Anybody know who's running for the School Board besides Kristen and Zach? I like a lot of what they're saying, but I want to see what other choices there are.
And hopefully there will be a forum like last time where all candidates can answer questions about the issues facing our district.
I guess Clayton does what wants to. I just read a press announcement that his choice for MLK day is Father Pleger. This guy could nt be more of a racist.. He is also a religious figure. I read the links on Kristen and Clayton and see he has crossed the line. Now this why is allowed to continue?
I belive the incumbents would encourage a fourm, they done a great job of solving many long standing problems. I do not belive they would avoid any questions. I do belive the two new four year candidates would like to avoid a fourm because there are many questions they could not answer. All they want to do is build new schools that are not needed and build a school bus system, and raise our taxes.
If these 2 candidates are so ready to debate- I hope they show up at the next board meeting and inquire. I know Johnson will chew em up and spit em out. They have no clue.
Stella did a great job of making a fool of herself at the meeting today. Talking about how great our district is doing. Uhhh-look at our test scores, we're in the bottom 5%, test scores have risen 1 point over the last 4 years.
Yeah, Annette will eat them up and spit them out...you mean just like she did when she made racist remarks at a committee meeting or how she bullies staff or how she is completely unprofessional in just about every environment or how she is completely overstepping her bounds as board president. Is that what you mean Anita?
Exactly what I (not Anita) mean. As a taxpayer and a teacher I know what Anette has done for us. The other candidates don't have a clue. Let's see if they show at the board meeting requesting a debate. If they are so concerned about this district why do they not attend any committee meetings (which are open to the public)?
Johnson will win any debate hands down and I am sure the only way Zack can win is by going negative a dirty tricks page right out of Marin's book. Marin is coaching him and Zack really needs to conduct himself like a man of god. If he chooses not to the members of church will see him for what he is. Kristen needs to distance herself from him. Why is he so hateful. it shows Marin can turn a preacher into a demon
I heard Stellla speak as well no wonder Johnson does not let the board speak. She is Actullualy very informed and can recite everything back and forth. So I am not sure why anyone would think she is not looking forward to a debate. . I also think she may have had a bad day with Hull. I read board comments where Zacks.own wife praised Dr Roberts as a man of integrity now her husband runs around telling everyone he is going to fire him. I never believed the gossip about Jackie but she must have wanted the union president job bad. Is Jackie that disparate to run the district.
Kristen and Zack (aka "Montroy and Strand") are actively campaigning for our School Board, including in our churches. I went to First Presbyterian church to pick up my granddaughter from preschool, and there on the front table was a stack of Montroy and Strand campaign literature (business-card size, with pictures and website).
I'm leaning towards voting for them because I think our district can benefit from new people & ideas, but I'm waiting to find out specifically how they plan to accomplish the improvements they promise. The Marin Gonzalez connection does concern me, but I seriously doubt that Kristen and Zack would want to alienate so many in D131 by bringing her back.
And a pastor on the School Board could add a unique perspective. Maybe the EHS talent show won't be during Holy Week (as it has been the past couple of years)!
For people that have "new ideas" there needs to be a plan that they can present. Just stating that you are going to do _______________ (insert promise) without a plan or action items is a BIG concern as a stakeholder in this district. S&M what is the plan? Jacki can you answer for your hubby?
Central office news...Madam President was here telling IT to figure out a way to track employees that were posting onto the blog about her. Ones using district phones or computers...so be careful, she is out to get anyone who says anything against her.
~sent from my non-district phone during my lunch break.
Does Annette have the right to go to the IT department and ask that? Just because she is the Board President doesn't give her that right she should have her one employee go do that it is his job.
10:29, there are many people in this district who have been bullied by Marin--starting from way back when she was at Waldo. Besides the high-profile examples such as Kaisershot, she made working at the high school miserable for at least 2 of my friends. One of them sent Dr. Roberts a "thank you" e-mail when Dr. R. moved her to the service center.
I agree with a previous poster in wishing Marin Gonzalez success in another district. She has proven that she is NOT a good fit for D131!
All lies and he person in the IT department should complain to their union if that took place. Why would she have to block anything, First you should not be on the blog during work. Also everyone owns a cell phone and can send from there so why would she have to blog anything.
We already have one minister on the board Ray Hull and look at the way he acts.
Marin has ruined many people with lies and blames e erroneous for her failures. Jackie Montroy is one of those Marin believers and has to much influence over her husband. Kristen is a good hearted person and should have run on her own.
I work in another school district. I would assume D131 has a similar IT policy to ours. We have to sign that we've read the policy. It makes it clear that the school computers, computer network, and phone system are for work related use, and anything that goes over those systems/networks can be reviewed by the IT department at any time. In other words, there's no expectation of privacy when you're using the boss's equipment.
District employees do not use computers or your phones that are district property to post on any blog or any other non district business just like in any other work place you can get fired for using company resources for personal use.
AURORA — East Aurora School Board member Anita Lewis has decided not to run for re-election in April, East Aurora officials confirmed Wednesday.
Lewis filed papers Friday to remove her name from the ballot.
Lewis’ departure from the ballot leaves four candidates to vie for the three 4-year board spots.
“This decision was based on family commitments that I have and is no way a reflection of the state of the district or the current board,” Lewis said in a statement.
The last day to withdraw from the ballot is Jan. 31.
Sounds like the IT department is writing lies about Johnson because she praised the new guys work. First time the district ever had anyone qualified in the position that is why the are writing he is a bad person way to go Raymond Ali
Anita was a great board member and so is Johnson. As a employee who came to meetings and started seeing positive change I always felt they both had been well prepared. I only know Jackie Walters from union meeting she attends and she is never positive. She always seems put upon and overwhelmed. I had been telling everyone to vote for Johnson, Lewis and Strand because of her record of helping in after school programs. I am really sad by this news.
Beware of our new IT director, like many of our administrators he was fired from his last job for illegally spying on employees (remember he was Johnson's top pick).
AURORA — East Aurora School Board member Anita Lewis has decided not to run for re-election in April, East Aurora officials confirmed Wednesday.
Lewis, who served as board secretary, filed papers Friday to remove her name from the ballot. She served on the board for one term.
“This decision was based on family commitments that I have and is no way a reflection of the state of the district or the current board,” Lewis said in a statement.
Lewis’ departure from the ballot leaves four candidates to vie for the three four-year board spots. They are incumbent board President Annette Johnson, incumbent board member Richard Leonard, and challengers Kirsten Strand and Zachary Montroy.
Four other candidates are running for two two-year terms: incumbent board member Ignacio Cervantes, incumbent board Vice President Stella Gonzalez, and challengers Marcella Duermit and Mary L. Peryea.
Lewis said she is very proud of the accomplishments of the School Board in recent years. In the past four years, the district has returned art to the classroom, restored the gifted program, authorized a full magnet academy and put in a new child service center.
Because of that work, Lewis said she throws her full support toward the re-election of the incumbent board members: Johnson, Leonard, Gonzalez and Cervantes.
“In the past six months, issues are being transparently brought to the public, that have and will continue to require major change in the district,” she said.
The board has received criticism for initiating changes, but those who are not willing to change are negative, she said.
“It would be disastrous for this district to go back to the way it was and would be unfair to the students, parents and taxpayers,” she said.
The last day to withdraw from the ballot is Jan. 31.
Lewis summed 131 up pretty good it needs change. I have read the materials of Montroy and Strand they are a step backwards. They talk about good administrators yet Zack goes on a mission trip with Marin Ginzalez. Scott Strand speaks up for Aird that she is a good educator. This is the same AIrd who expects kids to learn in only Spanish then master English. Aird also joined their born again Christian movement along with several others in the district. I would like to ask Mt Strand if she is a good educator why then are the schools ranked last. Elect them and return to the past no thanks. There platform should read the Marin and Christy show.
10:31 p.m., if our tech department is doing such a grEAt job then why isn't current information posted on the school websites? For example, Lisa Gawlik has been EHS choir director since October (and doing a terrific job, BTW)--yet her name and contact info are not listed under "Faculty and Staff" OR under "Fine Arts". Meanwhile, the Simmons website still lists her as Simmons choir director.
This is inexcusable, confusing for parents, and an embarrassment to the district--and it's just ONE example of our tech people dropping the ball.
Annette, we all know this is you. I'm a supporter of the new candidates and have talked with them, and they have both stated that they have no intentions of bringing anyone from the past back. We all know this rumor started with you and your pet Anita, but it is simply not true. Go and ask them. The elephant in the room is that re-electing this current board is not only a step in the wrong direction but a step towards the state taking over our district. It's time for you and the rest of the board to go. Follow what your pet did, step down, withdraw your name. WE NEED A NEW BOARD.
Ray has used the name pet to me and told me he would destroy the board members election. Lets name one thing Ray has personally done while on the board. Lets name one thing he has done since he was on the other Board. ray is about Ray .
The board members in a jesture of trust said they would give each other their IP addresses all accept Ray we know it you Ray. Stop writing for and against like your career on the Board. Everybody laughs behind your back never know what Ray your going to get
Strand and Montroy just lost my vote they called all the tax payers worthless for giving more to the schools. There is a chart on facebook showing how other communities pay more to the schools . Community beware of them they just want to pay there husband and wife a better salary. We just passed the referendum? I will be calling Johnson for a yard sign tomorrow.
5:34pm I agree, I can't believe Stand and Montroy think we should fund anymore. taxes. I will now step up my campaigning for the current board members at least we know they will never increase are taxes. The two look like we are doing them a favor because people become teachers.. I shows they are already worried about getting their family members a raise. I have visited East High many tie and I can't possibly see what we are not giving the schools. As ministers they should have a mission of property not stealing.
Losing Johnson would be a sad day. Administrators in this district don't like her drive. In four years she opened the Special Ed Center by Odonnell and the Magnet Svhool which I recall Hulls own boss giving her credit for. People who work with Ray know he is very jealous and looks for the limelight. In any other district they would name a school after her. Two building in four years WOW. I can't believe the critism she takes and is still willing to run. Name one accomplishment for Hull that would be NOTHING.
Are these two kidding the reason the school district spends less per student is that it is growing. What do they intend to do about that. They not are worried about raising our taxes. Montroy in Stand equal higher taxes. The debates should be interesting.I will go and. Hope the tax question comes up.
Are you kidding me giving each other their IP address that is like giving someone your checking account number. Good for you Ray your not acting like a child. Board members are not suppose to be good buddies they are suppose to make policy for the Superintendent to follow. In fact even asking I believe is an invasion of your privacy and you can bet Johnson would try to find a way to check if they where posting on the blog but that would be against the law. It just shows how some on the board don't have back bone to say no are these the people we want to make decisions for our students.
So in trying to keep an open mind about this board race after Anita dropped out, I have taken time to review the Montroy and Strand sites. I hear a lot of their views but dont see any plans or actions they will take to improve the district. They are nieve to believe that testing doesn't matter. In today's educational arena it is unfortunately all that matters and is what will be the deciding factor of a potential state take over. If they are elected I fear that. If anyone can change my mind and votes then please share their plan. People have been asking for it for weeks. What specifically will they do different from the current board?
The board is not suppose to accomplish anything the Superintendent is the one that is suppose to bring these ideas up to the whole board and they vote on it.
The last superintendents did nothing so telling us to put all our hopes on person is plain dumb.
The 7:10 am post hit it right on the head that is the world we live in. Every school plan is built around scores. I have attended meeting and watched the current board pass position after position, buy new books, put computers in and a info system in, buy buildings. The tax payers may not have funded the schools up to now but today they stepped up. Its not about good tools because I am sure they have that. It's about training, professional development, good building leaders, good curriculum leaders and a good superintendent. That needs to be the plan. I get the impression they only think by changing the superintendent things will get better. Their plan is to pie in the sky. I also think they are surrounded by bad advice. If Marin Gonzalez went with them on a mission trip I am sure the schools got discussed.
Simply put the residents can afford these two if they continue to talk this way. We gave 131 the tools now use them. The current board did spend money on bricks and mortar and cleaned up some of the accounting issues tell I see more solid ideas I would be very weary to stop with little progress we had.
Seeing what is going on behind the seens Mr Montroy is have documents at te district pulled to go negative, People are being asked to pick sides and that lays at his doorstep because he has solicited donations from staff members. We have never been asked to do this. As a Christian Kristen needs to step up. I also know Johnson is recently told someone she is putting her own money in and can match them dollar for dollar if need be. This race is not about who can say what about each other it's about making the schools better.
@8:17 am. I'm so sick of you posting "Annette, we all know it's you." No, we don't all know that. Give it up, would you please! You are one person posting that over, and over again. Stop!!!
It is not Annette posting its people who are on their Facebook pages looking at heir foolish comments. hey are in support of buses All Day Kindergarden and complaining about pay of the teachers. They are too expensive for me.
It's the secrete blog administrator who posts that all the time. The one who is so embarrassed by being associated with this blog that they refuse to attach their name to it. I hate Rayanne but at least she is not a complete chicken.
the negative emails on the Blog are coming from Ray Hull at the City of Aurora on city time. If anyone knows Ray one day he for something and the next day against. But you would think our city would have other things to do than write on the blog or mail the school district. does the city not have a Internet policy. Tom are your employees not working????.
I read Montrose comments it seems we have a lot of tools but bad administrators who do not give us the training and professional development to implement them. I was quite amazed by a memo in our building that changed the elementary report times to 7:45am. I understand it comes with the new contract and I understand the start of the day will be extended next year, but again we have no plan. I take home work as do many of my colleagues so forcing me to come to work without a plan is silly. Why not professional development?
My comment to tools is while this board has been overly generous with, books, technology, reading programs all building are not the same.
A change in leadership at the top is needed and I am not talking about the board. Dr Roberts and Aird need to be te first ones to go. I am concerned that Strand will not be able to do that. The buzz is her husband is a big supporter of hers and she may get Dr Roberts position. She recently told staff at Bardwell she is the only one qualified to be superintendent.
That FB page is harrassment, a form of bullying of teens and I hope everyone reports it. Here is what I found how to report you dislike: https://www.facebook.com/help/187721894638019
This is something our High School needs to be on top of. Where is the principal, counselors, deans, PPA, teachers or social workers. Other school districts would have gotten this shut down when the buzz started. I also feel Jesie Baraza needs to be replaced he spends his days locked in his office. say High is a joke and needs to be taken over by the State. No one person, superintendent or board can save it. When you try someone rips you apart. SAD
I have not been a recent poster. However today I read yet another article by the Beacon ripping at the East Aurora Board.
I am a first hand witness to maintenance people on continual coffee and food breaks. Since August that has stopped I manage a McDonald's near the Service Center at least twice a week five guys all with d131shirts would sit better than 1 hour while school was in session. I would leave messages with Lisa Morales who would forward them to Garcia. It never stopped. I work hard, I earn less than 35,000. I did drop out and I watch East Aurora students sit here with no purpose.
I seems a person was trusted with the hospital got things done on time and it does not take a college degree to have work ethics. Shame on Hull
Hull courage he is a trouble maker that takes a negative view on everything. The story here is not that they hired a honest Aurora business man because that does not sell papers. The story Hull is ready to blow again. The six board members are the ones with courage for cleaning up the district, Hull does not want change he thinks its ok to drive around not do your job ad spend money with friends, But look where he works. he is part of the corrupt city government. He drives around all day, drinks coffee and uses the city email system to send out hate mail. That the real Ray Hull. The man of God. Your a joke Ray and you only got on he board to get your daughter a scholarship.
As far as Johnson goes Hull bullied her on her mothers one year anniversary of her death. I asked her if Hull knew that and she replyed yes. Courage, no crazy is more the word for him.
Also on another note Zack and Kristen before listening to him I suggest you look into the maintenanace contracts or intact current board members I feel you will make awesome members but you need to do fact checking before taking Hulls word
@3:29pm. You have got to be crazy! Barraza does not spend his days locked in his office! What a bold-faced lie! He is all over the place, doing a great job at East. Know your facts, before you post lies!!
While Annette is waging her campaign against Strand and Montroy on this blog anonymously, they are out promoting their cause publicly and getting massive support from parents and residents and students too. Way to go Kirsten and Zach!
HIRING CALLED INTO QUESTION BY EAST BOARD MEMBER AURORA — An East Aurora School Board member is raising questions about a school administrator who is slated to be officially hired next week.
East board member Ray Hull said Friday he will not vote to approve the appointment of a new operations manager at the board’s Tuesday night meeting. The district’s personnel report, which would include the hiring, usually is rubber-stamped by the board. “I don’t have enough information about the candidate and his credentials,” Hull said. “I have asked for that information and I have not received it.”
The School Board is scheduled to vote on the appointment of contractor Marty Feltes as the district’s new operations manager, an administrative post.
Feltes has longtime ties to East Aurora board member Richard Leonard. Leonard, who served on the four-person committee that recommended hiring Feltes, said he’s “absolutely” good friends with Feltes.
“I wouldn’t recommend him if I wasn’t. I have a lot of friends and Marty is the only one I’d recommend for this job,” Leonard said.
“(Superintendent) Dr. (Jerome) Roberts is the one who makes the final choice,” Leonard noted.
The March job posting was advertised in three places: on the district’s website, in The Beacon-News and on Monster.com, an online job site. In May, it was advertised in two places: in the Chicago Tribune and on the Careerbuilder.com website for 30 days.
In the job postings on Aug. 24 and Nov. 30, the job opening was only advertised on the district’s website.
The March and May job descriptions listed nine qualifications for appointment to the administrative position. The first qualification was a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college. But when the position was reposted in August, the job description was revised, listing the first qualification as a bachelor’s degree or “commensurate” — meaning equal — work experience. Feltes, a lifelong East Sider, has owned Marty Feltes Plumbing and Heating since 1984. He has been a contractor since 1967 and has been friends with Leonard since he was 15-years-old.
“Many businesses accept life experiences as equal to a college degree,” Feltes said. Leonard said the operations manager position does not need to be a college graduate.
The most recent round of operations manager candidates were interviewed by four people, according to board members: Leonard, Roberts, Glotzbach and board member Anita Lewis. Leonard is chairman of the district’s Buildings and Grounds Committee. Hull, who serves on the Buildings and Grounds Committee, did not sit in on the December operations manager interviews. He did sit in on earlier interviews when the district did not hire any candidate.
Hull said Leonard had a conflict of interest in the hiring of Feltes.
“In the future, if there are issues with the director of operations — how can Mr. Leonard fairly participate in a process that may result in a disciplinary action or dismissal?” Hull asked. Leonard said he did not think being part of the hiring committee was a conflict of interest. “(Feltes) is a businessman, he ran maintenance at Provena for 25 years. He has the best qualifications for this position and the (maintenance department) is starved for knowledge,” Leonard said.
School Board President Annette Johnson said she was aware that Leonard and Feltes were friends, but did not give it much thought.
The candidates who interviewed for the position in the first half of the year did not meet the district’s criteria — prior experience overseeing multiple facilities and supervising a large number of personnel, Hull said. Hull said that the group of candidates who interviewed in December were previously disqualified in the initial job search. They were never interviewed in earlier rounds, he said.
“In other words, Mr. Feltes did not make the cut the last time,” Hull said. “So I’m not sure what changed that he became the most qualified candidate in this round of interviews when he was deemed to not even get an interview the last time.”
It is not a board members job to watch over the maintenance workers it is part of the one employee of the board and that is the Superintendent and he is suppose to hire administration to keep watch of their departments workers.
Good for Ray and The Beacon bring up how Lenoard and Feltes have been friends for a long time there is no way he should be in an interview with him.
There have been many posting about how Kristen and Zack would try to get people they know jobs in the district and our board members now are doing it.
By the way if you see the workers sitting in a restaurant for hours take a picture for proof and give it to the Beacon maybe they will investigate it to see if it is true.
It seems Hull is going out of his way to destroy his fellow board members. It is unfortunate because as a group they have brought issues to a head that have needed to be addresses for years. I have seen many positive changes, but as a informed staff member I feel we have not put the people resources into implementation. The board gave us many tools that was their job. What they did not give us was a good leader. Although, I don't always agree with Annette Johnson nobody has tried harder than her.
The appointment of Feltes is another attempt to fix that as well. Some people have not served us well and some changes need to get made. What would be best is that the board members work between themselves and stop dragging the newspaper into it. Many alumni have always felt this "side" of town never gets good coverage. If Hull had problems why go public. I am concerned tat if you don't agree with Hull he will take your ame public. From a HR stand point that is not good. I do not know Mr Feltes but if someone worked at the hospital and had a business that many years as a contractor he must know how to make people work and finish work on a timely matter.
If we continue to have such actions by the board attacking employees to the newspaper Noboby will want to work at 131. Mr Hull is a loose cannon and needs to publically appollogize to Feltes.
The Beacon will soon close in Aurora that's what a great newspaper they are. They find it more important to report tabiot stories than real ones. Look how they help back the kid who is one life support tell after the mayors announcement.
I am happy to see Hull get the Beacon to address the concern of a Board member. Far too long the Board and Supt. have pushed every tiny bit of EA news they can making it all look the best, most, awesome, phenomenal....thing going on. It was a smoke and mirrors image campaign. Now that the smoke has cleared, for the first time in a long while the Beacon is actually reporting the news as it is and Board members want to whine that the media is making them look bad ?!?!
Good for Mr. Hull for speaking up. Glad the Beacon is back to reporting a bit of news.
Word is Hull just got Johnson and Leonard elected, Feltes is very popular for all the charitable work and the fact he is a honest business person. It now looks like Hull is just after everyone for his own gain. Some had questions of Johnson after their fight and word was what happened to her she did such good. Now everyone is saying he attacked her and now Feltes and Leonard. Hull got to far out in front of himself.. he word on him is I can't believe he is a minister.
Johnson was at the game last night along with Leonard and everyone was around them.
I would vote for everyone but Strand and Montroy they are soliciting money and running their campaign with the d131 employees. When you turn the hen house over to the fox it will not work. it is unethical to think the these two can make far decisions on money issues, terminations and budget cuts when they have friends and family who work for the district.
This district is in big trouble if they get elected and needs to be turned over to he State
grand and Montroy talk about what is wrong with our system and why Elgin and Joliet are ahead of us but have spent less per student. That possess a interesting question but looks to a comperhensive reform model.
The board recently adopted a fresh set of eyes in bring in a Consultant from Joliet and a retired Superintendent from Tinley Park. They have met with our Curiculum people and building leaders and I suspect the board will have to make some tough choices. It has.shown the lack of Curiculum mapping on the part of Aird, Adams and Gonzalez. Feel this was a progressive move but it will show Principals are not capable. I feel it was long overdue.
All day K programs are another opinion for other districts like Joliet and Elgin but not fesible because we have increasing enrollments while the two districts in question have declining enrollments. This is a result of poor city planning and the next board will need to step up against the city.
Board members should not get involved with the selection process of potential employees. Why don't you bozos understand this. This is called cronyism! To sit in on interviews and review resumes is fine. By suggesting someone for a position, you put pressure on administration because you have the power to fire those administrators. This is totally unethical. Mr. Hull you are absolutely right to take a stand.
@5:55. You are such a liar!!! Johnson was with Roberts, not Leonard!! He was not even there!! Johnson and Roberts sat by themselves! Nobody was around them. More Lies!!!!!!!!!!!!
Is there anything on the up and up when it comes to the District 131 administration and board? Building and grounds has been a mess so they protect Nestor Garcia, first by hiring a construction manager to help cover his ignorance and more recently by getting him out of the line of fire before exposing the corruption rampant at building and grounds. Now they’ve Gerry-rigged the hiring process to get Leonard’s buddy Marty Feltes the position. I am sure that any of the candidates that have not been hired will have an easy time suing the district for the way our administration and board have handled this process.
In protecting Nestor they have created a whole new position “Director of Athletic & Student Activities” (paying roughly $130,000 a year). What exactly does he do for the money? There are Athletic Directors that actually run all the sports programs (and have for years) now we have been informed that Adam Harding is the New Elementary After-School Activities Coordinator. This too is a conflict. It was just negotiated in the latest contract that the union president would not teach classes so that he could actually have the time necessary to represent the union members and now they keep him too busy to do his union job. How much Adam is being paid has not been disclosed.
Crap like this is why our students don’t succeed. If our leadership were actually focused on education instead of protecting the few privileged, our students might have a better chance. When is this community ever going to wake up? The State really should look at taking over the district.
Hull friend applied and did not make the cut that is the problem with Hull like a child he throws a temper tantrum when we does get his way. What Hull did not tell you is he had been on many committees to interview candidates . As far as board members on hiring committees that is very common.Most boards in the area always sit in on the hiring of administrators. They also have community members serve on these committees for building Principals. in fact Ms Strand served on a committee that appointed Raquel Wilson Principal and the Board had to step in and over turn her selection. Today the Stem Magnet School her sons enjoy a free computer from is run by Angie Rowley a adminator from Illinois Math and Science Acedemy.
If elected you can expect higher taxes, and a board that rubber stamps all administrators decisions. I am so looking forward to the debates when Annette can bring out the facts and the Beacon will need to print them because it will not Bea board member like Hull with a ax to grind making up lies.
Other school districts are having big layoffs this spring when State aid continues to fall. East Aurora will have NONE.
West Aurora passed a referendum at the same time East did . Now they only have 2 months of cash reserves at WEst and will borrow off futher real estate taxes
Who has the most fiscally responsible board and Superintendent EAST AURORA
Leonard was at the game with his beautiful wife Mary. I talked with him and saw him talking to many others. Why his name was not announced at the game is shameful and something that should be looked into. You are such a fool (1/20/13 9:49) to be calling anybody liar .
Maybe his (Leonard's) name wasn't mentioned because there were probably close to 4,000 people there and mistakes happen. It's not shameful it is just a mistake. Don't make it more than it is. Don't read into like there are people out to get him.
Isn't it funny how nobody posts on the Beacon Website now that you can't use a stupid name like "overpaid teacher" or "anne" - You actually have to use your real name.
10:49 PM. The money you are talking about for a position that is not necessary could pay the yearly salary of three new teachers or two 10 year experienced teachers with advanced degrees. This is according to teacher salaries that can be looked up on the district website under employment. So my kids could have two or three extra teachers working with them instead of throwing the money down the toilet with Mr. Garcia. There are overcrowded classes and we have money to pay extra teachers yet we pay for a incompetence. More bad decisions by our leaders that hurt the students of d131.
9:19 a.m., that's not the reason hardly anyone posts comments on the Beacon-News site. The real reason is, you have to be a paid subscriber to be able to have access to post comments (you can view 20 pages free, then you have to pay).
You can use whatever name you want ("stupid" or not), but you have to be in the system as a paid subscriber if you've read more than 20 free pages.
"It was just negotiated in the latest contract that the union president would not teach classes so that he could actually have the time necessary to represent the union members"
What the heck???? I work in another district in a non-union job. The teachers' union president is a full-time teacher, and does the union stuff on THEIR OWN time. The school doesn't pay for them to do it.
West Aurora and larger schools all have full release. Was it not the teachers who asked for full release to work on better in proving working conditions.
Jackie please stop complaining because all the other teachers did not want you to replace Craig. That's why the d131 world is stuck with hubby. Jackie represents numerous bad teachers and promised no lesson plans
I'm the one who works in another district, and yes it is significantly smaller than D131. Just seems to me that they could hire a union steward/manager who isn't a teacher for less. After all, they went to college to become teachers, not union organizers, right? I'd think they'd miss the students and WANT to stay in the classroom.
I don't know know why Shrek and Donkey are insults - They were the heroes of all 4 movies.
But since you do bring that up. It makes an interesting comparison that some people were so "outraged" on here about the "Ugly Teens in Aurora" facebook page but continuously BULLY here on this blog in complete anonymity.
It's interesting. More double standards from a stupid blog run by faceless cowards.
Also about the whole "Shrek and Donkey" as insults.
Both of those characters found love and had a family, they discovered things about themselves along their journeys, and made a lot of friends that probably would have misunderstood them otherwise.
If you are going to insult people, you should do it based on more than just looks. It makes you look like a superficial a$$.
January 18, 2013 at 7:10 AM - I am not sure how you expect anyone to share specific plans when they do not get to see what is in process until they become a member. It would be foolish to state what you will or won't do, untl you have been privy to business that is in progress, or until you know who your team mates will be and what input they have to share for proceeding from this point.
I think it is a good candidate that gives people an overall picture of what they would like to see for our students, rather than only tooting their horn taking soul credit for accomplishments of organizations they have worked with.
I spoke with a student today that told me our school board hates us. Asked him why and he stated MR Hull said West Aurora is better than us and voted fir hem on Facebook for the Old Second money. I checked it out and sure enough, Mr Hull you need to resign.
Raymond Hull answered a question. January 11 Who are you cheering for in the Jan. 19 West Aurora vs. East Aurora HS basketball game? Vote for your team and help the Sports Boosters! Info: http://ow.ly/gBly4 West Aurora.
Ray Hull is a joke how can anyone listen to him. If he loves West so much do us a favor resign and destroy the morale of their school district. I heard the buzz today at EHS does he realize kids know this. Talk is know he puts info in the paper to tear everyone who works for 131 down. Does he realize his daughter has to hear this. We really wonder
The whole board is a joke they act like a bunch of junior high students. What we don't have is good leadership and that starts with a good Superintendent that guides a board and not a board president that thinks they run a district.
Ray I don't know if this is true or not but don't respond it just flues Johnson. I do know that most of the students don't know what the board is and this is why we need to get board members that will do the job they are suppose to do and not start rumors.
Zack showed no class tonight he was chasing down the student board member while the board was in executive session and bad mounting all of you. What is in it for Montroy
Hit sent to fast I think Montroy and wife Jackie are the ones with all the gossip from Central office friends making the board fight. Also think Dr Roberts is after you guys and you are all honest people trying to do what is best. He chased the student for no reason and the reporter. Johnson you did good but stop defending him. Hull thy are playing you. Be careful change will never happen if you don't stick together. I saw it first hand tonight. Clayton is the puppet Roberts is the orchestra leader. Zack is the executioner. Ask around they chased the kid
At the Jan 22nd board meeting, CHANGE was a major theme. It begins with the President resigning along with an oudated board members Stella Gonzalez & Mary Anne Turza (they are just puppets). Stella's speech about change was very generic and had no specifics on what changes. ACCOUNTABILITY and the courage to remove those who oversaw these fiasco's is the issue.
Annette Johnson the "Queen of Intimidation & Arrogance" again displayed that she is a warden/tyrant in her handling and responses to many an issue at the Bd Meeting. Study her body language and dramatic statements shows a woman who's ego needs to belittle and look down on those who disagree with her. For the moment she can still have her way, however CHANGE is happening and she may very well be the most uncomfortable person with the change to be made. HISTORY will repeat itself in so many ways.
Jackie this has gone on long enough. Can't your husband get his own job? I thought he was pastor of a church. Why is he riding your coattails? Why are you getting involved in all of the drama of the board? You have several hundred students to service. Please focus on them. That is what you are at East to do. Believe me, they need you.
Being on the School board isn't a job - You don't get paid - you typically don't get any credit or praise either (mostly in part thanks to morons who post here).
If the reason you vote for a candidate because they are ALUMNI of East Aurora HS then Qualifications, experience, has no say so for this position VERY INTERESTING COMMENT BY THE ABOVE
Last go around the voters elected four people that don't have a clue. One was not edible to serve the other one never showed up and now I will hope the district has a debate. That is how I will make my mind up. We all know Johnson will win the debate since she does Roberts job but I want to hear from the rest of them I don't think the other board members will do any better than the newcomers. Zack and Kristen because of their relationships with family will probably do ok. I would love to see the rest of them
Am not sure Annette Johnson wins debates maybe her arrogance, bullyism skills, body language, intimidation and her "I know it all" approach is what makes her appear to win. Knowledgable, she is, HOWEVER her superior skills in manipulation and INSTILLING FEAR to those who oppose her is ANNETTE JOHNSON'S TRADEMARK. HOW SAD !!!!!!!!
Johnson is arrogant but the other board members talk in circles everyone can't believe what comes out of their months they are a enbrassment to the district. I hate to tell anyone I work at 131. the newspaper also exploits are district as well. Time for the State
TIME FOR CHANGE AT EAST I love East Aurora. I love our neighbors, the restaurants, the stores and the wonderful sense of community here on the East Side. I moved to East Aurora because I fell in love with both its present beauty and its potential.
When I see the negative attention that our school district has drawn over the past few months, I worry for the future of East Aurora and its residents. And when I see the current condition of District 131 —from financial irregularities to ill-advised regulations to improper behavior to a revolving door of staff and leaders at the central office — I know this district is at a crossroads.
I believe it’s time for change in our district, starting at the top — which is why I’ve decided to run for the East Aurora School Board. I spend a lot of time talking to teachers, students and parents, and the overwhelming sense I perceive is that questionable leadership and misguided practices have led to feelings of defeat and hopelessness for our children. It all boils down to leadership.
For too long in East Aurora, we’ve accepted nominal leadership, even at the highest levels. We need a superintendent and a Board of Education that are motivated to produce the best results, including empowering our educational staff to achieve goals of academic excellence.
We need leaders who challenge the status quo and who know how to motivate, drive and inspire others toward a common vision. We need leadership that elicits trust; acts with complete transparency, accountability and integrity; and knows how to attract and retain the best educators.
As an East Aurora resident who cares deeply about the next generation’s education, I believe it’s time to elect a new Board of Education. The next school board faces uphill challenges, but I believe that the decisions the next board makes will affect the trajectory of our children’s education for years to come.
Reciprocating respect is a key component of good leadership. The level of respect given will be commensurate to the level you receive back and could determine how those looking up to you will perform their duties.
December 6, 2012, gave our community a rare glimpse into the personal thoughts of the School Board president of District 131.
I shared a small window of my past while highlighting the perseverance and strong work ethic of my 64-year-old mother with Annette Johnson, the School Board president. My mother at her advanced age arose every morning by the grace of God and rode the Pace bus to Elgin State Hospital for a little more than minimum wage until her death.
To have her memory degraded to the level of a freeloader is unacceptable in my circle. I have to describe this instance as utter contempt for my mother and others who find themselves in similar circumstances. How does that contempt translate to the students of District 131 and their parents today?
Eight out of 10 families in D131 are considered low income according to the District Report Card. Therefore each of those families qualifies for free or reduced lunch among other things associated with poverty. I am well aware of the burdens put on the homeowners of D131. I have purchased two homes in the district since 1992. I have accepted that the revenue streams are extremely limited but I have not become bitter. As managers of those limited funds we must not be resentful towards those less fortunate.
The district administration has been referred to as untrustworthy by some board members. If this is accurate the Board of Education should look squarely in the mirror and stop pointing fingers because it’s true that the apple does not fall far from the tree.
EAST AURORA CHALLENGES I am proud to live in East Aurora. My kids love going to school in East Aurora. My husband is a dedicated 3rd grade teacher in the district. My church has partnered with East Aurora schools for the past decade to provide tutors and mentors and community events and fundraisers to help support District 131’s efforts to educate all children.
I have worked directly with students, parents, teachers, and administrators throughout the district to implement programs and provide opportunities for East Aurora children and parents. Through all of this, I have seen both the strengths and challenges facing our school district. I am running for the Board of Education so that I can help promote and strengthen the assets of our district — such as committed and passionate educators; students who excel despite life challenges; and parents who want to contribute and be involved, but just aren’t sure how.
I am also running for the Board of Education so that I can work to address some of the challenges, such as:
The negative and toxic image of our district.
Limited resources and fiscal mismanagement.
Low test scores and graduation rates.
Exceptionally low teacher and staff morale.
Families who need support in acclimating to English and the American school system.
Lack of a clear, positive vision and the professional leadership needed to propel our district.
I am committed to partner with the students, parents, residents and staff of District 131 to work for progress and excellence. I am running for the Board of Education to help build a positive place for all to live and learn.
Zack is quoted today as complaining about the revolving door of administrators. The only ones that revolved had been bad administrators like Marin Gonzalez. Wife Jackie and Marin are involved in a spiritual experience together. That means the spirt of Marin will be back.
Ok here's the deal as far as I am concerned. I am an EA resident and have been for a loooong time. All three of these letters are insulting to me as a resident and I bet you others will find them insulting too.
Hull is destroying are district and dragging it down funny he forgot to mention he called Johnson dead mother a slumlord. It seems the here ministers are running a very negative campaign and that hurts the children. Strand and Montroy also have dirty laundry and I am sure that will come out.
thank you Zachary Montroy, Kirsten Strand & Raymond Hull for bringing hope to Dist 131. Annette Johnson NEEDS TO STEP DOWN as President if 131 is to go forward. If she TRULY cares about the community, and can see the dissension she has created, it is obvious there is something wrong with her leadership. The Administration Board's track record is a disgrace and has been riddled with controversy and mismanagement. Need I put together the list of disgraceful employees and their mismanagement of funds. Change will begin when Annette terminate her era of BULLYING & INTIMIDATION.
As a employee who knows the style of Marin Gonzalez this is her campaign and Jackies. Three years ago Marin covered a mishandled case of a Freshman that was a case assigned to Jackie and the student was never seen and lost in the Ea ok paperwork nightmare of her mismanaged department. He was referred at least twice to our guidance and social work staff by a unnamed teacher and today he is dead. This student killed himself. Professionally, I am not sure that services provided by the school before winter break would have helped. However, Jackie is more concerned with the way teachers feel than students. Her case files go unchecked. In meetings she is always the one who objects the loudest to lesson plans. Why, she is not a teacher? Jackie as a social worker is effective for a few students but her days are consumed with presenting a case the school district is out of control. Her campaigning in he chools has got to stop. Her main concern should e her 130 case files. Currently Conrad is afraid to speak with her about this because of fear that one day shortly her husband will be on the board. I am hoping that another student does not fall into the EA ok system
I'm also a life long resident of the East Side also a graduate of East High School and I find the the letters are right on point.
While a Board should work together they also if someone believes things are out of hand needs to stand up and say something and that is what Ray is doing. Him calling Johnson's mother a slum lord is not as bad as how she talked about his mother and there are people in this district that work that way now and shows me she has little respect for people of low income.
As far as the others I haven't heard or seen anything that says they will bring back Marin. Just because she goes to their church and goes on retreats with her doesn't mean they will bring her back.
If this board doesn't trust some administration then they should do their job like other district and tell their one employee that it is time to clean house and hire new ones.
A couple of years back U-46 Elgin got rid of their Superintendent and looked around for some time to get a Superintendent that had experience in low income, non English speaking and a large district and found one. When that Superintendent came in and seen the administration wasn't doing their job he fired them and hired new ones. With the districts low test scores the State allows a district to do that. Since then the scores have come up at a good pace not a snails pace like our district.
When mis management of funds was reported to the board he took the administrators side.
When complaints got forwarded from teachers being bullied and intimidated by teachers to the board he forwarded them to his freind the administrator. The administrator in question then bullied the teachers all the more.
Hull took information out if executive session about administrors being terminated and gave it to them before the board could act. Example Marin Gonzalez who he shares a information source from.
Hull has used his position to ask for and receive special favors for his child.
Hull has made the board dysfunctional and unable to share information
He also apologized in public for his behavior and now continues to attack Johnson who he seems to forget he called a dead women a slum landlord on her one year anniversary.
Is this a minister. It sounds like more of a minister of satan
Kristran Strand and Zack Montroy are a CONFLICT OF INTEREST no matter who is the superintendent or administrator they can't provide fair reviews since they will be the boss. If Scott or Jackie are screw ups how can the administrators manage them. How can they make financial decisions when it impacts their family table. Money and insurance are decisions of the board. It show there integrity they have none. Why did they not find other candiadates to run.
Mt Hull you are a joke and it is clear you have a personnel vendetta against Johnson.
Marin is behind the Montroy campaign elect Kristen and not him I am Facebook Freinds with Jesse Gonzalez Blank and believe you me her and her mother are involved in the Montroy campaign. Jesse works for the district, Marin does not and should never be involved. I have heard about the mission trip and knowing Marin for years I know she does nothing for anyone but herself let alone go on a mission trip. I would not take a chance on going back to those days.
Also having two members on a board that has family members working for the district is a bit to much
Rayanne in reading the openline blog it appears West Aurora has many of the same problems as East why not turn this blog into a education blog for Aurora. The Steve Orland case has some interesting turns and let us not forget who sits on West Auroras board none other than Bob Gonzalez husband to Marin
Funny thing is if Strand, Montroy or Hull would have been on the board when Steve Orland was interviewed they would have allowed Marin Gonzalez to pick him. It was Anita Lewis who was on a community committee that stopped him. He was Marin recommendation. If Steve Orland got hired you would have had more girls lives damaged. It would have been another case like the athletic trainer who got involved with a atudent last year that Jackie Montroy mentored herself with her husband. This student got te trainer Pregnant and moved in with her. The excuse was well he was 18. Meanwhile Jackie and Zack knew of text message going on. Let us not also turn a blind eye to the fact they have students over to their home. If Zack can't follow that board policy then why would he follow any other.
Remember Zack and Jackie if you live in a glass house don't cast stones. Intergity you have none.
Too bad you allowed Marin to advise you going negative instead you talking about the issues.
CHANGE of leadership in Dist 131 is MANDATORY if credability and trust is to be reinstated if we are to move forward. Time for Annette to let go of her "reign of terror". It's over Annette, do the right thing and resign !!! Can your ego handle that for the sake of the school district? My guess is NO.
I find Hulls article to be offensive. He paints are kids and district as low income and low expectations. Say what you will about Annette Johnson she always asks hard questions and has pushed for excellence for the students. I have never seen Hull take any time out to speak with students or create a environment of high expectations. The Magnet School was all Annette Johnson. Until it became a real school it was just another program in our district that was window dressing. The children that attend will have a great education. The computer based Curiculum is the first of its kind in any school around the western suburbs. Annette Johnson made that happen and until Hull can point to that his words are meaningless.
The message Strand and Montroy have portrayed is their version and many teachers do not have low moral. it is a complete lie that the board caused this. Strands husband does work in a toxic building. Montroy wife works in a disfuntional building mismanaged by Marin Gonzalez. Dr Warren is bring a fresh approach by is meeting resistance. Montroy tells everyone her department is getting targeted because her husband is out saving the day by running. We at East know this department needs to be revamped first because it is on the first line of defense with all students. I resent as a d131 member that they are trying to bring the entire staff into their drama.
8:10 am thought you are out of town could this be another lie by Minister Hull. Actually you are ruining the district Ray does it mean that much to sign your daughter dipolma
6:27 a.m., hindsight is 20-20. With a different board and/or superintendent, Kaisershot would not have been deprived of his high school teaching position. A different board/superintendent might have considered the input of hundreds of students, alums, fellow teachers, and community members instead of pushing ahead with their personal vendetta.
Marin Gonzalez was so desperate to save face and kiss up to "Serial Bully" Radakovich that she was grasping at straws to suggest Steve Orland for Kaisershot's position. I seriously doubt that Orland would have entertained the notion of coming over to teach in D131.
Anybody think it's K posting things about him losing his job, or band geeks that cant get over it? Either way, Liska is doing a good job, maybe even better than K.
8:38 p.m., Kevin Kaisershot did not "lose" his high school teaching position. He was DEPRIVED of it, against the objections of hundreds of students, parents, fellow teachers, and community members.
Yes, it happened several years ago; the reason it is being brought up yet again is because one of the people involved (Marin Gonzalez) is being discussed as possibly coming back to our district.
Interesting tactic to keep trying to link Strand and Montroy to Marin Gonzalez. It a desperate hope of Annette Johnson to deflect attention away from all the district scandals under her watch. We are just supposed to forget all her bullying and intimidation of everybody. Are we supposed to just forget how she insulted the vast majority of the community with her comments about low income community members?
The district has never had a worse reputation than it has had in the past year. The board and administration have been a complete embarrassment. That includes all current administrators and all the ones that have recently (within the past few years) moved on.
Strand and Montroy need to publicly state that they have no intention to rehire any recent administrators and clearly demonstrate that they intend to move the district forward from the mess it is currently in.
You need to do a little investigative work and not necessarily just accept leaders who start crying broke (PLEASE, give us more money or we are making cuts).
Just look at the teacher pension system. According to the Govenor (and repeated by Linda Chapa Lavia), we are looking at a $95 billion dollar deficit. Has anybody questioned the man about how he came to his numbers?
The TRS has been the most financially stable fund in the State of Illinois for decades. It has had such a huge surplus that our politicians have raided the fund (I believe illegally) to cover other state expenses.
All retirees combined used 3.4 billion dollars last year and 2.7 billion dollars the year before. As of about a year ago the fund had over 33 billion dollars in assets. A far cry from the 95 billion dollar deficit the govenor keeps quoting.
How did the govenor come to his 95 billion dollar figure??? Apparently, a few years ago, at the height of the financial meltdown, the TRS investment fund (along with everybody elses financial portfolio)took a loss. This, in addition to the state not paying it's portion of it's pension obligations left the TRS with a one year deficit.
What the govenor has done is to take the financial figures from this one deficit year and projected that the next 50 years will be just as catastrophic. If you assume that the economy will be that bad for the next 50 years and add the deficits for 50 years, you come up with a 95 billion dollar deficit.
As anybody with half a brain can see, the govenors numbers are not based in any form of reality but nobody questions him as he goes on the television and spouts his propaganda.
Why does he do this? Simple. He 1) wants to reduce promised benefits to our public retirees and 2) the govenor wants to pass the financial responsibility of the pension system to local communities.
All this after passing the largest tax increase in US history (along with 125 other tax and fee increases that same year). In addition, not paying state bills. Why is nobody asking where all this money is going?
Where is the investigative reporting on state finances?
Whether they promise or not it proves the good ministers already lie they keep bad company. Zack goes on mission trips with Marin Jessie Gonzalez is working on his campaign and these are in good hard black and white.
as far as the reputation until Ray Hull got involved we had a working image campaign and the Beacon wrote positive article after positive article. ay broke the rules and decided to speak for the board. If Strand, Montroy and Peryea are elected Ray will become board President. Except him to play the deuces if he does not get his way.
Maybe Strand and Montroy should stop hanging around with people like Hull, and Marin. Maybe they should take the high road because they do not live in a glass house.
As far as the building falling apart the current board has spent 15million in rehabiting them over 4 years. These are the people Hull defends as honest ad hard working. It took Leonard to take over Hulls job on B&G to Et them working. When you take 800 trips to Menards and do not work that's why you have cracked ceiling not because of the Board. Again listen to Hull and that's what you get. Follishness.
It's funny hoe Strand up until a few months ago supported Lewis and Johnson and the current Board and said hey did a fine job. As for her stop listening to Hulls lies he will only throw you off like he did the current board. Lewis comments are well taken the board will never get along as long as he is on it. That goes for the future one.
I know Lou Peryea. She would make a wonderful School Board member! She's worked at Hope Wall for several years, and is a level-headed reasonable person. She has my vote!
With the upcoming new board members coming aboard, this will directly have an impact on rebuilding trust and credability in Dist 131. Johnson & Roberts must go and hopefully they will resign instead of putting the valuable time of the board in fighting and questioning them on their leadership. PUT THE DISTRICT DIRECTION AHEAD OF EVERYTINING !!! RESIGN ANNETTE AND JEROME
Mary Lou Peryea does not have a clue she is only being encouraged by the Three ministers. Four on the Board is to many
She has never been involved in our district and has no clue as to the moral in the building she is getting it from Zack. As far as the image until Zack and Ray got together it was pretty good who started the image campaign is has Annette Johnson and Jerome Roberts I heard the speech so often I could repeat it myself.
I don't question all the trips to Menards. Anyone who is handy and tries fixing things around the house knows the littlest project can have you back and for for supplies. The problem was the lack of protocol for keeping track of receipts. If you are in charge of a department you should keep track of the spending. It is the same story across the "Board" (see what I did there?). All the problems we have been having stem from the leadership. Why was B&G allowed to be mismanaged for so long? Why were some of our "leaders" misusing credit cards? Why does the district continue to embarrass itself with the mistakes that come from the people in charge. No Anette you can't vote for yourself 1000 times. Just resign once. Change is necessary. Too many mistakes. New leadership will revive this community. All the problems originate from the little red brick building. The schools keep trying. That is where the real leaders are. Working hard for the kids. We need to vote in new leaders, get rid of leaders that are not effective, get rid of the dead weight jobs where people are getting paid six figures for ??? Change is the only option to jump start d131.
Why did the head of the B&G committee Raymond Hull allow this Oh yeah he works for he City and looks the other way with the suppliers. What do you expect from a person who uses the City email system to sent out personnel emails. His city truck is always on the driveway during work hours. That is why Ray has no problem with the maintenanace guys taking personnel trips
I agree with January 28, 2013 at 7:16 PM. Those charges from Maintenance have been on the list of bills each month and the board is suppose to look at them. It shouldn't take a board member to do it. There should be a policy about who goes and gets the supplies and how much they can spend in a purchase. If someone has to go back and get supplies more than a couple of times for a project that means whoever planned the repair didn't plan very good.
But this all goes back to the board and their one employee the blame starts at the top.
The dirty tricks lies campaign of how our district is run by Montroy Strand continue. Dr Roberts, Adam Harding and Johnson are going to buildings as part of a agreement that was made with the teachers union in September. They would do a mid year check on climate issues as a group. It is not a political stunt, just transparently but Strand and Montroy have been telling everyone these are horrible people who don't have a clue. What they dont want you to know is the union and current board have good communications and the teachers are all enpowered to give suggestions. What Strand and Montroy fail to tell you that Strands husband can attend his school event on Thursday. No secrets. if anyone is ruining the image of the district it is them. I would except more from a Minister. e need to ask what is their agenda. We should also ask if ey wanted to share ideas then why is Jackie Montroy or Scott Strand nt n a reform committee
Why not start with Nestor's job. What a waste of money!!!!! He does NOTHING!!! 6 figure salary to do literally NOTHING!!! If you read this blog Nestor, please try and defend yourself. You can't! 6 figures guys, 6 figures!!
Speaking of jobs, our district is once again advertising for the "Fine Arts Accomopanist" (yes, that's how it's spelled on our website) job. Here we are at the end of January and there is no one in this position; and it's no wonder considering the pitifully small salary offered and huge amount of time required. A few weeks ago an organist colleague applied, was interviewed/auditioned, but turned down the position when he went to the service center to sign the contract.
Our district would be more successful attracting qualified candidates if we either offered a better salary for the accompanist (and maybe changed the job title to "accompanist/assistant choir director"), or brought in local piano teachers on a part-time hourly basis.
I read the Facebook Page of Montrose and Strand. I have seen two more negative people. They are Not what the board needs. They want no change and claim no changes are working. How about the fact d131 will lay Noboby off this year. My son in law teaches in Barlett and every school in Dupae will lay off. I also know the Kane County is predicting the same. I wish he had applied for a job with 131 after 3 years and student loans and talk of my daughter moving to a smaller apartment any teacher who is not happy here please leave so he can get your job.
Why would thy be out visiting schools it's not any of you live in this district. It's not like the teachers educate their children in 131. If Johnson and Roberts had been having meeting with the parents or PTA then I would say that's wrong. It guess the pervious poster is right they are causing trouble. Kristen you just lost my vote and Zack you never had it.
As an Aurora businessman that serves the community I have been reading the many outrageous stories of management failure perpetrated upon the school district by the school board and, specifically, the President. Are any of these people, the ones meddling in and micro managing the district, qualified to run a $150 million dollar, multi-dimensional corporation? NO
The President is trying to shape the district into an image of herself - dysfunctional.
A corporate leader that does not care what the customer, you, the people of the east side of Aurora and the employees, think of her?
That’s her first mistake.
Claiming a victory in resolving insurance problems? Easy pickings. Why didn’t the president start in her 1st year rather than waiting until her final year. Seems like an election move.
Stopping 800 trips to Menards? The parts are still being purchased. Just differently.
Credit card abuse. Very little. Just because the credit card charges have been reduced significantly the material is still being purchased. Just differently.
She chased off the Financial Director Jay Augustine who placed the district on solid financial ground. She chased off his replacement in just a few weeks. The district is running on empty with a Part Time Finance Director. ALL THIS FROM A CPA??? Doing the best for the district???
More mistakes.
Bullying
Threating people’s jobs.
Board members hiring unqualified friends. Sounds like cronyism.
Ruining the camaraderie of the district.
WHERE DO YOU GO NOW, EAST SIDE? GO VOTE FOR NEW MANAGEMENT. GO VOTE FOR A NEW BOARD. ANYONE IS BETTER THAN THE CURRENT BOARD.
There is a large picture of Nacho Cervantes. He will be receiving a Boys II Men award.
The interesting part of the article is where it is revealed for the first time publicly that Nacho Cervantes is the son of Clayton Muhammad. That’s a piece of information that has never been made public before. Not when his bio was released as he ran for student board member. Not when he was running for board member (and lost) and not when the school board voted him onto the board despite losing in the public election.
This is a person who's self interests are served by keeping his father employed by the district. This is a point that was vital when accusations that Clayton and Lisa Morales were blackmailing the parent of the child who Wilson Morales beat up. It is also important when the board decides Clayton's secret salary. Despite Clayton being listed as an administrator on the district website (a position he has no qualifications for) there is no public disclosure of his salary which is required by Illinois Law of all public school administrators. Further, how can Nacho sit in judgment about the legalities of public high school fraternities? This is exactly why the Illinois General Assembly made high school fraternities illegal. Secret societies have a long history of nepotism, favoritism and all sorts of back room deals that are not good for the community at large. It also makes a person stop and think about who we pick for board members and administrators. Their decisions affect the community for a very long time. Ponquinette was superintendent 30 years ago. Because of Ponquinette, we ended up hiring his godchild, Clayton Muhammad. Now we have Clayton’s son Nacho Cervantes. We keep hearing from Annette Johnson that the past 30 years have been a wreck. These three have been a major part of the decision making process during that entire time. Clearly, the current system is not working. It’s way past time to completely clean house.
Funny how facts can be made to look all the colors of gray. All I know is the current board is doing an outstanding job and I am voting for every incumbant anyone else.
About the Fine Arts accom(o)panist position--Ms. Gawlik has been doing a grEAt job as the new EHS choir director, but she would probably appreciate having a pianist to assist her, as she was promised when she was hired.
God bless Mrs. Suzanne Allen for graciously stepping in to accompany our ChoirCats at their December concerts.
The administrators and board (or at least Shrek and Donkey)have set up a whole series of meetings with the school staff at every building.
"In an effort to keep the staff of East Aurora Schools better informed, leaders of the district have launched a robust schedule of meetings that will be held at each school over the course of the next two months." ... from Clayton.
Shrek and Donkey were at Allen today. Listening to the prepared speech by Jerome Roberts, it sounded like a political rally for Annette Johnson. According to Jerome, everything good in the district has been because of Annette Johnson and nobody else. He gave no credit to the other board members, administrators or staff of the district.
It's also worth noting that this type of meeting has never been held before at the schools and 2)all these meetings are happening between now and the school board election. In fact, the meetings culminate with the largest rally at East High, the Friday before the school board election.
I guess we now know why Jerome hasn't been terminated as yet. At least not until he gets Annette re-elected.
Kristen and Zack are going wild about the Union President Adam Harding, Board President Anette Johnson and Superintendent Roberts visiting buildings. The staff of 95% of 131 is trilled. The union reps and union leadership see Dr Roberts and Johnson as problem solvers. I had the opportunity to see this first hand, our teachers did not. What the teachers will see is reasonable people solving problems Not the story Montroy and Strand have been spreading. Yes as a d131 employee we have had a lot of change, but so are our fellow teachers in other districts. The difference is we have a job and many others are getting RIF nices this spring. Stop destroying our district and except change L
9:55am you loose all credibility when you resort to such characterizations. Annette Johnson and the Board are clamping down on all of this nonsense and what I suspect is that the people who have been taking advanatage of the sytem are getting nervous and some are getting scared that the "good life" is going to come to an end. They are lashing out just as you are and doing whatever it takes to discredit her and the Board. That goes for the new candidates for the board as well.
Position Type: Share on linkedinShare on facebookShare on twitterMore Sharing Services41 Email To A Friend Print Version Closing Date: 01/30/2013 Support Staff/Fine Arts Accompanist Date Posted: 1/23/2013 Location: East High School Date Available: As soon as possible
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. High School diploma or equivalent.
2. Must be able to play the piano and accompany vocal choir.
3. Excellent organizational skills.
4. Strong interpersonal and intrapersonal skills.
5. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
6. Ability to work with a linguistically and culturally diverse public.
JOB DESCRITION/RESPONISIBLITIES:
Plays accompaniment at sight for designated classes and choral groups. Coaches students individually to improve vocal and/or instrumental skills. Coaches students in proper diction for songs. Illustrates different musical forms in theory courses. Adapts themes to the piano from recorded music. Composes short music phrases to accompany choreographed dance pieces. Accompany students for performances and rehearsals:
a. Occasional before and after school rehearsals
b. Vocal music concerts each semester
c. Honors choir community performances
d. Senior Awards Assembly
e. Choral Banquet (as scheduled)
f. After-school choral auditions
g. Other performances as schedule.
8. Assist Fine Arts Department in planning, preparing, and publicizing department events, such as the District Fine Arts Fair and High School Evening with the Fine Arts.
May perform clerical duties such as cataloging music. Perform any other duties as assigned by supervisor or designee.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Applicants should apply onliine at: www.d131.org
All inquiries and communications should be sent by January 29, 2013.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The good news is, they corrected the spelling of the position ("accompanist", not "accomopanist").
Sounds like someone is not telling the truth again.
First, I heard Dr Roberts speech he gave credit to the entire board not Johnson. He talked about Common Core, and the district being fiscally sound. He discussed the over 200 positions the current board hired for and the fact all other schools are laying off. Then he took great pride in talking the great things like the Magnet school being the only one of its kind
Our Union President talked about the committees and the fact we can can have input with changes in RTI! PBIS and PLC time. That we can make suggestions about reducing he amount of Assestments. He did give credit to Johnson for this. He also stated these are mid year follow up meetings because of a promise administration made.
Johnson spoke and told us State aid will be cut again but all teachers in this district will have a job and not get RIF'S
Then everyone was invited to ask questions. Many stayed afterward.
You know what else would have fixed the spelling. You calling human resources and informing them of the TYPO instead of blowing a mistake out of proportion.
227 comments:
1 – 200 of 227 Newer› Newest»Anybody know who's running for the School Board besides Kristen and Zach? I like a lot of what they're saying, but I want to see what other choices there are.
And hopefully there will be a forum like last time where all candidates can answer questions about the issues facing our district.
I guess Clayton does what wants to. I just read a press announcement that his choice for MLK day is Father Pleger. This guy could nt be more of a racist.. He is also a religious figure. I read the links on Kristen and Clayton and see he has crossed the line. Now this why is allowed to continue?
They are the only 2 new candidates running for the 4 year terms. There are 2 new, plus the incumbents for the 2 years terms.
It is doubtful the incumbents would encourage a forum, sicne there are so many questions they want to avoid.
Check this youtube video out on Father Pfeger. Why would East allow him to come speak at a Pubic, taxpayer funded school?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWigzBClEk8
I belive the incumbents would encourage a fourm, they done a great job of solving many long standing problems. I do not belive they would avoid any questions. I do belive the two new four year candidates would like to avoid a fourm because there are many questions they could not answer. All they want to do is build new schools that are not needed and build a school bus system, and raise our taxes.
Yeah, you obviously don't know the two new candidates, they've been asking for a forum but none of the others will participate.
Some of our schools are so old they need to be rebuilt like Waldo the building is over 100 years old and they can't even use part of it.
How is it with so many foreclosed homes do we have so many students.
If these 2 candidates are so ready to debate- I hope they show up at the next board meeting and inquire. I know Johnson will chew em up and spit em out. They have no clue.
Stella did a great job of making a fool of herself at the meeting today. Talking about how great our district is doing. Uhhh-look at our test scores, we're in the bottom 5%, test scores have risen 1 point over the last 4 years.
We need a new board.
Yeah, Annette will eat them up and spit them out...you mean just like she did when she made racist remarks at a committee meeting or how she bullies staff or how she is completely unprofessional in just about every environment or how she is completely overstepping her bounds as board president. Is that what you mean Anita?
Go away 1:57 - You are probably one of those teachers that slacks off all day hoping somebody else will pick up the slack.
Exactly what I (not Anita) mean. As a taxpayer and a teacher I know what Anette has done for us. The other candidates don't have a clue. Let's see if they show at the board meeting requesting a debate. If they are so concerned about this district why do they not attend any committee meetings (which are open to the public)?
Forum is meant for Q&A for the candidates. How quickly it turned into a debate for hostile response.
I hope those who care to, will have a forum. In the past not all candidates have participted. If only 2 want to have a public meeting, so they should.
Johnson will win any debate hands down and I am sure the only way Zack can win is by going negative a dirty tricks page right out of Marin's book. Marin is coaching him and Zack really needs to conduct himself like a man of god. If he chooses not to the members of church will see him for what he is. Kristen needs to distance herself from him. Why is he so hateful. it shows Marin can turn a preacher into a demon
I heard Stellla speak as well no wonder Johnson does not let the board speak. She is Actullualy very informed and can recite everything back and forth. So I am not sure why anyone would think she is not looking forward to a debate. . I also think she may have had a bad day with Hull. I read board comments where Zacks.own wife praised Dr Roberts as a man of integrity now her husband runs around telling everyone he is going to fire him. I never believed the gossip about Jackie but she must have wanted the union president job bad. Is Jackie that disparate to run the district.
Apparently, Ms. Johnson has "bad days" with MANY people.
Kristen and Zack (aka "Montroy and Strand") are actively campaigning for our School Board, including in our churches. I went to First Presbyterian church to pick up my granddaughter from preschool, and there on the front table was a stack of Montroy and Strand campaign literature (business-card size, with pictures and website).
I'm leaning towards voting for them because I think our district can benefit from new people & ideas, but I'm waiting to find out specifically how they plan to accomplish the improvements they promise. The Marin Gonzalez connection does concern me, but I seriously doubt that Kristen and Zack would want to alienate so many in D131 by bringing her back.
And a pastor on the School Board could add a unique perspective. Maybe the EHS talent show won't be during Holy Week (as it has been the past couple of years)!
8:43 a.m., the talent show was on the Thursday night before spring break. The fact that it was Holy Week or Maundy Thursday was irrelevant.
This year Holy Week (week before Easter) is also spring break, so it won't be an issue.
For people that have "new ideas" there needs to be a plan that they can present. Just stating that you are going to do _______________ (insert promise) without a plan or action items is a BIG concern as a stakeholder in this district. S&M what is the plan? Jacki can you answer for your hubby?
Life is about choices 8:43 - Sometimes you have to miss things because that is what Jesus wants you to do.
Maybe somebody as bitter, angry and vendictive as you should spend their time at church.
I agree about the new candidates being a fresh perspective. D131 has had a pastor on the Board before.I think he was from 4th Street Methodist?
I, too, am concerned if blog gossip has any facts based to the comments about Marin. I feel she has not been good for EA.
But I am all for Kirsten and Zach.
Central office news...Madam President was here telling IT to figure out a way to track employees that were posting onto the blog about her. Ones using district phones or computers...so be careful, she is out to get anyone who says anything against her.
~sent from my non-district phone during my lunch break.
Annette use a capital g for God.
10:05, why is wanting the talent show not to conflict with Holy Thursday "bitter, angry, and vindictive"?
And everyone should spell God with a capital G, not just Annette!
:)
Does Annette have the right to go to the IT department and ask that? Just because she is the Board President doesn't give her that right she should have her one employee go do that it is his job.
10:29, there are many people in this district who have been bullied by Marin--starting from way back when she was at Waldo. Besides the high-profile examples such as Kaisershot, she made working at the high school miserable for at least 2 of my friends. One of them sent Dr. Roberts a "thank you" e-mail when Dr. R. moved her to the service center.
I agree with a previous poster in wishing Marin Gonzalez success in another district. She has proven that she is NOT a good fit for D131!
All lies and he person in the IT department should complain to their union if that took place. Why would she have to block anything, First you should not be on the blog during work. Also everyone owns a cell phone and can send from there so why would she have to blog anything.
We already have one minister on the board Ray Hull and look at the way he acts.
Marin has ruined many people with lies and blames e erroneous for her failures. Jackie Montroy is one of those Marin believers and has to much influence over her husband. Kristen is a good hearted person and should have run on her own.
I work in another school district. I would assume D131 has a similar IT policy to ours. We have to sign that we've read the policy. It makes it clear that the school computers, computer network, and phone system are for work related use, and anything that goes over those systems/networks can be reviewed by the IT department at any time. In other words, there's no expectation of privacy when you're using the boss's equipment.
District employees do not use computers or your phones that are district property to post on any blog or any other non district business just like in any other work place you can get fired for using company resources for personal use.
AURORA — East Aurora School Board member Anita Lewis has decided not to run for re-election in April, East Aurora officials confirmed Wednesday.
Lewis filed papers Friday to remove her name from the ballot.
Lewis’ departure from the ballot leaves four candidates to vie for the three 4-year board spots.
“This decision was based on family commitments that I have and is no way a reflection of the state of the district or the current board,” Lewis said in a statement.
The last day to withdraw from the ballot is Jan. 31.
http://beaconnews.suntimes.com/17617483-417/east-aurora-board-member-pulls-from-ballot.html
beaconnews.suntimes.com/17617483-417/east-aurora-board-member-pulls-from-ballot.html
Too bad--Anita was one of the better School Board members. I wish her all the best, and thank her for her service to our district!
Sounds like the IT department is writing lies about Johnson because she praised the new guys work. First time the district ever had anyone qualified in the position that is why the are writing he is a bad person way to go Raymond Ali
Anita was a great board member and so is Johnson. As a employee who came to meetings and started seeing positive change I always felt they both had been well prepared. I only know Jackie Walters from union meeting she attends and she is never positive. She always seems put upon and overwhelmed. I had been telling everyone to vote for Johnson, Lewis and Strand because of her record of helping in after school programs. I am really sad by this news.
Beware of our new IT director, like many of our administrators he was fired from his last job for illegally spying on employees (remember he was Johnson's top pick).
http://www.state.il.us/court/R23_Orders/AppellateCourt/2012/1stDistrict/1103501_R23.pdf
Look at pages 12, 7, 10
I wish Anita well she was the one that pushed for the check book to be online. I might not always agreed with her but I do believe she did her best.
AURORA — East Aurora School Board member Anita Lewis has decided not to run for re-election in April, East Aurora officials confirmed Wednesday.
Lewis, who served as board secretary, filed papers Friday to remove her name from the ballot. She served on the board for one term.
“This decision was based on family commitments that I have and is no way a reflection of the state of the district or the current board,” Lewis said in a statement.
Lewis’ departure from the ballot leaves four candidates to vie for the three four-year board spots. They are incumbent board President Annette Johnson, incumbent board member Richard Leonard, and challengers Kirsten Strand and Zachary Montroy.
Four other candidates are running for two two-year terms: incumbent board member Ignacio Cervantes, incumbent board Vice President Stella Gonzalez, and challengers Marcella Duermit and Mary L. Peryea.
Lewis said she is very proud of the accomplishments of the School Board in recent years. In the past four years, the district has returned art to the classroom, restored the gifted program, authorized a full magnet academy and put in a new child service center.
Because of that work, Lewis said she throws her full support toward the re-election of the incumbent board members: Johnson, Leonard, Gonzalez and Cervantes.
“In the past six months, issues are being transparently brought to the public, that have and will continue to require major change in the district,” she said.
The board has received criticism for initiating changes, but those who are not willing to change are negative, she said.
“It would be disastrous for this district to go back to the way it was and would be unfair to the students, parents and taxpayers,” she said.
The last day to withdraw from the ballot is Jan. 31.
From Openline
Anonymous said...
My school district is broke and Dr Rydland buys a ticket for the former superintendent of East Aurora.
Why does the Beacon not look at our credit cards. Rydland is always flying everyone around including the board, his wife and now this.
Muhammad deserves the credit but let his district pay for it
1/16/13, 4:56 PM
Johnson never hired the IT guy it was a committee it seems the IT department is upset
Not sure what the buzz is about but the tech department seems to be hitting deadlines and becoming proactive.
Lewis summed 131 up pretty good it needs change. I have read the materials of Montroy and Strand they are a step backwards. They talk about good administrators yet Zack goes on a mission trip with Marin Ginzalez. Scott Strand speaks up for Aird that she is a good educator. This is the same AIrd who expects kids to learn in only Spanish then master English. Aird also joined their born again Christian movement along with several others in the district. I would like to ask Mt Strand if she is a good educator why then are the schools ranked last. Elect them and return to the past no thanks. There platform should read the Marin and Christy show.
10:31 p.m., if our tech department is doing such a grEAt job then why isn't current information posted on the school websites? For example, Lisa Gawlik has been EHS choir director since October (and doing a terrific job, BTW)--yet her name and contact info are not listed under "Faculty and Staff" OR under "Fine Arts". Meanwhile, the Simmons website still lists her as Simmons choir director.
This is inexcusable, confusing for parents, and an embarrassment to the district--and it's just ONE example of our tech people dropping the ball.
January 17, 2013 at 6:11 AM
Annette, we all know this is you. I'm a supporter of the new candidates and have talked with them, and they have both stated that they have no intentions of bringing anyone from the past back. We all know this rumor started with you and your pet Anita, but it is simply not true. Go and ask them. The elephant in the room is that re-electing this current board is not only a step in the wrong direction but a step towards the state taking over our district. It's time for you and the rest of the board to go. Follow what your pet did, step down, withdraw your name. WE NEED A NEW BOARD.
The website really is an embarassment. Look at the links to the various schools and they are old and outdated.
When is Ray Hull stepping down?
Ray has used the name pet to me and told me he would destroy the board members election. Lets name one thing Ray has personally done while on the board. Lets name one thing he has done since he was on the other Board. ray is about Ray .
The board members in a jesture of trust said they would give each other their IP addresses all accept Ray we know it you Ray. Stop writing for and against like your career on the Board. Everybody laughs behind your back never know what Ray your going to get
Strand and Montroy just lost my vote they called all the tax payers worthless for giving more to the schools. There is a chart on facebook showing how other communities pay more to the schools . Community beware of them they just want to pay there husband and wife a better salary. We just passed the referendum? I will be calling Johnson for a yard sign tomorrow.
Maybe Ray will step down when Johnson does.
Maybe they will both step down when the community actually steps up.
I must have missed something...or excuse my ignorance. What does sharing their IP addresses have to do with anything?
5:34pm I agree, I can't believe Stand and Montroy think we should fund anymore. taxes. I will now step up my campaigning for the current board members at least we know they will never increase are taxes. The two look like we are doing them a favor because people become teachers.. I shows they are already worried about getting their family members a raise. I have visited East High many tie and I can't possibly see what we are not giving the schools. As ministers they should have a mission of property not stealing.
Losing Johnson would be a sad day. Administrators in this district don't like her drive. In four years she opened the Special Ed Center by Odonnell and the Magnet Svhool which I recall Hulls own boss giving her credit for. People who work with Ray know he is very jealous and looks for the limelight. In any other district they would name a school after her. Two building in four years WOW. I can't believe the critism she takes and is still willing to run. Name one accomplishment for Hull that would be NOTHING.
Are these two kidding the reason the school district spends less per student is that it is growing. What do they intend to do about that. They not are worried about raising our taxes. Montroy in Stand equal higher taxes. The debates should be interesting.I will go and. Hope the tax question comes up.
Are you kidding me giving each other their IP address that is like giving someone your checking account number. Good for you Ray your not acting like a child. Board members are not suppose to be good buddies they are suppose to make policy for the Superintendent to follow. In fact even asking I believe is an invasion of your privacy and you can bet Johnson would try to find a way to check if they where posting on the blog but that would be against the law. It just shows how some on the board don't have back bone to say no are these the people we want to make decisions for our students.
So in trying to keep an open mind about this board race after Anita dropped out, I have taken time to review the Montroy and Strand sites. I hear a lot of their views but dont see any plans or actions they will take to improve the district. They are nieve to believe that testing doesn't matter. In today's educational arena it is unfortunately all that matters and is what will be the deciding factor of a potential state take over. If they are elected I fear that. If anyone can change my mind and votes then please share their plan. People have been asking for it for weeks. What specifically will they do different from the current board?
The board is not suppose to accomplish anything the Superintendent is the one that is suppose to bring these ideas up to the whole board and they vote on it.
With all the foreclosed homes in the district the student count should go down.
The last superintendents did nothing so telling us to put all our hopes on person is plain dumb.
The 7:10 am post hit it right on the head that is the world we live in. Every school plan is built around scores. I have attended meeting and watched the current board pass position after position, buy new books, put computers in and a info system in, buy buildings. The tax payers may not have funded the schools up to now but today they stepped up. Its not about good tools because I am sure they have that. It's about training, professional development, good building leaders, good curriculum leaders and a good superintendent. That needs to be the plan. I get the impression they only think by changing the superintendent things will get better. Their plan is to pie in the sky. I also think they are surrounded by bad advice. If Marin Gonzalez went with them on a mission trip I am sure the schools got discussed.
Simply put the residents can afford these two if they continue to talk this way. We gave 131 the tools now use them. The current board did spend money on bricks and mortar and cleaned up some of the accounting issues tell I see more solid ideas I would be very weary to stop with little progress we had.
If you want higher taxes and a strong possibility that Marin Gonzalez will be the next superintendent, vote for Kirsten & Zack.
Otherwise, vote for the incumbents.
I plan to vote for the incumbents--but may change my mind in the next couple of months depending on what I see & hear.
Seeing what is going on behind the seens Mr Montroy is have documents at te district pulled to go negative, People are being asked to pick sides and that lays at his doorstep because he has solicited donations from staff members. We have never been asked to do this. As a Christian Kristen needs to step up. I also know Johnson is recently told someone she is putting her own money in and can match them dollar for dollar if need be. This race is not about who can say what about each other it's about making the schools better.
@8:17 am. I'm so sick of you posting "Annette, we all know it's you." No, we don't all know that. Give it up, would you please! You are one person posting that over, and over again. Stop!!!
It is not Annette posting its people who are on their Facebook pages looking at heir foolish comments. hey are in support of buses All Day Kindergarden and complaining about pay of the teachers. They are too expensive for me.
It's the secrete blog administrator who posts that all the time. The one who is so embarrassed by being associated with this blog that they refuse to attach their name to it. I hate Rayanne but at least she is not a complete chicken.
the negative emails on the Blog are coming from Ray Hull at the City of Aurora on city time. If anyone knows Ray one day he for something and the next day against. But you would think our city would have other things to do than write on the blog or mail the school district. does the city not have a Internet policy. Tom are your employees not working????.
I read Montrose comments it seems we have a lot of tools but bad administrators who do not give us the training and professional development to implement them. I was quite amazed by a memo in our building that changed the elementary report times to 7:45am. I understand it comes with the new contract and I understand the start of the day will be extended next year, but again we have no plan. I take home work as do many of my colleagues so forcing me to come to work without a plan is silly. Why not professional development?
My comment to tools is while this board has been overly generous with, books, technology, reading programs all building are not the same.
A change in leadership at the top is needed and I am not talking about the board. Dr Roberts and Aird need to be te first ones to go. I am concerned that Strand will not be able to do that. The buzz is her husband is a big supporter of hers and she may get Dr Roberts position. She recently told staff at Bardwell she is the only one qualified to be superintendent.
It really bothers me when kids turn the internet into a weapon.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ugliest-Teens-In-Aurora/328267907282129
Please teach your kids to be respectful of each other.
Also, I believe that the more reports that this page gets, the quicker it will be taken down.
That FB page is harrassment, a form of bullying of teens and I hope everyone reports it. Here is what I found how to report you dislike: https://www.facebook.com/help/187721894638019
12:54 a.m., thanks for posting.
I did report it, and hope others will as well.
She is unraveling at the seams. Don't read the post read, listen to the tone. There is a boogieman around every corner with BAD people everywhere.
This is something our High School needs to be on top of. Where is the principal, counselors, deans, PPA, teachers or social workers. Other school districts would have gotten this shut down when the buzz started. I also feel Jesie Baraza needs to be replaced he spends his days locked in his office. say High is a joke and needs to be taken over by the State. No one person, superintendent or board can save it. When you try someone rips you apart. SAD
I have not been a recent poster. However today I read yet another article by the Beacon ripping at the East Aurora Board.
I am a first hand witness to maintenance people on continual coffee and food breaks. Since August that has stopped I manage a McDonald's near the Service Center at least twice a week five guys all with d131shirts would sit better than 1 hour while school was in session. I would leave messages with Lisa Morales who would forward them to Garcia. It never stopped. I work hard, I earn less than 35,000. I did drop out and I watch East Aurora students sit here with no purpose.
I seems a person was trusted with the hospital got things done on time and it does not take a college degree to have work ethics. Shame on Hull
beaconnews.suntimes.com/news/17660998-418/hiring-called-into-question-by-east-board-member.html
Say what you will about Mr. Hull, but at least he's not a rubber stamper. The man has the courage of his convictions, and that's a good thing.
Hull courage he is a trouble maker that takes a negative view on everything. The story here is not that they hired a honest Aurora business man because that does not sell papers. The story Hull is ready to blow again. The six board members are the ones with courage for cleaning up the district, Hull does not want change he thinks its ok to drive around not do your job ad spend money with friends, But look where he works. he is part of the corrupt city government. He drives around all day, drinks coffee and uses the city email system to send out hate mail. That the real Ray Hull. The man of God. Your a joke Ray and you only got on he board to get your daughter a scholarship.
As far as Johnson goes Hull bullied her on her mothers one year anniversary of her death. I asked her if Hull knew that and she replyed yes. Courage, no crazy is more the word for him.
Also on another note Zack and Kristen before listening to him I suggest you look into the maintenanace contracts or intact current board members I feel you will make awesome members but you need to do fact checking before taking Hulls word
@3:29pm. You have got to be crazy! Barraza does not spend his days locked in his office! What a bold-faced lie! He is all over the place, doing a great job at East. Know your facts, before you post lies!!
The Facebook page has been shut down! Good! What trash! Whomever made that page, needs help!
Annette and Johnson came to the East/West game together tonight.
11:57 a.m., who are "Annette" and "Johnson"?
While Annette is waging her campaign against Strand and Montroy on this blog anonymously, they are out promoting their cause publicly and getting massive support from parents and residents and students too. Way to go Kirsten and Zach!
HIRING CALLED INTO QUESTION BY EAST BOARD MEMBER
AURORA — An East Aurora School Board member is raising questions about a school administrator who is slated to be officially hired next week.
East board member Ray Hull said Friday he will not vote to approve the appointment of a new operations manager at the board’s Tuesday night meeting. The district’s personnel report, which would include the hiring, usually is rubber-stamped by the board.
“I don’t have enough information about the candidate and his credentials,” Hull said. “I have asked for that information and I have not received it.”
The School Board is scheduled to vote on the appointment of contractor Marty Feltes as the district’s new operations manager, an administrative post.
Feltes has longtime ties to East Aurora board member Richard Leonard. Leonard, who served on the four-person committee that recommended hiring Feltes, said he’s “absolutely” good friends with Feltes.
“I wouldn’t recommend him if I wasn’t. I have a lot of friends and Marty is the only one I’d recommend for this job,” Leonard said.
“(Superintendent) Dr. (Jerome) Roberts is the one who makes the final choice,” Leonard noted.
The March job posting was advertised in three places: on the district’s website, in The Beacon-News and on Monster.com, an online job site. In May, it was advertised in two places: in the Chicago Tribune and on the Careerbuilder.com website for 30 days.
In the job postings on Aug. 24 and Nov. 30, the job opening was only advertised on the district’s website.
The March and May job descriptions listed nine qualifications for appointment to the administrative position. The first qualification was a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college.
But when the position was reposted in August, the job description was revised, listing the first qualification as a bachelor’s degree or “commensurate” — meaning equal — work experience.
Feltes, a lifelong East Sider, has owned Marty Feltes Plumbing and Heating since 1984. He has been a contractor since 1967 and has been friends with Leonard since he was 15-years-old.
“Many businesses accept life experiences as equal to a college degree,” Feltes said.
Leonard said the operations manager position does not need to be a college graduate.
The most recent round of operations manager candidates were interviewed by four people, according to board members: Leonard, Roberts, Glotzbach and board member Anita Lewis. Leonard is chairman of the district’s Buildings and Grounds Committee.
Hull, who serves on the Buildings and Grounds Committee, did not sit in on the December operations manager interviews. He did sit in on earlier interviews when the district did not hire any candidate.
Hull said Leonard had a conflict of interest in the hiring of Feltes.
“In the future, if there are issues with the director of operations — how can Mr. Leonard fairly participate in a process that may result in a disciplinary action or dismissal?” Hull asked.
Leonard said he did not think being part of the hiring committee was a conflict of interest.
“(Feltes) is a businessman, he ran maintenance at Provena for 25 years. He has the best qualifications for this position and the (maintenance department) is starved for knowledge,” Leonard said.
School Board President Annette Johnson said she was aware that Leonard and Feltes were friends, but did not give it much thought.
The candidates who interviewed for the position in the first half of the year did not meet the district’s criteria — prior experience overseeing multiple facilities and supervising a large number of personnel, Hull said.
Hull said that the group of candidates who interviewed in December were previously disqualified in the initial job search. They were never interviewed in earlier rounds, he said.
“In other words, Mr. Feltes did not make the cut the last time,” Hull said. “So I’m not sure what changed that he became the most qualified candidate in this round of interviews when he was deemed to not even get an interview the last time.”
It is not a board members job to watch over the maintenance workers it is part of the one employee of the board and that is the Superintendent and he is suppose to hire administration to keep watch of their departments workers.
Good for Ray and The Beacon bring up how Lenoard and Feltes have been friends for a long time there is no way he should be in an interview with him.
There have been many posting about how Kristen and Zack would try to get people they know jobs in the district and our board members now are doing it.
By the way if you see the workers sitting in a restaurant for hours take a picture for proof and give it to the Beacon maybe they will investigate it to see if it is true.
It seems Hull is going out of his way to destroy his fellow board members. It is unfortunate because as a group they have brought issues to a head that have needed to be addresses for years. I have seen many positive changes, but as a informed staff member I feel we have not put the people resources into implementation. The board gave us many tools that was their job. What they did not give us was a good leader. Although, I don't always agree with Annette Johnson nobody has tried harder than her.
The appointment of Feltes is another attempt to fix that as well. Some people have not served us well and some changes need to get made. What would be best is that the board members work between themselves and stop dragging the newspaper into it. Many alumni have always felt this "side" of town never gets good coverage. If Hull had problems why go public. I am concerned tat if you don't agree with Hull he will take your ame public. From a HR stand point that is not good. I do not know Mr Feltes but if someone worked at the hospital and had a business that many years as a contractor he must know how to make people work and finish work on a timely matter.
If we continue to have such actions by the board attacking employees to the newspaper Noboby will want to work at 131. Mr Hull is a loose cannon and needs to publically appollogize to Feltes.
The Beacon will soon close in Aurora that's what a great newspaper they are. They find it more important to report tabiot stories than real ones. Look how they help back the kid who is one life support tell after the mayors announcement.
I am happy to see Hull get the Beacon to address the concern of a Board member. Far too long the Board and Supt. have pushed every tiny bit of EA news they can making it all look the best, most, awesome, phenomenal....thing going on. It was a smoke and mirrors image campaign. Now that the smoke has cleared, for the first time in a long while the Beacon is actually reporting the news as it is and Board members want to whine that the media is making them look bad ?!?!
Good for Mr. Hull for speaking up. Glad the Beacon is back to reporting a bit of news.
Word is Hull just got Johnson and Leonard elected, Feltes is very popular for all the charitable work and the fact he is a honest business person. It now looks like Hull is just after everyone for his own gain. Some had questions of Johnson after their fight and word was what happened to her she did such good. Now everyone is saying he attacked her and now Feltes and Leonard. Hull got to far out in front of himself.. he word on him is I can't believe he is a minister.
Johnson was at the game last night along with Leonard and everyone was around them.
I would vote for everyone but Strand and Montroy they are soliciting money and running their campaign with the d131 employees. When you turn the hen house over to the fox it will not work. it is unethical to think the these two can make far decisions on money issues, terminations and budget cuts when they have friends and family who work for the district.
This district is in big trouble if they get elected and needs to be turned over to he State
grand and Montroy talk about what is wrong with our system and why Elgin and Joliet are ahead of us but have spent less per student. That possess a interesting question but looks to a comperhensive reform model.
The board recently adopted a fresh set of eyes in bring in a Consultant from Joliet and a retired Superintendent from Tinley Park. They have met with our Curiculum people and building leaders and I suspect the board will have to make some tough choices. It has.shown the lack of Curiculum mapping on the part of Aird, Adams and Gonzalez. Feel this was a progressive move but it will show Principals are not capable. I feel it was long overdue.
All day K programs are another opinion for other districts like Joliet and Elgin but not fesible because we have increasing enrollments while the two districts in question have declining enrollments. This is a result of poor city planning and the next board will need to step up against the city.
If Mr. Feltes did not make the cut the one time why did he make it this time?
I think the board should let the community know all the candidates that applied for this job.
Board members should not get involved with the selection process of potential employees. Why don't you bozos understand this. This is called cronyism! To sit in on interviews and review resumes is fine. By suggesting someone for a position, you put pressure on administration because you have the power to fire those administrators. This is totally unethical. Mr. Hull you are absolutely right to take a stand.
I meant Roberts and Johnson
@5:55. You are such a liar!!! Johnson was with Roberts, not Leonard!! He was not even there!! Johnson and Roberts sat by themselves! Nobody was around them. More Lies!!!!!!!!!!!!
Is there anything on the up and up when it comes to the District 131 administration and board? Building and grounds has been a mess so they protect Nestor Garcia, first by hiring a construction manager to help cover his ignorance and more recently by getting him out of the line of fire before exposing the corruption rampant at building and grounds. Now they’ve Gerry-rigged the hiring process to get Leonard’s buddy Marty Feltes the position. I am sure that any of the candidates that have not been hired will have an easy time suing the district for the way our administration and board have handled this process.
In protecting Nestor they have created a whole new position “Director of Athletic & Student Activities” (paying roughly $130,000 a year). What exactly does he do for the money? There are Athletic Directors that actually run all the sports programs (and have for years) now we have been informed that Adam Harding is the New Elementary After-School Activities Coordinator. This too is a conflict. It was just negotiated in the latest contract that the union president would not teach classes so that he could actually have the time necessary to represent the union members and now they keep him too busy to do his union job. How much Adam is being paid has not been disclosed.
Crap like this is why our students don’t succeed. If our leadership were actually focused on education instead of protecting the few privileged, our students might have a better chance. When is this community ever going to wake up? The State really should look at taking over the district.
Hull friend applied and did not make the cut that is the problem with Hull like a child he throws a temper tantrum when we does get his way. What Hull did not tell you is he had been on many committees to interview candidates
. As far as board members on hiring committees that is very common.Most boards in the area always sit in on the hiring of administrators. They also have community members serve on these committees for building Principals. in fact Ms Strand served on a committee that appointed Raquel Wilson Principal and the Board had to step in and over turn her selection. Today the Stem Magnet School her sons enjoy a free computer from is run by Angie Rowley a adminator from Illinois Math and Science Acedemy.
If elected you can expect higher taxes, and a board that rubber stamps all administrators decisions. I am so looking forward to the debates when Annette can bring out the facts and the Beacon will need to print them because it will not Bea board member like Hull with a ax to grind making up lies.
Question of the day
Other school districts are having big layoffs this spring when State aid continues to fall. East Aurora will have NONE.
West Aurora passed a referendum at the same time East did . Now they only have 2 months of cash reserves at WEst and will borrow off futher real estate taxes
Who has the most fiscally responsible board and Superintendent EAST AURORA
Leonard was at the game with his beautiful wife Mary. I talked with him and saw him talking to many others. Why his name was not announced at the game is shameful and something that should be looked into. You are such a fool (1/20/13 9:49) to be calling anybody liar .
Maybe his (Leonard's) name wasn't mentioned because there were probably close to 4,000 people there and mistakes happen. It's not shameful it is just a mistake. Don't make it more than it is. Don't read into like there are people out to get him.
Isn't it funny how nobody posts on the Beacon Website now that you can't use a stupid name like "overpaid teacher" or "anne" - You actually have to use your real name.
10:49 PM. The money you are talking about for a position that is not necessary could pay the yearly salary of three new teachers or two 10 year experienced teachers with advanced degrees. This is according to teacher salaries that can be looked up on the district website under employment. So my kids could have two or three extra teachers working with them instead of throwing the money down the toilet with Mr. Garcia. There are overcrowded classes and we have money to pay extra teachers yet we pay for a incompetence. More bad decisions by our leaders that hurt the students of d131.
9:19 a.m., that's not the reason hardly anyone posts comments on the Beacon-News site. The real reason is, you have to be a paid subscriber to be able to have access to post comments (you can view 20 pages free, then you have to pay).
You can use whatever name you want ("stupid" or not), but you have to be in the system as a paid subscriber if you've read more than 20 free pages.
"It was just negotiated in the latest contract that the union president would not teach classes so that he could actually have the time necessary to represent the union members"
What the heck???? I work in another district in a non-union job. The teachers' union president is a full-time teacher, and does the union stuff on THEIR OWN time. The school doesn't pay for them to do it.
Fact Check ask the board members last year Hull put up a big stink for Marin and Nestor and the board was generous enough to listen to him.
Marin Gonzalez would become Director of Secondary----She found a job and choose not to stay.
Nestor would work with extra programs and student enrichment---to date he has done nothing.
Mr Hull always wants a voice but never follows through when he tells everyone he has no opportunity to make a difference he lies.
Fact Check
B&G Chair did nothing asked Leonard to run e committee
Policy committee came to one meeting decided it was not for him
Personnel committee resigned after missing half the meetings
Curriculum committee resigned after 2 meetings
Hiring of Operations- Choose not to come to the meeting
Glozaback is asking for a retraction because Hull lied to the reporter she never viewed the applications the board members did.
Feltes was not in the November applications but choose to help the district out now in December. For that Hull is ruining his name.
You can't tell me of all the unemployed people that would qualify Feltes is the only one who applied?
West Aurora and larger schools all have full release. Was it not the teachers who asked for full release to work on better in proving working conditions.
Jackie please stop complaining because all the other teachers did not want you to replace Craig. That's why the d131 world is stuck with hubby. Jackie represents numerous bad teachers and promised no lesson plans
Shrek and Donkey together again.
I'm the one who works in another district, and yes it is significantly smaller than D131. Just seems to me that they could hire a union steward/manager who isn't a teacher for less. After all, they went to college to become teachers, not union organizers, right? I'd think they'd miss the students and WANT to stay in the classroom.
What did these people ever do to you to call them such names.
I don't know know why Shrek and Donkey are insults - They were the heroes of all 4 movies.
But since you do bring that up. It makes an interesting comparison that some people were so "outraged" on here about the "Ugly Teens in Aurora" facebook page but continuously BULLY here on this blog in complete anonymity.
It's interesting. More double standards from a stupid blog run by faceless cowards.
Also about the whole "Shrek and Donkey" as insults.
Both of those characters found love and had a family, they discovered things about themselves along their journeys, and made a lot of friends that probably would have misunderstood them otherwise.
If you are going to insult people, you should do it based on more than just looks. It makes you look like a superficial a$$.
One person's insult is someone else's compliment.
And I wouldn't be offended if someone compared me to Shrek.
Anybody go to hear Father Pfleger speak at the MLK program?
pfleger was excellent there was a lot I learned from his message and it could very easily relate to many aspects of our life.
January 18, 2013 at 7:10 AM - I am not sure how you expect anyone to share specific plans when they do not get to see what is in process until they become a member. It would be foolish to state what you will or won't do, untl you have been privy to business that is in progress, or until you know who your team mates will be and what input they have to share for proceeding from this point.
I think it is a good candidate that gives people an overall picture of what they would like to see for our students, rather than only tooting their horn taking soul credit for accomplishments of organizations they have worked with.
If Mr. Muhammad reads this, I would like to say:
THANK YOU!
Bringing Father Pfleger to speak in our district was a Class A move. His speech was a grEAt inspiration for all of us!
I spoke with a student today that told me our school board hates us. Asked him why and he stated MR Hull said West Aurora is better than us and voted fir hem on Facebook for the Old Second money. I checked it out and sure enough, Mr Hull you need to resign.
Facebook
Raymond Hull answered a question.
January 11
Who are you cheering for in the Jan. 19 West Aurora vs. East Aurora HS basketball game? Vote for your team and help the Sports Boosters! Info: http://ow.ly/gBly4
West Aurora.
Ray Hull is a joke how can anyone listen to him. If he loves West so much do us a favor resign and destroy the morale of their school district.
I heard the buzz today at EHS does he realize kids know this. Talk is know he puts info in the paper to tear everyone who works for 131 down.
Does he realize his daughter has to hear this.
We really wonder
the current board thinks they are doing a greEAt job...
https://www.facebook.com/ContinueTheChangeAtD131
The whole board is a joke they act like a bunch of junior high students. What we don't have is good leadership and that starts with a good Superintendent that guides a board and not a board president that thinks they run a district.
Ray I don't know if this is true or not but don't respond it just flues Johnson. I do know that most of the students don't know what the board is and this is why we need to get board members that will do the job they are suppose to do and not start rumors.
Zack showed no class tonight he was chasing down the student board member while the board was in executive session and bad mounting all of you. What is in it for Montroy
Hit sent to fast I think Montroy and wife Jackie are the ones with all the gossip from Central office friends making the board fight. Also think Dr Roberts is after you guys and you are all honest people trying to do what is best. He chased the student for no reason and the reporter. Johnson you did good but stop defending him. Hull thy are playing you. Be careful change will never happen if you don't stick together. I saw it first hand tonight. Clayton is the puppet Roberts is the orchestra leader. Zack is the executioner. Ask around they chased the kid
At the Jan 22nd board meeting, CHANGE was a major theme. It begins with the President resigning along with an oudated board members Stella Gonzalez & Mary Anne Turza (they are just puppets). Stella's speech about change was very generic and had no specifics on what changes. ACCOUNTABILITY and the courage to remove those who oversaw these fiasco's is the issue.
Annette Johnson the "Queen of Intimidation & Arrogance" again displayed that she is a warden/tyrant in her handling and responses to many an issue at the Bd Meeting. Study her body language and dramatic statements shows a woman who's ego needs to belittle and look down on those who disagree with her. For the moment she can still have her way, however CHANGE is happening and she may very well be the most uncomfortable person with the change to be made. HISTORY will repeat itself in so many ways.
Jackie this has gone on long enough. Can't your husband get his own job? I thought he was pastor of a church. Why is he riding your coattails? Why are you getting involved in all of the drama of the board? You have several hundred students to service. Please focus on them. That is what you are at East to do. Believe me, they need you.
Being on the School board isn't a job - You don't get paid - you typically don't get any credit or praise either (mostly in part thanks to morons who post here).
From Facebook:
"Dick Leonard, Annette Johnson, and Nacho Cervantes are all Alumni of East Aurora High School"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kirsten Strand and Zach Montroy are NOT.
I'll be voting for my fellow alums.
If the reason you vote for a candidate because they are ALUMNI of East Aurora HS then Qualifications, experience, has no say so for this position VERY INTERESTING COMMENT BY THE ABOVE
Did 8:05 a.m. say that was the ONLY reason he/she was voting for the incumbent School Board members?
No, it's just one of many factors.
Experience is another; the incumbent members definitely have more School Board experience than Kirsten or Zach.
And then there's the Marin Gonzalez connection, which makes those of us who go back a ways in this district very nervous!
Last go around the voters elected four people that don't have a clue. One was not edible to serve the other one never showed up and now I will hope the district has a debate. That is how I will make my mind up. We all know Johnson will win the debate since she does Roberts job but I want to hear from the rest of them I don't think the other board members will do any better than the newcomers. Zack and Kristen because of their relationships with family will probably do ok. I would love to see the rest of them
EA OK--
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAjjcMQHHaE&feature=youtu.be
Am not sure Annette Johnson wins debates maybe her arrogance, bullyism skills, body language, intimidation and her "I know it all" approach is what makes her appear to win. Knowledgable, she is, HOWEVER her superior skills in manipulation and INSTILLING FEAR to those who oppose her is ANNETTE JOHNSON'S TRADEMARK. HOW SAD !!!!!!!!
"One was not edible to serve"
LOL. Since when do we try to eat our board members?
Johnson is arrogant but the other board members talk in circles everyone can't believe what comes out of their months they are a enbrassment to the district. I hate to tell anyone I work at 131. the newspaper also exploits are district as well. Time for the State
Was there a speakers fee for Pather Pfleger to speak, if so how much Can anyone answer that
5:32, gotta love autocorrect :)
Since the MLK event was not a District 131 event it did not cost the district anything to have him speak.
From the Openline blog:
http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=8854980&postID=560578329103852148&page=1&token=1359122775291
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR IN THE BEACON
TIME FOR CHANGE AT EAST
I love East Aurora. I love our neighbors, the restaurants, the stores and the wonderful sense of community here on the East Side. I moved to East Aurora because I fell in love with both its present beauty and its potential.
When I see the negative attention that our school district has drawn over the past few months, I worry for the future of East Aurora and its residents. And when I see the current condition of District 131 —from financial irregularities to ill-advised regulations to improper behavior to a revolving door of staff and leaders at the central office — I know this district is at a crossroads.
I believe it’s time for change in our district, starting at the top — which is why I’ve decided to run for the East Aurora School Board.
I spend a lot of time talking to teachers, students and parents, and the overwhelming sense I perceive is that questionable leadership and misguided practices have led to feelings of defeat and hopelessness for our children. It all boils down to leadership.
For too long in East Aurora, we’ve accepted nominal leadership, even at the highest levels. We need a superintendent and a Board of Education that are motivated to produce the best results, including empowering our educational staff to achieve goals of academic excellence.
We need leaders who challenge the status quo and who know how to motivate, drive and inspire others toward a common vision. We need leadership that elicits trust; acts with complete transparency, accountability and integrity; and knows how to attract and retain the best educators.
As an East Aurora resident who cares deeply about the next generation’s education, I believe it’s time to elect a new Board of Education. The next school board faces uphill challenges, but I believe that the decisions the next board makes will affect the trajectory of our children’s education for years to come.
ZACHARY MONTROY
AURORA
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR IN THE BEACON
LACK OF RESPECT
Reciprocating respect is a key component of good leadership. The level of respect given will be commensurate to the level you receive back and could determine how those looking up to you will perform their duties.
December 6, 2012, gave our community a rare glimpse into the personal thoughts of the School Board president of District 131.
I shared a small window of my past while highlighting the perseverance and strong work ethic of my 64-year-old mother with Annette Johnson, the School Board president. My mother at her advanced age arose every morning by the grace of God and rode the Pace bus to Elgin State Hospital for a little more than minimum wage until her death.
To have her memory degraded to the level of a freeloader is unacceptable in my circle. I have to describe this instance as utter contempt for my mother and others who find themselves in similar circumstances. How does that contempt translate to the students of District 131 and their parents today?
Eight out of 10 families in D131 are considered low income according to the District Report Card. Therefore each of those families qualifies for free or reduced lunch among other things associated with poverty. I am well aware of the burdens put on the homeowners of D131. I have purchased two homes in the district since 1992. I have accepted that the revenue streams are extremely limited but I have not become bitter. As managers of those limited funds we must not be resentful towards those less fortunate.
The district administration has been referred to as untrustworthy by some board members. If this is accurate the Board of Education should look squarely in the mirror and stop pointing fingers because it’s true that the apple does not fall far from the tree.
RAYMOND HULL
EAST AURORA SCHOOL BOARD
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR IN THE BEACON
EAST AURORA CHALLENGES
I am proud to live in East Aurora. My kids love going to school in East Aurora. My husband is a dedicated 3rd grade teacher in the district. My church has partnered with East Aurora schools for the past decade to provide tutors and mentors and community events and fundraisers to help support District 131’s efforts to educate all children.
I have worked directly with students, parents, teachers, and administrators throughout the district to implement programs and provide opportunities for East Aurora children and parents.
Through all of this, I have seen both the strengths and challenges facing our school district. I am running for the Board of Education so that I can help promote and strengthen the assets of our district — such as committed and passionate educators; students who excel despite life challenges; and parents who want to contribute and be involved, but just aren’t sure how.
I am also running for the Board of Education so that I can work to address some of the challenges, such as:
The negative and toxic image of our district.
Limited resources and fiscal mismanagement.
Low test scores and graduation rates.
Exceptionally low teacher and staff morale.
Families who need support in acclimating to English and the American school system.
Lack of a clear, positive vision and the professional leadership needed to propel our district.
I am committed to partner with the students, parents, residents and staff of District 131 to work for progress and excellence. I am running for the Board of Education to help build a positive place for all to live and learn.
KIRSTEN STRAND
AURORA
Zack is quoted today as complaining about the revolving door of administrators. The only ones that revolved had been bad administrators like Marin Gonzalez. Wife Jackie and Marin are involved in a spiritual experience together. That means the spirt of Marin will be back.
Ok here's the deal as far as I am concerned. I am an EA resident and have been for a loooong time. All three of these letters are insulting to me as a resident and I bet you others will find them insulting too.
Hull is destroying are district and dragging it down funny he forgot to mention he called Johnson dead mother a slumlord. It seems the here ministers are running a very negative campaign and that hurts the children. Strand and Montroy also have dirty laundry and I am sure that will come out.
thank you Zachary Montroy, Kirsten Strand & Raymond Hull for bringing hope to Dist 131. Annette Johnson NEEDS TO STEP DOWN as President if 131 is to go forward. If she TRULY cares about the community, and can see the dissension she has created, it is obvious there is something wrong with her leadership. The Administration Board's track record is a disgrace and has been riddled with controversy and mismanagement. Need I put together the list of disgraceful employees and their mismanagement of funds. Change will begin when Annette terminate her era of BULLYING & INTIMIDATION.
As a employee who knows the style of Marin Gonzalez this is her campaign and Jackies. Three years ago Marin covered a mishandled case of a Freshman that was a case assigned to Jackie and the student was never seen and lost in the Ea ok paperwork nightmare of her mismanaged department. He was referred at least twice to our guidance and social work staff by a unnamed teacher and today he is dead. This student killed himself. Professionally, I am not sure that services provided by the school before winter break would have helped. However, Jackie is more concerned with the way teachers feel than students. Her case files go unchecked. In meetings she is always the one who objects the loudest to lesson plans. Why, she is not a teacher? Jackie as a social worker is effective for a few students but her days are consumed with presenting a case the school district is out of control. Her campaigning in he chools has got to stop. Her main concern should e her 130 case files. Currently Conrad is afraid to speak with her about this because of fear that one day shortly her husband will be on the board. I am hoping that another student does not fall into the EA ok system
Kirsten Strand mentions that our district has exceptionally low teacher & staff morale. If they bring back Marin Gonzalez, it will get even WORSE.
I'm also a life long resident of the East Side also a graduate of East High School and I find the the letters are right on point.
While a Board should work together they also if someone believes things are out of hand needs to stand up and say something and that is what Ray is doing. Him calling Johnson's mother a slum lord is not as bad as how she talked about his mother and there are people in this district that work that way now and shows me she has little respect for people of low income.
As far as the others I haven't heard or seen anything that says they will bring back Marin. Just because she goes to their church and goes on retreats with her doesn't mean they will bring her back.
If this board doesn't trust some administration then they should do their job like other district and tell their one employee that it is time to clean house and hire new ones.
A couple of years back U-46 Elgin got rid of their Superintendent and looked around for some time to get a Superintendent that had experience in low income, non English speaking and a large district and found one. When that Superintendent came in and seen the administration wasn't doing their job he fired them and hired new ones. With the districts low test scores the State allows a district to do that. Since then the scores have come up at a good pace not a snails pace like our district.
The person who needs to resign is Hull
When mis management of funds was reported to the board he took the administrators side.
When complaints got forwarded from teachers being bullied and intimidated by teachers to the board he forwarded them to his freind the administrator. The administrator in question then bullied the teachers all the more.
Hull took information out if executive session about administrors being terminated and gave it to them before the board could act. Example Marin Gonzalez who he shares a information source from.
Hull has used his position to ask for and receive special favors for his child.
Hull has made the board dysfunctional and unable to share information
He also apologized in public for his behavior and now continues to attack Johnson who he seems to forget he called a dead women a slum landlord on her one year anniversary.
Is this a minister. It sounds like more of a minister of satan
Kristran Strand and Zack Montroy are a CONFLICT OF INTEREST no matter who is the superintendent or administrator they can't provide fair reviews since they will be the boss. If Scott or Jackie are screw ups how can the administrators manage them. How can they make financial decisions when it impacts their family table. Money and insurance are decisions of the board. It show there integrity they have none. Why did they not find other candiadates to run.
Mt Hull you are a joke and it is clear you have a personnel vendetta against Johnson.
The Three is you should be ashamed of yourselfs.
Marin is behind the Montroy campaign elect Kristen and not him I am Facebook Freinds with Jesse Gonzalez Blank and believe you me her and her mother are involved in the Montroy campaign. Jesse works for the district, Marin does not and should never be involved. I have heard about the mission trip and knowing Marin for years I know she does nothing for anyone but herself let alone go on a mission trip. I would not take a chance on going back to those days.
Also having two members on a board that has family members working for the district is a bit to much
Rayanne in reading the openline blog it appears West Aurora has many of the same problems as East why not turn this blog into a education blog for Aurora.
The Steve Orland case has some interesting turns and let us not forget who sits on West Auroras board none other than Bob Gonzalez husband to Marin
Why not shut down this blog as it adds no value to anything.
Don't like it? Then don't read it :)
And the West Side can get their own blog.
beaconnews.suntimes.com/17802852-417/sandwich-schools-face-big-cuts-higher-fees.htm
Funny thing is if Strand, Montroy or Hull would have been on the board when Steve Orland was interviewed they would have allowed Marin Gonzalez to pick him. It was Anita Lewis who was on a community committee that stopped him. He was Marin recommendation. If Steve Orland got hired you would have had more girls lives damaged. It would have been another case like the athletic trainer who got involved with a atudent last year that Jackie Montroy mentored herself with her husband. This student got te trainer Pregnant and moved in with her. The excuse was well he was 18. Meanwhile Jackie and Zack knew of text message going on. Let us not also turn a blind eye to the fact they have students over to their home. If Zack can't follow that board policy then why would he follow any other.
Remember Zack and Jackie if you live in a glass house don't cast stones. Intergity you have none.
Too bad you allowed Marin to advise you going negative instead you talking about the issues.
CHANGE of leadership in Dist 131 is MANDATORY if credability and trust is to be reinstated if we are to move forward. Time for Annette to let go of her "reign of terror". It's over Annette, do the right thing and resign !!! Can your ego handle that for the sake of the school district? My guess is NO.
I find Hulls article to be offensive. He paints are kids and district as low income and low expectations. Say what you will about Annette Johnson she always asks hard questions and has pushed for excellence for the students. I have never seen Hull take any time out to speak with students or create a environment of high expectations. The Magnet School was all Annette Johnson. Until it became a real school it was just another program in our district that was window dressing. The children that attend will have a great education. The computer based Curiculum is the first of its kind in any school around the western suburbs. Annette Johnson made that happen and until Hull can point to that his words are meaningless.
The message Strand and Montroy have portrayed is their version and many teachers do not have low moral. it is a complete lie that the board caused this. Strands husband does work in a toxic building. Montroy wife works in a disfuntional building mismanaged by Marin Gonzalez. Dr Warren is bring a fresh approach by is meeting resistance. Montroy tells everyone her department is getting targeted because her husband is out saving the day by running. We at East know this department needs to be revamped first because it is on the first line of defense with all students. I resent as a d131 member that they are trying to bring the entire staff into their drama.
The real story
8:10 am thought you are out of town could this be another lie by Minister Hull. Actually you are ruining the district Ray does it mean that much to sign your daughter dipolma
From Openline blog:
Anonymous said...
6:27 a.m., hindsight is 20-20. With a different board and/or superintendent, Kaisershot would not have been deprived of his high school teaching position. A different board/superintendent might have considered the input of hundreds of students, alums, fellow teachers, and community members instead of pushing ahead with their personal vendetta.
Marin Gonzalez was so desperate to save face and kiss up to "Serial Bully" Radakovich that she was grasping at straws to suggest Steve Orland for Kaisershot's position. I seriously doubt that Orland would have entertained the notion of coming over to teach in D131.
1/27/13, 2:53 PM
@3:31pm. Get over it!!!!!!! Kaisershot lost his position years ago!!!! Get over it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Anybody think it's K posting things about him losing his job, or band geeks that cant get over it? Either way, Liska is doing a good job, maybe even better than K.
Oh, and now the crap will hit the fan. Somebody mentioned the band again. Welcome to the next 100 comments.
Liska sucks
Kaisershot sucks
Serial Bully
Current band sounds like crap
Kaisershot played baby music
School board from hell
BLAH BLAH BALH BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH BALH BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH
8:38 p.m., Kevin Kaisershot did not "lose" his high school teaching position. He was DEPRIVED of it, against the objections of hundreds of students, parents, fellow teachers, and community members.
Yes, it happened several years ago; the reason it is being brought up yet again is because one of the people involved (Marin Gonzalez) is being discussed as possibly coming back to our district.
Quick, somebody change the topic.
Parent's and education - Thoughts?
Here is another topic. The buildings on the East Side are all falling apart. What should we do to fix them.
Maybe kids aren't learning because they can't stand to be in the rooms with cracked ceilings, uneven floors, broken desks, and drafty windows.
Interesting tactic to keep trying to link Strand and Montroy to Marin Gonzalez. It a desperate hope of Annette Johnson to deflect attention away from all the district scandals under her watch. We are just supposed to forget all her bullying and intimidation of everybody. Are we supposed to just forget how she insulted the vast majority of the community with her comments about low income community members?
The district has never had a worse reputation than it has had in the past year. The board and administration have been a complete embarrassment. That includes all current administrators and all the ones that have recently (within the past few years) moved on.
Strand and Montroy need to publicly state that they have no intention to rehire any recent administrators and clearly demonstrate that they intend to move the district forward from the mess it is currently in.
Mary Louise "Lou" Peryea is also running for School Board. Here's her website:
http://lou4district131.com
To: January 27, 2013 at 5:50 AM
You need to do a little investigative work and not necessarily just accept leaders who start crying broke (PLEASE, give us more money or we are making cuts).
Just look at the teacher pension system. According to the Govenor (and repeated by Linda Chapa Lavia), we are looking at a $95 billion dollar deficit. Has anybody questioned the man about how he came to his numbers?
The TRS has been the most financially stable fund in the State of Illinois for decades. It has had such a huge surplus that our politicians have raided the fund (I believe illegally) to cover other state expenses.
All retirees combined used 3.4 billion dollars last year and 2.7 billion dollars the year before. As of about a year ago the fund had over 33 billion dollars in assets. A far cry from the 95 billion dollar deficit the govenor keeps quoting.
How did the govenor come to his 95 billion dollar figure??? Apparently, a few years ago, at the height of the financial meltdown, the TRS investment fund (along with everybody elses financial portfolio)took a loss. This, in addition to the state not paying it's portion of it's pension obligations left the TRS with a one year deficit.
What the govenor has done is to take the financial figures from this one deficit year and projected that the next 50 years will be just as catastrophic. If you assume that the economy will be that bad for the next 50 years and add the deficits for 50 years, you come up with a 95 billion dollar deficit.
As anybody with half a brain can see, the govenors numbers are not based in any form of reality but nobody questions him as he goes on the television and spouts his propaganda.
Why does he do this? Simple. He 1) wants to reduce promised benefits to our public retirees and 2) the govenor wants to pass the financial responsibility of the pension system to local communities.
All this after passing the largest tax increase in US history (along with 125 other tax and fee increases that same year). In addition, not paying state bills. Why is nobody asking where all this money is going?
Where is the investigative reporting on state finances?
Whether they promise or not it proves the good ministers already lie they keep bad company. Zack goes on mission trips with Marin Jessie Gonzalez is working on his campaign and these are in good hard black and white.
as far as the reputation until Ray Hull got involved we had a working image campaign and the Beacon wrote positive article after positive article. ay broke the rules and decided to speak for the board. If Strand, Montroy and Peryea are elected Ray will become board President. Except him to play the deuces if he does not get his way.
Maybe Strand and Montroy should stop hanging around with people like Hull, and Marin. Maybe they should take the high road because they do not live in a glass house.
As far as the building falling apart the current board has spent 15million in rehabiting them over 4 years. These are the people Hull defends as honest ad hard working. It took Leonard to take over Hulls job on B&G to Et them working. When you take 800 trips to Menards and do not work that's why you have cracked ceiling not because of the Board. Again listen to Hull and that's what you get. Follishness.
It's funny hoe Strand up until a few months ago supported Lewis and Johnson and the current Board and said hey did a fine job. As for her stop listening to Hulls lies he will only throw you off like he did the current board. Lewis comments are well taken the board will never get along as long as he is on it. That goes for the future one.
I know Lou Peryea. She would make a wonderful School Board member! She's worked at Hope Wall for several years, and is a level-headed reasonable person. She has my vote!
With the upcoming new board members coming aboard, this will directly have an impact on rebuilding trust and credability in Dist 131. Johnson & Roberts must go and hopefully they will resign instead of putting the valuable time of the board in fighting and questioning them on their leadership. PUT THE DISTRICT DIRECTION AHEAD OF EVERYTINING !!! RESIGN ANNETTE AND JEROME
I wish I could vote for Annette Johnson 1000 times. The nay sayers can say all they want, but I am supporting her and the other current board members.
Mary Lou Peryea does not have a clue she is only being encouraged by the Three ministers. Four on the Board is to many
She has never been involved in our district and has no clue as to the moral in the building she is getting it from Zack. As far as the image until Zack and Ray got together it was pretty good who started the image campaign is has Annette Johnson and Jerome Roberts I heard the speech so often I could repeat it myself.
I don't question all the trips to Menards. Anyone who is handy and tries fixing things around the house knows the littlest project can have you back and for for supplies. The problem was the lack of protocol for keeping track of receipts. If you are in charge of a department you should keep track of the spending. It is the same story across the "Board" (see what I did there?). All the problems we have been having stem from the leadership. Why was B&G allowed to be mismanaged for so long? Why were some of our "leaders" misusing credit cards? Why does the district continue to embarrass itself with the mistakes that come from the people in charge. No Anette you can't vote for yourself 1000 times. Just resign once. Change is necessary. Too many mistakes. New leadership will revive this community. All the problems originate from the little red brick building. The schools keep trying. That is where the real leaders are. Working hard for the kids. We need to vote in new leaders, get rid of leaders that are not effective, get rid of the dead weight jobs where people are getting paid six figures for ??? Change is the only option to jump start d131.
Why did the head of the B&G committee Raymond Hull allow this Oh yeah he works for he City and looks the other way with the suppliers. What do you expect from a person who uses the City email system to sent out personnel emails. His city truck is always on the driveway during work hours. That is why Ray has no problem with the maintenanace guys taking personnel trips
I agree with January 28, 2013 at 7:16 PM. Those charges from Maintenance have been on the list of bills each month and the board is suppose to look at them. It shouldn't take a board member to do it. There should be a policy about who goes and gets the supplies and how much they can spend in a purchase. If someone has to go back and get supplies more than a couple of times for a project that means whoever planned the repair didn't plan very good.
But this all goes back to the board and their one employee the blame starts at the top.
The dirty tricks lies campaign of how our district is run by Montroy Strand continue. Dr Roberts, Adam Harding and Johnson are going to buildings as part of a agreement that was made with the teachers union in September. They would do a mid year check on climate issues as a group. It is not a political stunt, just transparently but Strand and Montroy have been telling everyone these are horrible people who don't have a clue. What they dont want you to know is the union and current board have good communications and the teachers are all enpowered to give suggestions. What Strand and Montroy fail to tell you that Strands husband can attend his school event on Thursday. No secrets. if anyone is ruining the image of the district it is them. I would except more from a Minister. e need to ask what is their agenda. We should also ask if ey wanted to share ideas then why is Jackie Montroy or Scott Strand nt n a reform committee
Why not start with Nestor's job. What a waste of money!!!!! He does NOTHING!!! 6 figure salary to do literally NOTHING!!! If you read this blog Nestor, please try and defend yourself. You can't! 6 figures guys, 6 figures!!
@2:29pm. Couldn't agree with you more
Speaking of jobs, our district is once again advertising for the "Fine Arts Accomopanist" (yes, that's how it's spelled on our website) job. Here we are at the end of January and there is no one in this position; and it's no wonder considering the pitifully small salary offered and huge amount of time required. A few weeks ago an organist colleague applied, was interviewed/auditioned, but turned down the position when he went to the service center to sign the contract.
Our district would be more successful attracting qualified candidates if we either offered a better salary for the accompanist (and maybe changed the job title to "accompanist/assistant choir director"), or brought in local piano teachers on a part-time hourly basis.
It is a shame that it is the end of Jan. and they still haven't hired anybody yet. I'm sure the choir is suffering because of this. MORE
ea OK!!!
I read the Facebook Page of Montrose and Strand. I have seen two more negative people. They are Not what the board needs. They want no change and claim no changes are working. How about the fact d131 will lay Noboby off this year. My son in law teaches in Barlett and every school in Dupae will lay off. I also know the Kane County is predicting the same. I wish he had applied for a job with 131 after 3 years and student loans and talk of my daughter moving to a smaller apartment any teacher who is not happy here please leave so he can get your job.
Don't you just have all the answers.
Why would thy be out visiting schools it's not any of you live in this district. It's not like the teachers educate their children in 131. If Johnson and Roberts had been having meeting with the parents or PTA then I would say that's wrong. It guess the pervious poster is right they are causing trouble. Kristen you just lost my vote and Zack you never had it.
could someone explain to me the history of Nestor's job performance?
I have heard rumors however do not know the details please explain
As an Aurora businessman that serves the community I have been reading the many outrageous stories of management failure perpetrated upon the school district by the school board and, specifically, the President. Are any of these people, the ones meddling in and micro managing the district, qualified to run a $150 million dollar, multi-dimensional corporation? NO
The President is trying to shape the district into an image of herself - dysfunctional.
A corporate leader that does not care what the customer, you, the people of the east side of Aurora and the employees, think of her?
That’s her first mistake.
Claiming a victory in resolving insurance problems? Easy pickings. Why didn’t the president start in her 1st year rather than waiting until her final year. Seems like an election move.
Stopping 800 trips to Menards? The parts are still being purchased. Just differently.
Credit card abuse. Very little. Just because the credit card charges have been reduced significantly the material is still being purchased. Just differently.
She chased off the Financial Director Jay Augustine who placed the district on solid financial ground. She chased off his replacement in just a few weeks. The district is running on empty with a Part Time Finance Director. ALL THIS FROM A CPA??? Doing the best for the district???
More mistakes.
Bullying
Threating people’s jobs.
Board members hiring unqualified friends. Sounds like cronyism.
Ruining the camaraderie of the district.
WHERE DO YOU GO NOW, EAST SIDE? GO VOTE FOR NEW MANAGEMENT. GO VOTE FOR A NEW BOARD. ANYONE IS BETTER THAN THE CURRENT BOARD.
There is an article in the Beacon today about the Boys II Men awards being given out.
http://beaconnews.suntimes.com/mobile/17854040-463/five-to-be-honored-at-annual-phenomenal-man-awards.html
There is a large picture of Nacho Cervantes. He will be receiving a Boys II Men award.
The interesting part of the article is where it is revealed for the first time publicly that Nacho Cervantes is the son of Clayton Muhammad. That’s a piece of information that has never been made public before. Not when his bio was released as he ran for student board member. Not when he was running for board member (and lost) and not when the school board voted him onto the board despite losing in the public election.
This is a person who's self interests are served by keeping his father employed by the district. This is a point that was vital when accusations that Clayton and Lisa Morales were blackmailing the parent of the child who Wilson Morales beat up. It is also important when the board decides Clayton's secret salary. Despite Clayton being listed as an administrator on the district website (a position he has no qualifications for) there is no public disclosure of his salary which is required by Illinois Law of all public school administrators. Further, how can Nacho sit in judgment about the legalities of public high school fraternities?
This is exactly why the Illinois General Assembly made high school fraternities illegal. Secret societies have a long history of nepotism, favoritism and all sorts of back room deals that are not good for the community at large. It also makes a person stop and think about who we pick for board members and administrators. Their decisions affect the community for a very long time. Ponquinette was superintendent 30 years ago. Because of Ponquinette, we ended up hiring his godchild, Clayton Muhammad. Now we have Clayton’s son Nacho Cervantes.
We keep hearing from Annette Johnson that the past 30 years have been a wreck. These three have been a major part of the decision making process during that entire time. Clearly, the current system is not working. It’s way past time to completely clean house.
Funny how facts can be made to look all the colors of gray. All I know is the current board is doing an outstanding job and I am voting for every incumbant anyone else.
7:39 p.m., I think you've gotten the facts mixed up. Clayton Muhammad has two adopted sons; Nacho Cervantes is not one of them.
And Boys II Men is a service and mentoring organization. I haven't seen the group called a "fraternity" for at least a couple of years.
About the Fine Arts accom(o)panist position--Ms. Gawlik has been doing a grEAt job as the new EHS choir director, but she would probably appreciate having a pianist to assist her, as she was promised when she was hired.
God bless Mrs. Suzanne Allen for graciously stepping in to accompany our ChoirCats at their December concerts.
nacho is not Clayton's son but he is up for election that's why Clayton gave him the award. Jared Maldondo is Clayton's son he is getting a award.
The administrators and board (or at least Shrek and Donkey)have set up a whole series of meetings with the school staff at every building.
"In an effort to keep the staff of East Aurora Schools better informed, leaders of the district have launched a robust schedule of meetings that will be held at each school over the course of the next two months." ... from Clayton.
Shrek and Donkey were at Allen today. Listening to the prepared speech by Jerome Roberts, it sounded like a political rally for Annette Johnson. According to Jerome, everything good in the district has been because of Annette Johnson and nobody else. He gave no credit to the other board members, administrators or staff of the district.
It's also worth noting that this type of meeting has never been held before at the schools and 2)all these meetings are happening between now and the school board election. In fact, the meetings culminate with the largest rally at East High, the Friday before the school board election.
I guess we now know why Jerome hasn't been terminated as yet. At least not until he gets Annette re-elected.
Kristen and Zack are going wild about the Union President Adam Harding, Board President Anette Johnson and Superintendent Roberts visiting buildings. The staff of 95% of 131 is trilled. The union reps and union leadership see Dr Roberts and Johnson as problem solvers. I had the opportunity to see this first hand, our teachers did not. What the teachers will see is reasonable people solving problems Not the story Montroy and Strand have been spreading. Yes as a d131 employee we have had a lot of change, but so are our fellow teachers in other districts. The difference is we have a job and many others are getting RIF nices this spring. Stop destroying our district and except change L
9:55am you loose all credibility when you resort to such characterizations. Annette Johnson and the Board are clamping down on all of this nonsense and what I suspect is that the people who have been taking advanatage of the sytem are getting nervous and some are getting scared that the "good life" is going to come to an end. They are lashing out just as you are and doing whatever it takes to discredit her and the Board. That goes for the new candidates for the board as well.
GO ANNETTE AND THE BOARD OF EDUCATION!
This was just posted on the D131 website:
Fine Arts Accompanist JobID: 1774
Position Type:
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Closing Date:
01/30/2013
Support Staff/Fine Arts Accompanist
Date Posted:
1/23/2013
Location:
East High School
Date Available:
As soon as possible
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. High School diploma or equivalent.
2. Must be able to play the piano and accompany vocal choir.
3. Excellent organizational skills.
4. Strong interpersonal and intrapersonal skills.
5. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
6. Ability to work with a linguistically and culturally diverse public.
JOB DESCRITION/RESPONISIBLITIES:
Plays accompaniment at sight for designated classes and choral groups.
Coaches students individually to improve vocal and/or instrumental skills.
Coaches students in proper diction for songs.
Illustrates different musical forms in theory courses.
Adapts themes to the piano from recorded music.
Composes short music phrases to accompany choreographed dance pieces.
Accompany students for performances and rehearsals:
a. Occasional before and after school rehearsals
b. Vocal music concerts each semester
c. Honors choir community performances
d. Senior Awards Assembly
e. Choral Banquet (as scheduled)
f. After-school choral auditions
g. Other performances as schedule.
8. Assist Fine Arts Department in planning, preparing, and publicizing department events, such as the District Fine Arts Fair and High School Evening with the Fine Arts.
May perform clerical duties such as cataloging music.
Perform any other duties as assigned by supervisor or designee.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Applicants should apply onliine at: www.d131.org
All inquiries and communications should be sent by January 29, 2013.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The good news is, they corrected the spelling of the position ("accompanist", not "accomopanist").
The bad news is, today is January 30, 2013.
"JOB DESCRITION/RESPONISIBLITIES"
Spellcheck much??
Just one more example of "EA-OK"...this time at the service center :(
I agree 7:59. Look at Morales' bio on the Simmons website. It too is full of mistakes, and on and on and on.
Sounds like someone is not telling the truth again.
First, I heard Dr Roberts speech he gave credit to the entire board not Johnson. He talked about Common Core, and the district being fiscally sound. He discussed the over 200 positions the current board hired for and the fact all other schools are laying off. Then he took great pride in talking the great things like the Magnet school being the only one of its kind
Our Union President talked about the committees and the fact we can can have input with changes in RTI! PBIS and PLC time. That we can make suggestions about reducing he amount of Assestments. He did give credit to Johnson for this. He also stated these are mid year follow up meetings because of a promise administration made.
Johnson spoke and told us State aid will be cut again but all teachers in this district will have a job and not get RIF'S
Then everyone was invited to ask questions. Many stayed afterward.
It was a good meeting
They fixed the spelling on the website for the accompanist position (ahh...the power of a blog!)
But they still want all inquiries and communications sent by January 29, 2013. Good luck with that.
You know what else would have fixed the spelling. You calling human resources and informing them of the TYPO instead of blowing a mistake out of proportion.
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