ironic: Friday is Spirit Day: Spirit Day is annual day in October when millions of Americans wear purple to speak out against bullying and to show their support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth. Learn more.
Aird has a girl Nicole at her house often she is a student a East Aurora. I will not give her last name but Aird is a LISBO who is taking a student home with her. She has got to go
Our boys' soccer team has done a grEAt job this fall! Come to Neuqua tomorrow and support our kids (here's the press release):
(Aurora) – The East Aurora Tomcats have advanced to the Boys Varsity Soccer Regional Championship Game to defend their two-time championship title.
The Tomcats will face crosstown competitors, the West Aurora Blackhawks, on Saturday, October 20, 2012 at 12:00 p.m. at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville.
The East Aurora Tomcats have won both the Conference Championship and Regional Championship during the 2010 season and the 2011 season. On Saturday, October 6, 2012, the team also clinched its third consecutive Conference Championship.
East Aurora supporters are asked to wear red and black to support the team.
The Beacon has already posted a story about the meeting and only four members where there what a shame on such an important meeting. This board made a decision and then the whole board could not show up to make another important one. When the next election comes to vote for board members remember this because even if they make a bad decision the board needs to stand for everyone.
Annette was so fake tonight. We didn't buy her BS apologies. But at least we know why she grew up to be such a bully - because she was bullied! Go figure. Seems like she would learn how NOT to be Atilla the Hun!
Four Board Members? District 131at its finest. Where is Annettes And Roberts leadership? Shows its a two person circus, Annette is ringleader and Roberts is clown.
Tonight was another fine example of how the small-minded and incompetent BOE keeps sorry old EA at the bottom. No wonder it's so hard to recruit exceptional teachers and administrators. The evidence is plain to see that the BOE was irresponsible. They read and discussed the policy, and failed to ask intelligent questions. I hope Dr. Aird files suit. Kudos to Ray for ducking out.
Roberts throws another employee under the bus. Aird is a great educator, too bad the Board that is supposed to support employees is run by a bunch of low level educated, and one super geek that is a giant version of bill gates with autism.
This board has learned nothing from the previous board (also known as “The Board from Hell”). The Board from Hell was voted out of power because 1) They stood against the interests of the students and 2) they did not listen to their community when the community spoke out loud and strong.
Are we beginning to see a pattern here, the powers that be stand against anyone who advocates for our children? Kaisershot stood up for the children and the community came out in force to support him, yet the board stood against K and the community (to their own peril). The PE teacher at Simmons last year stood up for a defenseless SpEd student and the board suspended him for it. Christie Aird is standing up for a very vulnerable sector of our community and sure enough, the board has placed her on administrative leave.
There were hundreds of parents and community members at the board meeting tonight. The pictures showed them overflowing the building. Of those hundreds, there were only two community members who spoke out in favor of repealing the policy. Did the board listen to the community? NO!!!!! Instead, the board sided with a known “Hate Group”. To add insult to injury, they chose to do this on National Spirit Day, a day when millions of Americans are encouraged to wear purple to speak out against bullying and show their support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender teens.
This whole situation has been handled as poorly as any situation by any board in the district’s history. I really only have one more thing to state. This will be remembered come the next board election in the spring. Five of you are up for re-election, I and I’m sure many others will be actively campaigning against your re-election. When the board stops advocating for students, it’s definitely time for a new board.
In today's paper Johnson made Aird the scapegoat. What power Aird must have! BOE no matter how you look at the situation you were PUNKED. I still can't believe you voted on something without checking the "updated material" so you say. If you are buying a house and you were to sign the contract would you not read before you sign? Annette aren't you in business? Is this the way you run your business? I have a farm to sell you but don't read before you sign. All of you are lame excuses for a BOE. I can't believe not one of you opened this up for discussion. My other question is what kind of lawyers do you have representing the district? If they drew up the policy but did not request or at least suggest you go over it ; they also need to be fired. Had the public known what they know now you would have not been elected! So is Aird on a paid leave? Probably so. Annette all I am requesting is that you stop the sorry excuses and terrible lies. Dr. Roberts where are you? Calling Jerome, Jerome, oh Jerome, do you copy?
As a staff member, Johnson I ask you why do you keep Dr Roberts. In the last two weeks you had to fix the accounting, you are the only one fixing the insurance, and now this fiasco. I am one that does not blame the Board. Aird used her position to promote her cause.
It's a sad day in East Aurora today. Last night the school board delivered a blow to every student and it doesn't matter what gender they are or feel they are. This board just told every student "sorry you don't deserve protection.".
I would like to know why did they rescind this policy? Why did you allow everyone who spoke in favor or against it to speak when clearly the school board's decision was already made. You sat there with your heads supposively held up high as if you were listening to these people pour their hearts out to you and beg of you not to rescind this policy. Was your decision based more on "Let's see who would be the smallest group to piss off the IFI or the transgender.". "Who are we going to get more votes from in the next elections?". This was all full of politics and excuses and this board should be removed. Why you ask? Well what you didn't see or even bother to ask yourself was the real losers here were the STUDENTS. You told the students "NO" NO PROTECTION FOR YOU. That won't get you any votes in Aprils election because the students don't vote. Well the parents Do Vote and with this last slap in the face don't count on it.
Last night this school board was Full of Excuses and other things too. How dare our board president sit there and say "oh this is a hard time for me, I too was bullied in school and am a tomboy, I'm Sorry!". Then turn around and fill the room with every excuse in the book and say BUT we can't protect you or do anything about it. SORRY! You would think after coming out of the closet last night herself somewhat she would want to protect our children in every way possible so they don't indure such pain. No instead she blamed only Dr. Aird again and put her on administrative leave. Your next excuse is "well no student or parent has ever approached the school board to complain about transgender issues occurring in the schools.". Why would they Madam board president WHY? Hhmm! Maybe because they're afraid, they're suffering in silence, or maybe the school has taken their own compassion and is taking care of the issue themselves while they get support from the higher administrators OR maybe because they see how this school board has handled other bullying issues for the other students and SPED students. No one has forgotten about the bullying that occurred at Simmons with the 7th grade sped student who probably is still getting bullied to this day. Remind us of what you guys did there as to stop the bullying or to protect this child. Oh you spent $50000 on supplies for an anti-bullying program which is now on hold for some reason BUT HEY EVERYONE WE GOT 500+ COMPUTERS FOR THE MAGNET ACADEMY TO GIVE TO MAGNET STUDENTS TO TAKE HOME TO THEIR PARENTS YAY! That poor kids on going bullying has been swept under the rug and nothing has been done so why would anyone else approach the school board to complain about how they're being bullied or harrassed when they know nothing will be done.
Madam board president stop saying "let's put our money where our mouth is," when this has nothing to do with money. This was simply a policy being asked to be put into place TO PROTECT ALL OF OUR CHILDREN and it was brought forth by a COURAGEOUS HUMAN BEING DR CHRISTIE AIRD. She cares for our students deeply and knows what they need. Come on she didn't pull any wool over your eyes what an excuse. She does a wonderful job in our elementary schools and for that we are all proud of her. Thanks be to Dr Aird and thanks be to God!
So is it true that Annette was in Roberts offic with the door closed screaming at the top of her lungs so loud that secretarys heard her clearly in the hallways? They said she was saying some mean things about certain admins and sexuality SECRETARYS PLEAS COME FORWARD & SHARE WHAT U HEARD SO WE CAN GET RID OF HER!
If you take the time to read The IL School Code you will see why they did what they did. The district can not single out one group. Also how about all the others that get bullied for other things should they separate them. In our lives the things we choose to do or our lifestyles we chose to live we will get slack for it and we need to learn how to coop. Remember there are no doors on the stalls in the bathrooms at schools so that can lead to a problem.
The problem here is the board didn't do there due diligence and go to ISBA and ask them about this policy they have probably came across this and told them not to do it.
Hull has no backbone, and took the easy way out by leaving. Big man with everything else, but when it came to this important vote that conflicts with religion, he ran and gave an excuse.
My how things come full circle. This Board has harassed teachers and blamed administrators for every problem in the district. When its time to sit down and vote on a serious topic it gets screwed up. Time to quit asking for resignations, and placing people on administration leave, every Board Member and Roberts should step down. Where is Clayton. even he cant spin this into a positive.
It's time for a new BOE. As we've clearly seen over the past few weeks, they (led by Annette) have NO clue what they're doing. Who is running??? Please, we need FRESH leadership. Our kids' futures are at stake.
Aird used her position to promote her own cause. If Aird was so concerned about all races then why not implement the policies that got drawn up. They talked about 3 policies. Why did Aird only put the one on transgender forward. Did she not care about about the other races. Why is that? Could it be hat she is transgender herself. Get rid of her.
The people in Airds corner are her girls. These are the same principals that bully the teachers. Aird should enforce her own bully policy at Bardwell.
Funny the two Educators of he year did not attend Ed Brouch and Del La Santo. Why is that Aird hates men. She should enforce her own discrimination policy
Sorry Aird go get a job in San Francisco that is the only place that has the policy you want.
Yes the Board has the final read but I have the following questions? Why did the other admistrators not read this policy? Dis they not think that this would be hard to manage? Why was the Superintendent not involved? Joan Glozabach is Policy and Personnel, what is her role What about the lawyers?
All of these people are paid, the Board needs to fire them all. Maybe we will get better scores.
San Francisco? I hope you are not implying that San Fran is the only place that accepts homosexuals because that shows how ignorant and small minded some people are...Open your eyes idiot, we are everywhere! You live in our town, your children go to our schools, you buy from our stores, you worship at our churches. We are here to stay. Take your white sheets, burning crosses and go back to the 1950's where you belong.
A wonderful educator Dr Aird???? All of the elementary schools but O donnell rank in the bottom 5% . By today's emails her Principals and some of the teachers are showing support. It shows that she is a poor leader like Dr Roberts these are the same people she has to supervise. Aird is famous for running the all girls club. She will not make a change in the buildings and that is the problem with the entire district. They are all friends and on a big party everyday. This does not happen at other districts. Now the Principals are running for cover. They are afraid a new boss will be put in.
On the other hand Johnson treats Roberts the same way. How can she lead him. That is what is wrong with 131 one big family of losers. Prediction Johnson will never spin her way out of this mess. She allowed the incompetence and now it's coming back to bite.
Aird, Roberts and Johnson need to go and this mess will be for a reason it will clean a much needed house.
If the Board was lied to then Aird has to go. We need truthful leaders that are focused and dedicated to their position. She headed up elementary, then why do we still not have RTI in place. Why do all the schools not have their board approved tutors in place? Why is behavior out of control? Why because she was too focused on pushing through this policy. Shame on you Aird- hope the next leader works for all students!
As a oberserver to all of the craziness, its pretty clear to me that E. Aurora needs new leadership on the board and a new superintendent. Roberts is a joke. Seriously, that guy does nothing at all! Fire him and get someone from the outside to come in! What is taking them so long to do that! The leaders on the Board are a joke too! VP Stella is Airhead 101! She's always telling jokes at every meeting and is never serious about anything. She's always gone on vacation than we have to hear all about her vacation while at meeting. What a joke. Secretary Anita she comes to meetings like she just rolled out of bed with her dirty and wrinkle clothes and hair not to mention her teeth. It ain't about looks but they are in leadership come on!On top of that everyone knows her daughters house was raided for drugs. Yeah thats a great example for the kids to follow! The queen Annette (or like we called on here before Atilla the Hun) is biggest joke of all. Shes a bipolar bully who has insulted everyone including staff and other board. Staff & board read this blog & they know this is true! We seen last night she's dealing with childhood crap and needs serious therapy. Call Dr Phil. Send her to the mental facility, get a new President! Until she is gone, all of this will continue because she is selfserving.LETS GET NEW LEADERS IN EAST! AN ELECTION IS COMING UP! LETS KICK THESE BOZOS OUT & GET SOME GOOD FOLKS IN! IF NOT THINGS WILL GET WORSE!
6:38 p.m. (and other like-minded folks), I have news for you:
WE CAN ONLY VOTE FOR SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES WHO RUN.
In other words, it does no good to complain about the current Board unless there is an alternative, in the form of community members who are willing & able to step up and get on the ballot.
Until that happens, it's like the old story about belling the cat: the mice all agree that the cat needs a bell but no one is willing to actually put the bell on the cat.
Johnson is a good President but she spends to much time covering up for Roberts. Annette really why not get rid of him people are being to lose faith in you. I worked with her on the contract and now the insurance. I was impressed. I learned more from her about insurance than we would ever want to know. Bottom line the teachers because of incompetent admins go screwed. We also missed a lot of tax deductions. Johnson is working on our behalf
That said the rest of the Board sucks. The real story is how can so many people let this get by. The lawyers are not very good. Pete Wilson, who I understand is at the bottom of this mess needs to retire. It took forever to get changes made in negotiations. I am not sure he reads well. Our reps kept catching mistakes not him. If not for the union the contract would have had hundreds of errors. Roberts slept through the whole negotiations and once Johnson was involved decisions got made. I think to many people rely on her to catch everything so they are just there When she in the room everyone waits for her. I hope she reruns. She needs our encouragement now. The admins don't like her she pushes them to hard.
Yes the building Principals are freaking out today. No more Christy for protection. Funny like in life she has no male supporters. All the ladies are just beside themselves. The letter circulated by Irene Villa, Twila Garza and Annette McMahon shows why the district is behind. Just look at the scores in these building. Aird made back room deals to promote both of them. Villa and McMahon at other districts got released. Yet they are Airds girls. All the bottom 5% of them maybe they can all go find a job and a mate in San Fran.
Here is the real deal Christy since your scores are at the Bottom and only 6 other districts are worst than you. Then you send all your time writing a policy that effects less than 5 students who had been dealt with anyway. Do you not have the dignity to resign. Why did you not worry about the other 14,995 students your a joke!!!!!
However your boss is joke he never knows what you are doing.
You had all better be thankful that Johnson is president. I for one am grateful that she is steering this ship. We have been without a leader for yeeeeaaaarrrss. Thank you Annette!
Aird brought out all the hate groups this was unnecessary, being the buildings already handled the transgender kids.
I work at Cowherd the child in question had no problems. Three weeks into practice the coach found out she was a girl. She finished the season as one of the star players. This student was not harassed by other students. In fact the Principal had always made accommodations for her. The mother is a supportive parent, and worked hand and hand with the school. This child is just another kid and that's how the other kids treat her. This CRAZY policy of Airds would have caused her more problems.
We at Cowherd, who lead the way on bullying training never got consulted by Aird on the creation of this policy. Why do the teachers, PPAs and support staff never have input? We are the front line.
I support the Board and am happy the policy was repealed. It would have created a nightmare in the buildings. Aird is now in charge of middle schools, so I have been told and I would not feel comfortable with her leadership!
Annette if you would spend time reading policies before you passed them instead of posting on this blog all night, then you just might not be in these problems. Reading that three page policy BEFORE you voted on it would have taken much less time than trying to defend yourself on this blog!
Don't be fooled people! Annette is 8:26 and 8:36 and 8:40 and 8:42! These posts were not released by the blog admin to the public yet they connect to each other directly because ONE person wrote them: ANNETTE JOHNSON
Aird has never taken teachers input. She talks a good game but if it is a issue she wants she pushes only her hidden agenda into her thinking. The progressive educational practices do not happen with her. For years she stopped bilingual students from getting more exposure to English because she felt they needed native language enrichment first. The district moved along way this year when Childress stood up.
She has slowed full implementation of the PLC models down because she can't control them. RTI does not exist.
PBIS is non functioning and is the first step in creating a good and safe learning environment for all students. Now this, she spends her time on a transgender policy with no teacher input. I asked the union rep if they had input. None, this after the administration promised input from the teachers. The policy rolled out and no communication from administration.
How dare she put our school in the national spotlight. Be an adult Aird and step down.
Uh, 10:24, this isn't exactly a great display of leadership. First, she admits she doesn't bother reading and thinking about policies the board passes and is responsible for -- but they actually pass a forward-thinking policy (apparently accidentally). Then she gets grief about the policy by a hate group from outside of the district -- who gives a rip what they think? Then instead of showing leadership and standing up for our district and students and telling them to buzz off, she sets up a special meeting to consider rescinding the policy they just passed, and to punish the staff member who brought them the policy THEY DID NOT READ. And then, she shows great leadership in getting the barely-a-quorum of the board that is there to take this action despite the overwhelming majority of the public (especially the ones from Aurora, who's opinion actually counts) praising the policy. Some leadership. What's next? Should we hold a special meeting to consider rescinding the rescinding? How about a special meeting to consider rescinding the vote electing Johnson as President? BTW, didn't the board adopt a policy right after Johnson joined that the President would only serve one term? Maybe that policy should be reinstated.
Really,its ok to let and transgender female use a boys locker room? Unless surgery has been performed, that person is not transgendered,that person is simply a cross dresser. That situation is ripe bullying and/or a sexual assault. Are you going to assign this kid a bodyguard? How many other proposals has the board not read before approving? I guess that would make sense when you look at all the senseless policies and procedures in place.
I don't know what student in football you are referring to but this policy change was discussed in committee and board meetings back in July. Long before football season began, so you obviously don't know what you are talking about.
Every one of those board members should of read that policy and I don't think it would take too much to know this might not be the way to go. Looking at the IL School Code on bulling might have helped them. the ones that where at the meeting where all wrong.
That was pretty observant of you October 21, 2012 11:17 AM to note a person was posting about comments not yet made public. Oops, the 3 people have turned into one. Hmmmm...which one person would brag about Annette and point fingers at everyone else. hahahaha!
Ray Ray where you at? Richie Leonard where you at? Like the media, grill, grill, grill, and when spotlight on you, run for cover and hide. Fiasco of the last 10 years for the Board. Congrats. One super geek with her own business, one member from chicago transferred to west and had no talent in anything and now claims east, and a business buildings and grounds dork.
According to Finance and Personnel Committee minutes, the transgender policy change has been on the agenda for two meetings, July 7, 2012 and October 9, 2012. This is the committee that the policy has to pass before going before the full board. It is during these meetings that items are discussed at length and understood before going before the full board for approval. According the district web site Annette Johnson is the chairperson for this committee. In addition, Mary Ann Turza and Anita Lewis are board members on this committee. Jay Augustine and Joan Glotzbach are the administrators in charge of the committee. These members were present at each meeting:
July 7, 2012 Ms. Annette Johnson (Chairperson) Ms. Mary Ann Turza Ms. Anita Lewis Mr. Jay Augustine Ms. Joan Glotzbach Ms. Jane Holt October 9, 2012 Ms. Annette Johnson (Chairperson) Ms. Anita Lewis Ms. Joan Glotzbach Ms. Diana McCluskey
In addition, all minutes and policies are supposed to be reviewed by the superintendent, Jerome Roberts and this particular policy was also reviewed by the district attorney’s. (Christie can not hire the district attorney’s without approval) Anybody who has attended such meetings knows that everything is discussed and discussed until the point of nausea.
Does anybody really believe that Christie Aird somehow or another slipped this policy in under the radar??? It’s amazing that anytime things go well in the district, Annette and Jerome take full credit for everyone else’s hard work. When things go bad, they can’t find a scapegoat fast enough. Apparently, Annette and Jerome are throwing Christie under the bus for this one.
Simply put, they all knew full well what this policy stated and should have known that it may be controversial. They can try to pass the buck all they want but everyone knows there is plenty of blame to go around. Now we know who all the players are. The community must hold all the individuals responsible.
The question everyone should be asking is when is it the responsibility of Dr. Roberts to hire administrators that are good leaders? There have been way too many scandals ins the past three months from the credit card issue to the new policy issue to consider that this is not a serious lack of leadership on his part. The Board President and the Board should be asking him these hard questions and doing something about it. There should be a reorganization of the central office and new blood installed. he must have clear and concise goals from the Board and then be evaluated and his employment reconsidered based on thos goals.
Every teacher, administrator, buildings and grounds supervisors, custodian has to take a punch. The Board ran from the problem and took no responsibility. Practice what you preach. Amateur years with this board. Fire and hire is the motto. Laughing stock of state.
Written by a board member. Mispelled words on purpose. READ YOUR OWN POLICY BOARD BEFORE YOU VOTE. This may be in a book at the mall called board of education for dummies.
The Board is the top dog, numero uno, elected, chosen by their neighbors to protect the interest of the families & children in the 131 schools. The Board has ONE employee. That is the superintendent. It is those 7 peoples responsibility to make sure that one person does their job and makes our schools successful learning institutions.
If the district is failing and people are making bad choices in the rank and file, the super should be taking care of those matters. If those matters have become so out of hand they become a public embarrassment then shame on the Board for being so out of touch. The Board and their employee are the final approval stamped on EVERYTHING that happens in this district. That is why the Board is at fault!
In this District you can trust noone it has really fallen apart! Lets see last yr. we had Wilson Morales wanna be detective beat up a student off school grounds he got a pat on the back has his job,Jay & Penny get slapped in the face and let go,several adm.misuse credit cards pat on the back still have jobs,Ms.Aird is thrown under the bus put on adm. leave but JOAN Glotzbach looking pathetic at Fridays meeting is still working go figure!!! How sad this district has become allowing Johnson to run it she was so fake on Friday just hearing her speak made me sick get rid of her!
This blog should be renamed "The Finest of 131." Whenever I come in here to read comments, all I could think of is the ignorance and stupidity that is abundant at 131. There needs to be some serious clean up and it should start here!
As an androgynous woman and someone who has been a part of the district for many years, I would like to see young people more educated and open-minded to those who look different than them. The focus should be on who the person is and how they contribute to society -- not someone's haircut or clothing not fitting their gender. By paying more attention to appearances and stereotypes, we are fostering prejudices within the schools. We tell the students that they are safer in the school than anywhere else, yet we are not protecting every student - just the ones that fit a mold.
Denise Crosby and her article is also a joke- spend some copy on the great things the district: teahers, staff and most importantly students! There is so much more good happening in East as opposed these few administrators that are giving us all a bad rap....keep it up Annette we appreciate it! Keep it up teachers you are doing amazing work! Keep it up students you deserve better from this administration!
Complacency at East leads to ‘Nightmare on Fifth Street’ By Denise Crosby dcrosby@stmedianetwork.com October 23, 2012 5:00PM For the past couple months, leaders of the East Aurora School District have found themselves embroiled in back-to-back controversies that, frankly, make it look like they are all asleep at the wheel. The first drama broke out in September, when the longtime director of finance took a quick retirement after it became public there were serious issues coming out of his office at the administration building on Fifth Street. In addition to huge discrepancies in employee insurance premiums that took everyone by surprise, no one seemed to be paying attention to hundreds of thousands of dollars in credit card purchases made by administrators; or thousands going out for late utilities fees. So far, Jay Augustine’s secretary, fired the end of September, is the only one who’s taken the fall on that one ... unless you count the antiquated computer system being blamed for the lack of oversight. Despite the assurances of Superintendent Jerome Roberts and School Board President Annette Johnson that all these problems are being addressed, this was an ugly public relations debacle. Then came “Nightmare on Fifth Street, the Squeal.” Last week, the board unanimously passed a cutting-edge policy dealing with transgender students — only to rescind it a few days later when, after taking heat from conservative groups, they realized the new policy had not been adequately vetted — or even read — by the board. Talk about an October Fright Night. Hundreds of angry protesters showed up Friday when the board unanimously voted to rescind the measure. Not only did school leaders get the evil eye from civil rights and gay/lesbian groups outside Aurora, they were lambasted by local taxpayers, parents, students even district employees whose initial pride in the board’s stand was replaced by embarrassment and disappointment.
The villain in this tale of horror, according to the board, was Assistant Superintendent Christine Aird, who formed the policy and brought it to members for approval. She’s been placed on administrative leave for “pulling the wool over our eyes,” according to Johnson, and not following the correct process. In other words, Aird got the temporary, maybe even permanent, boot for failing to do her job when board members obviously didn’t exactly do theirs either. The new policy, introduced in July, was not some complicated piece of legalese that needed to be deciphered by a team of attorneys. It’s only a few pages. And when it was handed out this summer, its heading — TRANSGENDER AND GENDER NONCONFORMING STUDENTS — certainly caught the eye of our reporter. She not only read the whole thing, she realized it was so controversial that when it came up for a vote this fall, she knew there would be a good story if East passed it. There was drama all right — but not the story line anyone expected. Johnson says this latest fiasco was the result of “a perfect storm.” School leaders had been working overtime to get the district up to date on curriculum, technology and procedures that had been ignored for the past 30 years. Busy trying to make up for lost time, they got caught off guard by the financial mess. Then, dealing with that fiasco, they didn’t pay close enough attention to the transgender issue to realize Aird’s version did not follow the Illinois Association of School Board’s procedures. Says the board president, “We got caught.” Johnson insists tremendous progress has been made in correcting the problems and that the district will exit these nightmares much stronger and more vigilant. There’s “too much complacency” in school districts among administrators and board members, added Johnson, an accountant who owns her own small foods company. “In business, if you make a major mistake like that, you’d be gone ... Everybody needs to step it up.” Including residents. After Pat Lorance, who attends East Aurora board meetings religiously, listened to a couple dozen speakers from Friday’s overflow crowd address school officials, she had a question of her own: “Where are all these concerned citizens when regular meetings are taking place?” The good news is, tales of horror — in this case, getting kicked in the teeth twice — tend to wake you up. Which brings me to the moral of this story: Sometimes it takes a whack to get on track.
The article failed to mention the building and grounds debacle and how the district protected Nestor the Molestor by creating for him the sports director job to protect him before that all blew up.
There is also little said about the complete lack of accountability in other departments. The only administrator to leave has been Jay Augustine. He was already retiring and simply retired a month earlier. The only real casualties so far have been a couple of secretaries.
The Beacon mentions that the administrators have been sidetracked by curriculum and Technology issues but the truth is there have been no curriculum changes this year. As for technology, the web sites are years old and the it's a quarter of the way through the school year and students don't even have "Log Ins" yet. That means they can't log in under their name nor save anything to the computers. the computers and internet only work half the time. Even if there was a curriculum, the technology problems wouldn't allow the curriculem to be followed.
This districts administrators and board are a complete joke. I'd like to say that the Beacon and Denise Crosby were doing something to help the community but so far they have only thrown softballs. There is so much more corruption in this district. If a Beacon reporter wanted, they could almost make a career out of District 131.
This community is also a joke because they allow these administrators and board members to continue this crap. Even with all that has happened in the past few months, who is being held accountable? No-One. They have done everything to protect themselves.
Jay simply retired a month early (No Comment) Still no accounting for hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on administrator credit cards, late payments on utilities, insurance issues.
Move Nestor to a different position (No Comment) No accounting for the hundreds of trips to the stores and unnecessary spending at building and grounds, not to mention buildings and grounds that are falling apart.
Denean Adams gets an advance at an Atlantic City Casino (No Comment) Goes on extended PAID sick leave until it all blows over and then she'll quietly come back.
Christie Aird is on administrative leave (No comment) You know it's paid or they would have announced unpaid leave. Again, take her out of the spotlight until things blow over in the community and then quietly bring her back.
Joan Glotzbach in charge of the personnel committee that passed the transgender policy. (No comment) No accounting for her whatsoever.
Jerome Roberts in charge of a district that is falling apart as we speak (Only comment - I was distracted by curriculum issues) No accounting whatsoever.
And who is allowing all this to be covered up??? Annette Johnson and the District 131 School Board. They claim they are cleaning up the district but that's all they are doing is trying to sweep the dirt under the rug.
The board needs to wake up and clean all the administrators out of central office or the community will be cleaning them out of office at the next election.
Pat Lawerance is correct how about the parents. unny they never complained before. If this community would have been interested in the schools along time ago it would not have decayed as a community. Bad parents make bad schools.
I agree October 23, 2012 9:03 PM. I finally thought the Beacon was going to wake up and tell the truth about what goes on in 131, then she gives them and out "a whack to get back on track?" Come on Denise, be a fair impartial reporter. The only track they need is the one heading out. The Beacon has ALWAYS favored the Board and not the community of Aurora or EA teachers when it came to controversial issues.
Smooth move Annette attempting to use education as an excuse for negligence. Just like in the big political world...those problems have been there since you took office. Six months before an election she is now trying to claim all the problems happened in the last few months at the same, coincidental, time they happened to be trying to fix all the districts existing problems.
Except for one 'friend' of Annette who keeps posting positive statements, anyone wanting to know the truth about how the district is working, ask ANY employee. Don't expect them to allow to be quoted, as they all fear the wrath of Lizzy Borden's ax.
I must add, inspite of all the bad PR created by the Board & superintendent,and their lack of support in the classrooms, the teachers and most administrators continue to give our students 100%.
Hey, let me also give kudos- the Board showed everyone who is "boss." AND they hired a famous football player. We may not have great test scores but we got IMAGE!
The Beacon has got it wrong they did not follow The Illinois School Code. The IL School Board Association is a place to go to get information and they can help with making policies. The Beacon has brought some of the things going on in the district to light but who have they contacted to see to get things to change. They still haven't done anything about the credit cards and even the Beacon says Jay is to blame but if you look at the Administration Code it clearly states that a card holder can't check the receipts and Jay was a card holder. Has the Beacon contacted The States Attorney to see if how they handled the credit cards was illegal since they took the time to FOIA them?
There is one community member that sends emails to administrators, board members and community members about Johnson. I have received one. She is the one and only and contributes to this blog often.
The union last night supported the board and Johnson last night to the reps. Teachers know who is taking care of them.
The Board is working as hard as they can to fix things.
“I didn’t know that much about it, but I didn’t feel like arguing tonight,” said Alderman Rick Lawrence, 4th Ward, who voted for the measure. Yep, that is the guy I want to vote for alderman at large. What a looser. He now represents a large section of residents on the east side due to redistricting. Word has it that the only reason he wants to be alderman at large is so he does not have to do anything anymore and just collect a check. Yeah, champion of the people, sure Rick.
Carol Farnum and the board from hell also had the support of many. When they stopped supporting children and became self serving, the community rejected them. As they should.
Annette Johnson claimed in the Beacon that Christie Aird did not follow the Illinois Association of School Board’s procedures. I am sure if the Beacon really wanted to ask Annette Johnson a "real" question about this mess, they could have started by asking what specific procedures Annette is claiming that Cristie Aird violated. IASB does give "guidelines" for school boards to follow. I do not recall any regulations in there for administrators.
If Annette is really worried about violations, she should start will the Illinois School Code, Public Act 96-0434, which took effect on August 13, 2009, requires every school district in Illinois, including special charter districts, to create a current itemized salary compensation report for every employee holding an administrative certificate and working in that capacity, including the district superintendent (the “Administrators’ Salary Compensation Report”). The law requires each school district to post its Administrators’ Salary Compensation Report on its website...
The law states that the administrative compensation report must be "current". District 131's compensation report is two years old. This district is in violation of many laws and school codes. The fact is, the board and superintendent got caught with their pants down on the transgender issue and they had to quickly blame somebody. Christie, you are it.
Changes need to be made. If you came to a meeting you would see NOTHING is discussed in the open meeting. At least 3 borad members don't even look at the information until they show up at the meeting and get help to open up the computer. Changes need to be made. This superintendent should have been fired long ago. The previous board tried but it was blocked and those working towards that goal were attacked. Changes need to be made. We need new board members who are willing to commit to learning how to do this. Know going in you will have little assistance. Read the material, it is all out there on the internet and the library. The Board Has 1 Employee. Once you get that right, that employee hires his staff. If D131 gets that right I believe there will be many replacements.
Changes need to be made. It's time we step up and make them.
when is this district going to get serious about academics and fire Jermore Roberts. Look at the complete mess the district is in. Thanks to the few board members who actually are doing something.
Any good person that would and are going to be afraid of what people say shouldn't run. With your theory no one who would run for a political position if people where saying something on a blog wouldn't run. This is an election year and there are many blogs out there where people have made comments about those that are running.
If I had been on this board I would of quit too especially after all that has gone on lately I would be ashamed to sit with this group.
The 'pervious' Board with Dee & Rayann tried not give Dr. Roberts a contract. The previous Board with Annette not only gave him a contract but added many benefits.
How come the list of bills isn't on the 9/17/2012 board minutes under the finance Committee like in the past. The last time it showed up was 8/20/2012. B. Action Items: 1. Motion to Approve the Following Monthly Financial Reports: a. Treasurer's Report Treasurer's Report b. Payroll Report Payroll Report c. Financial Report Financials d. List of Bills List of Bills
When is this board going to do what needs to be done and clean house. We’ve had enough of blaming everyone except where the blame really belongs. Yes, Christie Aird crafted the transgender policy and presented it to the personnel committee but that committee is run by Joan Glotzbach. Shouldn’t the person in charge bear the larger responsibility? Joan was also the administrator who started the entire Bob Green fiasco by terminating him without just cause. And let’s not forget that Bob is far from the only employee who has been harassed by Joan Glotzbach. How many others have been terminated, suspended, fined and harassed because of her personal vendettas? Then there is Jerome Roberts. Isn’t it his job to oversee all the districts committee’s? Nothing should have been added to the agenda and sent to the board without his full knowledge and approval. All the recent debacles in District 131 are ultimately his responsibility. Annette Johnson’s statement in the Beacon that the board approved the transgender policy because they had never read it is enough cause to replace the entire board. How dare they pass any policy without even reading it? Why do we have board if they simply rubber stamp everything brought before them without even reading it? Oh yes, don’t forget. In District 131, the students test scores are in the bottom 5% of the state. This district needs an enema!!!
8:22 p.m., neighboring districts broadcast their School Board meetings so the community can virtually observe them. D131 administration does not. Neighboring districts publish detailed minutes online within a day or two of approval. D131 does not.
The reason? Neighboring districts think their communities deserve transparency & respect. D131 administration does not.
yEA transparency- hmmm this board talked the talk and started sending out Board Bits after the meetings...funny none have been sent for the last few meetings. Wonder why?
Last time I looked they were in the bottom 2% in the entire state of Illinois. Yet they continue to employee Jermome Roberts. Why hasnt the other board members demanded his resignation? Are they all a bunch of do nothings???
The teachers received an interesting e-mail today from the union leadership. It was explained that the administration was aware that many teachers AND administrators were passing around petitions in support of Christie Aird. They warned us that the union couldn’t back us when the Central Office Administrators went after us, if, this was done during the school day or using a school computer. Teachers are bombarded daily with all sorts of things that would be questionable from an educational standpoint. Most of these distractions, like this one take less than a minute of our time. It always interesting that when it’s an embarrassment to the administrators, then it becomes a work issue. This is yet another form of harassment. It’s perfectly fine for the administrators to commit all forms of egregious acts but it’s against the rules for people to stand up for themselves and others, and say that it’s wrong. They were very interested in knowing which administrators were supporting Christie Aird. It’s no wonder that there have been so many calls for central office to be cleaned out. When the central leadership is completely self-serving it is time for a change. Jerome Roberts and Joan Glotzbach need to step down now. If they don’t, the board needs to step in.
I would like to thank the current board for doing all that it has so far. Keep it up!!! East has been a complete mess for decades and FINALLY there is someone at the helm cleaning all this crap up. Thank you Annette Johnson!!!!!!
If Annette was cleaning things up, then why are Jerome Roberts and Joan Glotzbach stil in charge. They have been in charge of all the embarrassing situations that the district has been experiencing. Simply put, they have been too busy bullying and harrassing everyone. They have not been doing what they were hired to do.
It's simple. The board needs to clean the administrative house. If they don't the community will be cleaning the boards house this spring.
If I was Christie I would consult a lawyer because she was thrown under the bus with this. She is being their scapegoat for them not reading the policy then you take into account that two board members sat on the committee and the minutes show they talked about this and the board members lied about knowledge of it.
Aird is a bad situation because it is my understanding the hate groups keep calling and they need to keep her out of the buildings because of this. I know Aird did not mean it but she let her views get in the way. Aird tried to protect the one kid and now nobody can figure out what to do.
The union put out that message because under the new evaluation process for teachers and principals Aird has the final say. We now compromised her position to evaluate objectively. This would be true of a bad administrator like our principal at Bardwell. If she petitioned the board for Airds job then Aird may look the other way. Or if Aird did a focus walk and we signed her petition but another teacher did not that may change her evaluation. Long story short we want to help Christy but we are not.
Christy gdid have the students at heart but did not get input. Sometimes we just try to hard to help or work without thinking things through.
I feel this is true of the board also and we are letting outsiders ruin our community.
Lets hope that Dr Roberts, Joan, Annette, Clayton and Christy figure a way out.
East Forms Committee to Establish Inclusive Policy
The East Aurora Board of Education will convene an Ad Hoc Committee of selected community members and educators who are committed and focused on providing a safe and secure environment for all students in East Aurora Schools.
The Ad Hoc Committee will meet on Thursday, November 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the School Service Center located at 417 Fifth Street in Aurora.
Committee members will work to fundamentally impact the lives of our current and future students by establishing a policy that will serve as a safeguard against bullying and discrimination at all of our schools in East Aurora School District 131.
The Ad Hoc Committee will work throughout the duration of the calendar year to formulate a policy that will be proposed to the Board of Education for implementation.
Regular minutes of committee meetings and a final report will be made available to the public.
While the committee is comprised of selected members, meetings are open for the public to attend.
After transgender flap, East Aurora working to form alternative policy
AURORA — In the wake of rescinding a district policy designed to protect the rights of transgender students, the East Aurora School District has decided to form a committee that will address the creation of an alternative policy.
The East Aurora Board of Education is selecting a group of community members and educators who will work together as an ad hoc committee to focus on safeguards against bullying and discrimination throughout the district.
Committee members will be announced before the group’s first meeting, at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at the School Service Center, 417 Fifth St. in Aurora. The committee’s future meeting schedule will be determined on that date, school officials said.
The School Board will select the committee members to be involved in the policy-making process, but meetings will be open to the public.
School District spokesman Clayton Muhammad said anyone with suggestions can send their thoughts to info@d131.org, or call 630-299-5550 during regular business hours.
The board adopted a policy on the rights of transgender students on Oct. 15. The policy created a stir locally and on the Internet, and the board rescinded it four days later.
The committee will determine “a policy that will serve as a safeguard against bullying and discrimination at all of our schools in East Aurora School District,” Muhammad said.
The fix is in. The board selects who will be on this committee. In other words, they already know what they want the final policy to be but they also want the community to fell like they had some say in the process. It's the illusion of participation. It was quite clear on Friday October 19th that they don't give a damn what the community thinks. This happens all the time in the schools but usually with the teachers. It is a complete waste of time.
It is my belief October 26, 2012 9:14 PM and the post they referenced were one person trying to take focus from the Board (president- specifically)issues by spreading rumors about one of their own. Old habits die hard. (lies & slander)Some people will stoop to anything to serve their own pupose.
In the last election there was a friend of Ray's that ran and won and he only stayed on the board a month. I believe he said it took up too much of his time.
Aird was never a good admin. She had her pets that she promoted. Some are really bad. I work at Hermes and Demar should have gone last year. Now she is on FLMA. Now we have Mcmahon she is horrible. Most days she comes in late. The test scores go down every year here, while at other schools in the district they have gone up.
Aird is not that well liked and I would take the petitions with a grain of salt. Many teachers got approached and had been afraid to say no. That's why the union involved.
The Oct. 1st 2012 approved minutes are still not posted. According to the Open Meetings Act if a district has a website they are by law suppose to have them posted 7 days after they have been approved and also at the Central Office. Anyone can contact the States Attorney to complain.
Popped up in Google Alerts today School Board working to turn D131 around
By JEFF WARD jeffwardsun@sbcglobal.net October 26, 2012 6:34PM
I’ll say it again! Threatening to throw someone off a school board is like threatening to stop beating them with a two-by-four. Serving on a school board is a thankless volunteer job that requires endless hours and won’t get you elected to any other office.
The only way your average school board member knows they’re doing a reasonable job is if they don’t see their name in the newspaper.
Should any city council member even sneeze the wrong way, I’m on ’em like white on rice. But considering those previous caveats, it takes a great deal of emotional effort to overcome that empathetic inertia and take on one of those oft-maligned school district bodies.
Ah! But the East Aurora District 131 school board actually managed to overcome that resistance. If you’ve been reading the Beacon-News lately, then you have to wonder just how many mulligans might any one group be entitled to.
It all started in September when a host of fiscal follies came to light including, but not limited to, the untimely payment of utility bills entailing late fees and 800 maintenance department trips to the hardware store in just seven months.
I’m guessing they were serving free doughnuts.
Of course, district Finance Director Jay Augustine immediately retired as a result of those revelations.
But that didn’t stop the problems from persisting into October when the board discovered that employee insurance premiums didn’t match the bills they were actually paying.
So the insurance coordinator was terminated.
Then, just recently, it was the sudden implementation and even more sudden revocation of a new district transgender student policy. And the dust from that one hasn’t even begun to settle.
But as is always the case before issuing any verbal smackdown, I first sought out D131 Board President Annette Johnson to get her take on this fascinating series of events.
“East Aurora has been a mess for 30 years,” she said, “It’s like one big whack-a-mole game. We are trying to fix it.”
“When it came to the finances, I had asked all those questions,” Johnson continued.
“As for the insurance issue,” she added, “the board asked for an audit in 2010, and staff assured me that any problems had been fixed and everything was fine. You have to be able to trust the people that work for you.”
We moved on to the transgender policy debacle.
“I’m not making excuses,” Johnson stipulated. “I’m sitting here kicking myself over this. This has nothing to do with me or the board being for or against an issue. It’s about following the proper procedures.”
“We knew they were updating all the policies, and they needed to be updated — that’s part of the drama that’s going on here,” Johnson added. “But I thought the staff was working with the attorney and the school association, and they weren’t. It wasn’t reviewed properly.”
So I asked her why she didn’t just bite the bullet and leave the policy in place.
“The problem is, none of the schools were prepared to implement these new procedures. No training or necessary internal structures had been put in place. We just spent $50,000 on a new anti-bullying policy, and we’re still working on that,” Johnson replied.
“This week’s story was supposed to be about the new magnet academy. Those are the things that help these kids,” Johnson concluded. “This will never happen again. I will get signatures from every administrator stating they will take the appropriate steps before presenting any new policy.”
Then I asked Johnson if the board’s decision to repeal the policy would give the Illinois Family Institute, a despicable organization designated as a gay hate group, a reason to believe their pressure tactics worked.
“They may feel like they won, but they didn’t,” she said. “If that policy had been left in place it would’ve been poorly managed, and that would have been even worse.”
I wondered aloud if these lapses start with the superintendent.
“I don’t blame Jerome (Roberts) for any of this,” she said. “We have had to address so many issues so quickly that’s it’s been very difficult. Again, you have to trust the people who work for you until they prove otherwise.”
As we continued talking about solutions, despite her obvious exasperation with recent events, Johnson made it very clear that, while there is no silver bullet, she and the board will persevere and continue to directly address these any other issues that might arise.
Now, you know me. My BS-ometer is usually dead on. So trust me when I say this was one of the most refreshing and enlightening conversations in my seven years as a columnist. If everyone spoke this directly and with that kind of passion, I might be out of a job. Her love for East Aurora was palpable.
So here’s the bottom line. Sometimes you make history, and sometime it makes you.
Despite what our sound bite, instant-gratification populace likes to think, turning around a 30-year culture will take time. And Johnson is just the person to do it.
The policy created a stir locally and on the Internet, and the board rescinded it four days later.
Not quite accurate. The policy created a stir OUTSIDE the community. Then the majority of local people speaking about the policy spoke IN FAVOR of it. Then the board decided the local opinion was not as important as the non-local opinion.
Isn't it amazing as different people write articles about the district they never check if any laws are being broken. This district has broken many and yes this district has had problems for years and until this one only a few has been addressed until this time for election for some board members. They talk about the credit cards and the insurance problems why when some complained nothing was done? There us still no policy about credit cards or pro cards and who is checking them? According to the IL Administration Code it has to be someone who doesn't have a card.
Yes, it was more outside people than district people but most here don't care. The problem with it is that the Illinois School Code does not allow to single out one group and they do have a very large policy about bulling that covers everyone. So Jeff Ward is saying that the district should not follow the law as long as they have someone that cares so much for the district. Mr. Ward there are a lot of people that care just as much as Johnson but they try to put the faith in the board to hire a Superintendent to run the district by the policies the board makes. He is there only employee and is suppose to run the district and if he can't we need to get another one. Many districts are going through tuff times and it seems their Superintendents are handling things.
My BS-ometer is going full tilt into redline. Annette is stating she has faith in Dr. Roberts and that these problems have been going on for thirty years. She acts as though Jerome was hired this year. Jerome has been an administrator in this district on and off since at least as far back as the nineties. He has been a central office administrator since 2005 and the superintendent for five or six years now. How long does Jerome have to be in charge before Annette believes these problems are a direct result of his leadership? Every central office department is in scandal and the only consistent factor in all these scandals is his leadership or lack thereof. The community is watching and this will become apparent come the spring elections. If Johnson is going to keep supporting this inept superintendent despite his incompetence, she is going to pay the price at her next election. There are six other board members who also need to step up. Several of them have spoken against Jerome. They know he is a terrible leader. It’s time they put their vote where their mouth is.
The laws you speak of are broken in the other districts as well. Jeff Ward is a no nonsense reporter. s far as Dr Roberts he is just more transparent than others or the board is hard telling. I hear many stories from other teachers in other districts they just don't talk about it. I think it's education in general.
Progress is not firing and hiring people. Progress is not having board members email teachers, faculty, staff, and administration bullying them. Progress is not having the majority of the public think you are a joke with Atilla the Hun running the show. There is one person who thinks there is progress and thats Annette. Annette, no one likes you and no one respects you. They shake your hand and smile, and then laugh behind your back. You have a lame duck superintendent who does whatever you want because he laughs all the way to,the bank. You had no friends in high school, and trying to scare people now with your bully leadership style doesn't mean that you have any friends now. You are a joke, the beacon made that clear, and you make it even clearer with each move you make.
How can you say this board is more transparent or Roberts. The district still hasn't posted the approved minutes of the Oct 1st meeting. Has the employees been given back the money that they overpaid for the insurance. Has Deanne Adams paid back the district money she used for her own benefit?
What laws does other districts break. In the list of bills does this district show the charges on the credit card bills and don't say they can't. Other districts do.
This district has taken more time to look good and not taken care of the most important thing and that is learning.
Funny I am a union rep and we all think Johnson is great. Many support staff and secretaries signed a petition in support of her.
We have only her to thank for our new insurance plan and when looking our premiums tripling she got a great plan now it's less than 10% and affordable.
The Magnet Acedemy is another thing she did and many teachers are proud to be a part of it.
All the more reason to support Annette and the board if people at the High School don't like them. EHS is a terrible place and we hope the board continues to clean it up. Moving Wilson and Cam was a start but enter attendition needs to be on getting rid of Barraza and Conrad.
Anytime someone needs a petition for credibility is no good to begin with. Maybe you dont know all the facts about the board president getting the police called on her at the service center for being out of control. What statistical data do you have that proves the magnet academy is successful? She should have fixed the insurance, she screwed it up to begin with. Back and forth shows she doesn't know what direction she is going.
Were the secretaries and support staff threatned with disciplinary action for passing petitions on Annette's behalf as the teachers have been threatned for passing a petition in support of Christie Aird? Where exactly is this fictitious petition?
As for the insurance, it's a complete farce. It has seriously limited the doctors we can see. Every doctor that has begun accepting it had to go through all sorts of hoops to become part of the network. Many doctors won't even bother to do it.
Anyone who has had to place a claim has found that this insurance is ridiculous. They deny claims as a matter of course. You have to fill out documentation every time that no other insurance should be paying the claim. They want to know the circumstances of every claim and still come back and claim the medical procedures were not medically necessary even though the doctor believes otherwise.
I have paid out thousands more this year than in any previous year with Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Personally, I am about ready to hire an attorney to go after the district for not providing the level of insurance our contract requires.
You claim to be a union rep and further claim that everyone thinks that Annette Johnson is great. It's obvious to me (and every other staff member)that you are not a faculty member of District 131 and I would venture to guess that you are Annette Johnson. Annette is the only person in Aurora who thinks Annette is great.
"The West Aurora School District is again on the hunt for a principal to lead West High School, and administrators are looking to students, parents, staff and residents for input.
The district has posted a short survey on its website, asking those interested about the traits they value in a principal"
Wow--asking the parents, students, & community for input on hiring a principal--what a revolutionary idea! We could learn something from our neighbors to the west!
What brilliant insight are the parent's and student's going to add to that search. What a bunch of crap. They post that stuff to make stupid people (like you) think they are contributing.
Here are the dumb answers they are going to get.
We want a principal that is fair, strict, organized, interested in the community, blah blah blah.
No one has asked why the bills where being paid late but could it be that this board only approves bills once a month some do it at two of the meetings. Is it because what they say they have they don't and the district has to have the money to do it?
The papers have made many comments and looked into things but have they looked into how the district really works and why bills are being paid late? They take the word of a board president and not look into why these things are happening. I'm not standing up for anyone but some of this has been going on for a couple of years and now Johnson whats to bring this out.
Any news media that whats to report should look at the whole not take what these people say and judge someone when they have not talked to the employees involved. In the East St. Louis situation they did and found that what some of the board said was not true.
After all is said and done it is the Superintendents job to be doing this and the news media should take the time to find out how a district should be ran. Take the time to look at The IL School Code to see if what this district is saying about how the district is suppose to be ran is being ran by law.
Going to a school board meeting is indeed one of MANY ways to share an opinion about a school district.
Too bad our district is not enlightened, caring, or respectful enough to broadcast meetings online as many of our neighboring districts do. Just another example of administration's lack of transparency.
When the issues in a school district involve the top administrative personnel as is the case in District 131, an outside agency must be brought in to investigate the situation. We can not trust that corrupt administrators are going to do a fair and impartial investigation of themselves. Anything less is is a complete snow job.
Annette Johnson, by supporting these corrupt administrators, is calling into serious question her own credibility.
Sometimes there's a direct route to our goals... and sometimes it takes awhile to achieve them!
228 comments:
1 – 200 of 228 Newer› Newest»Speaking of success, here's an article from today's Beacon about one of our district's best:
beaconnews.suntimes.com/news/schools/15711393-418/from-your-district-east-administrator-says-technology-key-to-education.html
So, how are we supposed to know if the right amount was taken out for insurance each paycheck?? They are taking out less then last year? Does that mean I've been overpaying for years?? Who should I talk to about this? Advice please.
The big announcement is the 500 kids that go to Magnet will all have a computer seems like they got a grant and h school will become a stem school. Th kids can take the computer home. Bravo
From the D131 Facebook page:
Today, the Governor of Illinois, GOVERNOR PAT QUINN, and the Mayor of Aurora, MAYOR TOM WEISNER, visited the East Aurora Magnet Academy to see technology in action! ... Prior to touring the academy, the Governor held a press conference at the school to announce a new ONE MILLION DOLLAR grant coming to Aurora to improve wi-fi capabilities in all schools and throughout the city! We are very honored to have hosted Governor Quinn, Mayor Weisner, and dozens of local politicians on this unprecedented occasion! #EastsidePride
Where is press For soccer Team? Jason Rollins leaving hurt program. The current head coach was another guy pushed on the athletic department. board president gave his name and was only person interviewed. why not more people apply for job. Disservice to my kid and my hispanic community. We want to win in soccer and they treat us like this.
crooked politician, with a crooked Aurora mayor, in a crooked School district run by crooked board members. Unprecedented is a good word.
Ok, did the state have to withhold even more funds they owe the district to fund this grant, I think the apocalypse is near.
Actually, an election is near.
Meaning that the politicians are going out of their way to promote big splashy projects so people vote for them next month.
I agree with 9:30 AM. They can take money away from education but have money for WI FI. I am so glad the governor and mayor care so much about our kids! I can't be bribed for a vote. Take care of our students' education first; then maybe I can vote for you.
When you vote, don't forget the person who has done the most to destroy public education in this state. Linda Chapa Lavia. She, more than any other politician in the State of Illinois (Except for Quinn and Madigan) want to take away funding for public education and social services. Let her know what you think when you vote.
There is a Board of Education "special meeting" this Friday at 5:30 p.m.
On the agenda is an "Executive Session for the Purpose of Discussing the Appointment, Employment and Dismissal of a Specific Employee".
Any idea what this is about, or why it cannot wait until the next regularly scheduled board meeting?
Yeah, on Friday they are going to fire Roberts. It's official.
The Special Meeting is being convened to discuss the rescission of School Board Policy 715.13 (Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students) and School Board Policy 715.13R (Administrative Procedures, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students).
The East Aurora Board of Education will then review the aforementioned policies, in conjunction with the Illinois State Board of Education, with the goal of establishing anti-discrimination and anti-bullying polices that continue to support what is already outlined in the Illinois School Code and the East Aurora School Board policies while addressing specific areas of concern in our community.
BIG NEWS---
The East Aurora Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Friday, October 19, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.
The Special Meeting is being convened to discuss the rescission of School Board Policy 715.13 (Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students) and School Board Policy 715.13R (Administrative Procedures, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students).
THE BOARD NEEDS TO RESCIND THE POLICY THAT IT PASSED THIS PAST MONDAY NIGHT (which is why they're holding this meeting).
***COMMUNITY MEMBERS NEED TO SHOW UP AT THIS MEETING.***
This policy was pushed by Christie Aird and D131 is the first district in all of Illinois to have a such policy. THERE IS NO NEED FOR THIS POLICY. In fact, this policy subjects other students to students of the opposite sex being in their bathrooms and locker rooms. This also poses a HUGE safety issue for the transgender students. It means that a biological girl (who identifies as a boy) would be in a locker room of boys. Imagine what could happen there.
Also, there is no reason that the school district should force parents of elementary students to having to have conversations about transgender and gender non-conforming students because those kids' parents want certain accommodations...because we all know young children ask tons of questions.
THIS IS GOVERNMENT OVERSTEPPING ITS BOUNDS and an administrator trying to push an LGBT agenda.
They cannot fire Roberts. He has 2 more years in his contract. They would have to buy him out
Here's a link to the Beacon article:
beaconnews.suntimes.com/news/15810153-418/east-rethinking-adoption-of-transgender-policy.html
If he isn't doing his job they can fire him.
In reference to the BOE policy being discussed on 10/19, and the article that 5:56pm posted: Shouldn't our BOE members read and THINK about the policies they are voting on? Maybe ask some questions? Maybe use some higher level thought processing to see if a policy really does need to be that extreme, or if it could be modified to be more moderate? Frankly, I'm a little concerned that Ms. Johnson is placing all the blame on Dr. Aird for this...what else has our BOE passed or will pass without reading and THINKING about?
No that is incorrect. Even with an ironclad contract Roberts can and should be fired. If the legal firm is advising the East Board that he cannot be fired they should seek legal counsel at another firm who knows contactual law. It would be a breeze to fire Roberts but the Board has to want to go this route and so far the only one doing anything on the Board is Johnson and for some reason she will not fire the guy. Maybe the other board members should look into why she supports the guy, because not a single person I know in the District supports him.
This is typical for the East Aurora School Board. They have no clue what they are approvong or the ramifications it has on the community. They simply rubber stamp anything that the administration wants to pass.
Now that it's "controversial" they will show how spineless they are and collapse under the least amount of pressure.
The fact is, only one organization has publicly come out against the policy and they have a long history of gay bashing. That is why the Illinois Family Institute is considered a "Hate Group". They are up there with the Westboro Bastist Church Members who go to military funeral and protest against dead gay soldiers. God's Punishment, according to them.
I'm not saying this policy needed to be passed but on Monday, the board followed what they believed was right for individuals who's gender is in question. Now the board is running away because of some far right hate group is publicly criticizing them.
The fact is, if we fled from our convictions every time some right wing hate group protested, we would still have guys in white sheets lynching African Americans because they whistled at a white girl and the schools would still be segregated.
There are gay individuals in our community. They deserve the same protections every other citizen deserves. While I believe in fredom OF religion, I also believe in freedom FROM religion. I believe people have the right to believe as they want to believe but they do not have the right to impose their beliefs on everybody else.
There may be a couple of items in the policy that should be rethought such as locker room usage (These students could easily be given seperate facilities to change)but there should be a public policy affirming GLBT status and the districts belief that all students should be treated equally and humanely.
This district was the first in Illinois and it has been a beacon of equality in it's non-segregation policies since the day it became a school district. It would be a real shame if this school board ran from this issue and in so doing, allowed these students to be treated as the Illinois Family Institute stated it, they have a "mental and moral disorder."
This board needs to take a stand against such hate groups, especially ones that are not even part of the East Aurora Community.
8:32 said is best! This is a weak BOE! What an embarassment to the entire community! They need to be removed! I can't believe that Annette Johnson is trying to blame it all on Christie Aird when seven idiotic Board Members read through that policy and still voted on it. If they didn't read it, then guess what? THEY FAILED! NO EXCUSES! We wouldn't expect our kids to do anything less and we should accept the kids who call themselves the BOE to do any less either!
Only 5 voted for it since 2 were absent. But I agree this policy has a lot of good in it and should be inacted. Public schools are for ALL regardless of any other factors. Supporters of the LGBT community need to be at the meeting Friday night to show support and that we shouldn't have a board that blames others and bends to special interests. I have heard this board specifically say that they stand for children- then show some backbone and stand for ALL children and be progressive in the sense of spreading equality through education to any and all persons
Christy Aird. Needs to fired the Board does not write school policy. Why would the lawyers let this go by.
It is the board and administrations job to advocate for all the students of District 131. This includes the gender undetermined students. When they stop advocating for the students and instead cater to outside interests, it is time for them to step down or replace them.
The board members really need to stop and consider what their true responsibilities are. Are they here for the students or are they here to further the social agendas of hate groups?
Whether the policy should or should not be implemented is not the bigger issue now. Johnson is quoted as saying "“It’s something we (board members) would not have questioned in light of the attorney and the administrators bringing it forward"
Duh! What??? The Board is the overseer, the final decision maker. This pretty much sums up how this Board does business-It’s something we (board members) would not have questioned. That is called rubber stamping Madam President!!! And now she wants to blame yet another admin for HER negligence. How about pointing at the proper Admin-your beloved Dr.
Here is part of The State Board of Ed policy.
(d) Each Beginning 180 days after August 23, 2007 (the
effective date of Public Act 95-349), each school district and
non-public, non-sectarian elementary or secondary school shall
create and maintain a policy on bullying, which policy must be
filed with the State Board of Education. Each school district
and non-public, non-sectarian elementary or secondary school
must communicate its policy on bullying to its students and
their parent or guardian on an annual basis. The policy must be
updated every 2 years and filed with the State Board of
Education after being updated. The State Board of Education
shall monitor the implementation of policies created under this
subsection (d).
Here is the url for the whole policy.
http://ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=096-0952&GA=96
Where students having problems with the sharing of restrooms or locker rooms or where they ok with how things where. While we need to respect transgenders we also should respect others also.
This statement is not correct back in the 60's when busing was being mandated this district went all the way to stop it. Up until probably late 60's there where no or very few African Americans in or district.
This district was the first in Illinois and it has been a beacon of equality in it's non-segregation policies since the day it became a school district.
Well said 7:57pm. Your are absolutely correct.
From the Beacon Article Blog,
waalways
8:14 PM on October 17, 2012
Who would be willing to dress as the opposite gender 100% OF THE TIME to get a cheap peek in the ladies room?
Gay (etc.) is NOT A CHOICE... did you wake up one morning and decide which gender you were going with? Neither did they... why do you care?
If someone walked into the opposite gender restroom and started gaping they would be removed immediately.
Do you know how many gay teens kill themselves every year? Tens of thousands. Why? They are made to feel like there is something wrong with them.
They are the way God made them. Instead of using the Bible to beat them use it to love and accept them
jooools
1:05 AM on October 18, 2012
The Illinois Family Institute is a far right anti-gay organization and their objection could probably be safely dismissed by the board, since "liberty" is usually the last thing they have in mind when they speak out.
Having said that, I'd be more concerned about the ethics of forcing unigender restrooms upon those students who would be uncomfortable in such a situation. One need not be homophobic to appreciate a greater degree of modesty when using the facilities, especially where stalls with doors are unavailable. It seems a simple solution would be to designate a third unisex option for restrooms, just as many public venues have done. Not to be thought of as special restrooms for transgender students, but yet another option for all, with no monitoring necessary. It may be too expensive for this year's budget, but something to consider for the future.
I think the board should be commended for its willingness to include the needs of homosexual and transgender students in its decision, but that should not mean that religious or otherwise conservative views on personal modesty must be relinquished in a place as intimate as the restroom. As the board reconsiders, they may find this really is a First Amendment issue.
Aird made Johnson look like a complete fool.
Annette Johnson is a bully who doesn't want to be blamed for anything. The fact of this matter is that she was wrong. She is so quick to state in the paper that she likes to micromanage! Well, guess what ANNETTE, you should have micromanaged your own board and your own duties FIRST!
The hate group, Illinois Family Institute, doesn't even have an address. They have a web page and Post Office Box in the Northern Suburbs. Here is some information about the group I found on Wikipedia:
Illinois Family Institute (IFI) is a Christian organization based in Carol Stream, Illinois. Founded in 1990, its stated mission is "upholding and re-affirming marriage, family, life and liberty in Illinois", and it is affiliated with the American Family Association.[3] The organization's legislative arm is the 501(c)(4) lobbying group Illinois Family Action, founded in 2010.[4] The organization's executive director is David E. Smith, who in 2006, succeeded Peter LaBarbera, founder of Americans for Truth about Homosexuality.[5][6]
IFI is a vocal opponent of abortion, separation of church and state, "activist judges", the "marriage penalty", civil unions, same-sex marriage, gambling and drug legalization.[7][8][9] In 2009, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) designated IFI as an anti-gay hate group on the grounds that the organization is primarily "focused on attacking gay people and homosexuality in general".[10][11][12]
Illinois Family Institute was designated an anti-gay "hate group" in 2009 by the Southern Poverty Law Center.[25][10][11] The SPLC report stated that IFI was "heavily focused on attacking gay people and homosexuality in general". The SPLC further stated that the organization had "occasionally embraced the groundless propaganda of Paul Cameron", a researcher whose studies about the life expectancy of homosexuals the SPLC says have been "utterly discredited". Although IFI removed the Cameron advocacy from their website in 2009, SPLC maintains that IFI retains a "hard-line position" on homosexuality.[25][52][53] In its November 2010 Intelligence Report, the SPLC again listed IFI as an anti-gay hate group, citing rhetoric from Higgins which included the "likening the German Evangelical Church's weak response to fascism to the "American church's failure to respond appropriately to the spread of radical, heretical, destructive views of homosexuality".[25]
PROOF that the board is lying!
They discussed this policy at the July Finance and Personnel meeting. Check out the link here, PLUS the draft of the policy was given at that time. They've been sitting on this for three months.
https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicAgenda.aspx?ak=1000306&mk=50056950
THIS BOARD NEEDS TO RESIGN!
hey donkeys... straight, gay, etc.- whatever you want to call yourself, the bottom line is THAT is just a sexual preference and doesnt have any business in the educational system at all. Gender is physical... you are what you are. if you dont like it, when u turn 18, go do something abt it. There shoudnt be any gay clubs either. Your personal life has no place in the educational system. This world has gone crazy with trying to make everybody happy.
We made the channel 9 news I bet there will be some stations at the meeting on Friday.
Dear Annette Johnson
Please resign today
Thank You!
School is not just about academics. As mandated by the state there are social-emotional standards that must be instructed. Gay-Straight Alliance helps ALL students learn to navigate in this highly diverse community. It serves as a safe-haven for students who feel as though they don't belong and that they are alone and afraid. Our schools and our students are pinnacles and role models for surrounding communities when it comes to acceptance. It seems like many adults on this site could learn a lot from our teens.
The BOE should really distance themselves from Annette. She always speaks on their behalf and threatens the staff with 'the Board' this and 'the Board' that when the BOE really has no clue about most of it. When a lawsuit is filed against the BOE I hope they step up and say that she does most of this crap on her own and not with all of them.
Well, now 131 made Channel 7 news. What else will take place in the next few days, weeks, months? Even if there were only 5 board members voting did you not read/discuss before you cast your vote? Shame on you Annette but of course you again put the blame on someone else. Dr. Roberts where are you? Your district is falling apart! Tell you what just let the teachers and parents run the district.
Idiots... All who voted ... Ask them to explain gender nonconforming.... Can't yet.... voted. Ask supt - can't . It was his job to prepare them and educate them.. Their job to ask the questions.. But when your nose is so deep into other things that have nothing to do with kids or parents .. It leaves no time to do the job- hire/fire supt and pass policy!!!! Incompetent- AJ needs to step down and her cronies should too!
Booyah! October 18, 2012 11:34 AM.
Let's see if Annette pushes her mug in the cameras this time, ya gotta love the IMAGE campaign of incompetence she gives this board, always quick to point a finger at others when the stuff hits the fan.
Say cheese!
This was an interesting response on the Beacon to those who justify their hate behind the auspices of religion.
pro-t
10:07 PM on October 18, 2012
So gay people are bad because it's in the Bible? I guess you're right Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination... End of debate.
But since you're such a Bible expert, do need some advice from you, regarding some other elements of God's Laws and how to follow them.
1. Leviticus 25:44 states that I may possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from neighbouring nations. A friend of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can you clarify? Why can't I own Canadians?
2. I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair price for her?
3. I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of Menstrual uncleanliness - Lev.15: 19-24. The problem is how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offense.
4. When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a pleasing odor for the Lord - Lev.1:9. The problem is, my neighbors. They claim the odor is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?
5. I have a neighbour who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2. Clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself, or should I ask the police to do it?
By voting to adopt an inclusive transgender policy, the board affirmed the dignity and needs of one of the most bullied and at risk group of children. Now, to cave under the pressure of ignorance, the board isn't just "undoing" what could have been an act of courage - it's actively demeaning those they should be protecting. Shame on them. Bunch of cowards!
It is my understanding Aird and the lawyers started this. Aird talked about keeping the school code updated. Aird had a hidden agenda and never discussed her policy with administration as well. Only to say we have a updated policy. The board needs to keep a eye her. She mentors only Gay Allience kids and often times has them over for dinner. Another violation of school code.
I work with Annette on the Board and she does keep the Board informed. The Board has been part of many great changes since she is President. Administrators don't like her because she pushes them. That said lets talk about the policy
Yes it was brought to the committee in July. Aird was in charge of this policy and per the committee notes it was a proposal. She told the Committee including Joan Glozabach this was a legal compliance school code policy because we had transgenger kids. She stated she was working with Pete Wilson District attorney. She intentionally did not bring it back for serveral months.
The same turn of events happened at all the meetings she attended. That would include Principal and administrative meeting. She never discussed how this would be implemented in the schools. Again, sliding it through.
The lawyers also never questioned her they just wrote the policy. They are the boards lawyers and never at any one tie did they say we would be the only ones with this policy.
There is plenty of blame to go around not just the Board President. I can assure everyone we already have programs in place this was unnecessary.
No matter what the board should of realized that there might be some slack about this. Two board members weren't at this meeting was it because they didn't want to vote on it. In the end the buck stops at the board they should of looked into it more and since Johnson is always at Central Office she should of took the time to look into it.
Ok if this is true then Aird should be fired. Serious consideration should also be given to finding and hiring new legal services for the district. This is the same law firm that keeps advising the board that they cannot get rid of Roberts. This simply is not fact. A decent law firm experienced in contractual law can properly advise the board on the steps to take to rid the district of a superintendant that has and continues to be a complete and utter failure. Johnson is protecting Roberts for some strange reason and telling the Board that there is now way to terminate him because of "his contract". If I was on the Board I would ask the lead attorney to come into a closed session meeting with the entire board and go on record as to what can and cannot be done to rid the district of Roberts. Advice to the Board: Do not take Johnson's word on Roberts, go to the attorneys directing and get an answer, I bet its much different than what Johnson gives you.
pro-t
10:17 PM on October 18, 2012
Part 2
6. A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an abomination - Lev. 11:10, it is a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this? Are there 'degrees' of abomination?
7. Lev. 21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle- room here?
8. Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev. 19:27. How should they die?
9. I know from Lev. 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?
10. My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev.19:19 by planting two different crops in the same field, as does his w:fe by wearing garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town together to stone them? Lev.24:10-16.Couldn't we just burn them to death at a private family affair, like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws? (Lev. 20:14)
So you're following God's advice to the letter of the law? Or do you just think Gay people are icky?
Reprinted from a letter to Dr. Laura.
Why just blame one person. Yes Aird brought it to the table but with something this delicate ALL should have been informed. Why take a vote if you are not clear with facts including Annette.
Thanks for sharing October 18, 2012 10:29 PM. That tuly made me LOL. Loved it!
Ironic:
Friday is Spirit Day:
Spirit Day is annual day in October when millions of Americans wear purple to speak out against bullying and to show their support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth. Learn more.
Hey-
October 18, 2012 10:29 PM
10:17 PM on October 18, 2012
Nice plagiarism...word for word can be found here:
http://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Why_can%27t_I_own_a_Canadian%3F
Think of something original
Aird has a girl Nicole at her house often she is a student a East Aurora. I will not give her last name but Aird is a LISBO who is taking a student home with her. She has got to go
Our boys' soccer team has done a grEAt job this fall! Come to Neuqua tomorrow and support our kids (here's the press release):
(Aurora) – The East Aurora Tomcats have advanced to the Boys Varsity Soccer Regional Championship Game to defend their two-time championship title.
The Tomcats will face crosstown competitors, the West Aurora Blackhawks, on Saturday, October 20, 2012 at 12:00 p.m. at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville.
The East Aurora Tomcats have won both the Conference Championship and Regional Championship during the 2010 season and the 2011 season. On Saturday, October 6, 2012, the team also clinched its third consecutive Conference Championship.
East Aurora supporters are asked to wear red and black to support the team.
The Beacon has already posted a story about the meeting and only four members where there what a shame on such an important meeting. This board made a decision and then the whole board could not show up to make another important one. When the next election comes to vote for board members remember this because even if they make a bad decision the board needs to stand for everyone.
http://beaconnews.suntimes.com/15852822-417/east-rescinds-transgender-policy.html
Annette was so fake tonight. We didn't buy her BS apologies. But at least we know why she grew up to be such a bully - because she was bullied! Go figure. Seems like she would learn how NOT to be Atilla the Hun!
Stella Gonzalez needs to go she misses lots of meetings and never takes the Board serious .
Four Board Members? District 131at its finest. Where is Annettes And Roberts leadership? Shows its a two person circus, Annette is ringleader and Roberts is clown.
Tonight was another fine example of how the small-minded and incompetent BOE keeps sorry old EA at the bottom. No wonder it's so hard to recruit exceptional teachers and administrators. The evidence is plain to see that the BOE was irresponsible. They read and discussed the policy, and failed to ask intelligent questions. I hope Dr. Aird files suit. Kudos to Ray for ducking out.
Roberts throws another employee under the bus. Aird is a great educator, too bad the Board that is supposed to support employees is run by a bunch of low level educated, and one super geek that is a giant version of bill gates with autism.
This board has learned nothing from the previous board (also known as “The Board from Hell”). The Board from Hell was voted out of power because 1) They stood against the interests of the students and 2) they did not listen to their community when the community spoke out loud and strong.
Are we beginning to see a pattern here, the powers that be stand against anyone who advocates for our children? Kaisershot stood up for the children and the community came out in force to support him, yet the board stood against K and the community (to their own peril). The PE teacher at Simmons last year stood up for a defenseless SpEd student and the board suspended him for it. Christie Aird is standing up for a very vulnerable sector of our community and sure enough, the board has placed her on administrative leave.
There were hundreds of parents and community members at the board meeting tonight. The pictures showed them overflowing the building. Of those hundreds, there were only two community members who spoke out in favor of repealing the policy. Did the board listen to the community? NO!!!!! Instead, the board sided with a known “Hate Group”. To add insult to injury, they chose to do this on National Spirit Day, a day when millions of Americans are encouraged to wear purple to speak out against bullying and show their support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender teens.
This whole situation has been handled as poorly as any situation by any board in the district’s history. I really only have one more thing to state. This will be remembered come the next board election in the spring. Five of you are up for re-election, I and I’m sure many others will be actively campaigning against your re-election. When the board stops advocating for students, it’s definitely time for a new board.
In today's paper Johnson made Aird the scapegoat. What power Aird must have! BOE no matter how you look at the situation you were PUNKED. I still can't believe you voted on something without checking the "updated material" so you say. If you are buying a house and you were to sign the contract would you not read before you sign? Annette aren't you in business? Is this the way you run your business? I have a farm to sell you but don't read before you sign. All of you are lame excuses for a BOE. I can't believe not one of you opened this up for discussion. My other question is what kind of lawyers do you have representing the district? If they drew up the policy but did not request or at least suggest you go over it ; they also need to be fired. Had the public known what they know now you would have not been elected! So is Aird on a paid leave? Probably so. Annette all I am requesting is that you stop the sorry excuses and terrible lies. Dr. Roberts where are you? Calling Jerome, Jerome, oh Jerome, do you copy?
As a staff member, Johnson I ask you why do you keep Dr Roberts. In the last two weeks you had to fix the accounting, you are the only one fixing the insurance, and now this fiasco.
I am one that does not blame the Board. Aird used her position to promote her cause.
It's a sad day in East Aurora today. Last night the school board delivered a blow to every student and it doesn't matter what gender they are or feel they are. This board just told every student "sorry you don't deserve protection.".
I would like to know why did they rescind this policy? Why did you allow everyone who spoke in favor or against it to speak when clearly the school board's decision was already made. You sat there with your heads supposively held up high as if you were listening to these people pour their hearts out to you and beg of you not to rescind this policy. Was your decision based more on "Let's see who would be the smallest group to piss off the IFI or the transgender.". "Who are we going to get more votes from in the next elections?". This was all full of politics and excuses and this board should be removed. Why you ask? Well what you didn't see or even bother to ask yourself was the real losers here were the STUDENTS. You told the students "NO" NO PROTECTION FOR YOU. That won't get you any votes in Aprils election because the students don't vote. Well the parents Do Vote and with this last slap in the face don't count on it.
Last night this school board was Full of Excuses and other things too. How dare our board president sit there and say "oh this is a hard time for me, I too was bullied in school and am a tomboy, I'm Sorry!". Then turn around and fill the room with every excuse in the book and say BUT we can't protect you or do anything about it. SORRY! You would think after coming out of the closet last night herself somewhat she would want to protect our children in every way possible so they don't indure such pain. No instead she blamed only Dr. Aird again and put her on administrative leave.
Your next excuse is "well no student or parent has ever approached the school board to complain about transgender issues occurring in the schools.". Why would they Madam board president WHY? Hhmm! Maybe because they're afraid, they're suffering in silence, or maybe the school has taken their own compassion and is taking care of the issue themselves while they get support from the higher administrators OR maybe because they see how this school board has handled other bullying issues for the other students and SPED students. No one has forgotten about the bullying that occurred at Simmons with the 7th grade sped student who probably is still getting bullied to this day. Remind us of what you guys did there as to stop the bullying or to protect this child. Oh you spent $50000 on supplies for an anti-bullying program which is now on hold for some reason BUT HEY EVERYONE WE GOT 500+ COMPUTERS FOR THE MAGNET ACADEMY TO GIVE TO MAGNET STUDENTS TO TAKE HOME TO THEIR PARENTS YAY! That poor kids on going bullying has been swept under the rug and nothing has been done so why would anyone else approach the school board to complain about how they're being bullied or harrassed when they know nothing will be done.
Madam board president stop saying "let's put our money where our mouth is," when this has nothing to do with money. This was simply a policy being asked to be put into place TO PROTECT ALL OF OUR CHILDREN and it was brought forth by a COURAGEOUS HUMAN BEING DR CHRISTIE AIRD. She cares for our students deeply and knows what they need. Come on she didn't pull any wool over your eyes what an excuse. She does a wonderful job in our elementary schools and for that we are all proud of her. Thanks be to Dr Aird and thanks be to God!
Once AGAIN, hundreds of parents & community members rally for a cause in this district.
And once AGAIN, we are given the middle finger.
So is it true that Annette was in Roberts offic with the door closed screaming at the top of her lungs so loud that secretarys heard her clearly in the hallways? They said she was saying some mean things about certain admins and sexuality SECRETARYS PLEAS COME FORWARD & SHARE WHAT U HEARD SO WE CAN GET RID OF HER!
6:38 a.m. - We know this is you Annette! Stop!
If you take the time to read The IL School Code you will see why they did what they did. The district can not single out one group. Also how about all the others that get bullied for other things should they separate them. In our lives the things we choose to do or our lifestyles we chose to live we will get slack for it and we need to learn how to coop.
Remember there are no doors on the stalls in the bathrooms at schools so that can lead to a problem.
The problem here is the board didn't do there due diligence and go to ISBA and ask them about this policy they have probably came
across this and told them not to do it.
ANNETTE!
TOMBOY DOES NOT = TRANSGENDER!
Hull has no backbone, and took the easy way out by leaving. Big man with everything else, but when it came to this important vote that conflicts with religion, he ran and gave an excuse.
My how things come full circle. This Board has harassed teachers and blamed administrators for every problem in the district. When its time to sit down and vote on a serious topic it gets screwed up. Time to quit asking for resignations, and placing people on administration leave, every Board Member and Roberts should step down. Where is Clayton. even he cant spin this into a positive.
Enough of Annette. Campaign slogan.
Hull, one of most vocal members on the board leaves. Im sure he wil post on this blog, praise the lord, and say only one person can judge him.
It's time for a new BOE. As we've clearly seen over the past few weeks, they (led by Annette) have NO clue what they're doing. Who is running??? Please, we need FRESH leadership. Our kids' futures are at stake.
According to Beacon Glotzbach helped promote this policy along with lawyers.. Why was she not disciplined along with Aird?
Aird used her position to promote her own cause. If Aird was so concerned about all races then why not implement the policies that got drawn up. They talked about 3 policies. Why did Aird only put the one on transgender forward. Did she not care about about the other races. Why is that? Could it be hat she is transgender herself. Get rid of her.
The people in Airds corner are her girls. These are the same principals that bully the teachers. Aird should enforce her own bully policy at Bardwell.
Funny the two Educators of he year did not attend Ed Brouch and Del La Santo. Why is that Aird hates men. She should enforce her own discrimination policy
Sorry Aird go get a job in San Francisco that is the only place that has the policy you want.
Ed and Frank are great educators not Aird
Yes the Board has the final read but I have the following questions?
Why did the other admistrators not read this policy? Dis they not think that this would be hard to manage?
Why was the Superintendent not involved?
Joan Glozabach is Policy and Personnel, what is her role
What about the lawyers?
All of these people are paid, the Board needs to fire them all. Maybe we will get better scores.
San Francisco? I hope you are not implying that San Fran is the only place that accepts homosexuals because that shows how ignorant and small minded some people are...Open your eyes idiot, we are everywhere! You live in our town, your children go to our schools, you buy from our stores, you worship at our churches. We are here to stay. Take your white sheets, burning crosses and go back to the 1950's where you belong.
What bathrooms have you been in because the ones I have used all have doors.
A wonderful educator Dr Aird???? All of the elementary schools but O donnell rank in the bottom 5% . By today's emails her Principals and some of the teachers are showing support. It shows that she is a poor leader like Dr Roberts these are the same people she has to supervise. Aird is famous for running the all girls club. She will not make a change in the buildings and that is the problem with the entire district. They are all friends and on a big party everyday. This does not happen at other districts. Now the Principals are running for cover. They are afraid a new boss will be put in.
On the other hand Johnson treats Roberts the same way. How can she lead him. That is what is wrong with 131 one big family of losers. Prediction Johnson will never spin her way out of this mess. She allowed the incompetence and now it's coming back to bite.
Aird, Roberts and Johnson need to go and this mess will be for a reason it will clean a much needed house.
Get ready principals....new sheriff in town. Maybe this one will give you guidance in educating students not establishing radical policies.
If the Board was lied to then Aird has to go. We need truthful leaders that are focused and dedicated to their position. She headed up elementary, then why do we still not have RTI in place. Why do all the schools not have their board approved tutors in place? Why is behavior out of control? Why because she was too focused on pushing through this policy. Shame on you Aird- hope the next leader works for all students!
As a oberserver to all of the craziness, its pretty clear to me that E. Aurora needs new leadership on the board and a new superintendent. Roberts is a joke. Seriously, that guy does nothing at all! Fire him and get someone from the outside to come in! What is taking them so long to do that! The leaders on the Board are a joke too! VP Stella is Airhead 101! She's always telling jokes at every meeting and is never serious about anything. She's always gone on vacation than we have to hear all about her vacation while at meeting. What a joke. Secretary Anita she comes to meetings like she just rolled out of bed with her dirty and wrinkle clothes and hair not to mention her teeth. It ain't about looks but they are in leadership come on!On top of that everyone knows her daughters house was raided for drugs. Yeah thats a great example for the kids to follow! The queen Annette (or like we called on here before Atilla the Hun) is biggest joke of all. Shes a bipolar bully who has insulted everyone including staff and other board. Staff & board read this blog & they know this is true! We seen last night she's dealing with childhood crap and needs serious therapy. Call Dr Phil. Send her to the mental facility, get a new President! Until she is gone, all of this will continue because she is selfserving.LETS GET NEW LEADERS IN EAST! AN ELECTION IS COMING UP! LETS KICK THESE BOZOS OUT & GET SOME GOOD FOLKS IN! IF NOT THINGS WILL GET WORSE!
CAMPAIGN SLOGAN - ENOUGH OF ANNETTE!
6:38 p.m. (and other like-minded folks), I have news for you:
WE CAN ONLY VOTE FOR SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES WHO RUN.
In other words, it does no good to complain about the current Board unless there is an alternative, in the form of community members who are willing & able to step up and get on the ballot.
Until that happens, it's like the old story about belling the cat: the mice all agree that the cat needs a bell but no one is willing to actually put the bell on the cat.
Johnson is a good President but she spends to much time covering up for Roberts. Annette really why not get rid of him people are being to lose faith in you.
I worked with her on the contract and now the insurance. I was impressed. I learned more from her about insurance than we would ever want to know. Bottom line the teachers because of incompetent admins go screwed. We also missed a lot of tax deductions. Johnson is working on our behalf
That said the rest of the Board sucks. The real story is how can so many people let this get by.
The lawyers are not very good. Pete Wilson, who I understand is at the bottom of this mess needs to retire. It took forever to get changes made in negotiations. I am not sure he reads well. Our reps kept catching mistakes not him. If not for the union the contract would have had hundreds of errors.
Roberts slept through the whole negotiations and once Johnson was involved decisions got made. I think to many people rely on her to catch everything so they are just there
When she in the room everyone waits for her. I hope she reruns. She needs our encouragement now. The admins don't like her she pushes them to hard.
Yes the building Principals are freaking out today. No more Christy for protection. Funny like in life she has no male supporters. All the ladies are just beside themselves. The letter circulated by Irene Villa, Twila Garza and Annette McMahon shows why the district is behind. Just look at the scores in these building. Aird made back room deals to promote both of them. Villa and McMahon at other districts got released. Yet they are Airds girls. All the bottom 5% of them maybe they can all go find a job and a mate in San Fran.
Comments provided by HB
Here is the real deal Christy since your scores are at the Bottom and only 6 other districts are worst than you. Then you send all your time writing a policy that effects less than 5 students who had been dealt with anyway. Do you not have the dignity to resign. Why did you not worry about the other 14,995 students your a joke!!!!!
However your boss is joke he never knows what you are doing.
Is this not the same Twila Garza who charged cloths to the credit cards from TJ Macs and Kohls. Fire them all....
12:49 There was an event at Brady that night until 8 p.m., which is why "Del La Santo", as you incorrectly call him, was not there.
You had all better be thankful that Johnson is president. I for one am grateful that she is steering this ship. We have been without a leader for yeeeeaaaarrrss. Thank you Annette!
Allah will save you all.
Aird brought out all the hate groups this was unnecessary, being the buildings already handled the transgender kids.
I work at Cowherd the child in question had no problems. Three weeks into practice the coach found out she was a girl. She finished the season as one of the star players. This student was not harassed by other students. In fact the Principal had always made accommodations for her. The mother is a supportive parent, and worked hand and hand with the school. This child is just another kid and that's how the other kids treat her. This CRAZY policy of Airds would have caused her more problems.
We at Cowherd, who lead the way on bullying training never got consulted by Aird on the creation of this policy. Why do the teachers, PPAs and support staff never have input? We are the front line.
I support the Board and am happy the policy was repealed. It would have created a nightmare in the buildings. Aird is now in charge of middle schools, so I have been told and I would not feel comfortable with her leadership!
Annette if you would spend time reading policies before you passed them instead of posting on this blog all night, then you just might not be in these problems.
Reading that three page policy BEFORE you voted on it would have taken much less time than trying to defend yourself on this blog!
Don't be fooled people! Annette is 8:26 and 8:36 and 8:40 and 8:42! These posts were not released by the blog admin to the public yet they connect to each other directly because ONE person wrote them: ANNETTE JOHNSON
Aird has never taken teachers input. She talks a good game but if it is a issue she wants she pushes only her hidden agenda into her thinking. The progressive educational practices do not happen with her. For years she stopped bilingual students from getting more exposure to English because she felt they needed native language enrichment first. The district moved along way this year when Childress stood up.
She has slowed full implementation of the PLC models down because she can't control them. RTI does not exist.
PBIS is non functioning and is the first step in creating a good and safe learning environment for all students.
Now this, she spends her time on a transgender policy with no teacher input. I asked the union rep if they had input. None, this after the administration promised input from the teachers. The policy rolled out and no communication from administration.
How dare she put our school in the national spotlight.
Be an adult Aird and step down.
Uh, 10:24, this isn't exactly a great display of leadership. First, she admits she doesn't bother reading and thinking about policies the board passes and is responsible for -- but they actually pass a forward-thinking policy (apparently accidentally). Then she gets grief about the policy by a hate group from outside of the district -- who gives a rip what they think? Then instead of showing leadership and standing up for our district and students and telling them to buzz off, she sets up a special meeting to consider rescinding the policy they just passed, and to punish the staff member who brought them the policy THEY DID NOT READ. And then, she shows great leadership in getting the barely-a-quorum of the board that is there to take this action despite the overwhelming majority of the public (especially the ones from Aurora, who's opinion actually counts) praising the policy. Some leadership. What's next? Should we hold a special meeting to consider rescinding the rescinding? How about a special meeting to consider rescinding the vote electing Johnson as President? BTW, didn't the board adopt a policy right after Johnson joined that the President would only serve one term? Maybe that policy should be reinstated.
HB...check your facts before posting about things you know nothing about. And post your name instead of using initials like a little bitch.
Really,its ok to let and transgender female use a boys locker room? Unless surgery has been performed, that person is not transgendered,that person is simply a cross dresser. That situation is ripe bullying and/or a sexual assault. Are you going to assign this kid a bodyguard? How many other proposals has the board not read before approving? I guess that would make sense when you look at all the senseless policies and procedures in place.
To: October 21, 2012 6:36 AM
I don't know what student in football you are referring to but this policy change was discussed in committee and board meetings back in July. Long before football season began, so you obviously don't know what you are talking about.
Well, I guess it is ok to swear on this blog now, as long as it is directed at somebody other than the blog administrators.
Your swear must be directed at somebody the blog administrators don't like.
4:44 p.m., I don't see any swears on this thread (unless you consider "bitch" a swear, which is pretty mild & also can refer to a female dog).
Every one of those board members should of read that policy and I don't think it would take too much to know this might not be the way to go. Looking at the IL School Code on bulling might have helped them. the ones that where at the meeting where all wrong.
I'm pretty sure I would count "Bitch" as a swear. I'm pretty sure I would not want my kid going around saying it to people.
That was pretty observant of you October 21, 2012 11:17 AM to note a person was posting about comments not yet made public. Oops, the 3 people have turned into one. Hmmmm...which one person would brag about Annette and point fingers at everyone else. hahahaha!
she is not a good person...and i have first hand knowledge of that. ill leave it at that since my last post didnt make it...
Enough of Annette!
Ray Ray where you at? Richie Leonard where you at? Like the media, grill, grill, grill, and when spotlight on you, run for cover and hide. Fiasco of the last 10 years for the Board. Congrats. One super geek with her own business, one member from chicago transferred to west and had no talent in anything and now claims east, and a business buildings and grounds dork.
According to Finance and Personnel Committee minutes, the transgender policy change has been on the agenda for two meetings, July 7, 2012 and October 9, 2012. This is the committee that the policy has to pass before going before the full board. It is during these meetings that items are discussed at length and understood before going before the full board for approval. According the district web site Annette Johnson is the chairperson for this committee. In addition, Mary Ann Turza and Anita Lewis are board members on this committee. Jay Augustine and Joan Glotzbach are the administrators in charge of the committee. These members were present at each meeting:
July 7, 2012
Ms. Annette Johnson (Chairperson)
Ms. Mary Ann Turza
Ms. Anita Lewis
Mr. Jay Augustine
Ms. Joan Glotzbach
Ms. Jane Holt
October 9, 2012
Ms. Annette Johnson (Chairperson)
Ms. Anita Lewis
Ms. Joan Glotzbach
Ms. Diana McCluskey
In addition, all minutes and policies are supposed to be reviewed by the superintendent, Jerome Roberts and this particular policy was also reviewed by the district attorney’s. (Christie can not hire the district attorney’s without approval) Anybody who has attended such meetings knows that everything is discussed and discussed until the point of nausea.
Does anybody really believe that Christie Aird somehow or another slipped this policy in under the radar??? It’s amazing that anytime things go well in the district, Annette and Jerome take full credit for everyone else’s hard work. When things go bad, they can’t find a scapegoat fast enough. Apparently, Annette and Jerome are throwing Christie under the bus for this one.
Simply put, they all knew full well what this policy stated and should have known that it may be controversial. They can try to pass the buck all they want but everyone knows there is plenty of blame to go around. Now we know who all the players are. The community must hold all the individuals responsible.
The question everyone should be asking is when is it the responsibility of Dr. Roberts to hire administrators that are good leaders? There have been way too many scandals ins the past three months from the credit card issue to the new policy issue to consider that this is not a serious lack of leadership on his part. The Board President and the Board should be asking him these hard questions and doing something about it. There should be a reorganization of the central office and new blood installed. he must have clear and concise goals from the Board and then be evaluated and his employment reconsidered based on thos goals.
Wait, roberts should have responsibility?
just read the story in the paper. Hull left to attend his daughters senior night??? What a joke.
Congratulations to The East Aurora Soccer Team for beating West Aurora in regional title match.
Every teacher, administrator, buildings and grounds supervisors, custodian has to take a punch. The Board ran from the problem and took no responsibility. Practice what you preach. Amateur years with this board. Fire and hire is the motto. Laughing stock of state.
Why is it te boards fault I guess the lousy as for mentioned have no responsibility.
Written by a board member. Mispelled words on purpose. READ YOUR OWN POLICY BOARD BEFORE YOU VOTE. This may be in a book at the mall called board of education for dummies.
The Board is the top dog, numero uno, elected, chosen by their neighbors to protect the interest of the families & children in the 131 schools.
The Board has ONE employee. That is the superintendent. It is those 7 peoples responsibility to make sure that one person does their job and makes our schools successful learning institutions.
If the district is failing and people are making bad choices in the rank and file, the super should be taking care of those matters. If those matters have become so out of hand they become a public embarrassment then shame on the Board for being so out of touch. The Board and their employee are the final approval stamped on EVERYTHING that happens in this district. That is why the Board is at fault!
Indian Prairie ISAT scores soar. D131 continues to employ Jerome Roberts. What is wrong with this picture.
Lets elect Mary Fultz
In this District you can trust noone it has really fallen apart! Lets see last yr. we had Wilson Morales wanna be detective beat up a student off school grounds he got a pat on the back has his job,Jay & Penny get slapped in the face and let go,several adm.misuse credit cards pat on the back still have jobs,Ms.Aird is thrown under the bus put on adm. leave but JOAN Glotzbach looking pathetic at Fridays meeting is still working go figure!!! How sad this district has become allowing Johnson to run it she was so fake on Friday just hearing her speak made me sick get rid of her!
This blog should be renamed "The Finest of 131." Whenever I come in here to read comments, all I could think of is the ignorance and stupidity that is abundant at 131. There needs to be some serious clean up and it should start here!
As an androgynous woman and someone who has been a part of the district for many years, I would like to see young people more educated and open-minded to those who look different than them. The focus should be on who the person is and how they contribute to society -- not someone's haircut or clothing not fitting their gender. By paying more attention to appearances and stereotypes, we are fostering prejudices within the schools. We tell the students that they are safer in the school than anywhere else, yet we are not protecting every student - just the ones that fit a mold.
Denise Crosby and her article is also a joke- spend some copy on the great things the district: teahers, staff and most importantly students! There is so much more good happening in East as opposed these few administrators that are giving us all a bad rap....keep it up Annette we appreciate it! Keep it up teachers you are doing amazing work! Keep it up students you deserve better from this administration!
From Tonight's Beacon:
Complacency at East leads to ‘Nightmare on Fifth Street’
By Denise Crosby dcrosby@stmedianetwork.com October 23, 2012 5:00PM
For the past couple months, leaders of the East Aurora School District have found themselves embroiled in back-to-back controversies that, frankly, make it look like they are all asleep at the wheel.
The first drama broke out in September, when the longtime director of finance took a quick retirement after it became public there were serious issues coming out of his office at the administration building on Fifth Street. In addition to huge discrepancies in employee insurance premiums that took everyone by surprise, no one seemed to be paying attention to hundreds of thousands of dollars in credit card purchases made by administrators; or thousands going out for late utilities fees.
So far, Jay Augustine’s secretary, fired the end of September, is the only one who’s taken the fall on that one ... unless you count the antiquated computer system being blamed for the lack of oversight. Despite the assurances of Superintendent Jerome Roberts and School Board President Annette Johnson that all these problems are being addressed, this was an ugly public relations debacle.
Then came “Nightmare on Fifth Street, the Squeal.” Last week, the board unanimously passed a cutting-edge policy dealing with transgender students — only to rescind it a few days later when, after taking heat from conservative groups, they realized the new policy had not been adequately vetted — or even read — by the board.
Talk about an October Fright Night. Hundreds of angry protesters showed up Friday when the board unanimously voted to rescind the measure. Not only did school leaders get the evil eye from civil rights and gay/lesbian groups outside Aurora, they were lambasted by local taxpayers, parents, students even district employees whose initial pride in the board’s stand was replaced by embarrassment and disappointment.
Continued:
The villain in this tale of horror, according to the board, was Assistant Superintendent Christine Aird, who formed the policy and brought it to members for approval. She’s been placed on administrative leave for “pulling the wool over our eyes,” according to Johnson, and not following the correct process. In other words, Aird got the temporary, maybe even permanent, boot for failing to do her job when board members obviously didn’t exactly do theirs either.
The new policy, introduced in July, was not some complicated piece of legalese that needed to be deciphered by a team of attorneys. It’s only a few pages. And when it was handed out this summer, its heading — TRANSGENDER AND GENDER NONCONFORMING STUDENTS — certainly caught the eye of our reporter. She not only read the whole thing, she realized it was so controversial that when it came up for a vote this fall, she knew there would be a good story if East passed it.
There was drama all right — but not the story line anyone expected.
Johnson says this latest fiasco was the result of “a perfect storm.” School leaders had been working overtime to get the district up to date on curriculum, technology and procedures that had been ignored for the past 30 years. Busy trying to make up for lost time, they got caught off guard by the financial mess. Then, dealing with that fiasco, they didn’t pay close enough attention to the transgender issue to realize Aird’s version did not follow the Illinois Association of School Board’s procedures.
Says the board president, “We got caught.”
Johnson insists tremendous progress has been made in correcting the problems and that the district will exit these nightmares much stronger and more vigilant. There’s “too much complacency” in school districts among administrators and board members, added Johnson, an accountant who owns her own small foods company. “In business, if you make a major mistake like that, you’d be gone ... Everybody needs to step it up.”
Including residents.
After Pat Lorance, who attends East Aurora board meetings religiously, listened to a couple dozen speakers from Friday’s overflow crowd address school officials, she had a question of her own: “Where are all these concerned citizens when regular meetings are taking place?”
The good news is, tales of horror — in this case, getting kicked in the teeth twice — tend to wake you up. Which brings me to the moral of this story: Sometimes it takes a whack to get on track.
http://beaconnews.suntimes.com/mobile/15691334-463/complacency-at-east-leads-to-nightmare-on-fifth-street.html
The article failed to mention the building and grounds debacle and how the district protected Nestor the Molestor by creating for him the sports director job to protect him before that all blew up.
There is also little said about the complete lack of accountability in other departments. The only administrator to leave has been Jay Augustine. He was already retiring and simply retired a month earlier. The only real casualties so far have been a couple of secretaries.
The Beacon mentions that the administrators have been sidetracked by curriculum and Technology issues but the truth is there have been no curriculum changes this year. As for technology, the web sites are years old and the it's a quarter of the way through the school year and students don't even have "Log Ins" yet. That means they can't log in under their name nor save anything to the computers. the computers and internet only work half the time. Even if there was a curriculum, the technology problems wouldn't allow the curriculem to be followed.
This districts administrators and board are a complete joke. I'd like to say that the Beacon and Denise Crosby were doing something to help the community but so far they have only thrown softballs. There is so much more corruption in this district. If a Beacon reporter wanted, they could almost make a career out of District 131.
Johnson fixed our health care thank you hang in there
Rumor is they got rid of another in Clayton's department, the webmaster. The website will probably never be up to date now.
This community is also a joke because they allow these administrators and board members to continue this crap. Even with all that has happened in the past few months, who is being held accountable? No-One. They have done everything to protect themselves.
Jay simply retired a month early (No Comment) Still no accounting for hundreds of thousands of dollars spent on administrator credit cards, late payments on utilities, insurance issues.
Move Nestor to a different position (No Comment) No accounting for the hundreds of trips to the stores and unnecessary spending at building and grounds, not to mention buildings and grounds that are falling apart.
Denean Adams gets an advance at an Atlantic City Casino (No Comment) Goes on extended PAID sick leave until it all blows over and then she'll quietly come back.
Christie Aird is on administrative leave (No comment) You know it's paid or they would have announced unpaid leave. Again, take her out of the spotlight until things blow over in the community and then quietly bring her back.
Joan Glotzbach in charge of the personnel committee that passed the transgender policy. (No comment) No accounting for her whatsoever.
Jerome Roberts in charge of a district that is falling apart as we speak (Only comment - I was distracted by curriculum issues) No accounting whatsoever.
And who is allowing all this to be covered up??? Annette Johnson and the District 131 School Board. They claim they are cleaning up the district but that's all they are doing is trying to sweep the dirt under the rug.
The board needs to wake up and clean all the administrators out of central office or the community will be cleaning them out of office at the next election.
Pat Lawerance is correct how about the parents. unny they never complained before. If this community would have been interested in the schools along time ago it would not have decayed as a community. Bad parents make bad schools.
I agree October 23, 2012 9:03 PM. I finally thought the Beacon was going to wake up and tell the truth about what goes on in 131, then she gives them and out "a whack to get back on track?" Come on Denise, be a fair impartial reporter. The only track they need is the one heading out. The Beacon has ALWAYS favored the Board and not the community of Aurora or EA teachers when it came to controversial issues.
Smooth move Annette attempting to use education as an excuse for negligence. Just like in the big political world...those problems have been there since you took office.
Six months before an election she is now trying to claim all the problems happened in the last few months at the same, coincidental, time they happened to be trying to fix all the districts existing problems.
Except for one 'friend' of Annette who keeps posting positive statements, anyone wanting to know the truth about how the district is working, ask ANY employee. Don't expect them to allow to be quoted, as they all fear the wrath of Lizzy Borden's ax.
I must add, inspite of all the bad PR created by the Board & superintendent,and their lack of support in the classrooms, the teachers and most administrators continue to give our students 100%.
Hey, let me also give kudos- the Board showed everyone who is "boss." AND they hired a famous football player. We may not have great test scores but we got IMAGE!
The Beacon has got it wrong they did not follow The Illinois School Code.
The IL School Board Association is a place to go to get information and they can help with making policies. The Beacon has brought some of the things going on in the district to light but who have they contacted to see to get things to change. They still haven't done anything about the credit cards and even the Beacon says Jay is to blame but if you look at the Administration Code it clearly states that a card holder can't check the receipts and Jay was a card holder. Has the Beacon contacted The States Attorney to see if how they handled the credit cards was illegal since they took the time to FOIA them?
There is one community member that sends emails to administrators, board members and community members about Johnson. I have received one. She is the one and only and contributes to this blog often.
The union last night supported the board and Johnson last night to the reps. Teachers know who is taking care of them.
The Board is working as hard as they can to fix things.
You have our support.
When is this district going to get serious about academics? Crosby's story was lame. How about a story on the state of the schools in Aurora.
“I didn’t know that much about it, but I didn’t feel like arguing tonight,” said Alderman Rick Lawrence, 4th Ward, who voted for the measure. Yep, that is the guy I want to vote for alderman at large. What a looser. He now represents a large section of residents on the east side due to redistricting. Word has it that the only reason he wants to be alderman at large is so he does not have to do anything anymore and just collect a check. Yeah, champion of the people, sure Rick.
I think it's interesting how Annette and Anita keep commenting about themselves (the ones who keep saying they're big supporters of the board).
This board HAS to go. Elections are 6 months away, hopefully they won't do too much more damage in that time...
Johnson has the support of many.
Guess we will find out election time.
Carol Farnum and the board from hell also had the support of many. When they stopped supporting children and became self serving, the community rejected them. As they should.
Annette Johnson claimed in the Beacon that Christie Aird did not follow the Illinois Association of School Board’s procedures. I am sure if the Beacon really wanted to ask Annette Johnson a "real" question about this mess, they could have started by asking what specific procedures Annette is claiming that Cristie Aird violated. IASB does give "guidelines" for school boards to follow. I do not recall any regulations in there for administrators.
If Annette is really worried about violations, she should start will the Illinois School Code, Public Act 96-0434, which took effect on August 13, 2009, requires every school district in Illinois, including special charter districts, to create a current itemized salary compensation report for every employee holding an administrative certificate and working in that capacity, including the district superintendent (the “Administrators’ Salary Compensation Report”). The law requires each school district to post its Administrators’ Salary Compensation Report on its website...
The law states that the administrative compensation report must be "current". District 131's compensation report is two years old. This district is in violation of many laws and school codes. The fact is, the board and superintendent got caught with their pants down on the transgender issue and they had to quickly blame somebody. Christie, you are it.
Changes need to be made.
If you came to a meeting you would see NOTHING is discussed in the open meeting.
At least 3 borad members don't even look at the information until they show up at the meeting and get help to open up the computer.
Changes need to be made.
This superintendent should have been fired long ago. The previous board tried but it was blocked and those working towards that goal were attacked.
Changes need to be made.
We need new board members who are willing to commit to learning how to do this. Know going in you will have little assistance. Read the material, it is all out there on the internet and the library.
The Board Has 1 Employee. Once you get that right, that employee hires his staff.
If D131 gets that right I believe there will be many replacements.
Changes need to be made.
It's time we step up and make them.
All of you who know so much about how the board works and who they employ, you should RUN FOR THE BOARD!
We know there is only one person writing and you had been such a good board member you could not fill out your term.
We also know that by the action of your blog it stops many good people form running.
when is this district going to get serious about academics and fire Jermore Roberts. Look at the complete mess the district is in. Thanks to the few board members who actually are doing something.
This Board is the worst it has ever been. Ray and Annette are terrible.
Any good person that would and are going to be afraid of what people say shouldn't run. With your theory no one who would run for a political position if people where saying something on a blog wouldn't run. This is an election year and there are many blogs out there where people have made comments about those that are running.
If I had been on this board I would of quit too especially after all that has gone on lately I would be ashamed to sit with this group.
District is never going to get serious. Board members with drug raids on family houses is pathetic.
How about Oct. 1 minutes being posted, since it's been almost 2 weeks since they were approved.
The pervious Board and the one prior to that gave Jerome his contract
The 'pervious' Board with Dee & Rayann tried not give Dr. Roberts a contract. The previous Board with Annette not only gave him a contract but added many benefits.
How come the list of bills isn't on the 9/17/2012 board minutes under the finance Committee like in the past. The last time it showed up was 8/20/2012.
B. Action Items:
1. Motion to Approve the Following Monthly Financial Reports:
a. Treasurer's Report
Treasurer's Report
b. Payroll Report
Payroll Report
c. Financial Report
Financials
d. List of Bills
List of Bills
What don't they want us to know?
When is this board going to do what needs to be done and clean house. We’ve had enough of blaming everyone except where the blame really belongs. Yes, Christie Aird crafted the transgender policy and presented it to the personnel committee but that committee is run by Joan Glotzbach. Shouldn’t the person in charge bear the larger responsibility? Joan was also the administrator who started the entire Bob Green fiasco by terminating him without just cause. And let’s not forget that Bob is far from the only employee who has been harassed by Joan Glotzbach. How many others have been terminated, suspended, fined and harassed because of her personal vendettas?
Then there is Jerome Roberts. Isn’t it his job to oversee all the districts committee’s? Nothing should have been added to the agenda and sent to the board without his full knowledge and approval. All the recent debacles in District 131 are ultimately his responsibility.
Annette Johnson’s statement in the Beacon that the board approved the transgender policy because they had never read it is enough cause to replace the entire board. How dare they pass any policy without even reading it? Why do we have board if they simply rubber stamp everything brought before them without even reading it?
Oh yes, don’t forget. In District 131, the students test scores are in the bottom 5% of the state.
This district needs an enema!!!
Rayanne resigned and left Dee on her to vote no by herself some board member.
Also what did Rayanne ever accomplish on the Board.
We know its you Rayanne
"Rayanne resigned"--
So have others in the recent past, including Carol Farnum.
8:22 p.m., neighboring districts broadcast their School Board meetings so the community can virtually observe them. D131 administration does not. Neighboring districts publish detailed minutes online within a day or two of approval. D131 does not.
The reason? Neighboring districts think their communities deserve transparency & respect. D131 administration does not.
yEA transparency- hmmm this board talked the talk and started sending out Board Bits after the meetings...funny none have been sent for the last few meetings. Wonder why?
Last time I looked they were in the bottom 2% in the entire state of Illinois. Yet they continue to employee Jermome Roberts. Why hasnt the other board members demanded his resignation? Are they all a bunch of do nothings???
The teachers received an interesting e-mail today from the union leadership. It was explained that the administration was aware that many teachers AND administrators were passing around petitions in support of Christie Aird. They warned us that the union couldn’t back us when the Central Office Administrators went after us, if, this was done during the school day or using a school computer.
Teachers are bombarded daily with all sorts of things that would be questionable from an educational standpoint. Most of these distractions, like this one take less than a minute of our time. It always interesting that when it’s an embarrassment to the administrators, then it becomes a work issue. This is yet another form of harassment. It’s perfectly fine for the administrators to commit all forms of egregious acts but it’s against the rules for people to stand up for themselves and others, and say that it’s wrong.
They were very interested in knowing which administrators were supporting Christie Aird. It’s no wonder that there have been so many calls for central office to be cleaned out. When the central leadership is completely self-serving it is time for a change. Jerome Roberts and Joan Glotzbach need to step down now. If they don’t, the board needs to step in.
I would like to thank the current board for doing all that it has so far. Keep it up!!! East has been a complete mess for decades and FINALLY there is someone at the helm cleaning all this crap up. Thank you Annette Johnson!!!!!!
If Annette was cleaning things up, then why are Jerome Roberts and Joan Glotzbach stil in charge. They have been in charge of all the embarrassing situations that the district has been experiencing. Simply put, they have been too busy bullying and harrassing everyone. They have not been doing what they were hired to do.
It's simple. The board needs to clean the administrative house. If they don't the community will be cleaning the boards house this spring.
You are welcome, Annette Johnson. :)
If I was Christie I would consult a lawyer because she was thrown under the bus with this. She is being their scapegoat for them not reading the policy then you take into account that two board members sat on the committee and the minutes show they talked about this and the board members lied about knowledge of it.
Duh teachers should be teaching not filing petitions just like Aird should have been leading not pushing social agendas.
Aird is a bad situation because it is my understanding the hate groups keep calling and they need to keep her out of the buildings because of this. I know Aird did not mean it but she let her views get in the way. Aird tried to protect the one kid and now nobody can figure out what to do.
How can we get chiropractic spam emails, who claim to know our insurance policy includes them on our DISTRICT emails, which we open on company time?
The union put out that message because under the new evaluation process for teachers and principals Aird has the final say. We now compromised her position to evaluate objectively. This would be true of a bad administrator like our principal at Bardwell. If she petitioned the board for Airds job then Aird may look the other way. Or if Aird did a focus walk and we signed her petition but another teacher did not that may change her evaluation. Long story short we want to help Christy but we are not.
Christy gdid have the students at heart but did not get input. Sometimes we just try to hard to help or work without thinking things through.
I feel this is true of the board also and we are letting outsiders ruin our community.
Lets hope that Dr Roberts, Joan, Annette, Clayton and Christy figure a way out.
We miss you Christy.
East Forms Committee to Establish Inclusive Policy
The East Aurora Board of Education will convene an Ad Hoc Committee of selected community members and educators who are committed and focused on providing a safe and secure environment for all students in East Aurora Schools.
The Ad Hoc Committee will meet on Thursday, November 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the School Service Center located at 417 Fifth Street in Aurora.
Committee members will work to fundamentally impact the lives of our current and future students by establishing a policy that will serve as a safeguard against bullying and discrimination at all of our schools in East Aurora School District 131.
The Ad Hoc Committee will work throughout the duration of the calendar year to formulate a policy that will be proposed to the Board of Education for implementation.
Regular minutes of committee meetings and a final report will be made available to the public.
While the committee is comprised of selected members, meetings are open for the public to attend.
To 10/25 @ 5:33pm-Just whom are you talkking abouT What board member(s)?
Last posting should have been @ 5:48 on 10/25.
From this evenings Beacon
After transgender flap, East Aurora working to form alternative policy
AURORA — In the wake of rescinding a district policy designed to protect the rights of transgender students, the East Aurora School District has decided to form a committee that will address the creation of an alternative policy.
The East Aurora Board of Education is selecting a group of community members and educators who will work together as an ad hoc committee to focus on safeguards against bullying and discrimination throughout the district.
Committee members will be announced before the group’s first meeting, at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at the School Service Center, 417 Fifth St. in Aurora. The committee’s future meeting schedule will be determined on that date, school officials said.
The School Board will select the committee members to be involved in the policy-making process, but meetings will be open to the public.
School District spokesman Clayton Muhammad said anyone with suggestions can send their thoughts to info@d131.org, or call 630-299-5550 during regular business hours.
The board adopted a policy on the rights of transgender students on Oct. 15. The policy created a stir locally and on the Internet, and the board rescinded it four days later.
The committee will determine “a policy that will serve as a safeguard against bullying and discrimination at all of our schools in East Aurora School District,” Muhammad said.
The fix is in. The board selects who will be on this committee. In other words, they already know what they want the final policy to be but they also want the community to fell like they had some say in the process. It's the illusion of participation. It was quite clear on Friday October 19th that they don't give a damn what the community thinks. This happens all the time in the schools but usually with the teachers. It is a complete waste of time.
It is my belief October 26, 2012 9:14 PM and the post they referenced were one person trying to take focus from the Board (president- specifically)issues by spreading rumors about one of their own. Old habits die hard. (lies & slander)Some people will stoop to anything to serve their own pupose.
In the last election there was a friend of Ray's that ran and won and he only stayed on the board a month. I believe he said it took up too much of his time.
Aird was never a good admin. She had her pets that she promoted. Some are really bad. I work at Hermes and Demar should have gone last year. Now she is on FLMA. Now we have Mcmahon she is horrible. Most days she comes in late. The test scores go down every year here, while at other schools in the district they have gone up.
Aird is not that well liked and I would take the petitions with a grain of salt. Many teachers got approached and had been afraid to say no. That's why the union involved.
The Oct. 1st 2012 approved minutes are still not posted. According to the Open Meetings Act if a district has a website they are by law suppose to have them posted 7 days after they have been approved and also at the Central Office. Anyone can contact the States Attorney to complain.
Popped up in Google Alerts today
School Board working to turn D131 around
By JEFF WARD jeffwardsun@sbcglobal.net October 26, 2012 6:34PM
I’ll say it again! Threatening to throw someone off a school board is like threatening to stop beating them with a two-by-four. Serving on a school board is a thankless volunteer job that requires endless hours and won’t get you elected to any other office.
The only way your average school board member knows they’re doing a reasonable job is if they don’t see their name in the newspaper.
Should any city council member even sneeze the wrong way, I’m on ’em like white on rice. But considering those previous caveats, it takes a great deal of emotional effort to overcome that empathetic inertia and take on one of those oft-maligned school district bodies.
Ah! But the East Aurora District 131 school board actually managed to overcome that resistance. If you’ve been reading the Beacon-News lately, then you have to wonder just how many mulligans might any one group be entitled to.
It all started in September when a host of fiscal follies came to light including, but not limited to, the untimely payment of utility bills entailing late fees and 800 maintenance department trips to the hardware store in just seven months.
I’m guessing they were serving free doughnuts.
Of course, district Finance Director Jay Augustine immediately retired as a result of those revelations.
But that didn’t stop the problems from persisting into October when the board discovered that employee insurance premiums didn’t match the bills they were actually paying.
So the insurance coordinator was terminated.
Then, just recently, it was the sudden implementation and even more sudden revocation of a new district transgender student policy. And the dust from that one hasn’t even begun to settle.
But as is always the case before issuing any verbal smackdown, I first sought out D131 Board President Annette Johnson to get her take on this fascinating series of events.
“East Aurora has been a mess for 30 years,” she said, “It’s like one big whack-a-mole game. We are trying to fix it.”
“When it came to the finances, I had asked all those questions,” Johnson continued.
“As for the insurance issue,” she added, “the board asked for an audit in 2010, and staff assured me that any problems had been fixed and everything was fine. You have to be able to trust the people that work for you.”
We moved on to the transgender policy debacle.
“I’m not making excuses,” Johnson stipulated. “I’m sitting here kicking myself over this. This has nothing to do with me or the board being for or against an issue. It’s about following the proper procedures.”
“We knew they were updating all the policies, and they needed to be updated — that’s part of the drama that’s going on here,” Johnson added. “But I thought the staff was working with the attorney and the school association, and they weren’t. It wasn’t reviewed properly.”
So I asked her why she didn’t just bite the bullet and leave the policy in place.
“The problem is, none of the schools were prepared to implement these new procedures. No training or necessary internal structures had been put in place. We just spent $50,000 on a new anti-bullying policy, and we’re still working on that,” Johnson replied.
“This week’s story was supposed to be about the new magnet academy. Those are the things that help these kids,” Johnson concluded. “This will never happen again. I will get signatures from every administrator stating they will take the appropriate steps before presenting any new policy.”
Then I asked Johnson if the board’s decision to repeal the policy would give the Illinois Family Institute, a despicable organization designated as a gay hate group, a reason to believe their pressure tactics worked.
“They may feel like they won, but they didn’t,” she said. “If that policy had been left in place it would’ve been poorly managed, and that would have been even worse.”
I wondered aloud if these lapses start with the superintendent.
“I don’t blame Jerome (Roberts) for any of this,” she said. “We have had to address so many issues so quickly that’s it’s been very difficult. Again, you have to trust the people who work for you until they prove otherwise.”
As we continued talking about solutions, despite her obvious exasperation with recent events, Johnson made it very clear that, while there is no silver bullet, she and the board will persevere and continue to directly address these any other issues that might arise.
Now, you know me. My BS-ometer is usually dead on. So trust me when I say this was one of the most refreshing and enlightening conversations in my seven years as a columnist. If everyone spoke this directly and with that kind of passion, I might be out of a job. Her love for East Aurora was palpable.
So here’s the bottom line. Sometimes you make history, and sometime it makes you.
Despite what our sound bite, instant-gratification populace likes to think, turning around a 30-year culture will take time. And Johnson is just the person to do it.
Ok. When on earth is East going to focus on academics? This is all just ridiculous.
The policy created a stir locally and on the Internet, and the board rescinded it four days later.
Not quite accurate. The policy created a stir OUTSIDE the community. Then the majority of local people speaking about the policy spoke IN FAVOR of it. Then the board decided the local opinion was not as important as the non-local opinion.
so how are the "select" members chosen? was every staff and community member offered a chance to be included?
Isn't it amazing as different people write articles about the district they never check if any laws are being broken. This district has broken many and yes this district has had problems for years and until this one only a few has been addressed until this time for election for some board members. They talk about the credit cards and the insurance problems why when some complained nothing was done? There us still no policy about credit cards or pro cards and who is checking them? According to the IL Administration Code it has to be someone who doesn't have a card.
Yes, it was more outside people than district people but most here don't care. The problem with it is that the Illinois School Code does not allow to single out one group and they do have a very large policy about bulling that covers everyone. So Jeff Ward is saying that the district should not follow the law as long as they have someone that cares so much for the district. Mr. Ward there are a lot of people that care just as much as Johnson but they try to put the faith in the board to hire a Superintendent to run the district by the policies the board makes. He is there only employee and is suppose to run the district and if he can't we need to get another one. Many districts are going through tuff times and it seems their Superintendents are handling things.
Get her a straight jacket and a halloween mask and maybe we will believe the garbage you just typed.
The only people spreading lies and writing negatively about the Board are two former board members who can't stand the progress of this current board.
Yes this board has made a few mistakes. But as the old saying goes if you don't do anything you will not make a mistake.
One never did anything but warmed a chair for 18 years and he other one could not fill out her term.
They have one thing in common their favorite color is green.
I read Clayton's shout out will see how many people who really care about the kids show up
My BS-ometer is going full tilt into redline. Annette is stating she has faith in Dr. Roberts and that these problems have been going on for thirty years. She acts as though Jerome was hired this year. Jerome has been an administrator in this district on and off since at least as far back as the nineties. He has been a central office administrator since 2005 and the superintendent for five or six years now. How long does Jerome have to be in charge before Annette believes these problems are a direct result of his leadership? Every central office department is in scandal and the only consistent factor in all these scandals is his leadership or lack thereof.
The community is watching and this will become apparent come the spring elections. If Johnson is going to keep supporting this inept superintendent despite his incompetence, she is going to pay the price at her next election. There are six other board members who also need to step up. Several of them have spoken against Jerome. They know he is a terrible leader. It’s time they put their vote where their mouth is.
The laws you speak of are broken in the other districts as well. Jeff Ward is a no nonsense reporter. s far as Dr Roberts he is just more transparent than others or the board is hard telling. I hear many stories from other teachers in other districts they just don't talk about it. I think it's education in general.
Progress is not firing and hiring people. Progress is not having board members email teachers, faculty, staff, and administration bullying them. Progress is not having the majority of the public think you are a joke with Atilla the Hun running the show. There is one person who thinks there is progress and thats Annette. Annette, no one likes you and no one respects you. They shake your hand and smile, and then laugh behind your back. You have a lame duck superintendent who does whatever you want because he laughs all the way to,the bank. You had no friends in high school, and trying to scare people now with your bully leadership style doesn't mean that you have any friends now. You are a joke, the beacon made that clear, and you make it even clearer with each move you make.
How can you say this board is more transparent or Roberts. The district still hasn't posted the approved minutes of the Oct 1st meeting. Has the employees been given back the money that they overpaid for the insurance. Has Deanne Adams paid back the district money she used for her own benefit?
What laws does other districts break. In the list of bills does this district show the charges on the credit card bills and don't say they can't. Other districts do.
This district has taken more time to look good and not taken care of the most important thing and that is learning.
Funny I am a union rep and we all think Johnson is great. Many support staff and secretaries signed a petition in support of her.
We have only her to thank for our new insurance plan and when looking our premiums tripling she got a great plan now it's less than 10% and affordable.
The Magnet Acedemy is another thing she did and many teachers are proud to be a part of it.
That is the truth.
All the more reason to support Annette and the board if people at the High School don't like them. EHS is a terrible place and we hope the board continues to clean it up. Moving Wilson and Cam was a start but enter attendition needs to be on getting rid of Barraza and Conrad.
7:38 a.m., the minutes for the Oct. 1st meeting have been published online for at least a couple of days.
Johnson got the new insurance plan, yes. Whether your correct premiums will be tripling or not remains to be seen.
Anytime someone needs a petition for credibility is no good to begin with. Maybe you dont know all the facts about the board president getting the police called on her at the service center for being out of control. What statistical data do you have that proves the magnet academy is successful? She should have fixed the insurance, she screwed it up to begin with. Back and forth shows she doesn't know what direction she is going.
To: October 28, 2012 8:58 AM
Were the secretaries and support staff threatned with disciplinary action for passing petitions on Annette's behalf as the teachers have been threatned for passing a petition in support of Christie Aird? Where exactly is this fictitious petition?
As for the insurance, it's a complete farce. It has seriously limited the doctors we can see. Every doctor that has begun accepting it had to go through all sorts of hoops to become part of the network. Many doctors won't even bother to do it.
Anyone who has had to place a claim has found that this insurance is ridiculous. They deny claims as a matter of course. You have to fill out documentation every time that no other insurance should be paying the claim. They want to know the circumstances of every claim and still come back and claim the medical procedures were not medically necessary even though the doctor believes otherwise.
I have paid out thousands more this year than in any previous year with Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Personally, I am about ready to hire an attorney to go after the district for not providing the level of insurance our contract requires.
You claim to be a union rep and further claim that everyone thinks that Annette Johnson is great. It's obvious to me (and every other staff member)that you are not a faculty member of District 131 and I would venture to guess that you are Annette Johnson. Annette is the only person in Aurora who thinks Annette is great.
From a Beacon article:
"The West Aurora School District is again on the hunt for a principal to lead West High School, and administrators are looking to students, parents, staff and residents for input.
The district has posted a short survey on its website, asking those interested about the traits they value in a principal"
Wow--asking the parents, students, & community for input on hiring a principal--what a revolutionary idea! We could learn something from our neighbors to the west!
What brilliant insight are the parent's and student's going to add to that search. What a bunch of crap. They post that stuff to make stupid people (like you) think they are contributing.
Here are the dumb answers they are going to get.
We want a principal that is fair, strict, organized, interested in the community, blah blah blah.
Hmmmmmm, what could you do if you wanted to share your opinion about what the district is doing.
Hmmmmmm, let's think.
What could you do?
MAYBE GO TO A SCHOOL BOARD MEETING!
No one has asked why the bills where being paid late but could it be that this board only approves bills once a month some do it at two of the meetings. Is it because what they say they have they don't and the district has to have the money to do it?
The papers have made many comments and looked into things but have they looked into how the district really works and why bills are being paid late? They take the word of a board president and not look into why these things are happening. I'm not standing up for anyone but some of this has been going on for a couple of years and now Johnson whats to bring this out.
Any news media that whats to report should look at the whole not take what these people say and judge someone when they have not talked to the employees involved. In the East St. Louis situation they did and found that what some of the board said was not true.
After all is said and done it is the Superintendents job to be doing this and the news media should take the time to find out how a district should be ran. Take the time to look at The IL School Code to see if what this district is saying about how the district is suppose to be ran is being ran by law.
Going to a school board meeting is indeed one of MANY ways to share an opinion about a school district.
Too bad our district is not enlightened, caring, or respectful enough to broadcast meetings online as many of our neighboring districts do. Just another example of administration's lack of transparency.
Watching a board meeting online does not let you speak at it. You have to actually show up to do that.
When the issues in a school district involve the top administrative personnel as is the case in District 131, an outside agency must be brought in to investigate the situation. We can not trust that corrupt administrators are going to do a fair and impartial investigation of themselves. Anything less is is a complete snow job.
Annette Johnson, by supporting these corrupt administrators, is calling into serious question her own credibility.
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