Ain't that the truth! Administration can't win for trying, someone's always going to be upset. Maybe they should flip a coin or do rock-paper-scissors next time to decide whether to cancel school. At least that way they can say it was just the luck of the draw!
At a faculty meeting, a couple of years ago, the staff had to listen to Dr. Roberts ramble through his explanation of how difficult it was to make the decision to close schools due to weather. He claimed it was the hardest part of his job. It took doc close to 15 minutes to try and cover his rear end because many staff were irritated that they received such late notice every time schools were closed.
Through it all, his explanation basically boiled down to; he had to listen to the weather reports, look out the window and finally, call the superintendents of District 129 and 204 to make the decision together. Apparently Doctor Roberts forgot to perform the final stage of the process. That or he couldn’t reach the other superintendents, as they had already made the call last night and were sleeping in this morning.
Parents in other school districts received notices last night explaining how schools were closed for the safety of students and staff and the district was giving parents the earliest notice possible notice to make it easier on parents who needed to arrange day care for their children. In other words, other districts put the safety of their students first and foremost above everything else.
Jerome gambled the lives of every child today with his poor decision. Anybody watching children walk in the street up Farnsworth Avenue and the cars swerving around them knows this. This is just one more example of why Jerome should have been fired years ago and Annette Johnson should be replaced for continuing to support him.
EAST FOUNDATION HOSTS FORUM FOR SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES The Aurora East Educational Foundation (AEEF) will host an East Aurora School Board Candidates’ Forum on Thursday, March 7, 2013. The forum will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Hawks Auditorium at East Aurora High School. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. The forum will be moderated by Richard C. Irvin, an attorney, alderman, East Aurora alumnus, and member of the AEEF Board of Directors.
Eight candidates are running for five open seats in the April 9 election. Three seats are for four-year terms (expiring in 2017) and two seats are for two-year terms (expiring in 2015). Four-year term candidates are: Annette Johnson, Richard Leonard, Zach Montroy, and Kirsten Strand.
Two-year term candidates are: Ignacio Cervantes, Stella Gonzalez, Marcella McIntyre-Duermit, and Mary Louise Peryea.
Each of the eight candidates will have the opportunity to make introductory and closing statements. In between, the moderator will present general questions that will be answered by each of the candidates prior to questions being asked by the audience. The forum is open to the public.
The decision to close schools should be a very simple one. You need to ask youeself one simple question: What decision puts the childrens safety first?
Or you can think about it in more practical terms. If a child was injured or killed, do you want to have to go before a judge and explain why you were the only superintendent that decided to keep schools open during a winter storm?
I would error on the side of student safety every time. There is no other rational decision. Any superintendent who does not put student safety first should not retain his position.
If Doctor Roberts doesn't put students health and safety first on a day like today, does anybody believe he puts student safety first with a thousand other decisions he makes throughout the year? With building issues? With food? With staff selection?
How can any rational person keep faith in this individual or the school board that continues to support him?
Well, now we see exactly why Adam Harding has betrayed every teacher in District 131. According to the Beacon his new compensation package totals $106,000 the first year.
Judas has received his 30 pieces of silver. I wonder if Adam/Judas will be able to live with himself any more than Judas was able to.
Total BS. Roberts doesn't even wipe his rear without Annette Johnson telling him he can. Roberts and Johnson need to be called out on such extremely poor decision making. They put the children at great risk, not only due to the extremly dangerous weather conditions but many schools had almost no staff like Waldo. Who was supervising those kids. What would happen if there wass an emergency in the building. Wow.
The consensus of the majority of teachers that I spoke with yesterday was that schools were kept open because of the scheduled ISAT testing. ISAT’s have become so important lately, they are the center of the educational universe. Administrators know that their positions depend on those test scores.
It is a sad state of affairs when a test is placed above student safety but in a school district that values administrators first, students second and teachers dead last, it is not surprising. At the very least, yesterday revealed the district leaderships priorities.
March 5, 2013 at 8:30 PM BINGO on the Docs decisions. It could not have been stated more clearly and accurately. This man has been making choices (not for excellence, I might add) for our children far too long and the Board-all of them- support him.
I have no doubt the testing played a major role in the staying open decision.
Anonymous said...I watched kids struggling in the snow going to the middle schools. Serious consideration should have been made for their safety. We have to start thinking once again about the students safety.
I see this is being broadcast live. There is no excuse not to watch or say you have babysitting problems. It seems our new PR director is much better at communication than Clayton
Read the information about the forum tonight where do you see it is being broadcast? Also who ever post these things need to proof read at the top of the page it has.
East Aurora School District 131 News Release
Clayton Muhammad 630.299.5550 (office) 630.774.9306 (media cell) 630.299.5500 (fax) cmuhammad@d131.org
Just saw that too about the Board forum being live on D131 website. When I went there I saw a video on the Magnet School and the Dunham Fund Grant. Who is Fred Rodgers?
Well, based on the slate posted by March 5 8:16, we're guaranteed to have either Strand or Montroy joining the board. Both if either Johnson or Leonard get voted off.
As a teacher in the district watching the forum from home, I must say that the current board members continue to be an embarrassment! They speak in cirlces and some can't even use correct English! I am pleasantly surprised by all of the new candidates! Please vote all four of them in!
Ok I Googled it and this is what came up after the heading that he recieved the African American Award. "he was the first employee of the Youth Services Department. Under his direction, the City of Lights Sports Tournament, Aurora Sports Festival, Stepping into the Arts Music Program and many summer camps were established and thrived".
So in a school district that is over 95% hispanic the East School District thought it would be a good idea to call its flagship school after a man that had nothing to do with the schools or education.
What a racial slap in the face to every hispanic in the East Aurora Commmunity.
Thank you for leaving school open on Tuesday. The children were safer at school than they would have been running the streets unsupervised. The bottom line is, it was the parents choice on whether to send their children to school. The parents knew the challenge of their children getting to school. If it was not safe, they should have made the decision to keep them home. Quit blaming the district for lack of parenting skills.
8:26 it has been posted previously on the blog that the building was named after Fred Rodgers by the city when it became a community center. It was in recognition of his many years serving the youth (of all races) of Aurora. The building had gone by that name for several years before the magnet academy was created. When the district bought the building, the name came with it. Of course, if you think the building has to be named after a hispanic because of the current demographics of the city, and just can't tolerate our students in a building named after a black man, I guess we could turn it into some kind of a 10 year rotation based on the census -- but personally I don't think promoting racism like you want to is the way to go.
Part 1 Watching the candidate forum tonight was very enlightening. It is no wonder that our board is as dysfunctional as it is. The four current board members don’t have one brain combined between the four of them. If Nacho is an example of a leading student in District 131, we need to revamp the entire system. I would have said that Nacho is the most incompetent board member that I’ve ever heard, if Stella Gonzalez wasn’t sitting right next to him. The woman is a complete idiot who can’t form a complete sentence, let alone a complete thought. Richard Leonard didn’t use half his time on most questions. It’s as though he had no vision for the district whatsoever. Annette had a one track mind, money, money, money. Education is obviously not a priority of hers.
I was pleasantly surprised by the new candidates running. They each were very educated and had a basic understanding of education and the challenges that face this community. While I didn’t agree with everything they stated, it is clear that they would be a significant improvement over the current board.
When asked about the low test scores and the vision they had for the district’s future, it was clear that the current board members have no vision. Johnson focused on spending money for technology and touted the district’s 180 program. She didn’t mention that the state came in and ripped the district for corrupting the system. The district administrators were using all the funds to focus on just the bubble kids and distort the test scores. The state demanded that the funds were used for every low functioning student. Leonard actually tried to say that other area schools had worse educational issues than District 131. Annette Johnson continued referring to the changes that the board has been making. She never once discussed how they have been 1) completely ineffectual and 2) a complete embarrassment. Mary Louise Peryea did have a moment discussing the role the board should play in education. She was very correct in pointing out that a board that micro-manages and assumes the role of the administrators creates an atmosphere where the administrators become completely ineffectual.
One question spoke about the bad press that District 131 has received about the board and about the lack of accountability this board has used with administration. All the current board members basically stated that we should not believe the reports because the news is slanted against them. Annette claimed that there has been accountability because they have reassigned some administrators to other positions. If an administrator is incompetent in one position, why would you transfer them to another position instead of replacing them with a more competent adminstrator?
The next question regarded transparency. Annette claimed that the district was transparent about the credit card and accounting issues. She didn’t mention that she knew about the issues four years ago and did nothing until the Beacon FOIA’d the credit card statements. She further claimed that all information is available on the district web site. Anybody who has been on the District 131 web site knows that most of the information is years old.
There was a question that commented about the focus of the board on the Magnet School and asked what the board is doing for the other students of District 131. Montroy added that the Magnet School only deals with about 5% of our population and neglects the other 95%. Current board members could only state that they are looking for technology grants. Kirsten Strand was the only one who understood the importance of activities beyond the classroom to the development of the entire child.
The next question asked about how the negative stories about the board have had a negative effect on the morale of the staff in district 131. According to the current board members, the bad morale in the buildings had nothing to do with the embarrassing stories in the Beacon. We just have teachers who will always complain. Nacho went even further attacking teachers and stating that the board should take a more active role getting rid of some teachers.
Next question addressed was the lack of communication that we have in District 131. The current board members basically agreed that communication was very bad but if they were reelected, they would attempt to address the issue. They also emphasized how our new communications director would increase communications and morale in the district. They don’t have a clue just how hated Adam Harding is by the teachers and staff of District 131. Relations went downhill fast the moment Adam Harding became the districts communications director. Who can possibly trust the man?
The new candidates have a much clearer understanding of the challenges of the district and are obviously much more educated. This is a quality that is of vital importance if they are going to be expected to lead the educational direction of the district. All the new candidates stated the most important functions they will serve are 1) To hire a superintendent that can lead the district in a positive direction 2) To establish a clear vision and set of goals to hold the new superintendent to 3) To hold the new superintendent and administration accountable in meeting these goals. And 4) To begin functioning together as an effectual school board.
The choices would be simple if there were only four board positions open but unfortunately, either Annette Johnson or Richard Leonard will be on the school board after the election. So the only question is which is the lesser of two evils? If Annette is reelected, there is no doubt that the board will continue to be dysfunctional. She will continue to bully everybody and embarrass the district. While Richard Leonard has no vision (and no personality), he should be able to work with the other board members to a positive end. The choice should be clear on April 9th:
Zach Montry Kirsten Strand Marcella McIntyre-Duermit Mar Louise Peryea Richard Leonard
It amazing how incompetent our board members are. They don't seem to have a clue. Stella just rambles on and doesn't say a thing. Nacho wasn't much better. Richard Leonard just mumbled and said as little as possible and Annette only talked about money and taxpayers. It was clear that a serious change is necessary.
I've never heard the other candidates before but it was clear that they could complete a thought and communicate that thought to other people. It was also clear that they would be financially sound but put educating our kids first.
At the very least, I'm sure that the new candidates would be able to read the issues that are brought before the board. Yes, I am still in disbelief that Annette Johnson stated to the Beacon that the board does not read what the board votes on. She stated this during the LGBT policy fiasco.
Vote all the current board members out, especially Johnson.
I can't believe the way Ignacio Cervantes bashed the teachers during the forum. Richard Levin asked what each board member would do about how the recent board scandals and the bad press has had such a negative effect on teacher morale.
Ignacio basically said that negative press was because the newspaper was writing slanted stories against the board and that if the teachers don't like it, they should leave the district. He further stated that the district should get rid of some of these teachers.
It was clear that Nacho has no respect for the teachers of District 131. He must go!!!!!
I from a residents standpoint was very disappointed in the forum. The clear and shocking winner was Cervantes. the others had no solutions only identified problems. Johnson, defended all the current programs and the existing board sat like a bunch of puppets.
Strand and Montroy called for Roberts head but had no ideas.
Gonzalez can form a thought and Leonard only cares about his friend Feltes.
Perrya said something after she was cut off and it basically stated she was building more schools.
Where is she paying for it?
Now I am more confused than ever but Cernavtes earned my vote. Duemitt seemed like a fresh voice.
It was so clear tonight that the current board has no plan for the district. They are too busy badmouthing the administration, the teachers, the community and each other. They are a completely dysfunctional group of individuals who continue to employ corrupt administrators who are only concerned with their own paychecks. They do not put the education of the East Aurora Children first.
Now is the time to make a change for excellence. Time to clean house. First the board and next, the administration.
I also watched the forum online and agree with March 7, 2013 at 8:22 PM. The current board patted themselves on the back but didn't bring anything to the table about getting scores up or how to solve the problems the others running did.
All the people blogging are teachers who don't live in our district and don't pay taxes here Peryra admitted they will build more schools. That means more taxes.
You claim that Cervantes won??? Name one idea that Cervantes had other than fire teachers with low morale.
If Nacho spoke first, he rambled and didn't say a thing. If he spoke last, he simply repeated what other candidates had stated but with very poor english.
The kid is in way over his head. He obviously doesn't have the education necessary for such a role. He is a perfect example of a bottom 3% of the state student from East Aurora.
Every incompetent sentence that came from Nacho's mouth was a cry for major change in District 131.
Actually, 7:48 a.m., I DO live in the district and pay taxes. And my kids are also D131 graduates, so I have a lot of "skin in the game".
I watched the meeting last night (good call to Mr. Harding or whoever was responsible for broadcasting it). I am now more convinced than ever that we need new leadership on our school board. I thank Annette Johnson for her several years of service but it is now time to try some fresh ideas & approaches. Like others have mentioned I am concerned about Strand & Montroy's friendship with Marin Gonzalez, but I seriously doubt they would try to sneak her back and certainly not as superintendent. Ms. Peryea has many years of positive involvement in D131 and she has my vote also.
I recall teacher appreciation week last year. I was aware that a church group came out on the weekend and decorated the schools and placed small gifts in all the teachers mailboxes. The teachers were extremely impressed and grateful. It was the most recognized and appreciated they had ever been in District 131.
I didn't realize until last night that it was Kirsten Strand that was behind that small generosity. She has done more to recognize the teachers of District 131 than the entire board and administration have been in the past four years.
It is clear to me the difference in attitude between the current board and those running against them. The current board: If you don't like the crap we give you, GET OUT!!! The new blood: We have great and dedicated teachers in District 131, it's time we give the teachers the support they need to be successful with our children.
I was most impressed by Kirsten Strand but all the new people are a considerable improvement over the current members.
A vot for Stella is a vote for Annette Johnson. Stella Gonzalez will agree and vote alongside Annette as history has proven that. She is one of the major reasons the Board has lost its credability. Remove yourself from the ballot Stella in the best interests of the community. Your answers last night were so shallow compared to the others. Please don't embarass yourself any further.
Now that the candidates' forum has been broadcast online, it is clear that our district has the capability to put meetings online in real time for the public to view.
Question for School Board candidates:
When will D131 School Board meetings be broadcast online, as several area districts already do? Wouldn't this represent an improvement in transparency and accountability?
Shame on you for remarks you made against educators. If you are not part of the system and how it really works maybe being on the school board is not a good idea. I applaud you for trying but it was very clear you are not clear on how things are run. I know you Ignacio as a former student and you still have the habit of repeating things you have heard stated by others. Keep in mind you had a lot of help during your school experience, especially middle school. Teachers went the extra mile to help in your success. Yes there are teachers who maybe would be happier somewhere else but that does not give you the right to make negative comments when you are trying to keep your position as a board member. Grow up Ignacio and stop playing the little kid games and pointing fingers. I was very disappointed in your comments and lack of compassion last night.
Nacho Cervantes, You NEED to understand that the biggest thng you need to do is LEARN about the big picture. You blew it yesterday and an apology is in order.
Sounds like you too need to understand a little more about teachers in general with 131. That is a very broad statement and accusation you are making against 131 educators. In my experience most 131 teachers and staff are very compassionate who are there for our kids and want the best for them. Sometimes we are not allowed the resources and freedom it takes to accomplish the goal of student success. All districts have some disgruntled teachers working with kids just as some employees are not happy with the job they hold in other industries. I was educated by some of the finest teachers coming from 131 and that experience helped me to decide I wanted to become a teacher. Not everyone has what it takes to work with someone else's child. Maybe you had a bad experience but not all of us are bad or are the worst teachers as you so elegantly stated.
Went over and looked at the posting on Openline that someone posted on here and found this interesting. Did the district in going with the insurance the retirees have now get them the Durham Grant?
An investigation by OpenlineBlog has learned a civil war erupted within District 131 over getting the grant paperwork processed with School Board President Annette Johnson blasting Superintendent Dr. Jerome Roberts for failing to make sure the district went through all the motions, paperwork and process to get a grant that had been basically assured.
Ms. Johnson herself got involved and negotiated herself with the Dunham Fund to make sure the $660,000 grant happens.
Meanwhile, Johnson was in a "rush" to change the benefits broker for District 131, which apparently didn't follow an open review process involving teachers and unions, but did create a massive cost increase and lots of upset retired teachers, which she blames on "poor communication."
That change ended up being HUB International, which employs Stephen Morcos, who's family members sit on the board of the Dunham Fund, giving the $660,000 grant.
Of course, like everything in Aurora, this could be yet another "coincidence."
Het 8;37 we wouldn't be in the mess we a5re in if the Republicans hadn't instituted the unrealistic NCLB standards under Bush. Who achieves 100%? yet that is the expectation. That in a poor district, that is getting poorer, where social problems are on the up and up. The Republicans in their zeal to privatize education, have made it impossible to reach the scores. The only reason our district has to kow tow to NCLB , is that we take state funds. Most schools in richer districts have opted out of NCLB. aS for bad teachers most of ours have two or three degrees, lots of awards and are the best in their field. There are other factors with these scores that you need to be aware of. And if Nacho wishes to wield his little hammer against us, he can easily be gone.
What was clear in the forum last night was that MOntroy et al were pandering to the teachers. Maybe that's because they have a personal interest in pacifying teachers and employees. But they suure showed disrespect for the taxpayers! Who's going to pay for all their pie-in-the sky proposals? It's easy to sit on the sidelines and criticize those who are currently on the board. But the Montroy/Strand group have no clue how to really run anything. They just want to recruit for their church.
The real culprits in the School Board issues are the former school boards who left the district in such a mess. The current board I believe is doing their best to fix things as they uncover them. Let's face it, former boards and superintendants have made a mess of the district. Interesting how the teachers never complained when nothing was getting fixed. Now that things are getting cleaned up, the teachers are crying.
That link you sent was astounding. It shows just the tip of how deep the corruption regarding the insurance scadal goes. For those of you who haven't read it yet, this is a must read. Definately check it out.
Annette Johnson was the only incumbent able to articulate a clear thought. She must have been totally embarrassed by Leonard and Gonzalez. They caused me to be embarrassed for them. The two of them were like parrots repeating everything she said. There was not one original thought which came from them. Listening to Leonard stumble through his final statement was joke , Johnson should have rehearsed him more since she wrote it. Ms Duermit while articulate, she had no original thoughts.
As a member of the Insurance Committee we all reviewed numberous quotes. A company called Gallager was the largest and could not devote the time necessary to fix the mess. The HUB group committed to open enrollment at every building and instruction on the policies. They had been the second largest. They provided quotes from three large carriers one being Bluecross who was cheaper by several hundreds of thousands of dollars. The group of support staff, teachers and maintenance staff wanted to go back to Bluecross not Annette Johnson.
I also will say Johnson spent better than a month researching this and it is all FOIA able.
If she got the grant as a perk then good for her it helps 750 kids.
AURORA — The East Aurora School District has hired Adam Harding as the district’s new interim spokesman.
East Aurora School Board President Annette Johnson said Harding, 37, will first work to develop the district’s internal communications in the post. She said Harding’s appointment gives a teacher a “cabinet-level” position in the district.
“We’re working on getting a better message out to the teachers and the students,” Johnson said.
Harding, a former teacher at Krug Elementary School, had been president of the East Aurora Teacher’s Union Local 604 since May 2012. Harding has worked for the district full-time for 10 years.
As he moves to the new role, Harding said leadership of the teacher’s union passes on to union Vice President Sara Imthurn.
Harding’s undergraduate degree is in communications, and he spent the first part of his career in corporate public relations roles before getting a master’s degree in education.
In a letter sent to teachers after the School Board approved his post this week, Harding said that his parents, siblings and wife have all dedicated their lives to being classroom teachers. He said his personal and professional goal has always been to be in a leadership role “where I could network, build bridges of trust, and share the good news of education in East Aurora.”
When he heard that his mentor and friend, previous district spokesman Clayton Muhammad, was moving on, he decided to apply for the open position. Muhammad left the district last month to join the city of Aurora as director of communications.
“I used to joke with Clayton that (the spokesman job) was my dream job someday because of my communications background and love for school districts. I just never thought it would materialize because I thought he’d be here forever,” Harding said.
The interim spokesman position was open to in-district, employees. Johnson said that two candidates applied for the position.
“My colleagues that know me personally know that my background (prior to teaching) was in communications and my love and commitment for District 131 is authentic,” Harding said. “Regardless of the timing, I applied for this position, interviewed and was afforded the opportunity to build upon the great things happening in district.”
Although it’s now an interim position, Harding said he’s confident in his skillset and hopes to be named to the full-time position.
In his new role, Harding’s salary will be pro-rated at $106,000 a year with other benefits, according to Johnson. Harding’s salary is equal to Muhammad’s salary under his last contract with the School District.
With everything being said about board members and Johnson and how things work in this district and how some don't like it remember the current board have let the things go on. Even though some speak up they have done nothing to stop the corruption, misuse of money and making the employees that have misused it to pay it back have not made themselves accountable or stepped forward to stop it.
A few that are running now for the board have close ties to administration and are they willing to stop the misuse of money? All the retreats at country clubs, eating at high end restaurants(ballydole) or just all the money spent on eating.
It's a very simple concept; You get out of education exactly what you put into it. Teachers don't open your head and pour in the information. Teachers show you the door but you have to walk through it.
Gerhard and Nacho went through East High at roughly the same time. Gerhard is an intelligent, well spoken individual who recently scored a perfect score on the ACT. Nacho after 12 years in East (and a couple more in college) can hardly form an intelligent sentence.
These kids both had many of the same teachers, went through the same curriculum and had the same opportunities. Why is one successful while the other is not?
The answer is simple and we saw an example of it Thursday night. Nacho has not taken responsibility for himself. The paper is slanted against him, the teachers should leave the district or better yet, the board should actively go after and terminate them.
Not once did he state that he should take responsibility for his own actions. Talk shows like Jerry Springer are repleat with people like Nacho. It's my parents fault, it's my teachers fault, it's societies fault. When are one these individuals ever going to stand up and say "My mom was great, my dad was great, I am just an idiot".
I know this is a rough lesson for you Nacho but, you need to take responsibility for your own destiny. Only then will you realize your self value and start down the road to self improvement.
Major support of Strand and Montroy come from the teachers that do not live in 131. They claim they don't have a voice or resources to change that.
The current teachers now have the ability to change anything they want. All they need to do is join a committee. the work out of committees have full support of he board.
So what is your problem?
Release time is given, yet it was hard to get teachers to join? So when you say D131 is horrible board members like Cervantes don't see many complainers wanting to be a part of the solution.
Then there's the conflict of interest problem. It is Strand and Montroy who have put teachers in a bad spot because they will not be able to represent them . The board will look like a return to the corrupt boards of he past.
Congrads Nacho for actually being the only one who was honest last night,
You cry and complain the blog is ruining he district yet you support Zack Montroy.
At a recent Board meeting Montroy accused the Board of writing things on the blog. He made public statements knowing the Board can not respond. He also spoke spoke about the destructive nature of the blog to our district.
Yet his supporter is Rayanne Carlson the originator and host of the Blog.
Many teachers in the district complain about this so lets see if Zack is a man of action or just a bag of wind. Zack get the blog shut down or are you only complaining because you have the lack of Intergrity.
I find is amusing that board members or ones that are running for the board take the time to comment about the board don't they have more important things to worry about like getting test scores up, making sure our students have the tools to learn and and nice place to learn? How about making sure money is spent wisely. Yes there are things that people say on this blog that isn't nice but at least the ones they are talking about behind their backs. Some comments are suggestions or how someone treats someone else and yes how they don't like how a person is running things. Maybe sometimes if it is about you take a step back and see if maybe you did something wrong or could do something different.
The blog isn't a destructive force, it is a tool. The destructive force is the incompetence and corruption of our administration and board. Those who call for the blog to be shut down don't want to deal with the problem, they want the problems covered up. Quit trying to shoot the messanger.
do we really want Stella Gonzalez for another 2 years? What is the story behind her daughter's history with 131? Please comment !!! Just can't imagine a person with her lack of insight to make decisions.
I have never read this blog before, and after three hours of reading, have decided that I wasted three hours which should have been spent on searching for relevant and engaging learning activities for our children. I will not make a mistake like this again.
The debate was another poor run event by Clayton. Not sure why but when asked he said he was doing it because he was on he Foundation. I know. Serveral people sitting around me never had their questions asked and the questions seemed to be the same. Everyone talked circles because of the questions. Clearly Stella could not answer the same question even when it was asked serveral times.
My feeling is I would have liked to know what the new ones said now I feel cheated.
Clayton is a Bozo and I am glad to see someone else get the job. it sounds like he will communicate better because of his background and being a teacher.
Hey 5:20, here's a news flash for your dumb a$$. Very few of the teachers in d131 live in the district. Committees don't work when the school district is run like a dictatorship! Then we have morons like you agreeing with someone who bashes teachers and you think congratulations is spelled with a "d" you idiot!
The current board is proficient at blaming everything on the past and someone else. Ms. Johnson needs to know that East was not that great when she was in school either. It was slightly better because it had less challenges like language barriers, parental involvement, gang activity, NCLB... Look at all your alumni who left for the westside to raise their families. They have been leaving for decades. Financially the district looks good but nothing has changed that matters with one exception and that is morale. Wake up people, if the teachers are not happy what makes you think they are functioning at their highest. I am sorry Ms. Johnson but technology is not a magic bullet; most of our staff and board did not have an iPad or laptop growing up. Children must have a core education foundation beginning as early as possible i.e. home and preschool. Having a board that will be able to work together , feeding off of each others energy, knowledge , and experience will build on whatever the current board may feel they have accomplished. Collaboration with a high functioning superintendent, administration , teachers, community partners and support staff will be a remedy for true change. Nothing will cost much additional except the Superintendent. Base on the performance of the current board members on Thursday night its no wonder things are in dis-functional. The current board has reached their ceiling, change is a must.
Notice the spam and obscenities, which are filtered out here. The EA blog has plenty of complaining but at least it's equal opportunity complaining. And some useful information, too (like the link to watch the candidates' forum online).
All the School Board candidates claim they're in favor of transparency. Then why isn't anyone suggesting broadcasting School Board meetings online, as the candidates' forum was made available to those of us who couldn't attend? The district obviously has the technology to do it!
Why don't you stop complaining and run maybe they will but it seems they have been a tad busy.
I have worked with Annette on negotiations and was glad to see the positive press start to come out about her.
I will say this she does know how to say no when the district needs that. However, we know many teachers thought there Principals have been played into believing the board hates the teachers. Or Annette yells at everyone.
You can ask Rhodes, Hettinger, or Harding in the negotiations if Annette has ever said a unkind word about teachers.
She is very critical of Administrators. At one point she had Aird removed from the negocaiating team because of road blocks she was throwing up.
The teacher survey was her idea and when the results presented themselves Johnson hit the roof.
We had spent many months without her in the room with the same problems. Thus the formation of special committees. We do have a equal voice! Please join or email to talk about what is working.
The administration of this district is bad and needs a change from the top down and Aird is fighting for her life.So don't believe her or her Principals.
I have also found my dealings with many of the administion a pack of lies
I do believe without her putting her foot down the other members or new members are to nice. the problems at 131 are not just Dr Roberts they need to make changes now. But we have allowed Johnson to take much of the brunt as Denise Crosby stated today.
She is very approachable that why the Union wanted her to her first hand what is going on. Take a second look.
in another conversation with Annette Johnson she explained to the Union Reps not to prepare long written documents with the problems facing the district and only prepare verbal reports or reports increased to a font 22 or above.
It seemed Dr Roberts has a eye condition that he was working with that stops him from reading typed faced documents only through a reader which is not easy.
Dr Roberts gets many of his reports verbally from his administration and sadly does not get the entire story.
The reason some problems are getting fixed is this approach since September has been working.
I have personally witnessed a change but I would urge the board to start making changes, get a new superintendent hired and transition Dr Roberts out on disability. Aird, Adams, Glozabach and Garcia need to go immediately .
As for the Board Johnson must get reelected along with some newcomers.
Leonard should continue with the maintenance no one has his experience and that area needs strong oversight.
As for comments at Forum about staying in balcony that approach will not work for 131. The reports you receive Ms Peryea are not filled with facts, more like what you want to hear.
It's funny to listen to the candidates reading out of a book how to run the district and turning control over to the teachers. Residents beware your taxes are going up up up.
You will be the west aurora school district and look were they are at.
I suggest he teachers doing the most barking, most of who live on the wet side shoulday more attendition to their problems over there.
I urge everyone, that has the opportunity to vote for the future BOE in d131, to please watch the candidate forum on the district web site. Let's get some educated people on this board. There are candidates that talk in circles, constantly repeat themselves, never give any answers with substance and cannot put together a proper sentence. Loving your community and "bleeding" red and black does not automatically make you a viable candidate to make crucial decisions on a school board. EA has thousands of great residents that love their community but that alone is not enough to have you elected to the board of education. Take the time to watch the forum and cast an educated vote.
It's easy to answer the questions when they have all been given to you. Many of us had questions that never got asked. You could see the slant. Clayton and Irvin carry the mayors water. Strand announced she got appointed Montroy said go throw money away downtown.
Peryea is on a board with Mariyln Weisner. Hometown and other stupid programs of his there we go.
West Aurora will survive just as East has for many moons. I would prefer d129 test score and leadership team . Our scores are even with Chicago schools. Lets take some of our revenue and use it where it counts in leadership. When you employ talented leaders you will get results. After four years of Annette Johnsons leadership Nothing has changed. Deurmit is the new puppet who is just happy to be on a board.
Kirsten Strand is absolutely correct that our current board is way too hands on. It creates a multitude of issues.
First, it disempowers the superintendent and other central office administrators (no more than making public comments saying that we need a new superintendent but not hiring one).
Second, it removes the system of checks and balances. If the board is assuming the role of the administrators and running the district. Who is assuming the role of the board and supervising those running the district?
Third, how can you legally hold the superintendent responsible and fire him for poor performance if the board has been assuming the role of the superintendent? He would have a strong legal argument that the board should be ones held responsible.
Finally, as we have seen, the board members have done a very poor job in the superintendent role. There has been one scandal and embarrassing story after another.
With our current board not being able to work cooperatively with anybody, even themselves, it has thrown the district into complete chaos.
There is no doubt, especially with the high caliber of the new candidates, that this is time to clean house.
Between Annette's public fight with Raymond Hull, her insulting every low income resident of District 131, Annette's public statement that she will sue the district if she remain the board president, public statements that the board does read policies before voting on them, she knew about the finance department issues for years but did nothing until the Beacon FOIA'd the records, etc, etc, etc.
The school board has been completely disfunctional since Annette became it's president. She is the first one that must go.
I agree with: March 7, 2013 at 10:12 PM
The community should vote for:
Zach Montry Kirsten Strand Marcella McIntyre-Duermit Mar Louise Peryea Richard Leonard
Ray and his friend Marin Gonzalez are involved in a negative letter writing campaign against Annette Johnson. We know Annette is the only one strong enough to stop Marin. Plans are if Strand Montroy and Peryea are elected she is coming back.
Ray still wants to be board president.
Just like he created lies about a district partner that will soon file a lawsuit.
Give it up Ray. Please stop the Anonymous letters Mari
I seriously doubt that Marin Gonzalez has a snowball's chance in hell of coming back to our district, especially as an administrator. She has alienated too many teachers, staff, parents, and community members during her time in D131.
The easy comment to make when someone hears that a teacher is complaining or unhappy is, "If they don't like it, Quit!" Sure, in a world with no bills or responsibility, quitting is an option. Reality is people have to work and finding teaching jobs or any jobs is a difficult quest. So, pushing to oust ineffective, unethical, inappropriate leadership is a better option. Getting rid of the source of the unhappiness and frustration sounds better than leaving the profession you love. Maybe you don't love it as much because of the mismanagement, but that love and desire to teach may come back if there is a new, invigorated leadership that gives the teachers and the community hope that there is promise in the future. Now, just to give Nacho a little bit of credit, there probably some teachers that should find a different career. However, Nacho, if you want a political career you should learn not to make blanket statements. There are veteran teachers that have given their life to East Aurora and maybe they are frustrated, disappointed, angry... whatever the case, there must be a reason. Listen to them, work with them, search for solutions, help them finish their careers strong and motivated. Having a 20 something kid tell them to quit is not the answer. Now, I heard of a rookie Waldo teacher that sits at her desk and reads and tells students she gets paid whether they learn or not??? Maybe she needs to go. Speaking of Waldo and low morale!!! Yikes!!! Many Waldo teachers skipped the Kane County institute day and that "snow day", well, I understand many took that off. I'm telling you, we need new people in power, we need new ideas, new direction, just a new attitude to inspire teachers, administrators, parents, and mostly our students.
Elect the current Board please read Peryra rant that we should fund more early childhood as taxpayers. We just funded a referendum. that is easy for her to say her house was purchased at $65,000. I am near retirement and can no longer afford to live on the East Side. Please any increase is to much who do you think you are? Please I have cut back long enough to fund the schools. I sent a recent letter to Dr Roberts please read it in public Ms Johnson and fight for us. The letter was dated in September. Also called Peryra and she slammed the phone done and told me she is doing gods work. Shame on you.
Anonymous said... Clayton took district property while under investigation and has not returned a Computer and I Pad. I guess it's true.
Service Center news was a child's parent filed a complaint because he was reaching out to her son on Facebook.
Sounds like Clayton may be cleaning up his computer files.
Someone who watches TV during the day works on Boys 2 Men all day should fit right in at the city.
3/10/13, 8:50 PM
Anonymous said... 8:50 p.m., Clayton Muhammad has had minors as Facebook friends for several years now. Even though other D131 employees have been specifically told not to "friend" current students on social media websites, administration has looked the other way with Clayton. Serves him (and administration) right that a parent finally stepped up & questioned the "Pied Piper" of Aurora.
If Strand and Montroy are elected, that's over a quarter of the board who can't vote on any issue involving teacher pay, work conditions, personnel decisions, etc. Plus I just don't trust their agenda; I don't think what they've put out publicly is ALL they have in mind. They're running together to promote something that's only going to come out after the election.
Read what Peryea says OMG. The teachers and entire district will face layoffs next year if she is elected. She does not have a clue or understand how the district needs to hold on to whatever they get. Pre School is funded by e State and it needs to stay that way. D131 can not afford any more taxes
10:38 p.m., do you know the difference between a plan and a fact?
Because 9:59 did not say anything is a "FACT". They are concerned that incoming board members may plan to bring back Dr. Marin Gonzalez as our next superintendent. That is a valid concern, considering that our current superintendent, former EHS principal Dr. Roberts, had been brought back to D131. A precedent has been set; it is not "LIES AND STUPIDITY" (as you yell).
Lewis finally getting off the Board !! What has she done and said during her time on the Board? Same applies to Gonzalez who makes her appearances and seems to think that is making a difference and the criteria for being a good Board Member NOT!! Listen to her responses at the Forum and judge for yourself. SHALLOW & lets face it, she is one of the token seniors on the Board who vote with Johnson EVERY TIME.
So where does the campaign trail go this week as we play "Let's look concerned". WASTE OF TEACHERS TIME and face the truth "Us teachers know what hypocrites Johnson & Roberts are" WE TOLERATE YOU BECAUSE WE ARE AFRAID
8:52, yelling does not reinforce your point. And saying that someone is planning something is not necessarily the same as saying it's a fact that something will happen.
Also, yelling "SHUT UP" can be counterproductive, because people will respond in defiance.
Well, I do plan to vote for the challengers for School Board--despite their supposed friendship with Marin Gonzalez. Sometimes there is no ideal candidate who supports 100% of what I believe is best for our district, but the Annette Johnson-led School Board has had its chance for several years and it's time to move on and have some fresh leadership and ideas.
And I'm trusting the new Board to listen to our teachers, staff, and community when it comes to hiring a new superintendent. If indeed they try to sneak Marin into the position, that would open a big can of worms.
"I have been told, often, by someone who knows Weisner well, that he surrounds himself with second rate sycophants because he doesn't want to be shown up by anyone smarter than he is. And speaking of stupid, corrupt and incompetent, can Openline please address the sickening fact that mayoral crony and donor Arlene Hawks is now the director of SciTech? Will that place never stop hiring poisonous morons who are 100% unqualified to direct anything? Hawks knows nothing about science and has never run ANY organization. Now she will get $50,000 per year to run a museum that is always on the verge of collapse. Is the board TRYING to run SciTech into the ground? Or is this the fact that, coincidentally, Weisner owes Dick Hawks $50,000. If the board had advertised this position they would have been inundated with fresh faced innovators, applicants with the training and education to bring SciTech out of its perpetual slump. For $50,000 they could have had their pick of the brightest candidates from museum studies and science programs across the U.S. It's breathtakingly stupid that, instead, they chose a tired old parasite with a wealthy husband and a substantial pension rather than give a qualified person with actual experience this opportunity. I have never been impressed by SciTech, particularly their choices for director, but this is so over the top that it's practically criminal."
Yet here East is doing something right by hiring Angela Rowley and East gets nothing but flack about maintenance trips to Menards. Nice reporting Beacon News.
11:06, I am not a friend of Arlene Hawks but I can say in her defense that she knows a lot of people. Specifically, a lot of influential people who might be likely to support an organization like SciTech.
Sometimes the best directors are not necessarily the most knowledgeable but rather the "movers and shakers" who have a lot of community contacts. It's about who she knows (and can influence) more that what she knows.
Meanwhile at East Aurora rumors continue to be the talk of the Service Center. A recent investigation by HR stopped when Muhammed quickly departed and went to the City. It involved a student and Facebook book posts between Muhammed.
One wonders, why Muhammed who still has keys to the district came in the middle of the night and removed his computer. The computer in question was the property of d131 as well as a missing I Pad.
Huh stories must be true . If anything it is stolen property.
Mike Chapin, the current West Aurora District PR guy, was a managing editor at the Beacon News during the 1990's. He hired Denise Crosby as a columnist/reporter. Do you really expect Crosby to write a negative column about West when her mentor is the PR guy. A phone call from Chapin to Crosby is certain to kill most negative publicity. Chapin couldn't kill the Orland story. The arrest of a teacher on sex charges was too big for the Beacon to ignore.
Chapin needs to explain why West administrators didn't investigate the issue when the janitor reported seeing Orland acting suspiciously with a female student in a storeroom. West administrators claim they couldn't determine the identity of the girl. They should have asked Orland to disclose her identity. If nothing inappropriate was occurring, Orland should have no problem disclosing her identity. If he refused, it should raise red flags for the district. District administrators closed their eyes to the problem. They failed the students and taxpayers of West Aurora.
The Beacon attacks East Aurora because Chapin makes sure that West is off limits. That is why they pay him the big bucks.
I guess you could say the district was being transparent. I think Leonard thought he would get praise instead Denise beats up the district. I bet Leonard or anyone else will never be transparent again.
Well…that ain’t exactly the truth, but it is exactly the message that paper has chosen to send to the Aurora east side community for the past few months. And despite my best efforts to point out the error of their way, that statement culminated in a flurry of recent “news coverage.” crosby
You see, after hammering the East Aurora School District week in and week out, in the last five days alone, “columnist” Denise Crosby has written four separate pieces slamming their school board. The Beacon bosses have even gone as far as letting her play reporter just so she can repeat the same tired old accusations on a more regular basis!
Yes! East Aurora School Board president Annette Johnson has openly admitted their financial record keeping required improvement. Yes! The insurance debacle never should’ve happened, but it did and the district addressed it. Yes! The transgender policy kerfuffle was an unnecessary distraction, but it hardly rises to the level of what West Aurora band teacher Steve Orland almost got away with.
Even in the column in which Crosby “admits” she’s been “a little hard” on the district, she repeats the same old crap one more time. Didn’t another far more famous columnist once say, “Threatening to throw someone off a school board is a lot like threatening to stop beating them with a two-by-four.”
To put Crosby’s self-serving and over-the-top East Aurora coverage in perspective, if I wrote two columns on former County Chairman Karen McConnaughay’s antics in the same four month period, she and the other editors had a fricken’ cow.
Though I didn’t dare touch upon a candidate topic 60 days before an election because “we don’t want to affect the outcome,” in her fourth piece this week, Crosby outright endorsed the entire opposition school board slate!
And it all started because East Aurora School Board President Annette Johnson had the temerity to damage Denise’s delicate sensibilities by standing up to her. Can Annette be difficult? Oh! You bet she can! But in the end, she lays her neck on the line, she tells the truth, and she makes a stand, something Crosby has never been able to do.
So when faced with the abrupt and terrifying mirror image of a strong woman who toils endless hours for no pay, Crosby has no choice but to go on the attack.
Don’t believe me? C’mon! West Aurora has never addressed the fact that Orland got an extra year abusing female high school students and, sadly, their financial situation has eroded so badly that now they’re talking about a property tax increase. But where’s all the Beacon-News coverage?
The problem is, the more Crosby makes this battle personal, and the more she repeats this perceived litany of school board faults, it actually serves to damage the challengers’ cause. You can only hammer someone so long before it starts to generate sympathy.
Here’s what Crosby and Beacon-News are missing. This incessant hammering of East Aurora while letting its western twin slide, is not lost on East Aurora community leaders who generally happen to be Hispanic.
And I know this because I actually take the time to speak with these folks on a regular basis. Not only do I find them to be a refreshing change from the average self-interested Caucasian Kane County politician, but were I to throw my hat in the ring, their support would be critical.
Give me Board Members Monica Silva, Myrna Molina and (on occasion) Jessie Vasquez over the usual suspects any day. Give me State Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia over non-entities like Tim Schmitz on a regular basis. Please give me Tao Martinez, Art Vasquez and Juan Reyna over the self-appointed guardians of all things politically holy like Ken Shepro, Ellen Nottke and Mike Kenyon.
Pat Perez is the best fricken’ Sheriff to which Kane County has ever had the pleasure of bearing witness!
Again, it isn’t that some of this East Aurora criticism isn’t deserved, because it is. It’s that Crosby’s ceaseless harranguing – just to “get even” with Johnson – has gotten so bad that it’s really starting to hork off Hispanics. They clearly see the inequity in the coverage and her insistence upon denigrating a school district that’s 82 percent Hispanic is really getting under their skin.
How many times can you repeat the phrase “low test scores” before it starts to become a personal insult?
So no! I don’t believe the Beacon-News hates Hispanics, but I’m not the one who really matters.
2:04 If it weren't for Denise Crosby we wouldn't have many facts about the "Shame of 131" It would have been swept under the rug. Those who brought down Jackson Jr, Blago, Ryan were told also , it ain't gonna happen. Oh really, this Board is on borrowed time.
Where is Denise Crosby's articles on West and young girls getting raped.
A few lost credit card receipts is hardly news.
Why did Denise praise West for their use of credit cards when their board members have credit cards.
Oh maybe because Mike Chapin hired Denise.
As far as the board they will win hands down. Lu cost them the election. Its too bad because some change was needed. I must say telling the taxpayers they are not paying enough was it.
You just lost my vote. We have had the current Early Childhood program for several years and yet the scores have not improved that much. I was voting for her and Duemitt but now I will vote for Stella even she is not that stupid.
Badgering the taxpayers for more she does not understand our community
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY/EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION - The current Board is rightfully proud to have achieved a high rating on the Fiscal State of the District. We are fortunate that no teachers will be laid off and we still 'have money in the bank'. Current members are not going to ask taxpayers for any more money, and, on one side of the coin, this should make taxpayers happy.
But the flip side of that coin should cause us to ponder the cost of putting off important initiatives.
When you uncover crap you should try to clean it up, not leave it and then create more. How much crap has just recently occurred. Did the board uncover the lack of keeping tabs on receipts from B&G? That was last summer. That crap was sitting for four years 'til you finally stepped in it. Then you gave the main crapper a better paying job to create more crap. The transgender crap was crapped up this year and then smeared all over. The insurance crap is still crap. The crap you pulled with Becker was bull crap. Did you uncover the crap about the board members throwing racial jabs at a public meeting? The only crap I see and hear is out of the mouths and actions of the current leadership.
It was also the Beacon that uncovered The Wilson Morales fight with a student some blocks away from Simmons. That incident was being covered up until the Beacon broke the story. Keep up the good work Beacon News...
You just lit a fire and we can give her info for all the things she isn't aware of that she can write about. Maybe we can start with Dick Leonard and his shenanigans !!
Many people are still talking about the verbal assault Hull laid out during the last meeting. Staff calls you crazy Ray. Please resign and do not embrass the East Aurora Community any longer.
The assault on Steve Marcos was unwarranted. He devoted over a dozen people to fixing the business offices Issues. Then to defend Penny Halvax shows this man has no sense of ethical judgement. Penny injured all of us by not doing her job. She collected large sums of overtime and still did not do her job. Mr Marcos sat for days helping us construct a deduction list. He has given his personnel cell phone number to us to help with employee insurance issues.
Mr Marcos brought lunch in often and treated everyone with respect. To say he received a sweet heart deal is upsetting in public. This is this mans career. Mr Marcos saved the employees of our district the proposed doubling of insurance premiums and to date we have deposited many checks he hand delivers.
I always thought Johnson was arrogant and choose to believe you Mr Hull but now to come back to work and hear you are behind destroying this mans name is unforgivable.
To imply that The Dunham funds gave us money because of a sweet heart deal with Ms Johnson shows you are a hater and jealous.
What is with community members wanting to improve the district and our children's education without being remotely willing to pay more taxes? We will never be able to compete with surrounding districts until we pay the same taxes. The teachers do not necessarily get paid any more just because taxes are raised. The students are the ones who benefit from raised taxes, not teachers. Living in or out of the district has nothing to do with it. Teacher morale is low because we are not respected and not trusted. We have degrees and should be entitled to be a part of the process. Being invited to join committees is just a drop in the bucket. Most of the time, being on a committee has little meaning when the decision was made long before the committee was put together. The current administration asks us to do more and more without giving any respect. We want a new board, not because we want more money, but because we want what's best for the children of 131.
I know everyone on here is preoccupied by the crap about who did what on the board. I have read this blog for years for amusement but now feel that there is an issue that everyone here could help bring to the attention of all.
The proposed 6 class schedule that is being suggested for EAHS should be discussed. It removes a period for electives including foreign language, art, building trades etc from students schedules. It also eliminates additional chances for students to retake classes they might need to graduate. An extra six minutes is not worth the amount of students that just will stop trying or even showing up when you take the classes they are passionate about away from them. Believe it when I say that there are hundreds of kids that show up just for those classes. There are kids that come to school to work on cars, practice cooking, play in a band, or even learn spanish so they can talk to grandparents.
We have already lowered the bar for graduation so far, why take away one of the few positive motivations from the students as well? Some colleges require 4 years of foreign language, fine arts etc and this new schedule makes it impossible for good kids to achieve, and will increase the rate the students on the edge drop out.
The majority of the people on this page, in spite of their differences, all care about what is best for the kids. Please take a moment and do your research and find out why this is being pushed through with such limited research, low teacher input and without any conversations with the students and parents that this impacts the most! Thank you.
Out of 460 districts in Illinois 341had lower tax rates than East Aurora. Since it has some of the worst schools in the state I would say the return on investment is horrid. There needs to be a mass firing ofteachers and administrators.
If the teachers are so concerned about the residents paying more taxes then they should move in 131 if its that great of a place to live and raise a family. Cervantes hit it on the head if you don't like it leave.
The residents just passed a referendum. If Ms Peryea wants to pay more taxes why did she only buy a house worth $58,000. Why does Zack not even own a home.
It is more than a few lost receipts and by law it is illegal for the district to pay them.
As far as the early child center has there been any data that it has help the kids in our district and if the State decides to cut funding and they can at any time that program will end.
It is more than a few lost receipts and by law it is illegal for the district to pay them.
As far as the early child center has there been any data that it has help the kids in our district and if the State decides to cut funding and they can at any time that program will end.
Peryea RESIGN I just read you think on Hispanic community. You think because my parents can't read we are going to end up in jail. School is important and reading is important but to say the taxpayers should pay more money to keep us out of jail. You come here from Naperville and look down on us. You think we are nobody. Get out of town and go back to Naperville. I had serveral relatives that could not read and none went to Jail. Cervantes is right you lazy teachers stop blaming your failures on everyone else and leave.
No, what that stat tells me is that the East residents pay way more than their share in taxes especially since the schools are not producing. Secondly, they show that just because a school takes in more money does not mean the studens are getting a quality education. The teachers need to be held accountable for the horrible academics at East. Start cleaning house at the top and start working down. The way I see it is that is what is happening now with this current Board and the teachers are running scared.
There is the false premise - is the school taking more money? Not really - What is the tax base, what are the homes worth, what kind of industry is in the area. So a place with 100 square miles of homes and 1000 square miles of industry probably has a lower tax rate because of the industry.
But a place like EA where there is 1000 square miles of homes, with only 100 square miles of industry the tax rate is higher because of the low business in the area.
(these numbers are just used for example, not accurate numbers)
The more business (factories, stores, malls) the less property taxes homeowners have to pay.
So your little statistic really does not even paint half of the picture.
6:29 and 8:28, you are absolutely WRONG about most of our teachers! They are saints and heroes, considering how they work with & teach so many kids who come to school tired, poorly-fed and without supplies. It's the PARENTS who usually drop the ball when kids don't learn or misbehave in class. When I was a room mother at Dieterich, over & over I saw my kids' teachers have to deal with catching up one of the slower students or provide pencils, paper, etc. that should have come from home. Especially at the elementary level, kids who don't have parental support (nutritious meals, adequate sleep, homework checked) WILL fall behind.
Stop blaming teachers for kids who are failing, when it's mostly the parents' fault!
Our houses have lower values because some of the neighborhoods had more than their fair share of forclosures. While other neighborhoods remained more stable. Peryer Montray and Strand lost my vote. The taxpayers gave it time for the teachers to give. If you love the kids so much move here but you will not because you want your kids to go to schools with better teachers.
Peryea is crazy she will run the district out of money in less than a year. The reason you keep surplus is because the State cuts the budget all the time. Explain or give specific examples of when a teacher or classroom number was ever denied a desk. If the teacher does not feel like coming forward give a class number. But I am sure you will not because its all about creating drama
This district says it has 82 million surplus it is the districts time to give back to the taxpayers.
I don't know why you don't like the teachers it is really administration, the Superintendent and the board that are the problem with the students learning they are the ones that pick what they teach.
Where is the data for the pre school that shows the kids that go there and stay in the districts schools are doing better than those that don't?
It's obvious that 8:28 a.m. is either Nacho or Annette-- this is a ploy used by current Board members to get re-elected-- remember the easiest way you can show that you are are changing the system (instead of real change) is to run around firing people. This way you can create a climate of fear and threaten and intimidate your teachers. They have been doing bthis at East for years. Second 6: 29 a.m., we don't have lazy teachers. We have teachers that get to school at 7:00 a.m, leave at 5:00 p.m. I have spent countless extra hours tutoring after school. What did I spend this year on my kids who come to school hungry, with no supplies? Let's see, $4,300 and still counting. And what about my kid yesterday who has not had a toothbrush in a year. Back to the store for hygiene products. So take your negative, uneducated comments about us until you sit in the classroom as we perform the duties of teacher, custodian, social worker, nurse, and nutritionist. Have a nice day.
Talk about scams. This “Virtual Education” initiative (See http://beaconnews.suntimes.com/18695630-417/fox-valley-districts-set-hearings-on-proposed-virtual-education-effort.html) is obviously another way to funnel taxpayer’s money away from schools and into the coffers of private business. The first and largest red flag is the company K12’s profit statement of 767 million dollars. That is huge sum of money earmarked for education that is not being used as intended. They have obviously inflated fees and cut services to maximize corporate profits.
Virtual Learning Solutions / K12 expects to be paid 75% to 125% of what the schools regularly receive for educating children. They do not provide buildings, heat, electricity, a regular teacher (or in some cases even a certified teacher), sports programs, music programs, ROTC, etc. etc. etc. Their test scores are lower. Their drop out rates are higher. They are facing charges in other states of manipulating the data (in other words, falsifying state records) to make themselves look good.
Why is this even being considered? Any school board that approves this should be run out of town for incompetence. It is a huge waste of public resources. The only way this could possibly be passed is if there are some shady back room dealings going on.
How can anybody state that District 131 has been responsible with money? We have hundreds of thousands of dollars in unaccounted for credit card debt. The board only looked into the situation after the Beacon FOIA’d the credit card statements. The person responsible for the department is sitting in retirement collecting a huge pension, even while many questions remain. At the same time, the district has done nothing to Denean Adams who used the district credit cards to withdraw cash in Atlantic City to gamble (this while she was being paid to be at a school improvement convention).
The maintenance department is in disarray with so many hoops to run through that they can’t replace a thermostat without running up hundreds of dollars in man hours fulfilling all the paperwork requirements. The person the board claims was responsible is placed in a new six figure salary position doing absolutely nothing. At the same time, the board changed the job description (because Marty Feltes didn’t have the proper qualifications) in secret to arrange for Richard Leonard’s childhood buddy to take the position.
The district just spent 3 million dollars (plus 7 million in renovations) to purchase the Magnet building. Rick Lawrence made it very public that the district was spending money that was unprecedented in Aurora. It makes a person wonder just how many back room deals have been done that drains money out of District 131.
The district board just violated their own policies to double the insurance rates on retired teachers, This again appears to be a secret back room money deal with the real power players in Aurora.
The district recently spent roughly $65,000 to upgrade the filtering system in the East High swimming pool. This was required by state code. Now the HVAC system for the pool area needs to be replaced due to years of poor maintenance at a cost of about $100,000 (just like the HVAC system at the service center, how has this been responsible with money). Word is the district is now looking to simply fill in the pool with concrete and make classrooms out of this PE area. Multiple classes in the gyms already have up to an unsafe 150 students in them. If the area is shut down and turned into classrooms, the gyms will have up to 200 students in them.
These are just a few of the more public financial debacles of late. There are a hundred different day to day types of wasting of money I could easily site. This board’s greatest boast is about finances but they are doing no better in this area than they are in any other area. Their incompetence shows in every action. It is time to clean house.
The minutes for the Feb. 19th board meeting have been published on the D131 website. Of special interest are comments made by community members:
"After an exhaustive but not all inclusive search of several school districts, a variety of options currently exist under their respective collective bargaining agreements when a certified teacher retires. These options range fr om no benefits, Cobra rates or a variety of incentives. Were any of these options researched by anyone? Was there any discussion as to what might be an alternative to the current policy? While it has been decided that the previous policy 500.30 needed t o be revised, did you, the board have to discard the retirees as your only answer to a very large problem? I have listed various school districts researched, to what if any, insurance provisions are available to its retirees"
"A quick timeline for the events of September 2012 developments: 1) utility bills late fees surface; 2) 800 trips to an area hardware store for one month discovered. Immediately Jay Augustine submits retirement request for November and it is approved; 3) Penny Halvax is terminated for her involvement with the insurance scandal; 4) Ms. Johnson met with Dr. Roberts the day before meeting with Jay Augustine and 5) Dr. Roberts meets with Jay Augustine and it is agreed he be allowed to retire immediately. The name Jay Augustine surfaces whenever the health insurance/utility bills issu es are discussed. The fallout from all of this will be with us for years. We can only move forward when the following questions are answered: Why was he allowed to retire with the knowledge and approval of the Board President & Superintendent? What is the dollar amount of the insurance losses? Penny Halvax was fired for her involvement with the insurance loses. Dr. Christie Aird wrote the transgender policy which the board approved. They did not read it, yet voted and approved the policy. The backla sh from the vote forced the board to revisit and reverse their decision. If she made a mistake it was an honest one. Jay Augustine betrayed the trust of the taxpayers, district and community and was rewarded with a retirement package he can live on very comfortably. If Dr. Aird and Penny were disciplined, why wasn’t Jay put on administrative leave with no pay or fired with criminal charges to be considered? What is the dollar amount for the utility late fees and how long was this going on? Can any one of you answer this question? As you can see I am asking some very uncomfortable questions yet want to offer a solution to the utility question. I have done many an audit parallel to this problem and am willing to offer my assistance at no charge in providing answers in putting this issue to rest. Comments, decisions and voting continue without proper documentation to support your positions.”
The community member in question publically endorsed Strand and Montroy and is a retiree Thta drained the district for many years with free insurance.
HVAC System was a emergency repair that was quoted from preferred vendors list that went out o public bid.
Adams never went to Atlantic City the district received a refund in Aug 2012 for the expense
More lies to work up students about the Pool by Montroy maybe she should protect the student last year that a affair with a adult teacher than campaigning for her husband.
Magnet School would have cost 30 million new and will help reduce over crowding.
Feltes discovered many scams that have people shaking in their boots. t will all come out.
The Strand Montroy Peryea ticket will raise your taxes the current oars reduced them .
Strand and Montroy are on the district insurance and receive a paycheck from the district that is a conflict of interest.
Political PAC money is being donated the the Strand Montroy, Peryea ticket. What do the three have to gain. They have already openly stated they will spend all the reverses with no plan. Voters beware a BGA investigation will uncover pay to play cronies that have made campaign donations. The people involved are the link.
If the credit card charge in Atlantic City by Denean Adams (While she was supposed to be in Philadelphia at a convention) was proper, why would she have to return the money? Second, how did she make a charge in Atlantic City from Philadelphia?
If you don’t believe the story about the East High Pool, just take a trip to the high school and feel the temperature in the room. It is over 100 degrees.
If the board is so concerned about affairs between adults and students, maybe they shouldn’t be doing everything they can to protect Nestor.
Not spending 30 million dollars on a new building, doesn’t excuse the backroom dealings that cost the district 3 million dollars ( an unprecedented fee).
You stated “Feltes discovered many scams that have people shaking in their boots. t will all come out” Yet again the board is protecting Nestor in a new cushy six figure position. WTF?
You claim the new board will raise taxes but I did not hear any of them make that claim at the debate. What are you basing this on? Your trick knee?
If it is a conflict of interest why are they allowed to run?
If Adams never went to Atlantic City the who took the ride from the airport to Atlantic City using the districts credit card and there is also the cash advance on the districts card.
I'd rather see people on the board with a vested interest, such as home and family living in the district, children being educated and family working in the district,and someone who has a history of communtiy service to the district, rather than someone who runs a business outside the district who prefers manipulating finances over educating children, has no history of any work within the community prior to being on the school board and has anger management problems.
I would rather have a East Graduate who runs a successful business than someone who will come in from Naperville get her husband a job build a church off the backs of the poor or someone who mooches off his wife does not own a home lives rent free is on a insurancelan the poor of the district pay for but then again your the same type a teacher who supports them that can't teach so if you don't like it move on.
It seems for the last 20 years we have had people on the board that graduated for here or have lived here for a long time and where did it get us with some of the lowest test scores around. It is time there where people that are not so close to take a look and see what needs to be changed.
Glotzbach and Roberts had all the information about the student and adult teacher affair because it was reported by the appropriate people. Roberts and Glotzbach ignored it, fact. Truth hurts. Montroy can't supersede Glotzbach and Roberts. Don't point the finger at her.
Central Office Alert Marin Gonzalez resigned Chicago Public Schools last week looks like she is coming back. Her good buddy, Jackie is lying. Marins daughter verified A direct quote Moms heart has always been at East Aurora.
The EA staff knows Jackie got a pass just like the social worker at Cowherd. Both had Marin on there side. Glozabach dies not investigate anything she terrorizes her staff and points fingers. Plenty of kids at EA are taken advantage of everyday. Glozabach never turned the science teacher who showed her breast in either. A staff person who knew the teachers was heavy on drugs finally spoke up.
Yes their are many, many great teachers at EA but some teach here because they know the parents will not complain.
Montroy is another example, her friendship got her off the hook. The problem now is her husband will be on the Board, so if Warren gets another complaint it will be swept under the rug.
The student in question was in the care of a elderly grandmother and he deserved better.
I am not crazy about the current board but the alternative in Montroy is a issue because of Jackie.
I am definately not a fan of Marin Gonzalez. I thought she was a poor educational leader and her personnel skills were seriously lacking. However, she is no fool and definately, politically savvy.
There is no way she would have resigned her position in Chicago, hoping that the election next month would somehow produce a board just dying to bring her back.
Further, the new board candidates are looking for somebody to clean house and take the school district in a new and positive direction. there is no way they could retain any credibility if they even considered bringing Marin back.
This is obviously just a ploy by Annette and company to discredit the new candidates and boost their own possibilities. Annette, nobody is buying this crap.
You said it perfectly, Glotzbach doesn't investigate, and she didn't investigate the information that was given to her about the student adult relationship. Montroy is a professional, and doesn't sweep things under the rug like Roberts and Glotzbach. If Warren gets a complaint and ignores it then Warren needs to be fired. Nothing you say makes sense. The information reported was not acted upon, and Jackie did not support the relationship, and reported it immediately. Glotzbach and Roberts looked the other way.
Like political statements he made at a board meeting about the blog and turned around and expected a endorsement from the blog master.
He has never ran a campaign on issues only the negative press articles because he wants to deflect from his issues with tax increases.
He continues to lie othe religious community about his support of Aird
He and Strand finically benefit from the district and can not make objective decisions .
His wife and the trainer in question had a personnel friendship. They had the student to their house a clear violation of the school ethics code.
This blog is stupid you are either supporting a candidate or not on this blog. My nly point is to look and reflect not all is well with the Strand Montroy Peryea ticket as well
Who cares about a silly school ethics code? Certainly not Clayton "Pied Piper" Muhammad, who has had D131 minor students as friends on his PERSONAL (not Boys II Men) Facebook page for YEARS.
Now finally a parent is investigating. Is this why Muhammad left our district so suddenly??
9:36AM 10:25AM Since you are the same blogger, it appears you are attempting to divert the attention to those wanting to see the incumbents out of office. Nice try , no cigar
Central Office news is Claytons computer is in house finally funny thing is it came back totally cleaned off. He was so careless he left a program on it called scrubber.
East Aurora School District 131 Special Wednesday, March 20, 2013 5:30 PM School Service Center I. Roll Call II. Presentation and Discussion of "Virtual Academy @ Fox River Valley" Charter School Proposal III. PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS IV. Adjournment
Are we hoping to have a new superintendent next year? Well, whomever that new person is at least we know they have to have a superintendent’s endorsement (an EdS=11 graduate classes and has passed the superintendent test). Let’s hope it is somebody that understands our community and has a great deal of curriculum knowledge.
To March 13, 9:24 p.m. I am the social worker at Cowherd. My name is Melinda Creech. You mention that I got a "free pass" which "the staff at EA knows about." I have no idea what you are talking about. I would like you to give me more information. I am not aware of any free pass I have been given. I am putting my name on this comment, and I would like to know what information you think you know about. If you would like, you can contact me at school at 630-299-5984 my direct line with any "secret" information you have. I would like to use my "free pass" as soon as possible.
Annette! Where's my free breakfast? When are you coming to our school with a free breakfast and a load of crap? I've never seen you before, but I know you're making your rounds before election time. Do you need me to bring a baby to kiss or you could roll up your sleeves and toss a football? Maybe put a hard hat on and pretend to inspect something? Can't wait!
As a member of the Aurora Educational Foundation, I read all the negatives about Annette on his blog and I am not sure why she even cares about this this district any longer. I have worked with her and the comments are totally unjustified. This can be verified by other members
Annette brought private donations into the 165 Hope the monies are in he AEEF Funds. The monies came mostly from private donors outside the district. We have paid out many sports and foreign exchange student help. she also helped with all the accounting and got the Foundation back to non profit status from the prior directors. The 165 raised over $100,000.
Like many others this blog gets ahold of I am afraid one day Annette will say enought. For sure the new candidates and young Nacho life will never be the same.
Most who post all the negative will remain behind anonymous . Spineless
Heard the same story about Marin, she is not going back to Chicago next year. I am praying the newbies to the Board don't make that mistake. We are all concerned with Jackies answers , but hope for the best. Her family is here and she was forced to live in Chicago is a reasonable story.
The veterans know Marin and she does not go on mission trips unless there is something to gain. Let us not forget the building Principal job is open as well
Tell me why when this district claims to have a surplus of 82 million should people donate money? Many is this district make just enough to get by and have no savings and we are suppose to give money to a district that has a surplus.
We should really beware of this Virtual Charter School that is being proposed for the Fox Valley Area. . First off, why is it called a “Charter School”? Could it be because Illinois guarantees that charter schools will receive 75% to 125% of what their comparable public school will make? This alone is extremely generous as the national average for charter schools is 61% of what their public counterparts make. The Virtual Charter School is actually asking for 84%.
Next consider that 1) students must apply for and 2) charter schools must accept the students they receive. In other words, charter schools don’t take high risk/high cost students like SpED, BD etc. Their costs should be significantly lower considering this.
The term “School” should also be reviewed as there is no school building to maintain. They want almost full price for teaching these “Select” children but have none of the regular costs associated with education. No building, No after school programs, No special tutors, No bussing, No lunch costs, No teachers, No, No, No. Where is this money going? According to the Beacon Article, K12 is worth 767 million dollars. This is also a conflict as “Charter Schools”, by definition, are supposed to be Not-for-Profit.
Then there is the results achieved by Charter Schools. According to a national study done by Stanford: 46% The Same 37% Did Worse 17% Did Better
These schools are given far greater autonomy under the pretext of obtaining improved results, yet, 83% of charter schools did the same or worse. This despite selecting their students. This is just another attempt to funnel public funds to corporations. When is it ever going to stop?
The only people supporting Stand and Montroy are district employees who the current board has on the run . Stop telling lies Zack as a minister you will go straight to Hell. A student at East Aurora never sat on the floor because of no desk. If that were true your wife had no problems complaining to the Board before. Kristen was friends with Nita Lewis so why did you not complain. Is that the type of board member you will be to afraid to say anything because your spouses work for the district.
Teachers you are educated just stop and think and I did check with the members they said they would go months without complaint calls .
Stop giving misinformation and community beware they worked in the schools with their non profits an spouses why did they not complain
8:24 what Annette and the rest of us who really want to turn East around need to always remember is that the negative comments found here are from people who do not want the system to change. Annette and many others on the board want change and I along with sooo many other people in the schools and in the community are glad they are our advocates!
I received a troubling email today from a freind at Ginger Creek. Zack Montroy is using his churches email list to recruit foot soldiers to walk for him. Mostly residents of Batavia and Naperville. This coupled with the fact they are taking money from out of district teachers and talking about residents that do not invest in their community is unethical.
if people help with the campaign they should live on the East Side not from out of town when it's my taxes.
You are crazy. The only thing dangerous is a show on Animal Planet called finding Bigfoot. If the producers of that show come to Aurora, they can find Bigfoot Annette and her little squatch Nacho. It would guarantee them fame. No one is recruiting members for their church. Do you honestly think trying to turn that card on Montroy and Strand will Work? If that were the case that strand and Montroy were using Church as their strategy to get elected on a public school board then you are a complete idiot. Its not going to take much to beat the bozos currently calling the shots. Goodbye Annette. Mannequin.com here you come.
I live in EA and I am going door to door for Strand & Montroy. I have already had someone in the district offer to help! You are correct 4:24, people want change..positive change, which they can see coming from people educated in serving our community, like Zach & Kirsten. If a few people are lead to a new church in the process, so be it. This is talked about like a bad thing ?!?
Teachers in D131 do not complain because it is like spitting in the wind with current Bd & Supt. They report any problems they not only do NOT get issues fixed, now they have a target on their back.
As a teacher you may not be aware the only two teachers who came to the board to tell them they had been targeted by administration got returned to the classroom. That was over the last two years. So the boards phone has not exactly been ringing off the hook. These teachers worked at Bardwell.
Teachers from Gates attend the meeting all the time and send suggestions that have been used. Teacher Tudors is one of them.
Teachers had been given $300 per classroom to help with supplies and put in charge of what they feel is important.
The committees are working on all the ideas teachers complained about. hy are you not part of the solution.
Waldo, Johnson School and Bardwell was addressed. Too many teachers are listening o lies being told by building leaders because they are being held more accountable and these same building leaders are upset at paying equal premiums in health insurance.
I suggest you communicate more and find out you have no target.
Electing teachers spouses will be difficult because now you are expecting them to police there spouses bosses.
Also, proposals of Strand Montroy and Peryea will take cash reserves down to zero in a year. if that happens the State will take over because of scores and bankruptcy and you will loss any wage increases the current board gave you. Look at North Chicago and East St Louis that will be East Aurora. To fix the district everyone needs to work as a team and ask questions.
The problem with this board is most the things they have changed someone else brought to their attention before and they just did something when it was time for re election. They have given no proof just flapped their lips. The list of bills should show those 800 trips that Lenoard claims to have happened. I've looked at the bills and yes there are trips to Menards with many items bought but that was one trip. This wouldn't have taken place if they had a policy in place that stated who should be doing it. The board sees the list of bills every month they didn't notice this sooner. Who looks at those receipts?
How is it every other district hires a Superintendent like the IL School Code states and that person can run the district. It doesn't matter if some has a MBA in Finance this isn't a company making money we are a school district that is suppose to be in the business of educating students. It is important to use our money wisely but these people really don't know anything about educating children.
Funny the other campaign of Strand Montroy and Peryea have run out of money and sent desparate pleas to supporters donate more. I happen to be on the email list and someone who attended the debate. While fancy color flyers and cards done with the best money could buy said nothing. The current Board used inexpensive tri fold flyers that had solutions.
I guess that alone tells me who can manage a budget. Something I look for when I review campaign material at the local level. Their materials match their Naperville attitude just throw more money at a problem while living in the community a few years.
Peryea is very close month when talking about her background. She claims to have moved from Naperville but no records of her exist. I am always suspect when someone tells you stories that don't add up. She never says what she did for a living other than volunteering. What is she hiding? I want to know who they are paying for early child care. I also called the Preschool yesterday and found that only 89 children remain on a call list. I asked why and they said because many families start the program or drop out of the program during the year. The lady I spoke with could not have been more helpful and invited me for a tour.
The problem seems to me to be the parents need to be better educated about the services, not the blame game of teachers, staff, board or admin.
Before we hand the schools over start asking questions?
240 comments:
1 – 200 of 240 Newer› Newest»Ain't that the truth! Administration can't win for trying, someone's always going to be upset. Maybe they should flip a coin or do rock-paper-scissors next time to decide whether to cancel school. At least that way they can say it was just the luck of the draw!
At a faculty meeting, a couple of years ago, the staff had to listen to Dr. Roberts ramble through his explanation of how difficult it was to make the decision to close schools due to weather. He claimed it was the hardest part of his job. It took doc close to 15 minutes to try and cover his rear end because many staff were irritated that they received such late notice every time schools were closed.
Through it all, his explanation basically boiled down to; he had to listen to the weather reports, look out the window and finally, call the superintendents of District 129 and 204 to make the decision together. Apparently Doctor Roberts forgot to perform the final stage of the process. That or he couldn’t reach the other superintendents, as they had already made the call last night and were sleeping in this morning.
Parents in other school districts received notices last night explaining how schools were closed for the safety of students and staff and the district was giving parents the earliest notice possible notice to make it easier on parents who needed to arrange day care for their children. In other words, other districts put the safety of their students first and foremost above everything else.
Jerome gambled the lives of every child today with his poor decision. Anybody watching children walk in the street up Farnsworth Avenue and the cars swerving around them knows this. This is just one more example of why Jerome should have been fired years ago and Annette Johnson should be replaced for continuing to support him.
Saw this on Facebook:
EAST FOUNDATION HOSTS FORUM FOR SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES
The Aurora East Educational Foundation (AEEF) will host an East Aurora School Board Candidates’ Forum on Thursday, March 7, 2013. The forum will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Hawks Auditorium at East Aurora High School. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
The forum will be moderated by Richard C. Irvin, an attorney, alderman, East Aurora alumnus, and member of the AEEF Board of Directors.
Eight candidates are running for five open seats in the April 9 election. Three seats are for four-year terms (expiring in 2017) and two seats are for two-year terms (expiring in 2015).
Four-year term candidates are: Annette Johnson, Richard Leonard, Zach Montroy, and Kirsten Strand.
Two-year term candidates are: Ignacio Cervantes, Stella Gonzalez, Marcella McIntyre-Duermit, and Mary Louise Peryea.
Each of the eight candidates will have the opportunity to make introductory and closing statements. In between, the moderator will present general questions that will be answered by each of the candidates prior to questions being asked by the audience.
The forum is open to the public.
A letter was sent that the Board did not support him. Roberts was on his own with this one.
The decision to close schools should be a very simple one. You need to ask youeself one simple question: What decision puts the childrens safety first?
Or you can think about it in more practical terms. If a child was injured or killed, do you want to have to go before a judge and explain why you were the only superintendent that decided to keep schools open during a winter storm?
I would error on the side of student safety every time. There is no other rational decision. Any superintendent who does not put student safety first should not retain his position.
If Doctor Roberts doesn't put students health and safety first on a day like today, does anybody believe he puts student safety first with a thousand other decisions he makes throughout the year? With building issues? With food? With staff selection?
How can any rational person keep faith in this individual or the school board that continues to support him?
Well, now we see exactly why Adam Harding has betrayed every teacher in District 131. According to the Beacon his new compensation package totals $106,000 the first year.
Judas has received his 30 pieces of silver. I wonder if Adam/Judas will be able to live with himself any more than Judas was able to.
Total BS. Roberts doesn't even wipe his rear without Annette Johnson telling him he can. Roberts and Johnson need to be called out on such extremely poor decision making. They put the children at great risk, not only due to the extremly dangerous weather conditions but many schools had almost no staff like Waldo. Who was supervising those kids. What would happen if there wass an emergency in the building. Wow.
The consensus of the majority of teachers that I spoke with yesterday was that schools were kept open because of the scheduled ISAT testing. ISAT’s have become so important lately, they are the center of the educational universe. Administrators know that their positions depend on those test scores.
It is a sad state of affairs when a test is placed above student safety but in a school district that values administrators first, students second and teachers dead last, it is not surprising. At the very least, yesterday revealed the district leaderships priorities.
March 5, 2013 at 8:30 PM
BINGO on the Docs decisions. It could not have been stated more clearly and accurately. This man has been making choices (not for excellence, I might add) for our children far too long and the Board-all of them- support him.
I have no doubt the testing played a major role in the staying open decision.
My favorite band teacher Mr Nelson passed away god speed
Anonymous said...I watched kids struggling in the snow going to the middle schools. Serious consideration should have been made for their safety. We have to start thinking once again about the students safety.
beaconnews.suntimes.com/news/18657067-418/east-board-president-clean-audit-doesnt-give-whole-financial-picture.html
ISAT testing was going on in all the other districts also.
beaconnews.suntimes.com/18672388-417/retired-teachers-east-aurora-school-officials-come-to-an-understanding.html
Remember, tomorrow evening is the School Board candidates' forum. Listen, ask questions, choose wisely...for our students' future!
So what is a Type 29 certificate? Are people allowed to teach with this in any school district?
I see this is being broadcast live. There is no excuse not to watch or say you have babysitting problems. It seems our new PR director is much better at communication than Clayton
Read the information about the forum tonight where do you see it is being broadcast? Also who ever post these things need to proof read at the top of the page it has.
East Aurora School District 131
News Release
Clayton Muhammad
630.299.5550 (office)
630.774.9306 (media cell)
630.299.5500 (fax)
cmuhammad@d131.org
www.d131.org
Making Choices for Excellence
Isn't he gone?
where do i listen to this tonite
at what station
Just saw that too about the Board forum being live on D131 website. When I went there I saw a video on the Magnet School and the Dunham Fund Grant. Who is Fred Rodgers?
This stupid blog is a broken record.
So why not add YOUR insight, oh most enlightened one...
;)
See today's OpenlineBlog on D131!
Well, based on the slate posted by March 5 8:16, we're guaranteed to have either Strand or Montroy joining the board. Both if either Johnson or Leonard get voted off.
I don't have any insight - But I also don't repeat the same crap over and over again.
(That's what it means to be a broken record, it really has nothing to do with "insight")
Some clowns like to post random (repeat) stupidity.
If you can blog you can Google "Fred Rodgers, Aurora, IL" if you want to know who he is :)
As a teacher in the district watching the forum from home, I must say that the current board members continue to be an embarrassment! They speak in cirlces and some can't even use correct English! I am pleasantly surprised by all of the new candidates! Please vote all four of them in!
Ok I Googled it and this is what came up after the heading that he recieved the African American Award. "he was the first employee of the Youth Services Department. Under his direction, the City of Lights Sports Tournament, Aurora Sports Festival, Stepping into the Arts Music Program and many summer camps were established and thrived".
So in a school district that is over 95% hispanic the East School District thought it would be a good idea to call its flagship school after a man that had nothing to do with the schools or education.
What a racial slap in the face to every hispanic in the East Aurora Commmunity.
Thank you for leaving school open on Tuesday. The children were safer at school than they would have been running the streets unsupervised. The bottom line is, it was the parents choice on whether to send their children to school. The parents knew the challenge of their children getting to school. If it was not safe, they should have made the decision to keep them home. Quit blaming the district for lack of parenting skills.
8:26 it has been posted previously on the blog that the building was named after Fred Rodgers by the city when it became a community center. It was in recognition of his many years serving the youth (of all races) of Aurora. The building had gone by that name for several years before the magnet academy was created. When the district bought the building, the name came with it. Of course, if you think the building has to be named after a hispanic because of the current demographics of the city, and just can't tolerate our students in a building named after a black man, I guess we could turn it into some kind of a 10 year rotation based on the census -- but personally I don't think promoting racism like you want to is the way to go.
Are you really that out of touch? Duh!
http://www.aurora-il.org/detail_news.php?newsDateID=589
The building was named by the city, not D131.
http://openline.blogspot.com/2013/03/why-did-east-aurora-school-district-131.html
Part 1
Watching the candidate forum tonight was very enlightening. It is no wonder that our board is as dysfunctional as it is. The four current board members don’t have one brain combined between the four of them. If Nacho is an example of a leading student in District 131, we need to revamp the entire system. I would have said that Nacho is the most incompetent board member that I’ve ever heard, if Stella Gonzalez wasn’t sitting right next to him. The woman is a complete idiot who can’t form a complete sentence, let alone a complete thought. Richard Leonard didn’t use half his time on most questions. It’s as though he had no vision for the district whatsoever. Annette had a one track mind, money, money, money. Education is obviously not a priority of hers.
I was pleasantly surprised by the new candidates running. They each were very educated and had a basic understanding of education and the challenges that face this community. While I didn’t agree with everything they stated, it is clear that they would be a significant improvement over the current board.
When asked about the low test scores and the vision they had for the district’s future, it was clear that the current board members have no vision. Johnson focused on spending money for technology and touted the district’s 180 program. She didn’t mention that the state came in and ripped the district for corrupting the system. The district administrators were using all the funds to focus on just the bubble kids and distort the test scores. The state demanded that the funds were used for every low functioning student. Leonard actually tried to say that other area schools had worse educational issues than District 131. Annette Johnson continued referring to the changes that the board has been making. She never once discussed how they have been 1) completely ineffectual and 2) a complete embarrassment. Mary Louise Peryea did have a moment discussing the role the board should play in education. She was very correct in pointing out that a board that micro-manages and assumes the role of the administrators creates an atmosphere where the administrators become completely ineffectual.
One question spoke about the bad press that District 131 has received about the board and about the lack of accountability this board has used with administration. All the current board members basically stated that we should not believe the reports because the news is slanted against them. Annette claimed that there has been accountability because they have reassigned some administrators to other positions. If an administrator is incompetent in one position, why would you transfer them to another position instead of replacing them with a more competent adminstrator?
The next question regarded transparency. Annette claimed that the district was transparent about the credit card and accounting issues. She didn’t mention that she knew about the issues four years ago and did nothing until the Beacon FOIA’d the credit card statements. She further claimed that all information is available on the district web site. Anybody who has been on the District 131 web site knows that most of the information is years old.
There was a question that commented about the focus of the board on the Magnet School and asked what the board is doing for the other students of District 131. Montroy added that the Magnet School only deals with about 5% of our population and neglects the other 95%. Current board members could only state that they are looking for technology grants. Kirsten Strand was the only one who understood the importance of activities beyond the classroom to the development of the entire child.
Part 2
The next question asked about how the negative stories about the board have had a negative effect on the morale of the staff in district 131. According to the current board members, the bad morale in the buildings had nothing to do with the embarrassing stories in the Beacon. We just have teachers who will always complain. Nacho went even further attacking teachers and stating that the board should take a more active role getting rid of some teachers.
Next question addressed was the lack of communication that we have in District 131. The current board members basically agreed that communication was very bad but if they were reelected, they would attempt to address the issue. They also emphasized how our new communications director would increase communications and morale in the district. They don’t have a clue just how hated Adam Harding is by the teachers and staff of District 131. Relations went downhill fast the moment Adam Harding became the districts communications director. Who can possibly trust the man?
The new candidates have a much clearer understanding of the challenges of the district and are obviously much more educated. This is a quality that is of vital importance if they are going to be expected to lead the educational direction of the district. All the new candidates stated the most important functions they will serve are 1) To hire a superintendent that can lead the district in a positive direction 2) To establish a clear vision and set of goals to hold the new superintendent to 3) To hold the new superintendent and administration accountable in meeting these goals. And 4) To begin functioning together as an effectual school board.
The choices would be simple if there were only four board positions open but unfortunately, either Annette Johnson or Richard Leonard will be on the school board after the election. So the only question is which is the lesser of two evils? If Annette is reelected, there is no doubt that the board will continue to be dysfunctional. She will continue to bully everybody and embarrass the district. While Richard Leonard has no vision (and no personality), he should be able to work with the other board members to a positive end. The choice should be clear on April 9th:
Zach Montry
Kirsten Strand
Marcella McIntyre-Duermit
Mar Louise Peryea
Richard Leonard
It amazing how incompetent our board members are. They don't seem to have a clue. Stella just rambles on and doesn't say a thing. Nacho wasn't much better. Richard Leonard just mumbled and said as little as possible and Annette only talked about money and taxpayers. It was clear that a serious change is necessary.
I've never heard the other candidates before but it was clear that they could complete a thought and communicate that thought to other people. It was also clear that they would be financially sound but put educating our kids first.
At the very least, I'm sure that the new candidates would be able to read the issues that are brought before the board. Yes, I am still in disbelief that Annette Johnson stated to the Beacon that the board does not read what the board votes on. She stated this during the LGBT policy fiasco.
Vote all the current board members out, especially Johnson.
I can't believe the way Ignacio Cervantes bashed the teachers during the forum. Richard Levin asked what each board member would do about how the recent board scandals and the bad press has had such a negative effect on teacher morale.
Ignacio basically said that negative press was because the newspaper was writing slanted stories against the board and that if the teachers don't like it, they should leave the district. He further stated that the district should get rid of some of these teachers.
It was clear that Nacho has no respect for the teachers of District 131. He must go!!!!!
I from a residents standpoint was very disappointed in the forum. The clear and shocking winner was Cervantes. the others had no solutions only identified problems. Johnson, defended all the current programs and the existing board sat like a bunch of puppets.
Strand and Montroy called for Roberts head but had no ideas.
Gonzalez can form a thought and Leonard only cares about his friend Feltes.
Perrya said something after she was cut off and it basically stated she was building more schools.
Where is she paying for it?
Now I am more confused than ever but Cernavtes earned my vote. Duemitt seemed like a fresh voice.
Not sure about the rest of them
It was so clear tonight that the current board has no plan for the district. They are too busy badmouthing the administration, the teachers, the community and each other. They are a completely dysfunctional group of individuals who continue to employ corrupt administrators who are only concerned with their own paychecks. They do not put the education of the East Aurora Children first.
Now is the time to make a change for excellence. Time to clean house. First the board and next, the administration.
I also watched the forum online and agree with March 7, 2013 at 8:22 PM. The current board patted themselves on the back but didn't bring anything to the table about getting scores up or how to solve the problems the others running did.
All the people blogging are teachers who don't live in our district and don't pay taxes here Peryra admitted they will build more schools. That means more taxes.
It is clear from reading all of this on the blog that nothing was clear last night.
To: March 7, 2013 at 11:46 PM
You claim that Cervantes won??? Name one idea that Cervantes had other than fire teachers with low morale.
If Nacho spoke first, he rambled and didn't say a thing. If he spoke last, he simply repeated what other candidates had stated but with very poor english.
The kid is in way over his head. He obviously doesn't have the education necessary for such a role. He is a perfect example of a bottom 3% of the state student from East Aurora.
Every incompetent sentence that came from Nacho's mouth was a cry for major change in District 131.
Actually, 7:48 a.m., I DO live in the district and pay taxes. And my kids are also D131 graduates, so I have a lot of "skin in the game".
I watched the meeting last night (good call to Mr. Harding or whoever was responsible for broadcasting it). I am now more convinced than ever that we need new leadership on our school board. I thank Annette Johnson for her several years of service but it is now time to try some fresh ideas & approaches. Like others have mentioned I am concerned about Strand & Montroy's friendship with Marin Gonzalez, but I seriously doubt they would try to sneak her back and certainly not as superintendent. Ms. Peryea has many years of positive involvement in D131 and she has my vote also.
7:49, your insight would be?
Oh that's right, you have no insight. Just complaints & insults, as usual.
;)
I recall teacher appreciation week last year. I was aware that a church group came out on the weekend and decorated the schools and placed small gifts in all the teachers mailboxes. The teachers were extremely impressed and grateful. It was the most recognized and appreciated they had ever been in District 131.
I didn't realize until last night that it was Kirsten Strand that was behind that small generosity. She has done more to recognize the teachers of District 131 than the entire board and administration have been in the past four years.
It is clear to me the difference in attitude between the current board and those running against them. The current board: If you don't like the crap we give you, GET OUT!!! The new blood: We have great and dedicated teachers in District 131, it's time we give the teachers the support they need to be successful with our children.
I was most impressed by Kirsten Strand but all the new people are a considerable improvement over the current members.
What was the insult? My point was that everybody is saying "it was clear" but then many people posted contrary arguments to one-another.
I don't see an insult. Is that enough insight for you?
A vot for Stella is a vote for Annette Johnson. Stella Gonzalez will agree and vote alongside Annette as history has proven that. She is one of the major reasons the Board has lost its credability. Remove yourself from the ballot Stella in the best interests of the community. Your answers last night were so shallow compared to the others. Please don't embarass yourself any further.
Now that the candidates' forum has been broadcast online, it is clear that our district has the capability to put meetings online in real time for the public to view.
Question for School Board candidates:
When will D131 School Board meetings be broadcast online, as several area districts already do? Wouldn't this represent an improvement in transparency and accountability?
Marcella McIntyre-Duermit of and I am a little concerned, her answers echoed Annette previous projects and she is Stella's pal.
Nacho, Nacho, Nacho,
Shame on you for remarks you made against educators. If you are not part of the system and how it really works maybe being on the school board is not a good idea. I applaud you for trying but it was very clear you are not clear on how things are run. I know you Ignacio as a former student and you still have the habit of repeating things you have heard stated by others. Keep in mind you had a lot of help during your school experience, especially middle school. Teachers went the extra mile to help in your success. Yes there are teachers who maybe would be happier somewhere else but that does not give you the right to make negative comments when you are trying to keep your position as a board member. Grow up Ignacio and stop playing the little kid games and pointing fingers. I was very disappointed in your comments and lack of compassion last night.
Yeah lets turn our district over to the worst teachers in the State in the State sounds like a good idea to me!
Nacho Cervantes, You NEED to understand that the biggest thng you need to do is LEARN about the big picture. You blew it yesterday and an apology is in order.
Hello 8:37
Sounds like you too need to understand a little more about teachers in general with 131. That is a very broad statement and accusation you are making against 131 educators. In my experience most 131 teachers and staff are very compassionate who are there for our kids and want the best for them. Sometimes we are not allowed the resources and freedom it takes to accomplish the goal of student success. All districts have some disgruntled teachers working with kids just as some employees are not happy with the job they hold in other industries. I was educated by some of the finest teachers coming from 131 and that experience helped me to decide I wanted to become a teacher. Not everyone has what it takes to work with someone else's child. Maybe you had a bad experience but not all of us are bad or are the worst teachers as you so elegantly stated.
Went over and looked at the posting on Openline that someone posted on here and found this interesting. Did the district in going with the insurance the retirees have now get them the Durham Grant?
An investigation by OpenlineBlog has learned a civil war erupted within District 131 over getting the grant paperwork processed with School Board President Annette Johnson blasting Superintendent Dr. Jerome Roberts for failing to make sure the district went through all the motions, paperwork and process to get a grant that had been basically assured.
Ms. Johnson herself got involved and negotiated herself with the Dunham Fund to make sure the $660,000 grant happens.
Meanwhile, Johnson was in a "rush" to change the benefits broker for District 131, which apparently didn't follow an open review process involving teachers and unions, but did create a massive cost increase and lots of upset retired teachers, which she blames on "poor communication."
That change ended up being HUB International, which employs Stephen Morcos, who's family members sit on the board of the Dunham Fund, giving the $660,000 grant.
Of course, like everything in Aurora, this could be yet another "coincidence."
Het 8;37 we wouldn't be in the mess we a5re in if the Republicans hadn't instituted the unrealistic NCLB standards under Bush. Who achieves 100%? yet that is the expectation. That in a poor district, that is getting poorer, where social problems are on the up and up. The Republicans in their zeal to privatize education, have made it impossible to reach the scores. The only reason our district has to kow tow to NCLB , is that we take state funds. Most schools in richer districts have opted out of NCLB. aS for bad teachers most of ours have two or three degrees, lots of awards and are the best in their field. There are other factors with these scores that you need to be aware of. And if Nacho wishes to wield his little hammer against us, he can easily be gone.
What was clear in the forum last night was that MOntroy et al were pandering to the teachers. Maybe that's because they have a personal interest in pacifying teachers and employees. But they suure showed disrespect for the taxpayers! Who's going to pay for all their pie-in-the sky proposals? It's easy to sit on the sidelines and criticize those who are currently on the board. But the Montroy/Strand group have no clue how to really run anything. They just want to recruit for their church.
The real culprits in the School Board issues are the former school boards who left the district in such a mess. The current board I believe is doing their best to fix things as they uncover them. Let's face it, former boards and superintendants have made a mess of the district. Interesting how the teachers never complained when nothing was getting fixed. Now that things are getting cleaned up, the teachers are crying.
To: March 7, 2013 at 10:04 PM
That link you sent was astounding. It shows just the tip of how deep the corruption regarding the insurance scadal goes. For those of you who haven't read it yet, this is a must read. Definately check it out.
http://openline.blogspot.com/2013/03/why-did-east-aurora-school-district-131.html
Annette Johnson was the only incumbent able to articulate a clear thought. She must have been totally embarrassed by Leonard and Gonzalez. They caused me to be embarrassed for them. The two of them were like parrots repeating everything she said. There was not one original thought which came from them. Listening to Leonard stumble through his final statement was joke , Johnson should have rehearsed him more since she wrote it. Ms Duermit while articulate, she had no original thoughts.
Here's a link to the online broadcast of Thursday's School Board candidate forum:
tv.d131.org/DynamicFlashPlayer.asp?vName=D131-CandidatesForum-13.flv
As a member of the Insurance Committee we all reviewed numberous quotes. A company called Gallager was the largest and could not devote the time necessary to fix the mess. The HUB group committed to open enrollment at every building and instruction on the policies. They had been the second largest. They provided quotes from three large carriers one being Bluecross who was cheaper by several hundreds of thousands of dollars. The group of support staff, teachers and maintenance staff wanted to go back to Bluecross not Annette Johnson.
I also will say Johnson spent better than a month researching this and it is all FOIA able.
If she got the grant as a perk then good for her it helps 750 kids.
AURORA — The East Aurora School District has hired Adam Harding as the district’s new interim spokesman.
East Aurora School Board President Annette Johnson said Harding, 37, will first work to develop the district’s internal communications in the post. She said Harding’s appointment gives a teacher a “cabinet-level” position in the district.
“We’re working on getting a better message out to the teachers and the students,” Johnson said.
Harding, a former teacher at Krug Elementary School, had been president of the East Aurora Teacher’s Union Local 604 since May 2012. Harding has worked for the district full-time for 10 years.
As he moves to the new role, Harding said leadership of the teacher’s union passes on to union Vice President Sara Imthurn.
Harding’s undergraduate degree is in communications, and he spent the first part of his career in corporate public relations roles before getting a master’s degree in education.
In a letter sent to teachers after the School Board approved his post this week, Harding said that his parents, siblings and wife have all dedicated their lives to being classroom teachers. He said his personal and professional goal has always been to be in a leadership role “where I could network, build bridges of trust, and share the good news of education in East Aurora.”
When he heard that his mentor and friend, previous district spokesman Clayton Muhammad, was moving on, he decided to apply for the open position. Muhammad left the district last month to join the city of Aurora as director of communications.
“I used to joke with Clayton that (the spokesman job) was my dream job someday because of my communications background and love for school districts. I just never thought it would materialize because I thought he’d be here forever,” Harding said.
The interim spokesman position was open to in-district, employees. Johnson said that two candidates applied for the position.
“My colleagues that know me personally know that my background (prior to teaching) was in communications and my love and commitment for District 131 is authentic,” Harding said. “Regardless of the timing, I applied for this position, interviewed and was afforded the opportunity to build upon the great things happening in district.”
Although it’s now an interim position, Harding said he’s confident in his skillset and hopes to be named to the full-time position.
In his new role, Harding’s salary will be pro-rated at $106,000 a year with other benefits, according to Johnson. Harding’s salary is equal to Muhammad’s salary under his last contract with the School District.
Harding, who was born in Aurora
With everything being said about board members and Johnson and how things work in this district and how some don't like it remember the current board have let the things go on. Even though some speak up they have done nothing to stop the corruption, misuse of money and making the employees that have misused it to pay it back have not made themselves accountable or stepped forward to stop it.
A few that are running now for the board have close ties to administration and are they willing to stop the misuse of money? All the retreats at country clubs, eating at high end restaurants(ballydole) or just all the money spent on eating.
I believe in this board and what they are doing.
It's a very simple concept; You get out of education exactly what you put into it. Teachers don't open your head and pour in the information. Teachers show you the door but you have to walk through it.
Gerhard and Nacho went through East High at roughly the same time. Gerhard is an intelligent, well spoken individual who recently scored a perfect score on the ACT. Nacho after 12 years in East (and a couple more in college) can hardly form an intelligent sentence.
These kids both had many of the same teachers, went through the same curriculum and had the same opportunities. Why is one successful while the other is not?
The answer is simple and we saw an example of it Thursday night. Nacho has not taken responsibility for himself. The paper is slanted against him, the teachers should leave the district or better yet, the board should actively go after and terminate them.
Not once did he state that he should take responsibility for his own actions. Talk shows like Jerry Springer are repleat with people like Nacho. It's my parents fault, it's my teachers fault, it's societies fault. When are one these individuals ever going to stand up and say "My mom was great, my dad was great, I am just an idiot".
I know this is a rough lesson for you Nacho but, you need to take responsibility for your own destiny. Only then will you realize your self value and start down the road to self improvement.
Major support of Strand and Montroy come from the teachers that do not live in 131. They claim they don't have a voice or resources to change that.
The current teachers now have the ability to change anything they want. All they need to do is join a committee. the work out of committees have full support of he board.
So what is your problem?
Release time is given, yet it was hard to get teachers to join? So when you say D131 is horrible board members like Cervantes don't see many complainers wanting to be a part of the solution.
Then there's the conflict of interest problem. It is Strand and Montroy who have put teachers in a bad spot because they will not be able to represent them . The board will look like a return to the corrupt boards of he past.
Congrads Nacho for actually being the only one who was honest last night,
Hey Teachers
You cry and complain the blog is ruining he district yet you support Zack Montroy.
At a recent Board meeting Montroy accused the Board of writing things on the blog. He made public statements knowing the Board can not respond. He also spoke spoke about the destructive nature of the blog to our district.
Yet his supporter is Rayanne Carlson the originator and host of the Blog.
Many teachers in the district complain about this so lets see if Zack is a man of action or just a bag of wind. Zack get the blog shut down or are you only complaining because you have the lack of Intergrity.
I find is amusing that board members or ones that are running for the board take the time to comment about the board don't they have more important things to worry about like getting test scores up, making sure our students have the tools to learn and and nice place to learn? How about making sure money is spent wisely. Yes there are things that people say on this blog that isn't nice but at least the ones they are talking about behind their backs. Some comments are suggestions or how someone treats someone else and yes how they don't like how a person is running things. Maybe sometimes if it is about you take a step back and see if maybe you did something wrong or could do something different.
Zac has no authority to shut this blog down and it should be the last thing on his mind to do.
I am still waiting to hear how my statement:
"It is clear from reading all of this on the blog that nothing was clear last night."
was "Just complaints & insults, as usual"
Can you tell me where the complaint is and where the insult is?
The blog isn't a destructive force, it is a tool. The destructive force is the incompetence and corruption of our administration and board. Those who call for the blog to be shut down don't want to deal with the problem, they want the problems covered up. Quit trying to shoot the messanger.
do we really want Stella Gonzalez for another 2 years? What is the story behind her daughter's history with 131? Please comment !!! Just can't imagine a person with her lack of insight to make decisions.
I have never read this blog before, and after three hours of reading, have decided that I wasted three hours which should have been spent on searching for relevant and engaging learning activities for our children. I will not make a mistake like this again.
The debate was another poor run event by Clayton. Not sure why but when asked he said he was doing it because he was on he Foundation. I know. Serveral people sitting around me never had their questions asked and the questions seemed to be the same. Everyone talked circles because of the questions. Clearly Stella could not answer the same question even when it was asked serveral times.
My feeling is I would have liked to know what the new ones said now I feel cheated.
Clayton is a Bozo and I am glad to see someone else get the job. it sounds like he will communicate better because of his background and being a teacher.
Clayton sucked
Hey 5:20, here's a news flash for your dumb a$$. Very few of the teachers in d131 live in the district. Committees don't work when the school district is run like a dictatorship! Then we have morons like you agreeing with someone who bashes teachers and you think congratulations is spelled with a "d" you idiot!
The current board is proficient at blaming everything on the past and someone else. Ms. Johnson needs to know that East was not that great when she was in school either. It was slightly better because it had less challenges like language barriers, parental involvement, gang activity, NCLB... Look at all your alumni who left for the westside to raise their families. They have been leaving for decades. Financially the district looks good but nothing has changed that matters with one exception and that is morale. Wake up people, if the teachers are not happy what makes you think they are functioning at their highest. I am sorry Ms. Johnson but technology is not a magic bullet; most of our staff and board did not have an iPad or laptop growing up. Children must have a core education foundation beginning as early as possible i.e. home and preschool. Having a board that will be able to work together , feeding off of each others energy, knowledge , and experience will build on whatever the current board may feel they have accomplished. Collaboration with a high functioning superintendent, administration , teachers, community partners and support staff will be a remedy for true change. Nothing will cost much additional except the Superintendent. Base on the performance of the current board members on Thursday night its no wonder things are in dis-functional. The current board has reached their ceiling, change is a must.
I think it's the Openline blog that really bothers Zack Montroy more than this one. For example, this recent thread:
http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=8854980&postID=535758351692406497
Notice the spam and obscenities, which are filtered out here. The EA blog has plenty of complaining but at least it's equal opportunity complaining. And some useful information, too (like the link to watch the candidates' forum online).
All the School Board candidates claim they're in favor of transparency. Then why isn't anyone suggesting broadcasting School Board meetings online, as the candidates' forum was made available to those of us who couldn't attend? The district obviously has the technology to do it!
Why don't you stop complaining and run maybe they will but it seems they have been a tad busy.
I have worked with Annette on negotiations and was glad to see the positive press start to come out about her.
I will say this she does know how to say no when the district needs that. However, we know many teachers thought there Principals have been played into believing the board hates the teachers. Or Annette yells at everyone.
You can ask Rhodes, Hettinger, or Harding in the negotiations if Annette has ever said a unkind word about teachers.
She is very critical of Administrators. At one point she had Aird removed from the negocaiating team because of road blocks she was throwing up.
The teacher survey was her idea and when the results presented themselves Johnson hit the roof.
We had spent many months without her in the room with the same problems. Thus the formation of special committees. We do have a equal voice! Please join or email to talk about what is working.
The administration of this district is bad and needs a change from the top down and Aird is fighting for her life.So don't believe her or her Principals.
I have also found my dealings with many of the administion a pack of lies
I do believe without her putting her foot down the other members or new members are to nice. the problems at 131 are not just Dr Roberts they need to make changes now. But we have allowed Johnson to take much of the brunt as Denise Crosby stated today.
She is very approachable that why the Union wanted her to her first hand what is going on. Take a second look.
Dealing with Dr Roberts a insiders view.
in another conversation with Annette Johnson she explained to the Union Reps not to prepare long written documents with the problems facing the district and only prepare verbal reports or reports increased to a font 22 or above.
It seemed Dr Roberts has a eye condition that he was working with that stops him from reading typed faced documents only through a reader which is not easy.
Dr Roberts gets many of his reports verbally from his administration and sadly does not get the entire story.
The reason some problems are getting fixed is this approach since September has been working.
I have personally witnessed a change but I would urge the board to start making changes, get a new superintendent hired and transition Dr Roberts out on disability. Aird, Adams, Glozabach and Garcia need to go immediately .
As for the Board Johnson must get reelected along with some newcomers.
Leonard should continue with the maintenance no one has his experience and that area needs strong oversight.
As for comments at Forum about staying in balcony that approach will not work for 131. The reports you receive Ms Peryea are not filled with facts, more like what you want to hear.
http://dianeravitch.net/2012/10/27/nc-teacher-i-quit/
It's funny to listen to the candidates reading out of a book how to run the district and turning control over to the teachers. Residents beware your taxes are going up up up.
You will be the west aurora school district and look were they are at.
I suggest he teachers doing the most barking, most of who live on the wet side shoulday more attendition to their problems over there.
I urge everyone, that has the opportunity to vote for the future BOE in d131, to please watch the candidate forum on the district web site. Let's get some educated people on this board. There are candidates that talk in circles, constantly repeat themselves, never give any answers with substance and cannot put together a proper sentence. Loving your community and "bleeding" red and black does not automatically make you a viable candidate to make crucial decisions on a school board. EA has thousands of great residents that love their community but that alone is not enough to have you elected to the board of education. Take the time to watch the forum and cast an educated vote.
It's easy to answer the questions when they have all been given to you. Many of us had questions that never got asked. You could see the slant. Clayton and Irvin carry the mayors water. Strand announced she got appointed Montroy said go throw money away downtown.
Peryea is on a board with Mariyln Weisner. Hometown and other stupid programs of his there we go.
West Aurora will survive just as East has for many moons. I would prefer d129 test score and leadership team . Our scores are even with Chicago schools. Lets take some of our revenue and use it where it counts in leadership. When you employ talented leaders you will get results. After four years of Annette Johnsons leadership Nothing has changed. Deurmit is the new puppet who is just happy to be on a board.
10:18-thanks for sharing. Sounds very familiar. ;)
Kirsten Strand is absolutely correct that our current board is way too hands on. It creates a multitude of issues.
First, it disempowers the superintendent and other central office administrators (no more than making public comments saying that we need a new superintendent but not hiring one).
Second, it removes the system of checks and balances. If the board is assuming the role of the administrators and running the district. Who is assuming the role of the board and supervising those running the district?
Third, how can you legally hold the superintendent responsible and fire him for poor performance if the board has been assuming the role of the superintendent? He would have a strong legal argument that the board should be ones held responsible.
Finally, as we have seen, the board members have done a very poor job in the superintendent role. There has been one scandal and embarrassing story after another.
With our current board not being able to work cooperatively with anybody, even themselves, it has thrown the district into complete chaos.
There is no doubt, especially with the high caliber of the new candidates, that this is time to clean house.
Between Annette's public fight with Raymond Hull, her insulting every low income resident of District 131, Annette's public statement that she will sue the district if she remain the board president, public statements that the board does read policies before voting on them, she knew about the finance department issues for years but did nothing until the Beacon FOIA'd the records, etc, etc, etc.
The school board has been completely disfunctional since Annette became it's president. She is the first one that must go.
I agree with: March 7, 2013 at 10:12 PM
The community should vote for:
Zach Montry
Kirsten Strand
Marcella McIntyre-Duermit
Mar Louise Peryea
Richard Leonard
openline.blogspot.com/2013/03/east-aurora-school-district-shifts.html
Ray and his friend Marin Gonzalez are involved in a negative letter writing campaign against Annette Johnson. We know Annette is the only one strong enough to stop Marin. Plans are if Strand Montroy and Peryea are elected she is coming back.
Ray still wants to be board president.
Just like he created lies about a district partner that will soon file a lawsuit.
Give it up Ray. Please stop the Anonymous letters Mari
I seriously doubt that Marin Gonzalez has a snowball's chance in hell of coming back to our district, especially as an administrator. She has alienated too many teachers, staff, parents, and community members during her time in D131.
Ray instead of writing hate mail why not come to committee meetings.
See Ray plays poor me that nobody informs me but misses more meeting than any other board member.
Just last week he missed another meeting. He has been on all the committees but never lasts. Always the victim.
The easy comment to make when someone hears that a teacher is complaining or unhappy is, "If they don't like it, Quit!" Sure, in a world with no bills or responsibility, quitting is an option. Reality is people have to work and finding teaching jobs or any jobs is a difficult quest. So, pushing to oust ineffective, unethical, inappropriate leadership is a better option. Getting rid of the source of the unhappiness and frustration sounds better than leaving the profession you love. Maybe you don't love it as much because of the mismanagement, but that love and desire to teach may come back if there is a new, invigorated leadership that gives the teachers and the community hope that there is promise in the future. Now, just to give Nacho a little bit of credit, there probably some teachers that should find a different career. However, Nacho, if you want a political career you should learn not to make blanket statements. There are veteran teachers that have given their life to East Aurora and maybe they are frustrated, disappointed, angry... whatever the case, there must be a reason. Listen to them, work with them, search for solutions, help them finish their careers strong and motivated. Having a 20 something kid tell them to quit is not the answer. Now, I heard of a rookie Waldo teacher that sits at her desk and reads and tells students she gets paid whether they learn or not??? Maybe she needs to go. Speaking of Waldo and low morale!!! Yikes!!! Many Waldo teachers skipped the Kane County institute day and that "snow day", well, I understand many took that off. I'm telling you, we need new people in power, we need new ideas, new direction, just a new attitude to inspire teachers, administrators, parents, and mostly our students.
What an amazing comment from 9:59 - More LIES AND STUPIDITY.
That person just stated as a FACT that Marin Gonzalez is coming back if we don't reelect the current board.
I would LOVE to see that proof. (Other than the fact that there is a picture of her on a church website)
MORE BS AND STUPIDITY from the dumbest blog ever created.
She will she is Jackie Montrose best girl friend they traveled together and planned Zack campaign.
Why is Clayton still allowed to post on the districts Facebook page. Please just leave Clayton
Elect the current Board please read Peryra rant that we should fund more early childhood as taxpayers. We just funded a referendum. that is easy for her to say her house was purchased at $65,000. I am near retirement and can no longer afford to live on the East Side. Please any increase is to much who do you think you are? Please I have cut back long enough to fund the schools. I sent a recent letter to Dr Roberts please read it in public Ms Johnson and fight for us.
The letter was dated in September. Also called Peryra and she slammed the phone done and told me she is doing gods work. Shame on you.
From Openline Blog:
Anonymous said...
Clayton took district property while under investigation and has not returned a Computer and I Pad. I guess it's true.
Service Center news was a child's parent filed a complaint because he was reaching out to her son on Facebook.
Sounds like Clayton may be cleaning up his computer files.
Someone who watches TV during the day works on Boys 2 Men all day should fit right in at the city.
3/10/13, 8:50 PM
Anonymous said...
8:50 p.m., Clayton Muhammad has had minors as Facebook friends for several years now. Even though other D131 employees have been specifically told not to "friend" current students on social media websites, administration has looked the other way with Clayton. Serves him (and administration) right that a parent finally stepped up & questioned the "Pied Piper" of Aurora.
If Strand and Montroy are elected, that's over a quarter of the board who can't vote on any issue involving teacher pay, work conditions, personnel decisions, etc. Plus I just don't trust their agenda; I don't think what they've put out publicly is ALL they have in mind. They're running together to promote something that's only going to come out after the election.
Today is the 7th day - Lets see if the minutes from the February 4 board meeting get posted today. (They will now because I brought it up)
Sorry, I meant the February 19th meeting - Don't jump down my throat.
Read what Peryea says OMG. The teachers and entire district will face layoffs next year if she is elected. She does not have a clue or understand how the district needs to hold on to whatever they get. Pre School is funded by e State and it needs to stay that way. D131 can not afford any more taxes
10:38 p.m., do you know the difference between a plan and a fact?
Because 9:59 did not say anything is a "FACT". They are concerned that incoming board members may plan to bring back Dr. Marin Gonzalez as our next superintendent. That is a valid concern, considering that our current superintendent, former EHS principal Dr. Roberts, had been brought back to D131. A precedent has been set; it is not "LIES AND STUPIDITY" (as you yell).
Lewis finally getting off the Board !! What has she done and said during her time on the Board? Same applies to Gonzalez who makes her appearances and seems to think that is making a difference and the criteria for being a good Board Member NOT!! Listen to her responses at the Forum and judge for yourself. SHALLOW & lets face it, she is one of the token seniors on the Board who vote with Johnson EVERY TIME.
So where does the campaign trail go this week as we play "Let's look concerned". WASTE OF TEACHERS TIME and face the truth "Us teachers know what hypocrites Johnson & Roberts are" WE TOLERATE YOU BECAUSE WE ARE AFRAID
Where does it say that they can't vote on those things show us the proof.
"Plans are if Strand Montroy and Peryea are elected she (Marin Gonzalez) is coming back. "
THAT SOUNDS LIKE THEY STATED THAT AS A FACT TO ME.
That's not - Strand, Montroy and Peryea might bring back Marin Gonzalez
That's not - Strand, Montroy and Peryea have a close relationship with Gonzalez
That's not - I wonder if Marin Gonzalez will come back if Strand, Montry and Peryea are elected
That was - PLANS ARE and IS COMING BACK
SHUT UP - Thanks.
8:52, yelling does not reinforce your point. And saying that someone is planning something is not necessarily the same as saying it's a fact that something will happen.
Also, yelling "SHUT UP" can be counterproductive, because people will respond in defiance.
:)
Hey, Shut up.
Then here, moron, prove to me that they are "planning" on bringing back Marin.
Well, I do plan to vote for the challengers for School Board--despite their supposed friendship with Marin Gonzalez. Sometimes there is no ideal candidate who supports 100% of what I believe is best for our district, but the Annette Johnson-led School Board has had its chance for several years and it's time to move on and have some fresh leadership and ideas.
And I'm trusting the new Board to listen to our teachers, staff, and community when it comes to hiring a new superintendent. If indeed they try to sneak Marin into the position, that would open a big can of worms.
Prove that there isn't a precedent for hiring a superintendent who had worked as an administrator for our district and left.
Or, shut up.
;)
there is a "watchdog" group whom are committed to make sure decisions and $$$ is accounted for.
Love this post from another Aurora bog:
"I have been told, often, by someone who knows Weisner well, that he surrounds himself with second rate sycophants because he doesn't want to be shown up by anyone smarter than he is. And speaking of stupid, corrupt and incompetent, can Openline please address the sickening fact that mayoral crony and donor Arlene Hawks is now the director of SciTech? Will that place never stop hiring poisonous morons who are 100% unqualified to direct anything? Hawks knows nothing about science and has never run ANY organization. Now she will get $50,000 per year to run a museum that is always on the verge of collapse. Is the board TRYING to run SciTech into the ground? Or is this the fact that, coincidentally, Weisner owes Dick Hawks $50,000. If the board had advertised this position they would have been inundated with fresh faced innovators, applicants with the training and education to bring SciTech out of its perpetual slump. For $50,000 they could have had their pick of the brightest candidates from museum studies and science programs across the U.S. It's breathtakingly stupid that, instead, they chose a tired old parasite with a wealthy husband and a substantial pension rather than give a qualified person with actual experience this opportunity. I have never been impressed by SciTech, particularly their choices for director, but this is so over the top that it's practically criminal."
Yet here East is doing something right by hiring Angela Rowley and East gets nothing but flack about maintenance trips to Menards. Nice reporting Beacon News.
You see, it is not "Guilty until proven innocent" it is innocent until proven guilty.
I don't have to prove that they are not conspiring you have to prove that they are.
11:06, I am not a friend of Arlene Hawks but I can say in her defense that she knows a lot of people. Specifically, a lot of influential people who might be likely to support an organization like SciTech.
Sometimes the best directors are not necessarily the most knowledgeable but rather the "movers and shakers" who have a lot of community contacts. It's about who she knows (and can influence) more that what she knows.
From the same Openline thread:
3/9/13, 9:40 AM
Anonymous said...
Meanwhile at East Aurora rumors continue to be the talk of the Service Center. A recent investigation by HR stopped when Muhammed quickly departed and went to the City. It involved a student and Facebook book posts between Muhammed.
One wonders, why Muhammed who still has keys to the district came in the middle of the night and removed his computer. The computer in question was the property of d131 as well as a missing I Pad.
Huh stories must be true . If anything it is stolen property.
Anonymous said...
Mike Chapin, the current West Aurora District PR guy, was a managing editor at the Beacon News during the 1990's. He hired Denise Crosby as a columnist/reporter. Do you really expect Crosby to write a negative column about West when her mentor is the PR guy. A phone call from Chapin to Crosby is certain to kill most negative publicity. Chapin couldn't kill the Orland story. The arrest of a teacher on sex charges was too big for the Beacon to ignore.
Chapin needs to explain why West administrators didn't investigate the issue when the janitor reported seeing Orland acting suspiciously with a female student in a storeroom. West administrators claim they couldn't determine the identity of the girl. They should have asked Orland to disclose her identity. If nothing inappropriate was occurring, Orland should have no problem disclosing her identity. If he refused, it should raise red flags for the district. District administrators closed their eyes to the problem. They failed the students and taxpayers of West Aurora.
The Beacon attacks East Aurora because Chapin makes sure that West is off limits. That is why they pay him the big bucks.
3/11/13, 7:02 AM
Wasn't it the district that sent the information about the maintenance department?
I guess you could say the district was being transparent. I think Leonard thought he would get praise instead Denise beats up the district. I bet Leonard or anyone else will never be transparent again.
Posted by Jeff Ward former Beacon reporter
The Beacon-News hates Hispanics…
Well…that ain’t exactly the truth, but it is exactly the message that paper has chosen to send to the Aurora east side community for the past few months. And despite my best efforts to point out the error of their way, that statement culminated in a flurry of recent “news coverage.” crosby
You see, after hammering the East Aurora School District week in and week out, in the last five days alone, “columnist” Denise Crosby has written four separate pieces slamming their school board. The Beacon bosses have even gone as far as letting her play reporter just so she can repeat the same tired old accusations on a more regular basis!
Yes! East Aurora School Board president Annette Johnson has openly admitted their financial record keeping required improvement. Yes! The insurance debacle never should’ve happened, but it did and the district addressed it. Yes! The transgender policy kerfuffle was an unnecessary distraction, but it hardly rises to the level of what West Aurora band teacher Steve Orland almost got away with.
Even in the column in which Crosby “admits” she’s been “a little hard” on the district, she repeats the same old crap one more time. Didn’t another far more famous columnist once say, “Threatening to throw someone off a school board is a lot like threatening to stop beating them with a two-by-four.”
To put Crosby’s self-serving and over-the-top East Aurora coverage in perspective, if I wrote two columns on former County Chairman Karen McConnaughay’s antics in the same four month period, she and the other editors had a fricken’ cow.
Though I didn’t dare touch upon a candidate topic 60 days before an election because “we don’t want to affect the outcome,” in her fourth piece this week, Crosby outright endorsed the entire opposition school board slate!
And it all started because East Aurora School Board President Annette Johnson had the temerity to damage Denise’s delicate sensibilities by standing up to her. Can Annette be difficult? Oh! You bet she can! But in the end, she lays her neck on the line, she tells the truth, and she makes a stand, something Crosby has never been able to do.
3/10/13, 10:54 PM
Anonymous Anonymous said...
So when faced with the abrupt and terrifying mirror image of a strong woman who toils endless hours for no pay, Crosby has no choice but to go on the attack.
Don’t believe me? C’mon! West Aurora has never addressed the fact that Orland got an extra year abusing female high school students and, sadly, their financial situation has eroded so badly that now they’re talking about a property tax increase. But where’s all the Beacon-News coverage?
The problem is, the more Crosby makes this battle personal, and the more she repeats this perceived litany of school board faults, it actually serves to damage the challengers’ cause. You can only hammer someone so long before it starts to generate sympathy.
Here’s what Crosby and Beacon-News are missing. This incessant hammering of East Aurora while letting its western twin slide, is not lost on East Aurora community leaders who generally happen to be Hispanic.
And I know this because I actually take the time to speak with these folks on a regular basis. Not only do I find them to be a refreshing change from the average self-interested Caucasian Kane County politician, but were I to throw my hat in the ring, their support would be critical.
Give me Board Members Monica Silva, Myrna Molina and (on occasion) Jessie Vasquez over the usual suspects any day. Give me State Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia over non-entities like Tim Schmitz on a regular basis. Please give me Tao Martinez, Art Vasquez and Juan Reyna over the self-appointed guardians of all things politically holy like Ken Shepro, Ellen Nottke and Mike Kenyon.
Pat Perez is the best fricken’ Sheriff to which Kane County has ever had the pleasure of bearing witness!
Again, it isn’t that some of this East Aurora criticism isn’t deserved, because it is. It’s that Crosby’s ceaseless harranguing – just to “get even” with Johnson – has gotten so bad that it’s really starting to hork off Hispanics. They clearly see the inequity in the coverage and her insistence upon denigrating a school district that’s 82 percent Hispanic is really getting under their skin.
How many times can you repeat the phrase “low test scores” before it starts to become a personal insult?
So no! I don’t believe the Beacon-News hates Hispanics, but I’m not the one who really matters.
3/10/13, 10:56 PM
2:04 If it weren't for Denise Crosby we wouldn't have many facts about the "Shame of 131" It would have been swept under the rug. Those who brought down Jackson Jr, Blago, Ryan were told also , it ain't gonna happen. Oh really, this Board is on borrowed time.
This is the Board that uncovered all the crap. Funny how Crosby did not mention that in her articles.
Where is Denise Crosby's articles on West and young girls getting raped.
A few lost credit card receipts is hardly news.
Why did Denise praise West for their use of credit cards when their board members have credit cards.
Oh maybe because Mike Chapin hired Denise.
As far as the board they will win hands down. Lu cost them the election. Its too bad because some change was needed. I must say telling the taxpayers they are not paying enough was it.
From Mary Lou Peryea Facebook page
You just lost my vote. We have had the current Early Childhood program for several years and yet the scores have not improved that much. I was voting for her and Duemitt but now I will vote for Stella even she is not that stupid.
Badgering the taxpayers for more she does not understand our community
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY/EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION - The current Board is rightfully proud to have achieved a high rating on the Fiscal State of the District. We are fortunate that no teachers will be laid off and we still 'have money in the bank'. Current members are not going to ask taxpayers for any more money, and, on one side of the coin, this should make taxpayers happy.
But the flip side of that coin should cause us to ponder the cost of putting off important initiatives.
When you uncover crap you should try to clean it up, not leave it and then create more. How much crap has just recently occurred. Did the board uncover the lack of keeping tabs on receipts from B&G? That was last summer. That crap was sitting for four years 'til you finally stepped in it. Then you gave the main crapper a better paying job to create more crap. The transgender crap was crapped up this year and then smeared all over. The insurance crap is still crap. The crap you pulled with Becker was bull crap. Did you uncover the crap about the board members throwing racial jabs at a public meeting? The only crap I see and hear is out of the mouths and actions of the current leadership.
It was also the Beacon that uncovered The Wilson Morales fight with a student some blocks away from Simmons. That incident was being covered up until the Beacon broke the story. Keep up the good work Beacon News...
You just lit a fire and we can give her info for all the things she isn't aware of that she can write about. Maybe we can start with Dick Leonard and his shenanigans !!
Many people are still talking about the verbal assault Hull laid out during the last meeting. Staff calls you crazy Ray. Please resign and do not embrass the East Aurora Community any longer.
The assault on Steve Marcos was unwarranted. He devoted over a dozen people to fixing the business offices Issues. Then to defend Penny Halvax shows this man has no sense of ethical judgement. Penny injured all of us by not doing her job. She collected large sums of overtime and still did not do her job. Mr Marcos sat for days helping us construct a deduction list. He has given his personnel cell phone number to us to help with employee insurance issues.
Mr Marcos brought lunch in often and treated everyone with respect. To say he received a sweet heart deal is upsetting in public. This is this mans career. Mr Marcos saved the employees of our district the proposed doubling of insurance premiums and to date we have deposited many checks he hand delivers.
I always thought Johnson was arrogant and choose to believe you Mr Hull but now to come back to work and hear you are behind destroying this mans name is unforgivable.
To imply that The Dunham funds gave us money because of a sweet heart deal with Ms Johnson shows you are a hater and jealous.
Can anyone confirm or deny the rumor that the board has already decided to replace Sheila Conrad with Jesse Barraza?
What is with community members wanting to improve the district and our children's education without being remotely willing to pay more taxes? We will never be able to compete with surrounding districts until we pay the same taxes. The teachers do not necessarily get paid any more just because taxes are raised. The students are the ones who benefit from raised taxes, not teachers. Living in or out of the district has nothing to do with it. Teacher morale is low because we are not respected and not trusted. We have degrees and should be entitled to be a part of the process. Being invited to join committees is just a drop in the bucket. Most of the time, being on a committee has little meaning when the decision was made long before the committee was put together. The current administration asks us to do more and more without giving any respect. We want a new board, not because we want more money, but because we want what's best for the children of 131.
I know everyone on here is preoccupied by the crap about who did what on the board. I have read this blog for years for amusement but now feel that there is an issue that everyone here could help bring to the attention of all.
The proposed 6 class schedule that is being suggested for EAHS should be discussed. It removes a period for electives including foreign language, art, building trades etc from students schedules. It also eliminates additional chances for students to retake classes they might need to graduate. An extra six minutes is not worth the amount of students that just will stop trying or even showing up when you take the classes they are passionate about away from them. Believe it when I say that there are hundreds of kids that show up just for those classes. There are kids that come to school to work on cars, practice cooking, play in a band, or even learn spanish so they can talk to grandparents.
We have already lowered the bar for graduation so far, why take away one of the few positive motivations from the students as well? Some colleges require 4 years of foreign language, fine arts etc and this new schedule makes it impossible for good kids to achieve, and will increase the rate the students on the edge drop out.
The majority of the people on this page, in spite of their differences, all care about what is best for the kids. Please take a moment and do your research and find out why this is being pushed through with such limited research, low teacher input and without any conversations with the students and parents that this impacts the most!
Thank you.
Out of 460 districts in Illinois 341had lower tax rates than East Aurora. Since it has some of the worst schools in the state I would say the return on investment is horrid. There needs to be a mass firing ofteachers and administrators.
What a pointless statistic that means nothing.
If the teachers are so concerned about the residents paying more taxes then they should move in 131 if its that great of a place to live and raise a family. Cervantes hit it on the head if you don't like it leave.
The residents just passed a referendum. If Ms Peryea wants to pay more taxes why did she only buy a house worth $58,000. Why does Zack not even own a home.
It is more than a few lost receipts and by law it is illegal for the district to pay them.
As far as the early child center has there been any data that it has help the kids in our district and if the State decides to cut funding and they can at any time that program will end.
It is more than a few lost receipts and by law it is illegal for the district to pay them.
As far as the early child center has there been any data that it has help the kids in our district and if the State decides to cut funding and they can at any time that program will end.
Peryea RESIGN I just read you think on Hispanic community. You think because my parents can't read we are going to end up in jail. School is important and reading is important but to say the taxpayers should pay more money to keep us out of jail. You come here from Naperville and look down on us. You think we are nobody. Get out of town and go back to Naperville. I had serveral relatives that could not read and none went to Jail. Cervantes is right you lazy teachers stop blaming your failures on everyone else and leave.
No, what that stat tells me is that the East residents pay way more than their share in taxes especially since the schools are not producing. Secondly, they show that just because a school takes in more money does not mean the studens are getting a quality education. The teachers need to be held accountable for the horrible academics at East. Start cleaning house at the top and start working down. The way I see it is that is what is happening now with this current Board and the teachers are running scared.
There is the false premise - is the school taking more money? Not really - What is the tax base, what are the homes worth, what kind of industry is in the area. So a place with 100 square miles of homes and 1000 square miles of industry probably has a lower tax rate because of the industry.
But a place like EA where there is 1000 square miles of homes, with only 100 square miles of industry the tax rate is higher because of the low business in the area.
(these numbers are just used for example, not accurate numbers)
The more business (factories, stores, malls) the less property taxes homeowners have to pay.
So your little statistic really does not even paint half of the picture.
6:29 and 8:28, you are absolutely WRONG about most of our teachers! They are saints and heroes, considering how they work with & teach so many kids who come to school tired, poorly-fed and without supplies. It's the PARENTS who usually drop the ball when kids don't learn or misbehave in class. When I was a room mother at Dieterich, over & over I saw my kids' teachers have to deal with catching up one of the slower students or provide pencils, paper, etc. that should have come from home. Especially at the elementary level, kids who don't have parental support (nutritious meals, adequate sleep, homework checked) WILL fall behind.
Stop blaming teachers for kids who are failing, when it's mostly the parents' fault!
Our houses have lower values because some of the neighborhoods had more than their fair share of forclosures. While other neighborhoods remained more stable. Peryer Montray and Strand lost my vote. The taxpayers gave it time for the teachers to give. If you love the kids so much move here but you will not because you want your kids to go to schools with better teachers.
Still no minutes from the February 19th meeting
Question: Is District 131 wise in its spending? Yes or No please explain
Yes
Peryea is crazy she will run the district out of money in less than a year. The reason you keep surplus is because the State cuts the budget all the time. Explain or give specific examples of when a teacher or classroom number was ever denied a desk. If the teacher does not feel like coming forward give a class number. But I am sure you will not because its all about creating drama
District 131 is a laughingstock. How long before ACT scores fall into the single digits?
This district says it has 82 million surplus it is the districts time to give back to the taxpayers.
I don't know why you don't like the teachers it is really administration, the Superintendent and the board that are the problem with the students learning they are the ones that pick what they teach.
Where is the data for the pre school that shows the kids that go there and stay in the districts schools are doing better than those that don't?
It's obvious that 8:28 a.m. is either Nacho or Annette-- this is a ploy used by current Board members to get re-elected-- remember the easiest way you can show that you are are changing the system (instead of real change) is to run around firing people. This way you can create a climate of fear and threaten and intimidate your teachers. They have been doing bthis at East for years. Second 6: 29 a.m., we don't have lazy teachers. We have teachers that get to school at 7:00 a.m, leave at 5:00 p.m. I have spent countless extra hours tutoring after school. What did I spend this year on my kids who come to school hungry, with no supplies? Let's see, $4,300 and still counting. And what about my kid yesterday who has not had a toothbrush in a year. Back to the store for hygiene products. So take your negative, uneducated comments about us until you sit in the classroom as we perform the duties of teacher, custodian, social worker, nurse, and nutritionist. Have a nice day.
Talk about scams. This “Virtual Education” initiative (See http://beaconnews.suntimes.com/18695630-417/fox-valley-districts-set-hearings-on-proposed-virtual-education-effort.html) is obviously another way to funnel taxpayer’s money away from schools and into the coffers of private business. The first and largest red flag is the company K12’s profit statement of 767 million dollars. That is huge sum of money earmarked for education that is not being used as intended. They have obviously inflated fees and cut services to maximize corporate profits.
Virtual Learning Solutions / K12 expects to be paid 75% to 125% of what the schools regularly receive for educating children. They do not provide buildings, heat, electricity, a regular teacher (or in some cases even a certified teacher), sports programs, music programs, ROTC, etc. etc. etc. Their test scores are lower. Their drop out rates are higher. They are facing charges in other states of manipulating the data (in other words, falsifying state records) to make themselves look good.
Why is this even being considered? Any school board that approves this should be run out of town for incompetence. It is a huge waste of public resources. The only way this could possibly be passed is if there are some shady back room dealings going on.
How can anybody state that District 131 has been responsible with money? We have hundreds of thousands of dollars in unaccounted for credit card debt. The board only looked into the situation after the Beacon FOIA’d the credit card statements. The person responsible for the department is sitting in retirement collecting a huge pension, even while many questions remain. At the same time, the district has done nothing to Denean Adams who used the district credit cards to withdraw cash in Atlantic City to gamble (this while she was being paid to be at a school improvement convention).
The maintenance department is in disarray with so many hoops to run through that they can’t replace a thermostat without running up hundreds of dollars in man hours fulfilling all the paperwork requirements. The person the board claims was responsible is placed in a new six figure salary position doing absolutely nothing. At the same time, the board changed the job description (because Marty Feltes didn’t have the proper qualifications) in secret to arrange for Richard Leonard’s childhood buddy to take the position.
The district just spent 3 million dollars (plus 7 million in renovations) to purchase the Magnet building. Rick Lawrence made it very public that the district was spending money that was unprecedented in Aurora. It makes a person wonder just how many back room deals have been done that drains money out of District 131.
The district board just violated their own policies to double the insurance rates on retired teachers, This again appears to be a secret back room money deal with the real power players in Aurora.
The district recently spent roughly $65,000 to upgrade the filtering system in the East High swimming pool. This was required by state code. Now the HVAC system for the pool area needs to be replaced due to years of poor maintenance at a cost of about $100,000 (just like the HVAC system at the service center, how has this been responsible with money). Word is the district is now looking to simply fill in the pool with concrete and make classrooms out of this PE area. Multiple classes in the gyms already have up to an unsafe 150 students in them. If the area is shut down and turned into classrooms, the gyms will have up to 200 students in them.
These are just a few of the more public financial debacles of late. There are a hundred different day to day types of wasting of money I could easily site. This board’s greatest boast is about finances but they are doing no better in this area than they are in any other area. Their incompetence shows in every action. It is time to clean house.
The minutes for the Feb. 19th board meeting have been published on the D131 website. Of special interest are comments made by community members:
"After an exhaustive but not all inclusive search of several school districts, a variety of
options currently exist under their respective collective bargaining agreements when a certified
teacher retires. These options range fr
om no benefits, Cobra rates or a variety of incentives.
Were any of these options researched by anyone? Was there any discussion as to what might be
an alternative to the current policy? While it has been decided that the previous policy 500.30
needed t
o be revised, did you, the board have to discard the retirees as your only answer to a
very large problem?
I have listed various school districts researched, to what if any, insurance
provisions are available to its retirees"
Also this comment, by a community member:
"A quick timeline for the events of September 2012 developments: 1) utility bills late fees surface;
2) 800 trips to an area hardware store for one month discovered. Immediately Jay Augustine
submits retirement request for November and it is approved; 3) Penny Halvax is terminated for
her involvement with the insurance scandal; 4) Ms. Johnson met with Dr. Roberts the day before
meeting with Jay Augustine and 5) Dr. Roberts meets with Jay Augustine and it is agreed he be
allowed to retire immediately. The name Jay Augustine surfaces whenever the health
insurance/utility bills issu
es are discussed. The fallout from all of this will be with us for years. We can only move forward when the following questions are answered: Why was he allowed to
retire with the knowledge and approval of the Board President & Superintendent? What is
the dollar amount of the insurance losses? Penny Halvax was fired for her involvement with the
insurance loses. Dr. Christie Aird wrote the transgender policy which the board approved.
They did not read it, yet voted and approved the policy. The backla
sh from the vote forced the
board to revisit and reverse their decision. If she made a mistake it was an honest one. Jay
Augustine betrayed the trust of the taxpayers, district and community and was rewarded with a
retirement package he can live on very comfortably. If Dr. Aird and Penny were disciplined,
why wasn’t Jay put on administrative leave with no pay or fired with criminal charges to be
considered? What is the dollar amount for the utility late fees and how long was this going on?
Can any one
of you answer this question? As you can see I am asking some very uncomfortable
questions yet want to offer a solution to the utility question. I have done many an audit parallel
to this problem and am willing to offer my assistance at no charge in providing answers in
putting this issue to rest. Comments, decisions and voting continue without proper
documentation to support your positions.”
Cronies want contracts so isnt it funny how things just start to break down? Watch where the money goes...
The community member in question publically endorsed Strand and Montroy and is a retiree Thta drained the district for many years with free insurance.
HVAC System was a emergency repair that was quoted from preferred vendors list that went out o public bid.
Adams never went to Atlantic City the district received a refund in Aug 2012 for the expense
More lies to work up students about the Pool by Montroy maybe she should protect the student last year that a affair with a adult teacher than campaigning for her husband.
Magnet School would have cost 30 million new and will help reduce over crowding.
Feltes discovered many scams that have people shaking in their boots. t will all come out.
The Strand Montroy Peryea ticket will raise your taxes the current oars reduced them .
Strand and Montroy are on the district insurance and receive a paycheck from the district that is a conflict of interest.
Who is the real cheat!!!!!
Political PAC money is being donated the the Strand Montroy, Peryea ticket. What do the three have to gain. They have already openly stated they will spend all the reverses with no plan. Voters beware a BGA investigation will uncover pay to play cronies that have made campaign donations. The people involved are the link.
If the credit card charge in Atlantic City by Denean Adams (While she was supposed to be in Philadelphia at a convention) was proper, why would she have to return the money? Second, how did she make a charge in Atlantic City from Philadelphia?
If you don’t believe the story about the East High Pool, just take a trip to the high school and feel the temperature in the room. It is over 100 degrees.
If the board is so concerned about affairs between adults and students, maybe they shouldn’t be doing everything they can to protect Nestor.
Not spending 30 million dollars on a new building, doesn’t excuse the backroom dealings that cost the district 3 million dollars ( an unprecedented fee).
You stated “Feltes discovered many scams that have people shaking in their boots. t will all come out” Yet again the board is protecting Nestor in a new cushy six figure position. WTF?
You claim the new board will raise taxes but I did not hear any of them make that claim at the debate. What are you basing this on? Your trick knee?
The current board are the real cheats!!!!!
12:37 Can you prove these claims If so please share
If it is a conflict of interest why are they allowed to run?
If Adams never went to Atlantic City the who took the ride from the airport to Atlantic City using the districts credit card and there is also the cash advance on the districts card.
I'd rather see people on the board with a vested interest, such as home and family living in the district, children being educated and family working in the district,and someone who has a history of communtiy service to the district, rather than someone who runs a business outside the district who prefers manipulating finances over educating children, has no history of any work within the community prior to being on the school board and has anger management problems.
2:21 Awfully misleading questions, it appears you are within the District,I have a clue who you are
I would rather have a East Graduate who runs a successful business than someone who will come in from Naperville get her husband a job build a church off the backs of the poor or someone who mooches off his wife does not own a home lives rent free is on a insurancelan the poor of the district pay for but then again your the same type a teacher who supports them that can't teach so if you don't like it move on.
It seems for the last 20 years we have had people on the board that graduated for here or have lived here for a long time and where did it get us with some of the lowest test scores around. It is time there where people that are not so close to take a look and see what needs to be changed.
Interesting Nacho used the word lazy. He is fat, lazy, and runs a taco business. He's 5ft. 2 and weighs 260. He's the lazy one.
Glotzbach and Roberts had all the information about the student and adult teacher affair because it was reported by the appropriate people. Roberts and Glotzbach ignored it, fact. Truth hurts. Montroy can't supersede Glotzbach and Roberts. Don't point the finger at her.
Feltes, like are board members dressses in Jeans and is poorly dressed, overweight, and don't know anything.
Central Office Alert
Marin Gonzalez resigned Chicago Public Schools last week looks like she is coming back. Her good buddy, Jackie is lying. Marins daughter verified A direct quote Moms heart has always been at East Aurora.
BS 8:02 - You are full of crap.
The EA staff knows Jackie got a pass just like the social worker at Cowherd. Both had Marin on there side. Glozabach dies not investigate anything she terrorizes her staff and points fingers. Plenty of kids at EA are taken advantage of everyday. Glozabach never turned the science teacher who showed her breast in either. A staff person who knew the teachers was heavy on drugs finally spoke up.
Yes their are many, many great teachers at EA but some teach here because they know the parents will not complain.
Montroy is another example, her friendship got her off the hook. The problem now is her husband will be on the Board, so if Warren gets another complaint it will be swept under the rug.
The student in question was in the care of a elderly grandmother and he deserved better.
I am not crazy about the current board but the alternative in Montroy is a issue because of Jackie.
I am definately not a fan of Marin Gonzalez. I thought she was a poor educational leader and her personnel skills were seriously lacking. However, she is no fool and definately, politically savvy.
There is no way she would have resigned her position in Chicago, hoping that the election next month would somehow produce a board just dying to bring her back.
Further, the new board candidates are looking for somebody to clean house and take the school district in a new and positive direction. there is no way they could retain any credibility if they even considered bringing Marin back.
This is obviously just a ploy by Annette and company to discredit the new candidates and boost their own possibilities. Annette, nobody is buying this crap.
Who is the employee the board was voting to terminate at the last board meeting?
You said it perfectly, Glotzbach doesn't investigate, and she didn't investigate the information that was given to her about the student adult relationship. Montroy is a professional, and doesn't sweep things under the rug like Roberts and Glotzbach. If Warren gets a complaint and ignores it then Warren needs to be fired. Nothing you say makes sense. The information reported was not acted upon, and Jackie did not support the relationship, and reported it immediately. Glotzbach and Roberts looked the other way.
correction to my 9:24pm there sticky IPAD fingers.
Not Annette Marin's daughter
Montroy says many things that don't pan out
Like political statements he made at a board meeting about the blog and turned around and expected a endorsement from the blog master.
He has never ran a campaign on issues only the negative press articles because he wants to deflect from his issues with tax increases.
He continues to lie othe religious community about his support of Aird
He and Strand finically benefit from the district and can not make objective decisions .
His wife and the trainer in question had a personnel friendship. They had the student to their house a clear violation of the school ethics code.
This blog is stupid you are either supporting a candidate or not on this blog. My nly point is to look and reflect not all is well with the Strand Montroy Peryea ticket as well
Who cares about a silly school ethics code? Certainly not Clayton "Pied Piper" Muhammad, who has had D131 minor students as friends on his PERSONAL (not Boys II Men) Facebook page for YEARS.
Now finally a parent is investigating. Is this why Muhammad left our district so suddenly??
9:36AM 10:25AM Since you are the same blogger, it appears you are attempting to divert the attention to those wanting to see the incumbents out of office. Nice try , no cigar
"...since you are the same blogger..."
I doubt it.
And if they are, what difference does it make?
10:51, what part of "anonymous" don't you understand?
Central Office news is Claytons computer is in house finally funny thing is it came back totally cleaned off. He was so careless he left a program on it called scrubber.
This just posted on the D131 website:
East Aurora School District 131
Special
Wednesday, March 20, 2013 5:30 PM
School Service Center
I. Roll Call
II. Presentation and Discussion of "Virtual Academy @ Fox River Valley" Charter School Proposal
III. PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS
IV. Adjournment
Bob Green, PE teacher from Cowherd.
Annette made a promise to the community about Hope 165. How is that going? How much is in the fund?
Are we hoping to have a new superintendent next year? Well, whomever that new person is at least we know they have to have a superintendent’s endorsement (an EdS=11 graduate classes and has passed the superintendent test). Let’s hope it is somebody that understands our community and has a great deal of curriculum knowledge.
To March 13, 9:24 p.m.
I am the social worker at Cowherd. My name is Melinda Creech. You mention that I got a "free pass" which "the staff at EA knows about." I have no idea what you are talking about. I would like you to give me more information. I am not aware of any free pass I have been given. I am putting my name on this comment, and I would like to know what information you think you know about. If you would like, you can contact me at school at 630-299-5984 my direct line with any "secret" information you have. I would like to use my "free pass" as soon as possible.
Annette! Where's my free breakfast? When are you coming to our school with a free breakfast and a load of crap? I've never seen you before, but I know you're making your rounds before election time. Do you need me to bring a baby to kiss or you could roll up your sleeves and toss a football? Maybe put a hard hat on and pretend to inspect something? Can't wait!
As a member of the Aurora Educational Foundation, I read all the negatives about Annette on his blog and I am not sure why she even cares about this this district any longer. I have worked with her and the comments are totally unjustified. This can be verified by other members
Annette brought private donations into the 165 Hope the monies are in he AEEF Funds. The monies came mostly from private donors outside the district. We have paid out many sports and foreign exchange student help. she also helped with all the accounting and got the Foundation back to non profit status from the prior directors. The 165 raised over $100,000.
Like many others this blog gets ahold of I am afraid one day Annette will say enought. For sure the new candidates and young Nacho life will never be the same.
Most who post all the negative will remain behind anonymous . Spineless
Heard the same story about Marin, she is not going back to Chicago next year. I am praying the newbies to the Board don't make that mistake. We are all concerned with Jackies answers , but hope for the best. Her family is here and she was forced to live in Chicago is a reasonable story.
The veterans know Marin and she does not go on mission trips unless there is something to gain. Let us not forget the building Principal job is open as well
Tell me why when this district claims to have a surplus of 82 million should people donate money? Many is this district make just enough to get by and have no savings and we are suppose to give money to a district that has a surplus.
beaconnews.suntimes.com/18851050-417/fox-valley-virtual-charter-would-be-the-first-of-its-kind-in-state.htm
We should really beware of this Virtual Charter School that is being proposed for the Fox Valley Area. . First off, why is it called a “Charter School”? Could it be because Illinois guarantees that charter schools will receive 75% to 125% of what their comparable public school will make? This alone is extremely generous as the national average for charter schools is 61% of what their public counterparts make. The Virtual Charter School is actually asking for 84%.
Next consider that 1) students must apply for and 2) charter schools must accept the students they receive. In other words, charter schools don’t take high risk/high cost students like SpED, BD etc. Their costs should be significantly lower considering this.
The term “School” should also be reviewed as there is no school building to maintain. They want almost full price for teaching these “Select” children but have none of the regular costs associated with education. No building, No after school programs, No special tutors, No bussing, No lunch costs, No teachers, No, No, No. Where is this money going? According to the Beacon Article, K12 is worth 767 million dollars. This is also a conflict as “Charter Schools”, by definition, are supposed to be Not-for-Profit.
Then there is the results achieved by Charter Schools. According to a national study done by Stanford:
46% The Same
37% Did Worse
17% Did Better
These schools are given far greater autonomy under the pretext of obtaining improved results, yet, 83% of charter schools did the same or worse. This despite selecting their students. This is just another attempt to funnel public funds to corporations. When is it ever going to stop?
The only people supporting Stand and Montroy are district employees who the current board has on the run . Stop telling lies Zack as a minister you will go straight to Hell. A student at East Aurora never sat on the floor because of no desk. If that were true your wife had no problems complaining to the Board before. Kristen was friends with Nita Lewis so why did you not complain. Is that the type of board member you will be to afraid to say anything because your spouses work for the district.
Teachers you are educated just stop and think and I did check with the members they said they would go months without complaint calls .
Stop giving misinformation and community beware they worked in the schools with their non profits an spouses why did they not complain
8:24 what Annette and the rest of us who really want to turn East around need to always remember is that the negative comments found here are from people who do not want the system to change. Annette and many others on the board want change and I along with sooo many other people in the schools and in the community are glad they are our advocates!
I received a troubling email today from a freind at Ginger Creek. Zack Montroy is using his churches email list to recruit foot soldiers to walk for him. Mostly residents of Batavia and Naperville. This coupled with the fact they are taking money from out of district teachers and talking about residents that do not invest in their community is unethical.
if people help with the campaign they should live on the East Side not from out of town when it's my taxes.
Very dangerous
You are crazy. The only thing dangerous is a show on Animal Planet called finding Bigfoot. If the producers of that show come to Aurora, they can find Bigfoot Annette and her little squatch Nacho. It would guarantee them fame. No one is recruiting members for their church. Do you honestly think trying to turn that card on Montroy and Strand will Work? If that were the case that strand and Montroy were using Church as their strategy to get elected on a public school board then you are a complete idiot. Its not going to take much to beat the bozos currently calling the shots. Goodbye Annette. Mannequin.com here you come.
9:27pm Ray calls Annette those names and for a minister of god really Ray. Why so hateful?
I live in EA and I am going door to door for Strand & Montroy. I have already had someone in the district offer to help! You are correct 4:24, people want change..positive change, which they can see coming from people educated in serving our community, like Zach & Kirsten. If a few people are lead to a new church in the process, so be it. This is talked about like a bad thing ?!?
Teachers in D131 do not complain because it is like spitting in the wind with current Bd & Supt. They report any problems they not only do NOT get issues fixed, now they have a target on their back.
As a teacher you may not be aware the only two teachers who came to the board to tell them they had been targeted by administration got returned to the classroom. That was over the last two years. So the boards phone has not exactly been ringing off the hook.
These teachers worked at Bardwell.
Teachers from Gates attend the meeting all the time and send suggestions that have been used. Teacher Tudors is one of them.
Teachers had been given $300 per classroom to help with supplies and put in charge of what they feel is important.
The committees are working on all the ideas teachers complained about. hy are you not part of the solution.
Waldo, Johnson School and Bardwell was addressed. Too many teachers are listening o lies being told by building leaders because they are being held more accountable and these same building leaders are upset at paying equal premiums in health insurance.
I suggest you communicate more and find out you have no target.
Electing teachers spouses will be difficult because now you are expecting them to police there spouses bosses.
Also, proposals of Strand Montroy and Peryea will take cash reserves down to zero in a year. if that happens the State will take over because of scores and bankruptcy and you will loss any wage increases the current board gave you. Look at North Chicago and East St Louis that will be East Aurora. To fix the district everyone needs to work as a team and ask questions.
The problem with this board is most the things they have changed someone else brought to their attention before and they just did something when it was time for re election. They have given no proof just flapped their lips. The list of bills should show those 800 trips that Lenoard claims to have happened. I've looked at the bills and yes there are trips to Menards with many items bought but that was one trip. This wouldn't have taken place if they had a policy in place that stated who should be doing it. The board sees the list of bills every month they didn't notice this sooner. Who looks at those receipts?
How is it every other district hires a Superintendent like the IL School Code states and that person can run the district. It doesn't matter if some has a MBA in Finance this isn't a company making money we are a school district that is suppose to be in the business of educating students. It is important to use our money wisely but these people really don't know anything about educating children.
Funny the other campaign of Strand Montroy and Peryea have run out of money and sent desparate pleas to supporters donate more. I happen to be on the email list and someone who attended the debate. While fancy color flyers and cards done with the best money could buy said nothing. The current Board used inexpensive tri fold flyers that had solutions.
I guess that alone tells me who can manage a budget. Something I look for when I review campaign material at the local level. Their materials match their Naperville attitude just throw more money at a problem while living in the community a few years.
Peryea is very close month when talking about her background. She claims to have moved from Naperville but no records of her exist. I am always suspect when someone tells you stories that don't add up. She never says what she did for a living other than volunteering. What is she hiding? I want to know who they are paying for early child care. I also called the Preschool yesterday and found that only 89 children remain on a call list. I asked why and they said because many families start the program or drop out of the program during the year. The lady I spoke with could not have been more helpful and invited me for a tour.
The problem seems to me to be the parents need to be better educated about the services, not the blame game of teachers, staff, board or admin.
Before we hand the schools over start asking questions?
LIAR. THE TEACHERS WERE NOT GIVEN $300.
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